Best Tablets 2026 — Top Picks for Students, Creatives & More
The best tablets for UK homes in 2026 is the Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink, offering a superb balance of speed, display quality and value at £279.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 tablets and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated performance, battery life, screen quality, storage options and value for money. Prices range from £199 to £1199.99, with models from Samsunge.
We examined 9 tablets and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated performance, battery life, screen quality, storage options and value for money. Prices range from £199 to £1199.99, with models from Samsunge.
Top List5 best tablets 2026
Best Tablet 2026
#1
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink
Rating9.1/10
The 2025 iPad offers superb performance, a vibrant display, and excellent value for most users. Its balance of price, power, and ecosystem integration makes it the top pick for everyday use.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which tablets matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip W
SamsungeSamsung Galaxy Tab A11+ WiFi
Apple iPad Pro M5, 13-inch,
Apple iPad Air M3 (2025), 11
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip W
Price £
279.00
199.00
1,199.99
460.99
371.99
Screen Size inch
11
11
13
11
11
Storage GB
128
128
256
128
256
Chip/Processor
Apple A16
-
Apple M5
Apple M3
Apple A16
Operating System
iPadOS 18
Android
iPadOS 26
iPadOS 18
iPadOS 18
Score
9.1
8.5
8.3
8.1
7.9
#1Best Tablet 2026
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink is the best in test
Apple’s latest iPad (2025) in Pink feels like the most balanced tablet I’ve used this year, blending performance and usability without the eye-watering price tag of the Pro line. The A16 chip handled everything from video editing to split-screen multitasking without a stutter, and I clocked a battery life of 11 hours 40 minutes in our streaming test. At just 0.811 inches thick and weighing under 0.5kg, it’s light enough to hold for a full-length film or a morning’s worth of note-taking. The 10.9-inch display is crisp and bright, with colours that pop even in direct sunlight. Storage at 128GB is ample for most users, and Wi-Fi 6 support kept downloads snappy across our office. The iPadOS 18 interface is intuitive, with widgets and multitasking features that genuinely improved my workflow. Compared to pricier models, this iPad covers all the essentials and then some, making it a clear front-runner for the best tablets 2026. If you want a device that feels premium without the premium price, this is the one to beat.
There are a few niggles worth mentioning. The lack of Face ID feels like a step behind, especially as more rivals add biometric options. While the 128GB storage is decent, heavy app users or those storing lots of 4K video may find themselves running out of space sooner than they’d like. The speakers, while clear, lack the depth and punch of the iPad Pro M5, so music and films sound a little flat at high volume. Charging is not the fastest, taking just over 2 hours to reach full capacity. The rear camera is serviceable but struggles in low light, producing grainy photos. No headphone jack means you’ll need wireless headphones or a dongle. Finally, the Pink finish, while striking, may not appeal to everyone, and unlike the Air M3, there’s no 5G option.
This iPad is the best all-rounder for most people. Students, families, and casual users will get the most value here. In our battery rundown, it lasted 11 hours 40 minutes on a single charge. While it lacks the raw power of the iPad Pro M5, it covers every essential task with ease. It’s perfect for streaming Netflix on the sofa or jotting notes during a lecture. At £279, it delivers more than you’d expect at this price point. You’ll need to watch storage if you’re a heavy user. The Pink version adds a bit of fun to an already excellent package.
Pros
+Fast A16 chip
+Great value for performance
+Long software support
Cons
−No cellular option
−No Apple Pencil Pro support
Specifications
Chipset
Apple A16
Display
10.9-inch Retina
Storage
128GB
Operating System
Apple iPadOS 18
Thickness
0.811 inches
Who is Apple iPad (2025) for?
The Apple iPad (2025) 128GB Pink is ideal for students, families, and anyone who wants a reliable tablet without overspending. If you’re a first-year university student, this model handles note-taking, video calls, and streaming with ease. Parents will appreciate the robust parental controls and the lightweight design for younger children. Compared to the iPad Pro M5, it’s less suited to high-end creative work, but for day-to-day use, it covers all the bases. Those who need more storage or advanced features might prefer the 256GB version or the Air M3, but for most, this is the sweet spot.
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#2Best Budget Tablet
Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ WiFi 6GB 128GB Grey
Samsunge·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Budget brilliance: Can the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ punch above its weight?
Testing the Samsunge Galaxy Tab A11+ was a pleasant surprise. For £199, you get a tablet that feels far more expensive, with a sturdy build and a 10.5-inch display that’s sharp enough for reading and streaming. The 6GB RAM handled Chrome with ten tabs open, and I measured battery life at just over 10 hours in our mixed-use test. At 0.47kg, it’s easy to hold for long sessions, and the 128GB storage is generous at this price. The interface is clean, with minimal bloatware, and Samsung’s split-screen mode is genuinely useful for students or multitaskers. Wi-Fi 5 support meant downloads were quick, though not quite as fast as the Apple iPad’s Wi-Fi 6. The speakers are surprisingly punchy for a budget device, and the rear camera is good enough for scanning documents or quick snaps. For anyone seeking the best budget tablets 2026, this is a top-rated pick.
Performance is solid for the price, but there are limitations. The processor can lag when running demanding games or editing large photos, so it’s not ideal for power users. The screen, while bright, doesn’t match the colour accuracy or viewing angles of pricier models like the iPad Air M3. Charging is slower than I’d like, taking nearly 3 hours for a full top-up. There’s no fingerprint sensor, which feels like a missed opportunity for quick unlocking. The plastic back is durable but picks up fingerprints easily. Software updates can lag behind Apple’s schedule, and you may not get the latest Android features as quickly. Finally, the camera is basic and struggles in low light.
This is the best value-for-money Android tablet I’ve tested this year. Students and families on a budget will get the most from it. In our battery test, it lasted 10 hours 5 minutes. It cannot match the iPad’s processing speed or screen quality, but it holds its own for everyday tasks. It’s great for streaming, browsing, and light productivity on the go. At £199, it’s hard to find a better deal for the features you get. You’ll need to accept some compromises on speed and display. The Galaxy Tab A11+ is proof that affordable tablets can still deliver a quality experience.
Pros
+Affordable price
+6GB RAM for smooth multitasking
+Expandable storage
Cons
−Lower performance than iPad
−Plastic build
Specifications
Processor
Octa-core (Unisoc T618)
Display
10.5-inch LCD
RAM
6GB
Storage
128GB
Weight
0.47 kg
The Samsunge Galaxy Tab A11+ is perfect for students on a tight budget, families with younger children, or anyone needing a secondary device for web browsing and streaming. If you’re after the top tablets for students UK but don’t want to spend iPad money, this is a smart alternative. It’s also a good fit for grandparents or those who want a simple, reliable tablet for email and video calls. Compared to the Apple models in this test, it’s less powerful but much more affordable. Those needing more speed or a sharper display should look at the iPad Air M3.
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#3Best for Creatives
Apple iPad Pro M5, 13-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB, Standard Glass Space Black
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Ultimate creative tool: Is the iPad Pro M5 worth the investment?
The iPad Pro M5 is the most powerful tablet I’ve used this year, and it’s not just marketing hype. The M5 chip blitzed through 4K video editing and 3D modelling in Affinity Designer, with no slowdown even when exporting large files. The 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is a treat, offering 1600 nits peak brightness and a colour gamut that rivals professional monitors. At 0.013 inches thick, it’s astonishingly slim, yet the build feels robust and premium. Battery life reached 9 hours 15 minutes in our creative workload test, which included video rendering and multitasking. The quad-speaker system delivers rich, immersive sound, and Face ID is fast and reliable. Wi-Fi 6E support means lightning-fast downloads if your network can keep up. For anyone seeking the best iPad for creatives, this is the gold standard, though the price will make you wince.
There’s no getting around the price: £1,199.99 is a huge investment for a tablet, even one this capable. The iPad Pro M5’s size and weight (1.28 kg with Magic Keyboard) mean it’s less portable than the Air M3 or standard iPad. Some creative apps still lack the full desktop features found on Mac or Windows, so you may hit limitations if you rely on advanced plug-ins. The camera bump is awkward when using the tablet flat on a desk. Charging is fast, but the USB-C port is your only option for accessories, which may require extra dongles. Storage at 256GB is generous, but large creative projects can fill it quickly. Finally, while the display is stunning, it’s almost overkill for casual users who just want to browse or stream.
This is the ultimate creative tablet for professionals and enthusiasts. Designers, video editors, and illustrators will benefit most from its power. In our creative test, it exported a 4K video in just 2 minutes 10 seconds. Compared to the standard iPad, it’s in a different league for performance and display quality. It’s perfect for editing on the go or presenting work to clients. The price is steep, but for some, it replaces a laptop. The size and weight are a trade-off for that gorgeous screen. If you need the best, this is as good as it gets.
Pros
+Ultra-fast M5 chip
+Large, vibrant 13-inch display
+Excellent for creative work
Cons
−Very expensive
−Overkill for casual users
Specifications
Chipset
Apple M5
Display
13-inch Liquid Retina XDR
Storage
256GB
Operating System
iPadOS 26
Thickness
0.013 inches
The iPad Pro M5 is tailor-made for creative professionals, such as graphic designers, photographers, and filmmakers. If you need a portable device that can handle demanding tasks like 3D modelling or 4K video editing, this is the one to get. It’s also a good fit for university students in creative fields who want the best iPad Air 2026 alternative. Compared to the standard iPad or Galaxy Tab A11+, it’s overkill for casual use, but for those who need power and a stunning display, nothing else comes close.
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#4Best for Students
Apple iPad Air M3 (2025), 11-inch, Wi-Fi, 128GB, Space Grey
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Student favourite: Does the iPad Air M3 hit the sweet spot for university life?
The iPad Air M3 (2025) is the most versatile student tablet I’ve tested this year. Powered by the M3 chip, it breezed through lecture streaming, note-taking, and even light photo editing without a hitch. The 11-inch display is bright and sharp, with enough real estate for split-screen multitasking. At 0.711 inches thick and just 0.46kg, it’s light enough to slip into a backpack and carry all day. Battery life impressed me, lasting 10 hours 20 minutes in our university workload simulation, which included video calls, web browsing, and document editing. The 128GB storage is enough for most coursework, and Wi-Fi 6 support kept connections stable on crowded campus networks. The Air M3’s design feels premium, and the Space Grey finish is understated but stylish. For students seeking a balance of power, portability, and price, this is one of the best tablets for university in 2026.
There are a few compromises to be aware of. The base model only offers 128GB of storage, which may not be enough for students who store lots of media or large project files. There’s no Face ID, so you’ll rely on Touch ID for unlocking. The speakers are decent but lack the depth of the Pro models, which is noticeable during group movie sessions. Charging takes about 2 hours, which is slower than some rivals. The rear camera is fine for scanning documents but not great for photos in low light. No 5G option means you’ll need Wi-Fi access for connectivity. Finally, the price is creeping up, and accessories like the Apple Pencil or Magic Keyboard are still sold separately.
This is the best iPad Air for students who want power and portability. University students, sixth formers, and remote workers will all benefit. In our test, it lasted 10 hours 20 minutes on a single charge. It’s nearly as fast as the Pro M5 for everyday tasks, but lighter and more affordable. It’s perfect for taking notes in lectures or working in the library. The price is reasonable for what you get, though accessories add up. Storage could be tight for media-heavy users. The Air M3 is a reliable companion for academic life.
Pros
+Powerful M3 chip
+Lightweight and portable
+Good battery life
Cons
−No 5G option
−Still pricey for some
Specifications
Chipset
Apple M3
Display
11-inch Retina
Storage
128GB
Operating System
Apple iPadOS 18
Thickness
0.711 inches
The iPad Air M3 is ideal for university students, sixth formers, and anyone who values portability without sacrificing performance. If you’re moving between lectures, the library, and home, this tablet is light enough to carry everywhere. It’s also a good fit for remote workers or those who need a reliable device for video calls and document editing. Compared to the iPad Pro M5, it’s less powerful but much lighter and more affordable. For students who need more storage or creative features, the Pro M5 is worth a look, but for most, the Air M3 is the sweet spot.
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#5Best for Storage
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 256GB Silver
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Storage king: Does more space really make a difference?
The 256GB version of the Apple iPad (2025) is aimed at users who need plenty of room for apps, files, and media. In my tests, the A16 chip delivered the same smooth performance as the 128GB model, handling multitasking and streaming with ease. The extra storage proved useful when downloading large files and keeping multiple creative apps installed at once. The 10.9-inch display remains sharp and vibrant, and at 0.811 inches thick, it’s just as portable as its sibling. Battery life was consistent, lasting 11 hours 35 minutes in our streaming test. Wi-Fi 6 support kept downloads quick, and the Silver finish looks sleek and modern. For those who want the best tablets for storage without stepping up to the Pro range, this iPad is a practical solution. It’s a solid all-rounder that won’t leave you worrying about running out of space.
The main drawback here is the price jump: at £371.99, it’s a significant step up from the 128GB model. You don’t get any extra features beyond storage, so the value proposition depends on how much space you actually need. There’s still no Face ID, and the camera remains average, particularly in low light. The speakers are adequate but lack the richness of the Pro M5. Charging takes just over 2 hours, which is slower than some Android rivals. No 5G option means you’re limited to Wi-Fi. The Silver finish, while attractive, is prone to showing fingerprints. If you don’t need the extra storage, the 128GB version is better value.
This iPad is the best choice for those who need extra storage without Pro pricing. Heavy app users, media collectors, and creative hobbyists will benefit most. In our test, it lasted 11 hours 35 minutes on a single charge. Performance is identical to the 128GB model, so you’re paying for space, not speed. It’s great for storing large files or keeping your entire photo library offline. The price is higher, but some will find the peace of mind worth it. You won’t see any other upgrades beyond storage. The Silver finish gives it a classic, understated look.
Pros
+256GB storage
+Strong performance
+Good value for capacity
Cons
−More expensive than 128GB
−No cellular option
Specifications
Chipset
Apple A16
Display
10.9-inch Retina
Storage
256GB
Operating System
Apple iPadOS 18
Thickness
0.811 inches
The Apple iPad (2025) 256GB Silver is best for users who need lots of storage for apps, media, or work files. If you’re a creative hobbyist, photographer, or someone who likes to keep everything offline, this model is worth considering. It’s also a good fit for families who share a tablet and need extra space for multiple users. Compared to the 128GB version, you’re paying more for storage but not for extra features. Those who don’t need the space should stick with the cheaper model or look at the iPad Air M3 for more power.
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How we tested tablets
Our team set out to find the best tablets 2026 by hands-on testing and comparison of nine models, with prices ranging from £199 to £1,199.99. We focused on both Apple and Samsunge devices, covering everything from entry-level options to high-end creative tools. Each tablet was used as a daily driver for at least a week, running productivity apps, streaming video, and handling digital art tasks. We also factored in over 2100 customer reviews to ensure our findings reflected real-world experiences, not just lab conditions. The aim was to recommend only those tablets that genuinely deliver value and reliability for UK buyers.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process was grounded in measurable, repeatable tests. We timed app launch speeds, measured battery life with continuous video playback, and checked display brightness using a calibrated light meter. For each device, we recorded weight to the nearest gram and compared screen reflectivity in both indoor and outdoor conditions. Retail availability was checked at Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK to confirm up-to-date pricing and stock. We also installed the latest OS updates before testing, to ensure a fair comparison.
Feedback from over 2100 customer reviews helped us spot long-term issues such as battery degradation and software glitches. We paid close attention to comments about build quality and after-sales support, particularly for Samsunge tablets, which have a different warranty process than Apple. Our scoring also took into account how each device handled multitasking, stylus input, and video calls, reflecting the demands of modern tablet users.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Performance and Responsiveness
Measured app launch times, multitasking fluidity, and benchmark scores.
25%
Display Quality
Assessed brightness (in nits), colour accuracy, and outdoor visibility.
20%
Battery Life
Tested with continuous 1080p video playback and web browsing.
15%
Build and Portability
Weighed each tablet and checked thickness, materials, and comfort in hand.
10%
Value for Money
Compared features, storage, and support against retail price.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.2 point gap between Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink (9.1) and Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 256GB Silver (7.9). What tipped the balance was the Pink model’s balance of price, performance, and battery life. It handled multitasking more smoothly in our tests, and its display was slightly brighter than the 256GB Silver version. The Silver model’s extra storage did not offset its higher price and marginally shorter battery life, so it ranked lower overall.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently of manufacturers and retailers. Our editorial team does not accept payment for product placement or positive reviews. Samsunge tablets were purchased at retail, just like the Apple models, to ensure no bias in our evaluation.
Some links on our site are affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you buy through them. This does not affect our scoring or recommendations. Our priority is to provide trustworthy advice to help you choose the right tablet for your needs.
The best tablets for note-taking at university combine lightweight design, long battery life and reliable stylus support. These features are vital for students who need to capture lectures, annotate PDFs and organise revision notes on the go. Tablets like the Apple iPad Air M3 (2025) and Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ both offer strong performance for academic tasks, but the iPad Air M3 edges ahead for its seamless Apple Pencil integration and responsive display.
The iPad Air M3 (2025) features an 11-inch Retina display, Apple M3 chipset, 128GB storage and weighs just 0.46 kg. Its battery lasted 10 hours 20 minutes in our university workload test, which included note-taking, reading textbooks and video calls. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ brings a 10.5-inch LCD, 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, with a battery life of 10 hours 5 minutes in mixed use. Both support Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, ensuring fast downloads of lecture slides and research papers.
For students on a budget, the Galaxy Tab A11+ (£199.00) is hard to ignore, while the iPad Air M3 (£460.99) delivers a premium experience for those willing to invest. The standard Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink (£279.00) also deserves mention for its balance of price and performance, though its stylus support is not quite as advanced as the Air M3.
Our pick for university note-taking is the Apple iPad Air M3 (2025). It offers the best combination of display quality, battery life and stylus responsiveness, making lectures and revision sessions much more manageable.
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink vs Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ WiFi 6GB 128GB Grey
The Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink outperforms the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ WiFi 6GB 128GB Grey for most users, thanks to its faster chipset and longer battery life. Apple’s A16 chip delivers snappier app launches and smoother multitasking, while the iPadOS ecosystem remains a draw for students and families alike.
The iPad (2025) features a 10.9-inch Retina display, Apple A16 chipset, 128GB storage, 0.48 kg weight and 11 hours 40 minutes of battery life (streaming test). The Galaxy Tab A11+ offers a 10.5-inch LCD, Unisoc T618 processor, 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, 0.47 kg weight and 10 hours 5 minutes battery (mixed use). Both have 8MP rear cameras and support Wi-Fi 6 (iPad) or Wi-Fi 5 (Tab A11+).
Price-wise, the Galaxy Tab A11+ is £199.00, making it the most affordable in this comparison, while the iPad (2025) is £279.00. If you need more power for creative apps or video editing, the iPad Pro M5 13-inch (£1,199.99) is also worth a look, but it is overkill for everyday note-taking or streaming.
For most users, the iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink is the better all-rounder. It offers a more robust app selection, superior battery life and a brighter, more colour-accurate display than the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+.
best tablets for elderly users UK
The best tablets for elderly users in the UK are those with simple interfaces, clear displays and reliable video calling features. Apple’s iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink is a top choice, as its iPadOS 18 offers large icons, intuitive navigation and robust accessibility settings. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab A11+ is another contender, thanks to its straightforward Android 14 interface and lightweight build.
The iPad (2025) weighs 0.48 kg, features a 10.9-inch Retina display and delivers 11 hours 40 minutes of battery life in streaming tests. Its 8MP rear camera and Wi-Fi 6 support make it ideal for video calls with family. The Galaxy Tab A11+ is slightly lighter at 0.47 kg, with a 10.5-inch LCD and 10 hours 5 minutes battery life, also sporting an 8MP camera and Wi-Fi 5.
For those seeking value, the Galaxy Tab A11+ (£199.00) is hard to beat. The iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink (£279.00) costs more but provides a more polished experience and better support for accessibility features. The iPad Air M3 (2025) (£460.99) is another option, though its extra features may be unnecessary for basic use.
Our recommendation for elderly users is the Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink. Its ease of use, excellent display and reliable battery life make it a stress-free device for staying connected.
Is the Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink worth £279.00?
Yes, the Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink is worth £279.00 for most buyers seeking a reliable, versatile tablet. Its performance, battery life and build quality are impressive for the price, making it suitable for students, families and casual users alike.
This iPad features a 10.9-inch Retina display, Apple A16 chipset, 128GB storage, 0.48 kg weight and 11 hours 40 minutes of battery life in our streaming test. It runs iPadOS 18, supports Wi-Fi 6 and includes an 8MP rear camera. The device feels sturdy and the display is bright enough for outdoor use.
Alternatives include the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ (£199.00), which is cheaper but less powerful, and the iPad Air M3 (2025) (£460.99), which offers a better display and stylus support for a higher price. The iPad Pro M5 13-inch (£1,199.99) is aimed at creative professionals and is not necessary for everyday tasks.
For most users, the iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink is a smart investment. It balances price, performance and longevity, making it one of the best tablets 2026 for mainstream buyers.
Common mistakes when buying tablets
1
Ignoring battery life differences
Many buyers overlook how much battery life varies between tablets. For example, the iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink lasts 11 hours 40 minutes in our streaming test, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ manages 10 hours 5 minutes. If you need a device for long lectures or travel, this difference matters.
2
Assuming all tablets have the same stylus support
Not all tablets are equal for note-taking or drawing. The Apple iPad Air M3 (2025) offers seamless Apple Pencil support, while the Galaxy Tab A11+ is less responsive with third-party styluses. If you’re a student or creative, this can make a big difference.
3
Overestimating storage needs
Some users pay extra for more storage than they actually use. The iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink provides enough space for most students and families. Only those handling large creative files or lots of offline videos should consider the 256GB or iPad Pro M5 models.
4
Forgetting about weight and portability
Weight is crucial if you carry your tablet daily. The iPad Air M3 (2025) weighs just 0.46 kg, making it ideal for students. In contrast, the iPad Pro M5 13-inch with Magic Keyboard hits 1.28 kg, which can be tiring to lug around campus or on commutes.
Frequently asked questions about tablets
Does the iPad Pro M5 13-inch support Apple Pencil?
+
Yes, the iPad Pro M5 13-inch supports the latest Apple Pencil, making it ideal for digital artists and note-takers. This model’s 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display and iPadOS 26 create a smooth, lag-free drawing experience. The combination of the M5 chipset and Pencil support is unmatched for creative professionals. If you need a tablet for illustration or design, this is the top choice in the current Apple range.
Which iPad is best for university in 2026?
+
The iPad Air M3 (2025) is the best iPad for university in 2026, thanks to its balance of portability, power and price. With an 11-inch Retina display, Apple M3 chip and 10 hours 20 minutes battery life, it handles note-taking, reading and video calls with ease. At 0.46 kg, it’s light enough for daily campus use. Students who need more storage or creative power might consider the iPad Pro M5, but for most, the Air M3 is the sweet spot.
Is the iPad Air M3 (2025) good for note-taking?
+
Yes, the iPad Air M3 (2025) is excellent for note-taking. Its 11-inch Retina display and Apple Pencil compatibility make handwriting and annotation feel natural. The M3 chip ensures smooth performance when switching between apps or multitasking in lectures. Battery life of 10 hours 20 minutes means it will last through a full day of classes without issue.
How much storage do you need on a tablet for school?
+
For most students, 128GB is enough storage on a tablet for school. This covers thousands of lecture notes, PDFs, textbooks and even some offline videos. The iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink and iPad Air M3 (2025) both offer this capacity. Only students working with large creative files or video projects should consider 256GB or higher.
Is the Galaxy Tab A11+ suitable for Netflix?
+
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ is suitable for Netflix streaming. Its 10.5-inch LCD display and 10 hours 5 minutes battery life provide a comfortable viewing experience. The 128GB storage allows for plenty of offline downloads. At £199.00, it’s one of the best budget tablets 2026 for streaming and casual use.
Does the iPad (2025) A16 Chip have parental controls?
+
Yes, the iPad (2025) A16 Chip includes robust parental controls via iPadOS 18. Parents can set screen time limits, restrict app downloads and monitor usage. These features make it a safe choice for families and children. The controls are easy to set up and manage through the device settings.
Are there tablets with good parental controls in 2026?
+
Yes, both Apple and Samsung offer tablets with strong parental controls in 2026. The iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink uses iPadOS 18’s built-in tools, while the Galaxy Tab A11+ uses Android 14’s Family Link features. Both let parents manage screen time, app access and content restrictions, giving peace of mind for families.
Which tablets are best for video calls with family?
+
The iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Pink and Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ are both great for video calls with family. Each has an 8MP rear camera and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity. The iPad’s 10.9-inch Retina display and 11 hours 40 minutes battery life make long calls comfortable. The Galaxy Tab A11+ is lighter and more affordable, but both deliver clear video and sound.
Other tablets included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Silver£283.99.811", Apple iPadOS 18
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Blue£279.99.811", Apple iPadOS 18
Apple iPad (2025) A16 Chip Wi-Fi 128GB Yellow£289.99", Apple iPadOS 18
Apple iPad Pro M5, 11-inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular, 256GB, Standard Glass Space Black£785.99.911", iPadOS 26
