8 Best Tablets Under $300 in 2021 [Balanced Performance]

Are you planning to buy a tablet for under 300 dollars? Perhaps, you’re looking for a reliable mid-budget device that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. There are many options with different specifications available in this price range, but how do you find the one that’s perfect for your needs? Well, fret not, I’ll help you find just that.

Although you can’t expect a $300 tablet to perform like the flagships such as Apple iPad Pro or Surface Pro 7, but devices in this range are more than capable of performing day-to-day tasks. These tasks include web browsing, reading eBooks, taking notes (in school/college), watching movies/TV shows, etc. Not just that, a few of them can also handle advanced tasks such as gaming, drawing, or working with Cricut Design Space, etc.

One mistake that you might make is deciding the budget before knowing your requirements. For instance, you can’t get the best gaming experience on a $300 tablet. Similarly, a sub $100 tablet is more than enough for reading books. It’s my advice that you ascertain all your needs before setting a budget.

8 Best Tablets Under $300 in 2021

There are many options available in the market, hence, finding the right tablet under 300 dollars can be quite challenging. Needless to say, purchasing the right one can lead to a better experience, and ending up with the wrong device can leave you unsatisfied.

The good thing is, I spent over four weeks testing 17 different tablets that are priced under $300. After extensive testings, I finalized the below listed 8 devices that provide the best possible performance and value in the mentioned price range. That said, let’s begin!

1. Best Overall: Lenovo Tab P11 Plus

The Lenovo Tab P11 Plus brings improvements to the processing unit with an upgraded chipset and a better battery performance to make this tablet a great purchase for $300. The 11-inch display is vital to its immersive visual experience.

Processor & GPU

The Mediatek Helio G90T Chipset comes with an octa-core processor that has eight cores clocking over 2GHz. The G76 MC4 GPU is competent to complement and handle mid-level gaming and the overhead of media entertainment.

RAM, Storage, OS

A 4GB RAM and internal storage of 128GB of storage are crucial to its multitasking capacity, faster boot-ups, seamless switching between applications. P11 plus gets a MicroSD slot to expand your storage to bring your entertainment library with you. The tablet comes with the latest Android 11.

Display Panel

When it comes to the display configuration, there aren’t many sub $300 tablets as impactful as the Tab P11 Plus. It comes with an 11-inch IPS 2K screen. A higher screen-to-body ratio translates to a large surface for an immersive experience. A high resolution of 2000 x 1200 pixels, 400 nits brightness, and an aspect ratio of 5:3 gives you a commendable visual experience even when you are outdoors.

Design & Connectivity

The aluminum body gives a premium feel to the tablet. A slim body measuring 10.17 x 6.42 x 0.30inches weighs just a little over at 1.08 pounds. The tablet misses an audio jack. A USB Type-C port for fast charging, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth version 5.0 for wireless connectivity comes with the p11 plus.

Battery Life & Final Thoughts!

With 13MP (rear) and 8MP (front) cameras, the tablet delivers well on the capturing memories-front. The improved battery with a backup of 15 hours will be a blessing to exploit the features throughout the day. The price sweetens the deal further, making it a great purchase at less than $300.

2. Best iPad Under $300: Apple iPad

The 9th generation of Apple iPad, launched in 2021, readily fits the bill if you are on the lookout for an iPad for around $300. While it isn’t as powerful as the iPad Pro, it still excels compared to the 8th Gen variant, which came equipped with 32GB storage and the older A12 Bionic chipset.

The 2021 model is a justified upgrade over its predecessor as it comes with double the storage, an improved front camera, and a better processor for handling multitasking even better.

Processor & GPU

At the core, you have the A13 Bionic chipset, which can reach clock speeds of up to 2.6GHz. The powerful SoC is complemented by the 4-core graphics co-processor setup is Apple’s proprietary vision, you can expect the same to be faster than any other standard Android-powered tablet.

I used the tablet for stock trading and illustrating on Procreate for my new campaign, and the performances couldn’t have been any smoother.

RAM, Storage, and OS

Apple also brings in 3GB RAM that efficiently complements the chipset and ensures hassle-free multitasking. The storage at 64GB isn’t all that encouraging but still allows you to store many files and documents with ease. It also shelters the iPadOS 14 as the operating platform of choice, which can be upgraded to iPadOS 15 when available.

Display

The 9th Gen iPad showcases a 10.2-inch Retina LCD screen, with an overall resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels. While the brightness is at par with the iPad Air and even iPad Pro, the scratch-resistant front glass panel carries Apple’s legacy forward.

Design & Connectivity

Coming to the aesthetics, the iPad assumes a pretty durable yet compact form factor, with the dimensions fixed at ‎9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches. Also, the tablet weighs 1.09 pounds and is primarily made of aluminum.

Other design-specific elements include the USB 2.0 slot and the front-mounted fingerprint scanner. Plus, there is an 8MP rear camera in place, followed by an upgraded 12MP ultra-wide selfie shooter.

Also, the iPad 2021 can be purchased in Silver and Space gray shades, with the latter being my recommended pick. As far as connectivity is concerned, this tablet offers LTE-class wireless support, Bluetooth 4.2 standard, and GPS compatibility.

Battery Life and Final Thoughts!

Finally, it is the 10-hour battery backup that comes to the fore, followed by the inclusion of the insanely powerful speakers, which is the differentiating trait when it comes to comparing the Apple iPad 2021 with other products on the list. However, Apple still hasn’t upgraded the charging solution as it sports an old lightning connector.

3. Best 2-in-1 Tablet: CHUWI Hi10 X

CHUWI is a less popular brand in the tech market, and with the all-new CHUWI Hi10 X, it’s here to provide its loyal customers with a great affordable tablet PC.

Processor & GPU

The CHUWI Hi10 X is powered by the Intel Celeron N4120 processor, which clocks at a base speed of 1.1GHz. It boasts the integrated Intel UHD 600 graphics card with advanced ULV technology to enhance your gaming experience.

RAM, Storage, OS

It has 6GB RAM, which is absolutely wonderful. This means it enhances your multitasking experiences with zero glitches. Whether you’re navigating different windows programs or working on several tabs simultaneously, the device runs very smoothly.

The device has 128GB eMMC in-built memory, which can be further expanded by 128GB with a microSD slot. It also has a pre-installed Windows 10 OS, Cortana, and Edge browser, allowing you to switch between laptop and tablet mode.

Display Panel

The tablet boasts a 10.1-inch IPS display with a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. It has an aspect ratio of 16:10. The screen has great clarity, and the picture quality is crystal clear.

Camera Features

The 2-in-1 tablet has a 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera. Honestly, the picture quality isn’t great, so you might want to switch to your smartphone to capture your favorite moments and recording videos.

Design & Connectivity

This Windows-powered tablet has an ultra-thin outlook that you’ll absolutely fall in love with. It measures 13.7 x 8.7 x 2.56 inches and weighs only 1.15 pounds. It features dual USB Type-C ports, which are worth drooling over. It offers wireless connectivity with 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth version 5.0.

Battery Life & Final Thoughts!

This amazing tablet has an average battery life of 6-8 hours which means that you’ll have to charge your tablet once every few hours. Overall, the Chuwi Hi10 X is a good Windows tablet under $300 that provides you with a 2-in-1 experience.

4. Best from Samsung: Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

If you’re on the lookout for a budget-friendly Samsung tablet that comes with cellular support, then the next contestant on my list Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 will definitely interest you.

Processor & GPU

The Tab A7 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 662, an octa-core processor which clocks at a base frequency of 1.8GHz. It boasts the Adreno 610 GPU, which is better than its predecessors but still not at par with the android smartphones. That said, the device can handle tasks like web browsing, stock trading, media streaming, etc., with relative ease.

RAM, Storage, OS

The tablet has 3GB RAM, which is suitable for handling everyday tasks. It has 64GB of internal storage, but no worries, as it also comes bundled with a 128GB microSD. It runs on Android 10, coupled with Samsung’s own One UI, which provides an impressive, easy-to-use interface.

Display Panel

This Galaxy tab has a super bright WUXGA+ TFT 10.4-inch large screen panel with 2000 x 1200 pixels resolution. The picture quality is clear, and the colors on the screen are vivid. I enjoyed reading comics, watching movies and TV shows on the device.

Camera Features

The tablet has an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. The rear camera clicks good shots in abundant lighting, and the front camera gets does the job done when it comes to video conferencing.

Design & Connectivity

The device features a sophisticated metal design and measures 10 x 8 x 1.5 inches. It weighs over 1.65 pounds. It comes equipped with a headphone jack, a USB 2.0 Type-C port, and a microSD card slot. The tablet offers wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0.

Battery Life & Final Thoughts!

Overall, this is a great budget-friendly tablet with a solid performance, and will definitely feel like you’re using a premium range tablet. Its battery will last you for over 10 hours so that you can work with zero battery interruptions.

5. Best with Chrome OS: Lenovo Chromebook Duet

Are you wondering whether top tech brands offer entertainment-friendly tablets at an affordable price? If yes, then let me present to you the Lenovo Chromebook Duet.

Processor & GPU

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is powered by a MediaTek Helio P60T, an 8-core processor which clocks in at a base frequency of 1.9GHz. It’s paired with‎ an ARM G72 graphics card, which didn’t impress me while playing PUBG Mobile on this device. Apart from gaming, the overall system performance is smooth and snappy.

RAM, Storage, OS

The tablet has 4GB of RAM, which is effective for multitasking. It features 128GB eMMC storage space. It operates on Chrome OS, which provides an improved user interface for studies and work.

Display Panel

The tablet comes with a 10.1-inch screen and a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. The screen offers a great viewing experience at different angles produces vivid colors. The color contrast is impeccable, and the picture quality is accurate too.

Camera Features

It boasts a 2MP front and an 8MP rear camera which is workable for recording videos and clicking pictures in daylight. However, like other tablets in this range, it doesn’t offer a camera flash.

Design & Connectivity

The device boasts a plastic build with a built-in stand at the back. It measures 19 x 10 x 0.78 inches and weighs about 1 pound. It sports a microSD card slot, an audio jack, and a USB-C port for charging. The tab offers wireless connectivity with 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi and the older Bluetooth (Version 4.2).

Battery Life & Final Thoughts!

Overall, this is one of the best Chrome OS powered tablets to buy for under 300 dollars. It offers you good performance and a decent battery life of up to 8 hours. The tablet also gets an added brownie point from me for featuring a unique kickstand making it a suitable tablet for media consumption.

6. Best Cellular Model: VastKing KingPad K10 Pro

Upgrades to the operating memory and bag of inclusions as accessories make it a preferred choice over its previous model. KingPad K10 Pro has one of the best set of features backed by a solid processing unit and brings better value to your money if you can overlook its minimal brand presence.

Processor & GPU

K10 puts together a capable processing unit on its T610 chipset. With eight cores capable of clocking at a maximum capacity of 1.8GHz, it ensures the tablet can handle entry-level gaming, stream music and handle productivity tasks simultaneously.

RAM, Storage, OS

The synergy of a 4GB RAM and fast 64GB eMMC storage memory is crucial to ease through its firmware and other applications. It gives the tablet multitasking ability. With Android 10.0 operating system and its future upgrades brings a plethora of applications to your disposal, including productivity and entertainment apps.

Display Panel

The 10.1-inch touch screen has a sensitive FHD display capable of delivering quality visuals. With a high resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, the tablet ensures an immersive entertainment experience.

Design & Connectivity

Weighing close to 1.1 pounds, the tablet is lightweight, making it easy to carry. With 9.6 x 6.3 x 0.3 inches as dimensions, it’s designed to fit easily into smaller bags. With three modes of operation and adjustable viewing angles, the entire metal body gives the requisite durability.

The K10Pro has a MicroSD slot that can be extended up to 512GB, bringing you more space for your music and video libraries. A USB-C port acting as a fast-charging powerpoint, a 3.5mm earphone jack brings the standard wired connectivity coupled with the fast wireless connectivity of WiFi-5 and Bluetooth.

Battery Life & Final Thoughts!

The 12 hours of battery life can last you a day of balanced usage that can keep you occupied on long flights. The addition of a stylus and keyboard makes this one of the best 2-in-1 convertibles under $300.

7. Best Value for Money: TECLAST M40

The TECLAST M40 is one of the better tablets in the retail space that you can get for way less than 300 dollars. I would recommend this tablet to college-going students who have a low budget to spend on a tablet.

Processor & GPU

At the core, TECLAST houses the Unisoc Tiger T618, best known for AI acceleration, Octa-Core architecture, 2GHz of clock speed. The existing configuration allows you to run most streaming, audio, and designing apps with ease.

The Mali-G52 graphics coprocessor, co-processor handling image and visual quality to perfection is working in tandem with the processor.

RAM, Storage, and OS

Assisting the processing setup is a whopping 6GB RAM. This processing ally is more than enough for managing multi-tab browsing, music production apps, video editing tasks, and other activities without system lags. The 128GB of internal storage is anything but sluggish. You can always consider upgrading the same by an additional 512GB with the micro-SD card in play.

TECLAST introduces the Android 10 OS with a responsive and interactive UI and a host of reliable applications, pre-installed to make life easier for the professional in you.

Display Panel

TECLAST M40 sports a 10-inch full HD display that exhibits bright visuals. This is a good-quality IPS panel that can be used for media consumption and web browsing.

Camera Features

Coming to the ramparts is an 8MP rear shooter without flash support. You also get access to a standard 5MP front camera to connect professionally over video calls and click that random selfie.

Design & Connectivity

From a structural perspective, the 1.17-pound TECLAST M40 is quite durable. The 2.5D glass and metal build add to the strength, whereas the dimensions in 9.56 x 6.4 x 0.37 inches validate the sleekness of the profile.

Plus, this tablet also sports a Type-C port, OTG support, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, and dual-band wireless connectivity, leading towards improved productivity. 

Battery Life & Final Thoughts

Coming to the battery life, you get 12 hours of battery life, which qualifies the M40 as one of the better sub $200 tablets for the mentioned price point. Also, it is the all-inclusive specs sheet that separates it from the rest of the list.

8. Best with Stylus: Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite

Do you want the feel of using an Apple iPad but on an Android device? If yes, then the ultra-slim Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite is a perfect option for you. It comes with a stylus pen that is typically ideal for creative professionals and art students, and you’ll love doodling around with it.

Processor & GPU

The MediaPad M5 Lite is powered by Huawei’s own HISilicon Kirin 659, an octa-core processor which shows a breezy performance with zero lags. It boasts a Mali-T830 MP2 GPU that works fine but definitely lags behind the Adreno series of graphics processors.

RAM, Storage, OS

The tablet offers 3GB RAM and 32GB internal storage. You can also expand the storage up to 256GB with a microSD card slot. The tablet operates on EMUI 8.0 based on Android 8 Oreo with an attractive interface and superb usability.

Display Panel

Huawei sports a 10.1-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. It has a pixel density of 224 PPI which is at par with what smartphones have to offer.

Camera Features

The device sports an 8MP camera both at the front and the back. However, tablets are not usually designed for photography. Hence, this tablet offers no stabilization, fancy gimmicks, and no flash. The quality of the camera is good considering the $300 budget.

Design & Connectivity

The tablet feels comfortable and has 2.5D curved edges with a metal unibody that gives it a stylish feel. It measures 9.58 x 6.39 x 0.3 inches and weighs just 1.01 pounds. It also has an audio jack, a microSD slot, and a USB-C port for charging. The tab offers wireless connectivity with high-speed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Battery Life & Final Thoughts!

The tablet has an excellent battery life of up to 11 hours. Overall, the MediaPad M5 Lite is a perfect addition to your daily life that will make your everyday tasks more accessible and more efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

Choosing a tablet with a fixed budget gives you the liberty to focus on the purpose of purchasing it. Once that is clear, you can go through my extensive list and map the requirements. Here are my quick recommendations:

• If you want the overall best Android tablet under $300, the Lenovo Tab P11 Plus is my go-to recommendation. It features a 2K display and efficient Helio G90T processor paired with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage.
• If you’re an iPhone user and looking to add another device to your Apple ecosystem, then the 9th Gen Apple iPad is a great option. However, it’s slightly out of $300 price tag but provides you a buttery smooth performance.
• If you want a tablet that makes you feel like using a laptop, you should consider Windows-powered CHUWI Hi10 X. It comes bundled with a detachable keyboard.
• Lastly, if you need a powerful tablet with sizeable RAM and Storage, the more affordable TECLAST M40 is just a perfect option. Its cost to performance ratio will blow your mind.