Best Tablet Under 200 Dollars 2021
So, you're looking for a tablet? Welcome to the club! A tablet can be your entertainment hub, your portable office, or your digital sketchpad. But with so many options, especially when you're on a budget, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide is designed for first-time tablet buyers who want the best bang for their buck without breaking the $200 mark in 2021.
Why does choosing the right tablet matter? It’s about getting the most utility for your money. A bad choice can lead to frustration and a device gathering dust in a drawer. A good one, however, can become an indispensable tool in your daily life.
Top 5 Tablets Under $200 (2021): A Quick Comparison
Here's a snapshot of the top contenders. We'll delve into each one in more detail later.
| Model | Price (USD) | Key Specs | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021) | $149.99 | 10.1" 1080p, 3GB RAM, 32GB Storage | 1 Year Limited |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite | $159.99 | 8.7" 1340x800, 3GB RAM, 32GB Storage | 1 Year Limited |
| Lenovo Tab M10 HD (2nd Gen) | $149.00 | 10.1" 1280x800, 2GB RAM, 32GB Storage | 1 Year Limited |
| Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020) | $89.99 | 8" 1280x800, 2GB RAM, 32GB Storage | 1 Year Limited |
| Onn. 8" Tablet Pro | $99.00 | 8" 1280x800, 2GB RAM, 32GB Storage | 1 Year Limited |
Detailed Reviews
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021)
The Amazon Fire HD 10 offers a lot for its price. The bright 10.1-inch screen is great for streaming videos and browsing the web. With its improved processor and ample storage, it’s a solid choice for everyday use. However, remember that it runs on Fire OS, which is based on Android but lacks the Google Play Store.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
If you prefer the familiar Android experience, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is a good option. It's compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. While the screen resolution isn't the highest, it's still perfectly adequate for watching videos and playing games. Its integration with the Samsung ecosystem is a bonus for Samsung users.
Lenovo Tab M10 HD (2nd Gen)
The Lenovo Tab M10 HD (2nd Gen) is a decent all-around tablet. It offers a clean Android experience and a reasonably sharp display. While the performance might not be as snappy as some other tablets on this list, it's still capable of handling most everyday tasks. Consider this if you want a straightforward Android experience.
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020)
A smaller, more affordable option, the Amazon Fire HD 8 is great for portability. Its 8-inch screen is perfect for reading ebooks and browsing on the go. Like the Fire HD 10, it runs Fire OS and may require some side-loading of apps. However, its low price makes it a compelling choice for basic tablet needs.
Onn. 8" Tablet Pro
The Onn. 8" Tablet Pro is a budget-friendly option available at Walmart. It offers a stock Android experience and a decent display for the price. While it may not be the most powerful tablet, it's a solid choice for basic tasks like web browsing and video streaming. This is a good option if you're looking for something simple and affordable.
Used vs. New: Weighing the Options
Buying a used tablet can save you money. However, it also comes with risks. A used device may have a shorter lifespan, a damaged battery, or hidden issues.
Pros of buying used: Lower price, environmentally friendly.
Cons of buying used: No warranty, potential for hidden issues, shorter lifespan.
A new tablet offers peace of mind with a warranty. You're also guaranteed a fully functional device. However, you'll pay a premium for that peace of mind.
Pros of buying new: Warranty, guaranteed functionality, longer lifespan.
Cons of buying new: Higher price.
Reliability Ratings by Brand
Here's a general overview of brand reliability. Keep in mind that individual experiences may vary.
- Samsung: Generally considered reliable with a good track record.
- Amazon: Known for affordability, but sometimes sacrifices durability.
- Lenovo: Offers a good balance of price and reliability.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
- Screen Resolution: Look for at least 1280x800 for decent image quality.
- Storage: 32GB is recommended, but expandable storage via microSD card is a plus.
- RAM: 2GB is the bare minimum, 3GB is preferable for smoother multitasking.
- Operating System: Android offers the widest app selection, but Fire OS is a decent alternative.
- Battery Life: Aim for at least 6-8 hours of use on a single charge.
Summary
Choosing the best tablet under $200 in 2021 requires careful consideration. The Amazon Fire HD 10 provides the best overall value, but its Fire OS may not appeal to everyone. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is a solid Android option for portability. The Lenovo Tab M10 HD (2nd Gen) offers a clean Android experience at a decent price. The Amazon Fire HD 8 is a great budget pick for basic tasks. The Onn. 8" Tablet Pro offers a stock Android experience at a budget price point.
Remember to weigh the pros and cons of buying used versus new. Consider the reliability ratings of different brands. Most importantly, use the checklist of essential features to ensure you're getting a tablet that meets your needs. Think about how you plan to use the tablet and prioritize accordingly.
Battery life, screen quality and app compatibility are major considerations. Do you prefer a larger screen for videos or a smaller one for portability? Are you heavily invested in the Google ecosystem, or are you okay with Amazon's Fire OS?
Ready to Choose?
Now that you're armed with the knowledge, it's time to make a decision! Click on the links in the comparison table to purchase or further research models. Happy tablet hunting!
