How to choose a tablet: 11 steps (with pictures)

Want to buy a tablet? You can play games, watch videos, send emails and even work on it. However, choosing a tablet is not easy - you can find a huge number of models in stores in which you can get confused. This article will show you how to quickly narrow down your choices and find the perfect tablet.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Choosing an Operating System

Step 1. The main thing is to choose the right operating system

Operating systems for tablets are offered by three companies: Apple (iOS), Google (Android), and Microsoft (Windows). The choice of system also depends on what you are doing on your desktop computer (or laptop) and on your smartphone.

If you have a smartphone with one of the listed operating systems, select a tablet with the same system. Android and iOS are practically the same in both smartphones and tablets; moreover, it will make it easier to connect devices to each other and exchange information between them.
If you regularly use the services of one of the listed companies (iCloud, Google Drive, OneDrive), select the system of the same company. In this case, you will receive applications that allow you to access other services.

Step 2. Advantages of iOS

This system from Apple, installed on the iPad, is appreciated for its intuitive interface and stability.

Full integration with OS X and iTunes.
Easy to use interface.
Lots of apps (good and new).
iMessage lets you send free messages to any Apple device.

Step 3. Advantages of Android

This system from Google is the most popular mobile operating system (thanks to the huge number of devices running it).

Full integration with Google and Play Store accounts.
Android devices are significantly cheaper.
Lots of settings for advanced users.
A wide variety of models and manufacturers.
Android supports multiple user accounts on one device.
Android is subject to change by manufacturers of other devices. For example, the Amazon Kindle Fire runs a modified version of Android.

Step 4. Windows advantages

This system is not as common as iOS or Android, but it will be a good choice if you work with other Microsoft programs. Windows 8 is currently the main Windows mobile operating system.

You can run various programs that support Windows, including Office.
Full integration with Microsoft and Windows Store accounts.
Connects to Xbox. SmartGlass allows you to use your tablet as a secondary interface for Xbox 360 and Xbox One games.
Most Windows tablets come with removable keyboards.

Step 5. Decide on a budget

An inexpensive tablet costs $ 200, while an iPad will set you back $ 800. The lower the price, the lower the performance and memory size; the low price also affects the quality of the display.

Step 6. Think about the applications you want

To do this, browse the app stores for each operating system using a web browser and determine which system store offers the exact apps you need.

Not all apps are optimized for use on a tablet, but there are more and more of them

Method 2 of 2: Choosing a Tablet

Step 1. First, go to the store and hold the tablet in your hands (it is recommended to do this even if you are going to buy a tablet online)

You will get the first impression of the tablet (size, weight, image quality, and so on).

Step 2. Test the tablet for the speed of opening and closing applications, as well as the speed of switching between them

Play powerful games (if available) to determine how your tablet handles high loads.

Step 3. Compare the specifications of different tablets (especially if you are comparing tablets from different manufacturers)

For example, if you want to buy an iPad, then all new models of this tablet have the same processor. But if you are looking to buy an Android tablet, be sure to compare processors and RAM.

Resolution is the size of the display expressed in terms of the number of pixels displayed on the screen. The higher the resolution, the clearer the image.
The processor is the device that powers the tablet. Quad-core tablets generally perform better than dual-core tablets.
Battery life. Do not rely too much on the information provided by the manufacturer - it determines the battery life under the most optimal conditions. On the internet, try to find user reviews on battery life under normal use.
RAM - allows you to comfortably work simultaneously with several running applications (or with one powerful application). Pay attention to the amount of RAM, especially when choosing an Android tablet.
Memory - designed to store files (applications, videos, music, documents). The memory is different for tablets of the same model range. Make sure you can insert an SD or MicroSD card into the tablet to expand the memory. Since many users store files in cloud storage, the need for large memory is reduced.
SIM card. If you want to use a cellular connection to surf the Internet, make sure you can insert a SIM card into the tablet. However, all tablets can connect to wireless networks.

Step 4. Camera

If you plan to take pictures using a tablet, then study the parameters of the built-in camera. As a rule, not the best cameras are installed in tablets (with a few exceptions). Most tablets have two cameras - one on the back and one on the front (less powerful camera).

Step 5. Size

The standard tablet size is 10 "or 7" (to fit the display). It is more convenient to watch movies, play and work on a large screen, while small tablets are lighter and more mobile. Typically, apps support both 10 "and 7" tablets (although some are only optimized for a specific size).