Looking for a reliable tablet without spending a fortune? Whether you want to stream your favorite shows, scroll through news, or play games, there’s a budget tablet in 2025 that fits the bill. Here’s a carefully selected list based on performance, value, and usability.
1. Apple iPad (10th Generation, 2022)
Price Range: Under $300
Why It’s Still a Favorite:
Despite being a few years old, the iPad (10th gen) remains a popular pick due to its dependable A14 Bionic chip and consistent iPadOS updates. Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display holds its own even among newer tablets, delivering crisp visuals perfect for everyday tasks.
Key Highlights:
- iPadOS support for five to six years
- Compatible with Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio
- Great app ecosystem
- No headphone jack or microSD slot
Those who prefer a polished interface and a seamless ecosystem will find this iPad hard to beat, especially if streaming and casual gaming are frequent activities.
2. Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE
Price Range: Under $200
Why It Stands Out:
This Android tablet pushes value further with an 11-inch Full HD+ display and 90Hz refresh rate—rare at this price point. Ideal for browsing, watching videos, and playing lightweight games like 2048.
Key Highlights:
- Snapdragon 680 processor with 4GB RAM
- 128GB storage, expandable via microSD
- Dolby Atmos quad speakers
- 8,000 mAh battery
The Redmi Pad SE caters to those who want smooth visuals and decent power without stretching the budget.
3. Lenovo Tab M11
Price Range: Around $180–$200
Why It Works for Most Users:
With its clean Android experience and PC-like multitasking features, the Tab M11 brings productivity to the entry-level segment. Its 11-inch screen and 90Hz refresh rate make web browsing and streaming responsive and fluid.
Key Highlights:
- Smooth scrolling and multitasking
- Full access to Google Play Store
- Long battery life
- Simple, bloat-free interface
It’s especially appealing for students and families needing a tablet that can handle YouTube, web apps, and reading without lags or frustration.
4. Lenovo Tab Plus
Price Range: Around $250
Why Entertainment Lovers Pick It:
Dubbed an “entertainment machine,” the Tab Plus puts media consumption at the forefront. Eight JBL speakers transform it into a portable cinema, and its 11.5-inch screen with 90Hz refresh rate makes content look fantastic.
Key Highlights:
- 10–11 hours of video playback
- High-end audio setup with Dolby Atmos
- Strong battery performance
- Sleek build ideal for streaming and music
If you value audio quality and spend hours with Netflix or Spotify, this tablet earns a solid spot on your list.
5. Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023)
Price Range: Under $150
Why It Fits the Budget:
The Fire HD 10 balances affordability and functionality, especially for Amazon users. It handles streaming, light browsing, and reading without issues. Just keep in mind you’re inside the Fire OS ecosystem, which means no Google Play Store unless sideloaded.
Key Highlights:
- Solid display for its price
- Long battery life
- Budget-friendly variant with optional ads
- Available in kid-friendly models
For those who don’t mind using the Amazon Appstore, it serves well for everyday use.
6. Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+
Price Range: $200–$250
Why It Appeals to Android Users:
With an 11-inch 90Hz screen and Samsung’s quality hardware, the Tab A9+ brings premium feel to a budget tier. It supports DeX mode, giving users a pseudo-desktop interface—useful for occasional productivity.
Key Highlights:
- Crisp visuals and reliable performance
- Samsung DeX support
- Decent RAM and storage for the price
- Wide software support
Although multitasking might slow it down occasionally, it’s capable enough for apps like YouTube, Gmail, and light gaming.
7. Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
Price Range: Under $180
Why It Still Makes Sense:
The Galaxy Tab A8, while older, is even more affordable in 2025 due to the A9+ hitting the market. It’s a solid Android tablet for users looking for a simple media and browsing device.
Key Highlights:
- 10.5-inch HD screen
- Clean One UI interface
- Durable build
- Smooth for basic tasks
It’s suitable for reading, emails, and casual entertainment—without dipping into high-end tablet territory.
8. Xiaomi Redmi Pad Pro
Price Range: Under $300
Why It Feels Premium:
With a large 12.1-inch display and metal build, this tablet looks and feels more expensive than it is. It handles casual workloads with ease and suits users who want more screen real estate for productivity or viewing.
Key Highlights:
- Premium design for under $300
- Ideal for streaming and browsing
- Supports light creative tasks
- Strong for media and social use
Games like minesweeper or drawing apps run well, and the larger screen gives room to multitask with split-view apps.
Key Factors to Keep in Mind
Operating System
Choose based on the ecosystem you prefer. Apple users may lean toward iPadOS for its familiarity. Android gives broader app flexibility, while Fire OS is more Amazon-centric.
Display
Tablets with 90Hz refresh rates offer smoother interaction, especially for scrolling-heavy activities like news reading or social feeds.
Battery Life
Longer battery life matters if you’re often on the go or don’t want to charge daily. Most on this list offer at least 8–10 hours of mixed use.
Performance Needs
For casual use, all the tablets listed will serve well. For heavier needs, prioritize those with stronger chipsets and more RAM.
There’s no shortage of solid budget options in 2025. Whether you’re after a tablet that handles video marathons, PDF reading, or games like 2048, the models above hit the sweet spot between performance and price.
