Tablet buying guide

Follow our guide to buying the right tablet for you. The Good Guys has a large range from top brands like Lenovo, Samsung, Microsoft and more.

Types of operating systems

So many companies have released their vision of mobile computing perfection that choosing from all the available options can seem a bit daunting. These tablet tips should help give you the knowledge you need to have confidence in your next purchase. The operating system is the core platform your tablet and its applications will run on, each of which have their own specific layouts and features. The most common operating systems are:Apple iOSThis is the standard for all Apple devices and has been tried and tested over many years - it is popular and easy to use. iPadOS 18 is the latest operating system for iPad. It includes new ways to work with Apple Pencil, new in-app experiences and ways to customise iPad even further. The newest iPads include Apple's AI software - Apple Intelligence.AndroidThis OS in intuitive and simple to navigate, also having been around for many years. It may have options to sync other Android operated devices to your tablet for ease of use around the home. Android 15 introduces a suite of privacy and security tools to keep data safer and the ability to create a separate private space on your device with another layer of authentication.Windows 11This operating system has all-new features including Smart App Control that can predict which apps are safe to run on Windows 11, Generative erase that swiftly removes elements from a photo and Microsoft Copilot - your AI companion. It also has time-saving tools including Snap layouts, where you can quickly organise what's on your screen, plus, you can connecct your Android or iPhone devices to manage notifications right from your Windows PC.

“Entry-level tablets have up to 32GB of storage, easy-to-use IOS and Android systems, plus speedy processors, which makes them a quality budget buy.”

- Jason Tavoletti, The Good Guys Buyer – Tech.

Considerations for choosing a Tablet

Screen size

It's the first thing you notice, so it's likely to be an important consideration. Tablets range from as small as eight inches (measured diagonally from corner to corner) to over 15 inches. Simply browsing the internet while out and about? You can probably get away with a smaller screen, but streaming TV shows and movies, reading and playing games will upscale your requirements considerably.

Screen resolution and sharpness

Image sharpness requirements will depend on how you're using your tablet. Around 1024 x 600 will be fine for surfing the web, but upgrading to 2560 x 1600 (like Samsung's Tab S Super AMOLED Display) will make text and images crystal clear. If you're a fan of ebooks, purchasing a higher resolution tablet is definitely recommended to make text more clear and to prevent overstraining your eyes.

Touch responsiveness

A touchscreen is how users interact with tablets, so if you have a chance in store, play around with each tablet you are considering, or even borrow one from a friend. Picking a model that feels responsive and natural to you is extremely important. Factors to consider:

• Grease-resistance covers

• Multi-touch screen for better manipulation

• Glare protection

2-in-1

Want the portability of a tablet with the convenience of a detachable keyboard? Consider a 2-in-1 laptop. Perfect for multitasking, working or studying on-the-go, 2-in-1 laptops feature responsive touchscreens and 360-degree hinges, allowing you to effortlessly switch between laptop, tablet, and stand modes.

Tablet storage capacity

There is a huge difference in storage capacity on tablets, ranging from as little as 32GB all the way up to 1TB. Your storage capacity requirements will depend on:

• Budget – extra capacity can add significantly to price

• How many films, songs, games and documents you wish to store

• Whether you have external memory cards for additional storage

Memory is typically expandable by the use of a micro or mini SD card- check the specifications of the tablet you are considering for which size it takes, as you may want to purchase a memory card together at the same time.

Range of apps available

Apps just means applications, and apps are a central feature of tablets – you can find one for almost anything you desire, whether it's office work, news, streaming TV shows and movies, maps, social networking and more. Your choice in apps will depend largely on the operating system you choose, with each OS offering different app vendors, including Apple's App Store and iTunes, Windows Store and Google Play for Android.

Accessories

Once you've chosen which type of tablet to purchase, you'll want the right accessories to go with it. From keeping your tablet protected with a durable case or carry bag to wireless pens and keyboards, you'll find everything you need for your iPad or tablet at The Good Guys. When purchasing accessories for your tablet, you can check whether a product is compatible with your device by navigating to the Compatible Products section on the product page.

Tablet glossary

We’ll break down all the tech talk and acronyms that you need to know.

Tablet

A handheld, portable touchscreen device, typically with a mobile operating system.

Laptop

A small portable computer with a screen and keyboard.

2-in-1

A laptop that can be used as a tablet when the keyboard attachment is removed.

Resolution

Refers to the number of pixels that can be displayed on a screen. Higher resolution results in a sharper, clearer image.

Processor (CPU)

A Central Processing Unit enables a computer to function by executing basic instructions.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM is a short-term memory bank where your CPU stores important data that needs to be accessed quickly. It loses content when the computer is turned off.