There’s something magical about holding a tablet. One moment, it’s your digital sketchbook, the next, it’s your lecture hall, your streaming hub, your productivity centre, or your gaming console. Over the past few years, tablets have transformed from “bigger phones” into powerful companion devices that adapt to your lifestyle, not the other way around.
Whether you’re a student scribbling notes during back-to-back lectures, a creator chasing inspiration on-the-go, a professional balancing endless Zoom calls, or someone who just wants to curl up and binge your favourite shows, there’s a tablet out there built just for you. In this guide, we explore the best tablets across every budget and every need breaking down the top options from Samsung, Apple, Lenovo, and Microsoft so you can find the one that fits seamlessly into your world.
How we decide what’s best
At Best Buy Canada, curating a “Best of” or “Top X” list is a thoughtful and transparent process. We evaluate products based on brand reputation, popularity, customer interest, and relevance within their category. Our bloggers then bring deep product knowledge and hands-on experience to help identify the best options for you.
Testing goes far beyond unboxing—products are used in real-world scenarios, with our bloggers putting themselves in your shoes to better understand how a device or accessory performs day to day and whether it meets expectations. Where possible, they compare similar models and assess key factors such as design, performance, and category-specific features to offer well-rounded, informed recommendations. For niche or new product categories where broader hands-on testing might not be possible within that category as a whole, our skilled bloggers evaluate the products using every objective method they can.
In some cases, a blogger may not have direct experience with a specific product. When that happens, they draw on broader expertise, such as time spent with comparable items, an understanding of the brand’s current lineup, and its overall reputation. We also draw on insights from Best Buy’s in-house category experts and aggregate feedback from both trusted reviewers and customer ratings to make the best selections.
We’ll always be clear about the basis of our recommendations—whether they stem from first-hand testing or extensive research. Authenticity matters to us. Every “Best of” guide is built on objective insights, product knowledge, and a commitment to helping you make confident buying decisions.
Why choose a tablet?
Tablets are no longer just a middle ground between phones and laptops they’ve become everyday essentials. Whether you’re studying, sketching, streaming, or managing work on the go, the best tablets give you the freedom to do more in less time, anywhere. From powerful processors and vivid displays to seamless ecosystems and stylus-ready experiences, today’s tablets adapt to you not the other way around.
And if you’re wondering what makes them so versatile, here are a few key reasons why tablets have become the perfect companion for work, creativity, and entertainment:
- Ultra-portable for work, travel, or home: Slim, lightweight designs slip into a backpack or tote with ease. The best tablets feel almost invisible in your bag, until you need them.
- Long battery life and powerful processors: Modern chips rival entry-level laptops, so you can research, edit, and stream all day.
- Stylus support for writing and drawing: A pen turns a screen into a notebook or sketchbook, great for students, designers, and anyone who loves handwriting.
- Seamless ecosystems: iPadOS, Android, and Windows connect with your favourite services (Microsoft 365, Google, iCloud) and accessories.
- Great for downtime, too: Perfect for streaming, casual gaming, e-reading, and video calls.
What to consider when buying a tablet
Buying a tablet isn’t just about picking the latest model, it’s about matching the right features to your lifestyle. Whether you’re studying, working, creating, or streaming, here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Performance & chipset
The processor is the engine of your tablet. For the best tablets, look for Apple’s M-series chips (M3 or M4) for desktop-class speed, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8-series on flagship Android tablets, or the newer Snapdragon X Elite/X Plus and efficient Intel processors on Windows devices. A strong chipset means faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and the ability to handle demanding tasks like video editing, 3D design, or switching between multiple school or work apps seamlessly.
Display quality
The display sets the tone for your entire experience, whether you’re watching movies, writing notes, or sketching ideas. Premium tablets often feature OLED panels for vibrant colours, deeper blacks, and stunning contrast, perfect for creatives and binge-watchers alike. Others use high-refresh LCD screens (90Hz or 120Hz) for buttery-smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. Also, consider size, larger screens (11–13 inches) are ideal for split-screen multitasking, while smaller tablets are more portable for on-the-go use.
Stylus & input
If you plan to take notes, draw, or edit visuals, stylus support is key. Check for:
- Latency: Lower is better for smooth, real-time strokes.
- Pressure sensitivity: Important for shading and precise writing.
- Palm rejection: Lets you rest your hand on the screen without accidental touches.
Samsung’s premium tablets include the S Pen in the box, making them great for creatives and students. Apple sells the Apple Pencil separately, offering two versions: Pencil Pro and the USB-C Pencil for other iPads. Microsoft and Lenovo also support pens but often sell them separately. If you plan to type often, look for first-party keyboard covers with built-in trackpads for a laptop-like experience.
Software ecosystem
Your tablet’s operating system shapes what you can do:
- iPadOS: Known for a wide range of tablet-optimised apps from Procreate for creators to Notability for students. Perfect for those already in the Apple ecosystem.
- Android: Highly customisable, with deep Google integration and access to a vast app library. Samsung’s DeX mode even turns tablets into desktop-like setups for productivity.
- Windows: Best for professionals who need full desktop apps like Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, or development tools. Perfect if you want one device for both work and play.
Battery life & charging
A good tablet should last you through the day without hunting for a charger. Premium models can easily handle 10–14 hours of mixed use, making them ideal for school, work, or travel. Look for USB-C fast charging support many tablets now offer 30W to 45W charging, letting you top up quickly between meetings or lectures. If you’re often on the move, consider a portable charger or USB-C hub for extra flexibility.
Samsung Galaxy tablets: innovation meets portability
Samsung takes that promise even further. Whether you’re sketching your next big idea, switching between work apps, or binging your favourite shows, these tablets are built to adapt to you not the other way around.
For visionaries and multitaskers: Galaxy Tab S11 & S11 Ultra
Meet the Galaxy Tab S11 and S11 Ultra, Samsung’s newest powerhouses designed for people who demand more from their tech. With stunning OLED displays, lightning-fast MediaTek processors, and advanced S Pen capabilities, these tablets make every interaction feel effortless. The S11 Ultra, with its expansive display, is a dream for designers, video editors, and professionals who want desktop-class performance in a portable form.
Explore the full Galaxy Tab S11 series on Best Buy Canada and learn how they compare in our deep-dive overview.
For students and note-takers: Galaxy Tab S10 Lite
If you’re looking for a balance of performance, portability, and price, the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite is a fantastic fit. Designed for students and professionals who want a dependable tablet without overspending, it offers a vibrant display, smooth performance, and S Pen support for effortless note-taking and productivity. Perfect for online classes, light editing, and everyday multitasking, it delivers flagship-inspired features at a friendlier price.
For families and binge-watchers: Galaxy Tab A9+
Not everyone needs pro-level specs, and that’s where the Galaxy Tab A9+ comes in. With its 11-inch display, solid performance, and family-friendly features, it’s built for those cozy streaming marathons, casual browsing, and schoolwork. Slim, portable, and affordable it’s one of the best budget Android tablets you can get today.
Apple iPads: best-in-class ecosystem
Apple’s iPads remain a top choice among the best tablets thanks to their seamless software, polished performance, and long-term software support. Whether you’re a student, creative, or professional, there’s an iPad for every workflow.
For creators & pros – iPad Pro (M4)
The iPad Pro (M4) is built for artists, designers, and professionals who want desktop-class power in a portable form. Its Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion 120Hz delivers exceptional colour accuracy and brightness, making it perfect for photo editing, video production, and sketching. Paired with the new Apple Pencil Pro with haptic feedback, barrel-roll, and squeeze gestures it takes creativity to the next level.
For students & professionals – iPad Air (M3)
Need powerful performance in a slimmer, more affordable package? The iPad Air (M3) balances speed, portability, and price beautifully. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro and the Magic Keyboard, making it an excellent companion for multitasking, lectures, or remote work.
For everyday users – iPad (11th gen)
The iPad (11th gen) is the perfect all-rounder for families, students, and casual users. It offers reliable performance, a bright display, and access to a huge library of educational and creativity apps making it one of the best tablets for students on a budget.
If you’re exploring the Apple ecosystem, check out the complete Apple iPad lineup at Best Buy Canada and dive into helpful reads like tablets for productivity and learning or this guide on choosing between a tablet and laptop for note-taking to make a more informed decision.
Lenovo tablets: affordable, durable, and versatile
Lenovo delivers some of the best budget tablets without compromising on features. Whether you need a device for school, entertainment, or light productivity, Lenovo offers excellent value.
For students on a budget: Tab M11
The Lenovo Tab M11 is an everyday essential affordable, compact, and perfect for studying, streaming, and note-taking. Its high-refresh display makes writing smoother, and stylus support adds extra versatility.
For productivity & entertainment: Tab P12
With a large, high-resolution display and quad speakers tuned by JBL, the Lenovo Tab P12 is built for immersive learning and entertainment. Add the optional keyboard and stylus, and it transforms into a capable mini-workstation perfect for students who want flexibility without overspending.
For families & media lovers: Yoga Tab series
The Yoga Tab lineup stands out with built-in kickstands and powerful speakers, making them great for streaming, video calls, and family-friendly use. Its versatile design adapts to study sessions, movie nights, or hands-free cooking tutorials.
From compact, budget-friendly picks to larger, versatile designs, explore the Lenovo tablets collection and find the one that matches your style and daily needs.
Microsoft Surface: 2-in-1 power with Windows flexibility
For professionals and students who need the best Windows tablets, Microsoft’s Surface lineup blends laptop performance with tablet convenience, perfect for running full desktop apps like Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, and more.
For ultimate productivity – Surface Pro (2025, Copilot+ PC)
The Surface Pro (2025) takes versatility to new heights with a 13-inch OLED or 12.3-inch LCD display, powered by the Snapdragon X Elite/X Plus for exceptional performance and battery life. It supports Copilot+ AI features, the Surface Slim Pen 2, and detachable keyboards, making it one of the strongest options for hybrid work, creative tasks, and technical workflows.
For portability & value – Surface Go 4
Compact yet capable, the Surface Go 4 features a 10.5-inch display and lightweight design, making it ideal for students and professionals on the go. It handles note-taking, Office apps, and video calls with ease while supporting optional pen input (sold separately).
If you’re curious about all your options, browse tablets and 2-in-1 devices and learn more about finding the right fit in this comparison of reMarkable, eReaders, and tablets.
Tablet comparison chart by ecosystem
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Tab (Android) | Apple iPad (iPadOS) | Lenovo Tab (Android) |
| Stylus included | Yes (S Pen on S-series and FE models) | No (Apple Pencil sold separately) | Varies (pen support on select models, some bundles include pen) |
| OS & ecosystem | Android + One UI, Google services, DeX desktop mode | iPadOS with wide tablet-optimised apps and seamless iPhone/Mac sync | Android with light Lenovo UI, Kid/Study modes on select devices |
| Performance | High (Mediatek processor on S11) | Very high (M2/M3/M4 on Air/Pro) | Moderate to strong (Helio/Dimensity/Snapdragon by model) |
| Battery life | 12–14 hrs on flagships | 10–12 hrs typical | 10–12 hrs typical |
| Price range | Mid–High (A-series = budget, FE = mid, S-series = premium) | Mid–Very High (base iPad to Pro) | Budget–Mid |
| Best for | Note-takers, streamers, Android power users | Creators, productivity, Apple ecosystem fans | Students, families, value seekers |
Best tablet accessories to consider
The right accessories can transform a tablet from a simple device into a powerful creative, productivity, or study companion. Here are the essentials:
Stylus pens: unlock precision
A stylus takes your tablet experience to the next level, whether you’re sketching, annotating notes, or designing graphics.
- Apple Pencil for iPad Air and iPad Pro, or Pencil Pro for advanced haptics and squeeze gestures.
- Samsung S Pen comes included on S-series and FE models, making Galaxy Tabs perfect for note-takers and creators.
- Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 offers realistic pen-on-paper feedback.
- Lenovo precision pen delivers smooth inking on compatible Yoga and Tab models.
Keyboards: turn your tablet into a laptop
Typing a lot? A keyboard can change everything.
- Apple’s Magic Keyboard transforms iPads into mini workstations with a built-in trackpad.
- Samsung’s Book Cover Keyboard pairs beautifully with Galaxy Tab S11 and enables DeX mode for a desktop-like experience.
- Surface Pro & Go Type Covers are lightweight, responsive, and even store the Slim Pen for charging.
- Lenovo keyboard docks on models like the Tab P12 make multitasking a breeze.
Cases & screen protectors: stay protected
If your tablet travels with you, protection is key. Slim folio covers double as stands, rugged cases add drop resistance, and “paper-feel” matte screen protectors are a favourite among artists for natural pencil strokes.
Chargers & hubs: stay connected
A fast USB-C charger helps you top up quicker, especially on tablets like the Galaxy Tab S11 or iPad Pro. For power users, USB-C hubs add HDMI outputs, SD card readers, and extra ports perfect for productivity setups or connecting external monitors.
Best tablets by use case
Not all tablets are built for the same purpose. Here’s how to match the best tablets to your lifestyle:
Note-takers & students
- Top picks: Samsung Galaxy Tab S11, Lenovo Tab P12, Apple iPad (11th gen).
- Alternative 2-in-1: Microsoft Surface Go 4 for Windows flexibility.
Why it works: Lightweight designs, S Pen and Pencil support, reliable battery life, and access to top note-taking apps. Perfect if you’re after the best tablet for students.
Artists & creators
- Top picks: Apple iPad Pro (M4), Samsung Galaxy Tab S11+.
- Alternative 2-in-1: Surface Pro for full Adobe Creative Cloud support.
Why it works: Vivid colour-accurate displays, low-latency stylus input, and powerful chips make these the best tablets for sketching, painting, video editing, and publishing.
Productivity & professionals
- Top picks: Apple iPad Air (M3), Samsung Galaxy Tab S11.
- Alternative 2-in-1: Surface Pro for seamless Windows workflows.
Why it works: Strong processors, support for multitasking tools like Stage Manager (iPad), DeX (Samsung), and full Windows flexibility. Perfect for travellers, remote workers, and hybrid pros.
Budget-friendly buyers
- Top picks: Lenovo Tab M11, Apple iPad (11th gen), Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+.
Why it works: Great screens, dependable performance, and long-lasting batteries without premium pricing. Among these, the Tab M11 and A9+ are top contenders for the best budget Android tablet.
Discover the tablet that’s made for you
Choosing the best tablet isn’t just about specs it’s about finding the one that fits seamlessly into your life. Maybe it’s the slim, OLED-powered powerhouse that fuels your next big creative project. Maybe it’s the budget-friendly tablet that helps you crush your coursework. Or maybe it’s the perfect companion for cozy streaming nights and casual browsing.
With so many options available, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, just the right fit for you. When you’re ready to explore, check out Best Buy Canada’s tablets and iPads collection, compare the latest models, and discover the one that’s ready to power your next chapter.
