Advertising Disclosure ?
fact checked Fact Checked

The Best Gaming Tablets – Top Picks For 2023

Discover best gaming tablets with powerful processors, high-resolution displays, and superb performance for immersive gaming experiences.

CR Staff
By Updated: 2024, Jan 31

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of technology, gaming tablets have carved a substantial niche for themselves. Offering the perfect fusion of portability, power, and immersive gaming experiences, these devices have emerged as a preferred choice for gamers on-the-go. Whether you’re a casual player catching a few rounds during your commute, or a hardcore gamer seeking high-end performance, a gaming tablet could be your ultimate tool. In this guide, we will delve into the world of gaming tablets, presenting the best of the best in the market, based on a thorough analysis of performance, display quality, battery life, and more. Let’s unlock the full potential of mobile gaming together.

The Best Gaming Tablets – Top Picks For 2023
best-gaming-tablets

What is a Gaming Tablet?

A gaming tablet is a specialized device that strikes a balanced cord between portability and immersive gaming. It’s not just about playing games; it’s about living them. With high-performance processors that reduce latency, impressive audio and graphics that pull you into the game, and screens large enough to keep your eyes comfortable during those long gaming sessions, these tablets are a game-changer.
The Rise of Gaming Tablets
In the past few years, gaming tablets have risen from being a mere concept to a mainstream gaming platform. This can be attributed to the rapid advancements in technology and the increasing demand for portable gaming solutions on a global scale.

Why Choose a Gaming Tablet?

Choosing a gaming tablet means stepping into a world of powerful processors, crisp displays, and long-lasting battery life that ordinary tablets might not provide. They are designed to handle the requirements of modern high-definition games and ensure a smooth, lag-free gaming experience.
In the following sections, we will explore some of the best gaming tablets available in the market, each offering unique features to enhance your gaming experience. Stay tuned to find the perfect gaming tablet that fits your playstyle and budget.


Quick Summary

Image Product Description Price
1
samsung galaxy tab s8
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a high-end tablet with a stunning Super AMOLED display, powerful processor, and premium design.
2
asus rog flow z13
Asus ROG Flow Z13
The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a gaming tablet designed for gaming enthusiasts, featuring a high-refresh-rate display and powerful gaming hardware.
3
samsung galaxy tab s9
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 offers top-tier performance and a visually stunning display, making it a versatile tool for both work and play.
4
oneplus pad
OnePlus Pad
The OnePlus Pad impresses with its robust MediaTek Dimensity processor and Harmon Kardon speakers, making it a compelling choice for users seeking aesthetics and value.
5
samsung galaxy tab a8
Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 stands out for its immersive display, Quad Speakers, and family-friendly features, making it a great choice for entertainment.
6
lenovo tab p11 pro gen 2
Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2
The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 boasts a stunning OLED display, Snapdragon processor, and stylus support for digital artists and note-takers.
7
google pixel tablet
Google Pixel Tablet
The Google Pixel Tablet offers exceptional display quality and Pixel Slate Keyboard support, making it optimal for media consumption and light productivity tasks.
8
samsung galaxy tab a7 lite
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is a budget-friendly, portable tablet with a compact design and decent performance for light tasks and media consumption.

The Research

How we tested?

We conducted rigorous testing to identify the best gaming tablets available in today’s market. Our testing process included a deep dive into each tablet’s technical specifications such as processing speed, graphical performance, display quality, and battery life. Real-time gaming sessions were conducted to experience the device’s performance firsthand, taking note of any lag, overheating issues, and overall user experience.

How we picked?

In our selection process, we factored in the tablets’ performance during testing, customer reviews, and reputation of the manufacturer. We considered tablets across a range of price points to ensure there’s an option for every budget. We also evaluated the device’s future-proof potential, examining how well it could handle upcoming game releases and updates. This was done by assessing the frequency of software updates, the device’s compatibility with new gaming technologies, and the manufacturer’s reputation for supporting their devices long term.

Who should get this?

Gaming tablets are a great choice for anyone seeking a portable and immersive gaming experience. They’re ideal for gamers who prefer the convenience of gaming on-the-go without compromising on performance or graphics. Additionally, these devices cater to a wide demographic of gamers, from casual players who enjoy simple mobile games, to dedicated gamers who dive into graphics-intensive AAA titles. If you’re looking to elevate your mobile gaming experience, investing in a gaming tablet is a move worth considering.

Best Gaming Tablets – Product Reviews

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

samsung galaxy tab s8 review

  • What We Like

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 stands out for its superior processing power and AMOLED display, delivering an exceptional gaming experience. The device comes equipped with Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2, ensuring high-speed performance and seamless gameplay, even with graphics-intensive games. We admired the device’s long battery life, which allows for extended gaming sessions without constant charging.

  • What We Don’t Like

    Despite its many strengths, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has some drawbacks. The device lacks a cooling system, which can lead to overheating during long gaming sessions. Additionally, the relatively high price point may not suit all budgets.

Product Specification

Display 12.4-inch Super AMOLED, 2800 x 1752 pixels
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2 5G
Graphics Integrated GPU (in Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2 5G)
RAM 8GB
Storage 128GB, 256GB (Expandable via microSD)
Battery 10,090mAh

Pros

  • Powerful processing speed
  • High-quality AMOLED display
  • Impressive battery life

Cons

  • Possible overheating issues
  • High cost

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is an excellent choice for any gaming enthusiast seeking high performance and graphics quality in a portable package. It combines powerful processing speed, a stunning display, and long battery life to provide an immersive gaming experience. However, potential overheating issues and a significantly high price point are things to consider before investing in this tablet.


Asus ROG Flow Z13

asus rog flow z13 review

  • What We Like

    The Asus ROG Flow Z13 impresses with its game-centric design and powerful processing capabilities. Equipped with the latest Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti, it delivers seamless gameplay, even for high-resolution games. Its detachable design adds to its appeal, allowing the device to transform from gaming powerhouse to portable tablet in seconds.

  • What We Don’t Like

    However, the Asus ROG Flow Z13 is not without its shortcomings. The device’s battery life can be less than impressive during intensive gaming sessions. Moreover, it carries a hefty price tag, which may make it inaccessible for gamers on a tight budget.

Product Specification

Display: 13.4 inches, 3840 x 2400 pixels
Processor: Intel Core i9
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 1TB SSD
Battery: 62Wh

Pros

  • Powerful processing and graphics capabilities
  • Game-centric design
  • Detachable, versatile form factor

Cons

  • Short battery life during intensive gaming
  • High cost

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a top-notch gaming tablet that offers powerful performance, exceptional graphics, and a game-focused design. Its versatility as a detachable device adds to its value. However, its less-than-ideal battery life during heavy gaming and the high cost are factors that potential buyers should weigh carefully.


Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

samsung galaxy tab s9 review

  • What We Like

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 stands out with its top-tier performance and visually stunning display. It’s powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience. The S-Pen compatibility offers an additional layer of functionality, making this a versatile tool for both work and play.

  • What We Don’t Like

    However, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 has its limitations. The battery life leaves something to be desired when subjected to heavy multimedia usage. Plus, the device is on the pricier side, which might deter budget-conscious consumers.

Product Specification

Display: 11 inches, 2560 x 1600 pixels
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB (expandable up to 1TB with MicroSD)
Battery: 8000mAh

Pros

  • High-performance processing
  • Crisp, vibrant display
  • S-Pen compatibility

Cons

  • Average battery life when using multimedia extensively
  • Higher cost compared to other tablets in the market

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is a solid choice for those seeking a blend of performance and versatility. Its high-quality display and S-Pen compatibility make it a great tool for creative professionals and entertainment enthusiasts alike. However, its average battery life, particularly with heavy multimedia usage, and the considerable price point should be taken into account.


OnePlus Pad

oneplus pad review

  • What We Like

    OnePlus Pad impresses with its robust MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI processor, promising a fast and smooth user experience. The inclusion of Harmon Kardon speakers gives it an edge, offering high-quality audio performance. The device’s sleek design and affordability make it a compelling choice for users seeking a blend of aesthetics and value.

  • What We Don’t Like

    On the downside, the OnePlus Pad’s camera quality is somewhat underwhelming, which can be a setback for those who rely on their tablets for photography or videography. Furthermore, it doesn’t support any stylus, which might be a deal-breaker for creative professionals seeking a tool for sketching and note-taking.

Product Specification

Display: 11 inches, 2000 x 1200 pixels
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB (expandable up to 512GB with MicroSD)
Battery: 7700mAh

Pros

  • Quick and responsive processing
  • Quality audio performance with Harmon Kardon speakers
  • Sleek design and affordable pricing

Cons

  • Average camera quality
  • Lack of stylus support

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The OnePlus Pad is an excellent option for those who prioritize processing power and audio quality in a tablet while staying within a budget. Its sleek design and impressive performance make it a fantastic tool for both work and entertainment. However, users who need a tablet with a high-quality camera or stylus support might want to consider other options.


Samsung Galaxy Tab A8

samsung galaxy tab a8 review

  • What We Like

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 stands out for its immersive 10.5-inch TFT display, delivering a vivid and detailed visual experience. Equipped with Quad Speakers powered by Dolby Atmos, it offers an exceptional audio experience. Its long-lasting battery life and the addition of Samsung Kids make it a family-friendly gadget.

  • What We Don’t Like

    However, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 falls short in terms of processing power, as it houses an entry-level Snapdragon 662 processor, which might not appeal to power users. Also, the lack of S Pen support may disappoint those looking for a tablet for note-taking or drawing.

Product Specification

Display: 10.5 inches, 1200 x 2000 pixels
Processor: Snapdragon 662
RAM: 3GB
Storage: 32GB/64GB (expandable up to 1TB with MicroSD)
Battery: 7040mAh

Pros

  • Large and immersive display
  • Excellent audio with Quad Speakers powered by Dolby Atmos
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Entry-level processor performance
  • No stylus support

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 is a great choice for individuals and families seeking a tablet for entertainment and everyday use. Its strong points are undoubtedly the vibrant display and superb audio quality. However, for those who need a powerful tablet for heavy multitasking or a device that supports a stylus, other options on the market might be more suitable.


Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2

lenovo tab p11 pro gen 2 review

  • What We Like

    The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 distinguishes itself with its stunning 11.5-inch OLED display, which offers vibrant, true-to-life visuals. It is powered by the Snapdragon 730G processor, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and entertainment. The addition of the Lenovo Precision Pen 2 support makes this a remarkable tool for digital artists or note-takers.

  • What We Don’t Like

    Despite its strong points, the Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 does not come with an integrated keyboard, which could be a setback for users aiming for productivity tasks. Also, while its Snapdragon 730G processor is decent, it might struggle with high-end gaming or heavy multitasking.

Product Specification

Display: 11.5 inches, 1600 x 2560 pixels
Processor: Snapdragon 730G
RAM: 4GB/6GB
Storage: 128GB (expandable up to 1TB with MicroSD)
Battery: 8600mAh

Pros

  • Brilliant OLED display
  • Support for Lenovo Precision Pen 2
  • Decent performance for everyday use

Cons

  • No integrated keyboard
  • May not handle heavy gaming or multitasking well

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 is an excellent choice for users looking for a tablet for multimedia consumption, light productivity tasks, and digital artistry. Its OLED display and stylus support make it a strong contender in its category. However, those needing a device for heavy gaming or high productivity tasks may want to explore other options with more robust processing power and integrated keyboard support.


Google Pixel Tablet

google pixel tablet review

  • What We Like

    The Google Pixel Tablet stands out with its outstanding 12.3-inch Molecular Display, which delivers stunning, crisp visuals. Powered by the Intel Core i5 processor, it guarantees seamless performance for routine tasks and entertainment alike. The Pixel Slate Keyboard support enhances its functionality, making it a tremendous asset for a wide range of users, from digital artists to professionals seeking a mobile workstation.

  • What We Don’t Like

    Notwithstanding its merits, the Google Pixel Tablet lacks an LTE variant, which can be a drawback for users who require connectivity on the go. The Intel Core i5 processor, while competent for everyday use, may not fare as well with high-end gaming or intense multitasking.

Product Specification

Display: 12.3 inches, 3000 x 2000 pixels
Processor: Intel Core i5
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB
Battery: 48Wh

Pros

  • Exceptional Molecular Display
  • Support for Pixel Slate Keyboard
  • Solid performance for routine tasks

Cons

  • No LTE variant available
  • Might struggle with intensive gaming or multitasking

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Google Pixel Tablet with its superb display and keyboard support is an optimal choice for users seeking a device for media consumption, moderate productivity tasks, and occasional sketching. Its impressive features make it a strong competitor in its niche. However, users who require a device for heavy-duty gaming or intensive productivity tasks might want to consider other options with superior processing capabilities and LTE support.


Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite

samsung galaxy tab a7 lite review

  • What We Like

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, with its sleek design and lightweight structure, is a pleasure to handle. Its 8.7-inch display, while compact, provides clear, vibrant visuals, making it perfect for media consumption while on the go. Powered by the MediaTek Helio P22T processor, it renders a smooth performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.

  • What We Don’t Like

    The Tab A7 Lite, though impressive for its size, sports a lower resolution compared to its competitors, which may slightly compromise on the viewing experience. Additionally, its processor may not be sufficient for heavy-duty tasks or high-end gaming.

Product Specification

Display: 8.7 inches, 1340 x 800 pixels
Processor: MediaTek Helio P22T
RAM: 3GB
Storage: 32/64GB
Battery: 5100mAh

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Decent performance for routine tasks
  • Solid battery life

Cons

  • Lower resolution display
  • Processor not suitable for intensive tasks

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, with its compact design and decent performance, is an excellent choice for users seeking a budget-friendly, portable tablet for light tasks and media consumption. Despite a few limitations, its merits, including commendable battery life and a solid user interface, make it a viable competitor in the budget tablet segment. However, users seeking a device for intensive tasks or high-resolution media might want to consider other options.


Comparison Table

Product Display Size Processor RAM Storage Battery
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 12.4 inches Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2 5G 8GB 128/256GB 10090mAh
Asus ROG Flow Z13 Check Specs Check Specs Check Specs Check Specs Check Specs
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 11 inches Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 8GB 128GB 8000mAh
OnePlus Pad 11 inches MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI 6GB 128GB (expandable) 7700mAh
Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5 inches Snapdragon 662 3GB 32/64GB (expandable) 7040mAh
Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 11.5 inches Snapdragon 730G 4GB/6GB 128GB (expandable) 8600mAh
Google Pixel Tablet 12.3 inches Intel Core i5 8GB 128GB 48Wh
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite 8.7 inches MediaTek Helio P22T 3GB 32/64GB 5100mAh

Buying Guide : Tablet for Gaming

Performance

The tablet’s processor and RAM significantly impact its ability to run games smoothly. Look for tablets with high-speed processors and at least 4GB of RAM to handle high-end games.

Display

A high-resolution display will enhance your gaming experience, offering sharper visuals and more vibrant colors. Opt for a tablet with a resolution of at least 1920×1080 pixels.

Battery Life

Gaming can quickly drain a tablet’s battery. Ensure your chosen tablet has a long battery life, ideally over 10 hours, for uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Operating System

Consider the type of operating system that suits your needs. Android and iOS have extensive game libraries but some games might be exclusive to one platform.

Storage

Games can take up substantial space on a tablet. Look for tablets with ample storage capacity – ideally, go for 64GB or more.

Price

High-quality gaming tablets can be pricey. However, there are budget-friendly options available that do not compromise on key gaming features.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right gaming tablet is a matter of meticulously balancing various factors, including performance, display quality, battery life, operating system, storage, and budget. Given the diversity of options available in the market, it’s essential to tailor your choice to your particular gaming style and needs. Whether you are a casual gamer seeking to pass time during your commute, a professional player desiring high-end performance, or a parent looking for a family-friendly device, there is a gaming tablet out there that perfectly fits your requirements. Remember, investing in a gaming tablet is not merely about buying a piece of hardware; it’s about enhancing your gaming experience and lifestyle.