How to choose a tablet computer

Tablet computers can be an easier, and in many cases cheaper way of accessing the internet. There are so many apps to download that you can use your device for a wide range of tasks, from internet banking to image editing.  

Tablets come in three operating systems (iOS, Android and Windows) and screen sizes range from seven inches to around 13 inches (measured diagonally across the screen).  Internal storage on current models range from 16GB to 256GB. Also, on most Android tablets, there is the option to add more storage with a 8GB to 128GB MicroSD card.

A GB is a gigabyte, or 1 billion bytes (characters) of storage. A typical 2-hour movie occupies about 4GB of storage, but most things you store on the tablet — music and pictures, for example — take up only a sliver of storage. Those items do, however, occupy more storage space the more you use the tablet

It is recommended that you try out the different screen sizes before you buy.

Seven to eight-inch screened tablets

• Tablets at this size are light and compact, and easy to fit in something like a handbag.
• Small enough to hold in one hand and large enough to browse the web and watch movies in comfort.
• A seven tablet with a SIM (mobile phone network card) slot can double up as a phone in case of an emergency with more battery life compared to regular smartphones.
• The screen is not really big enough for more demanding tasks like writing a document or editing photos.
• They can have smaller internal processors than tablets which have a screen of nine inches or bigger. This means they  will be slower at accessing web pages and perform tasks slower than larger tablets
• It does mean though that they are cheaper in price ranging from £100 to £600.

Summary of some of the top seven to eight-inch screened tablets

Eight to ten inch screen tablets

• Better for typing, games, viewing video clips.
• Good for watching films and movies, downloaded or streamed.
• Plenty of room for browsing, email and word processing.
• Can be used as laptop replacement.
• Easy to connect up and use a stand-alone keyboard.
• Heavier in the hands, and awkward to take with or use on the go.
• Price range £200 to £900.

Summary of some of the top eight to thirteen-inch screen tablets

When deciding which tablet suits you best it is a good idea to try some out, so ask friends or family if you can have a try with one of theirs. These articles from Which? also provide some great advice.

Last updated 29th May 2020