What to look for
- Decide on iPad or Android first; apps and accessories rarely cross over.
- Plan on at least 128GB of storage if you download shows or games.
- If you want to write or draw, check which stylus works and whether it is included.
- Software support matters: longer update promises keep a tablet safe and useful for years.
How much to spend
Typical prices run from £89 to £549. Budget models cover the basics; spending more usually buys full iPad experience at the lowest Apple price. Only pay for features you will use.
Who should skip what
- Skip the Apple iPad 11-inch if you want Apple Intelligence features or an anti-reflective laminated screen; look at the iPad Air
- Skip the Apple iPad Air 11-inch if you only stream and read; the base iPad does that for about £250 less
- Skip the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE if you want the fastest Android tablet for heavy games; the Tab S10+ and Ultra are quicker
- Skip the Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet if you need Google Play apps or a smooth, fast tablet; Fire OS is limited and ad-supported by default
Buying tips
iPads and Fire tablets see their deepest UK discounts around Prime Day, Black Friday and back-to-school season. Apple’s education pricing applies to iPad Air and Pro. AppleCare+ is worth considering for tablets kids will use, and Fire Kids editions include a two-year replacement guarantee.
Our picks
See all our best tablets in the uk for more options.
Recommended products
Best overallApple · Tablets
Apple iPad 11-inch (A16 chip)
Fast, affordable and supported for years.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Most people
- Typical price
- £279–£319
Pros
- Fast A16 chip
- 128GB of storage to start
Cons
- Screen is not laminated
Best for notes and schoolApple · Tablets
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3)
Pencil Pro support and laptop-class speed.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Students and note-takers
- Typical price
- £509–£549
Pros
- M3 chip with headroom for years
- Laminated, anti-reflective screen
Cons
- 60Hz screen
Best Android tabletSamsung · Tablets
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE
Stylus in the box and IP68.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Android users
- Typical price
- £409–£489
Pros
- S Pen included
- microSD storage expansion
Cons
- Midrange chip
Frequently asked questions
Which iPad should I buy?
The 11-inch iPad (A16) suits most people. Choose the iPad Air if you take notes with Apple Pencil Pro, want Apple Intelligence features or plan to add a keyboard.
Is a Fire tablet good for kids?
Yes for streaming and reading, especially the Kids editions with a bumper case and a two-year worry-free guarantee. It is not a good choice for school apps that need Google Play.
Can a tablet replace a laptop?
For email, browsing and notes, often yes. For long documents, spreadsheets and specialised software, a laptop is still easier.