Top 5 Budget 10-inch Tablets

Here is a quick list of the top 5 budget 10-inch tablets you can buy off the shelf from your local supermarket. After a quick visit to the local supermarket, (not your typical place for tech I know) we found that apart from groceries, they stock a good line up of tablets at very competitive prices. Here is a quick comparison between the tablets we found.

There is nothing like being able to afford a full size tablet at only a fraction of the cost of some i-Device. We are not talking about cutting corners here and going for a generic tablet or cheap knock-offs. Our line-up of the Best Budget 10-inch tablets are from some of the most reputable brands in the business. With prices this cheap, who needs knock-offs.

Top 5 Budget 10-inch Tablets

Here is a quick look at our top 5 affordable and best, budget tablets. You can use the links below to view the devices on Amazon – IN THIS COMPARISON

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab A – NEW, BEST BATTERY LIFE
2. Lenovo Tab 4 10 Tablet
3. Asus ZenPad Z300M Tablet
4. Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet – MORE MEMORY
5. Lenovo Tab 3 Plus Tablet

New Comers:

• Huawei MediaPad T1 10 Tablet
• Huawei MediaPad T3 10 Tablet
• Asus ZenPad 10 Z300C 10-inch Tablet
• Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 10-inch Tablet
• LG E10 LG V700 10.1-inch Tablet

Just marginally more expansive than the top end of our budget range above, consider one of the following:

• Lenovo Tab 4 10 Plus Tablet
• Lenovo Tab 2 A10 10.1-inch Tablet – FULL HD DISPLAY, DOUBLE MEMORY
• Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 10.1-inch Tablet – MORE MEMORY
• Lenovo Yoga 2 10.1-inch Tablet – BEST BATTERY LIFE, EDITOR’S FAVOURITE
• Toshiba Encore 2 WT10-A-102 – WINDOWS 8 TABLET

Other Budget Tablets Worth a Look

If you can still get your hands on one of these, they may not be the latest, but being ‘last season’ meant they are available on the cheap.

• Linx 1020 Tablet – WINDOWS 10 TABLET
• Lenovo Tab 2 A10 HD
• Asus TF103c 10.1-inch Tablet – KEYBOARD BUNDLE AVAILABLE
• ASUS MeMO Pad 10 ME102A 10″ Tablet
• ASUS Vivotab Smart ME400 10″ Tablet – WINDOWS 8 TABLET
• Lenovo Yoga 10.1″ Tablet – BEST BATTERY LIFE
• Lenovo IdeaTab S6000 10.1″ Tablet
• Lenovo Yoga 10.1″ HD+ – BEST BATTERY LIFE, FULL HD DISPLAY
• Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 10.1″ Tablet

Now let’s look at each of these in turn.

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab A

Available in smoky blue, white or black, this latest offering from Samsung uses the tried and tested screen ratio of 4:3 similar to that of the iPad. The 9.7-inch display is packed with only 1024 x 768 pixels, not even HD but is plenty for most applications. As it is an entry level device, it does not have the most powerful processor neither does it have Samsung’s Super AMOLED display but it does come with 1.5GB of RAM memory and 16GB of storage space. It is only the only other tablet that can go against Lenovo Yoga 2’s record battery life at 15 hours. WiFi only version is available with out without S Pen stylus and a WiFi and cellular (4G) model is also available.

• Processor: 1.2GHz Quad-Core, Qualcomm APQ 8016
• Screen: 9.7-inch 1024 x 768 pixels PLS TFT display
• Memory: 1.5GB DDR3
• OS: Android 5.0 Lollipop
• Storage: 16GB eMMC storage
• Expansion: MicroSD card expansion up to 128GB
• Cameras: Front 2MP and rear-facing 5MP cameras with 720p HD video capture support
• Battery: 6,000 mAh Li-ion battery with up to 15 hours usage (Internet)
• Connectivity and Sensors: 802.11 b/g/n Dual Band (2.4GHz and 5GHz, HT40) WiFi, Bluetooth 4.1, WiFi Direct, Micro USB Port v2.0, Accelerometer, Hall Sensor, RGB Sensor. Location technology: GPS, Glonass, Beidou.
• Dimensions and Weight: 242.5mm x 166.8mm x 7.5mm, 450grams

Check on Amazon: Samsung Galaxy Tab A

Also: Samsung Galaxy Tab E, Samsung’s entry level tablet comes with a slightly smaller 9.6inch screen (not 9.7inch found on the Tab A) but has a slightly higher resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. As it is an entry level model, it only comes with 8GB of storage but the expansion slot lets you add up to 128GB of additional storage with a microSD card. It also comes with a 1.3GHz Quad-Core processor, 1.5GB of memory and dual camera (2MP and 5MP) just like the Tab A, but only 8 hours of battery life and no stylus or 4G options.

 

2. Lenovo Tab 4 10 Tablet

Brilliant HD display, great for photos and gives movies a vibrant feel. Two front facing speakers deliver a theatre-like experience when watching your favourite movies and shows. The tablet is  multi-user capability to suit preferences of each family member. With its slim and lightweight profile, its offers plenty of potential.

• Processor:Qualcomm MSM8917 Processor Quad-Core 1.4GHz
• Memory: 2GB RAM
• Storage: 16GB, MicroSD Slot supports up to 128GB
• Screen: 10.1-inch 1280 x 800 pixel resolution IPS panel
• Cameras:  5MP Rear facing camera, 2MP Front facing camera
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Connectivity:WiFi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth, microphone, accelerometer, ambient light sensor, GLONASS, GPS, Kids Mode
• Dimensions & Weight:247 x 8.4 x 170 mm (H x W x D) 505grams
• OS:Android 7.0 (Nougat)
• Colours: Black

Check on Amazon: Lenovo Tab 4 10 Tablet

 

3. Asus ZenPad Z300M Tablet 

Amazing display with Asus VisualMaster delivering bright, vivid colours with wide contrast and sharper detail, the Z300M helps reduce eye fatigue. Put it between ZenPad’s dual front facing speakers with SonicMaster technology and you have an entertainment ready tablet. With ample battery life and the usual Asus build quality in a slim and lightweight package, the tablet is perfect for everyday use.

• Processor: MTK MT8163 Quad-Core 64-bit Computing 1.3GHz
• Memory: 2GB RAM
• Storage: 16GB, MicroSD Slot supports up to 128GB
• Screen: 10.1-inch 1280 x 800 pixel resolution IPS panel
• Cameras:  5MP Rear facing camera, 2MP Front facing camera
• Battery Life: Up to 11 hours
• Connectivity:WiFi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth, microphone, accelerometer, ambient light sensor, DTS-HD Premium sound
• Dimensions & Weight: 252 x 172 x 8 mm (H x W x D) 490grams
• OS: Android 6.0 (Marshmallow)
• Colours: Dark Gray

Check Amazon: Asus ZenPad Z300M

 

4. Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

Changing its focus from high-end to mid-range and entry level tablets, Amazon launched the Fire HD 8 and Fire HD 10 at price points that make even budget tablet makers look twice. With the usual Amazon build quality the Fire HD 10 now supports Amazon’s voice activate service, the Amazon Alexa. While the smaller tablets also supports this, the difference here is that with the Fire HD 10, you can access Alexa hands-free. That’s right, no need to push a button before you speak.

Build to consume content mainly from Amazon, the tablet’s simple and intuitive interface is bound to be a hit with users that care not for fiddling or tweaking but just want to get in front of their movies, books, magazines and TV shows. Prime members can also download Prime Video movies and TV shows to watch offline.

• Processor:MediaTek Quad-Core: 2 @ 1.8 GHz + 2 @ 1.4 GHz
• Memory: 2GB RAM
• Storage: 32GB or 64GB, MicroSD Slot supports up to 256GB
• Screen: 10.1-inch 1920 x 1200 pixel resolution
• Cameras: 2MP rear facing camera, VGA Front facing camera
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of mixed use
• Connectivity: Dual band WiFi a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth, microphone, accelerometer, ambient light sensor
• Dimensions & Weight:262 x 159 x 9.8 mm, 500 grams
• OS: Fire OS based on Android
• Colours: Black

Check on Amazon: Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

 

5. Lenovo Tab 3 Plus Tablet

Excellent all rounder with a gorgeous 10.1-inch Full HD display offering plenty of playtime per charge from its 7000 mAh battery, excellent performance and sufficient memory for a responsive and quick loading interface. The build quality and design is great as with the ability to pair via NFC and install additional storage via the microSD slot. As a bonus there is also a pair of stereo speakers.

• Processor: MediaTek 8161 Quad Core 1.3GHz Quad-Core Processor
• Screen: 10.1-inch FHD 1920 x 1200 pixels display
• Memory: 2GB DDR3
• OS: Android 6.0
• Storage: 16GB eMMC storage
• Expansion: MicroSD card expansion
• Cameras: Front 5MP and rear-facing 8MP cameras
• Battery: 7,000 mAh Li-ion battery with up to 12 hours usage
• Connectivity and Sensors: Sensors: G-Sensor, Hall Sensor, Vibrator; GPS Support: A-GPS, GPS, GLONASS; NFC; 3.5 mm Audio Jack; FM Radio
• Dimensions and Weight: (W x T x H): 9.72″ x 0.35″ x 6.73″ / 247 x 8.9 x 171 (mm), 1.12 lbs (0.50 kg)

Check on Amazon: Lenovo Tab 3 Plus

 

NEW COMERS

Asus ZenPad 10 Z300C 10-inch Tablet

The new range of tablets dubbed the ZenPad sees Asus streamlining their tablet offering and introducing tablets that uses the new Intel Atom x3 processor. The ZenPad 10 comes in two different version, the Z300C and ZD300C. The later includes a keyboard dock, pioneered by Asus since the Transformer tablet. Apart from the keyboard, everything else is identical.

The Z300C spots a new stylish design focus on modern, simplistic and clean lines. While the body is plastic, the polished metallic band frames the edge of the tablet giving it a bold visual accent and luxurious feel. The back plate features an embossed leather pattern and rolls over the top edge to round it off for better ergnomics, grip and a premium look.

With a screen to body ratio of 72%, Asus has managed to maintain a bare minimum bezel without compromising handling and usability. This top edge of the tablet when placed in landscape mode also houses dual front firing front speakers with DTS HD Premium Sound, with Asus’s own Sonic Master technology and support for aptX codec making it perfect for entertainment.

For colours, choose from a choice of black, white and aurora metallic finish, each with a unique back plate and body shades.

• Processor: Intel Atom x3-C3200 Quad Core processor 64-bit with Mali-450 MP4
• Memory: 2GB RAM – MORE MEMORY
• Storage: 8GB or 16GB or 32GB, MicroSD Slot supports up to 64GB
• Screen: 10.1-inch 1280 x 800 pixel resolution (149 ppi) with IPS (in-plane switching) technology, Corning Glass, Anti fingerprint coating and ASUS Tru2Life technology
• Cameras 5MP rear facing camera with 1080p HD video recording and auto focus, 2MP Front facing camera (certain models comes with only 2MP rear facing and 0.3MP front facing camera)
• Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of mixed use with 18Wh non-removable battery
• Connectivity: Dual band WiFi a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth V4.0, Miracast support, GPS & GLONASS, G-sensor, E-compass, Light Sensor, Hall Sensor
• Dimensions & Weight: 251.6 x 172 x 7.9 mm (LxWxH), 510 grams
• OS: Android Lollipop 5.0
• Colours: Black, White or Aurora Metallic
  

Check on Amazon: Asus ZenPad 10 Z300C

Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 10-inch Tablet

Now in its third generation, the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 is a multi-mode tablet with super long battery life, that is if you can forgive the bulge or what we like to call the rolled canister edge where the battery is stored. It also doubles as speaker chamber for a pair of front firing speakers and rotatable camera

The third generation Yoga Tab 3 is all grown up, now in a dark metallic shade but maintains the original design with four ways to use the tablet. This has primarily been the selling point for the Yoga range. A kick stand from the back close to the rolled edge lets you operate the tablet laying on its back in tilt mode, or stood up in stand mode.

The kick stand also flips all the way around to reveal a loop or hole. This together with a suitably sturdy wall hanger, allows the tablet to be hung. Finally, with the kick stand stored away, use the fairly weighted rolled edge as a handle in hold mode. This to some is more comfortable and easier to grip than the conventional tablets that all but want to be super thin.

What is new in this generation and not seen in previous Yoga Tab is the rotatable camera. The 8MP camera can be swiveled 180 degrees and works with pre-loaded software that lets you use gesture to control the camera. Simply open-close your hand to take a shot. The integrated front firing speakers push Dolby Atmos sound for louder, clearer and more dynamic audio, perfect for entertainment.

Another new feature with the Yoga Tab 3 is the Lenovo AnyPen technology. The display detects any conductive object as pen. This allows you to use any pen on the tablet as a stylus to take notes, sketch and draw. Did we mention it has a super long battery life of up to 18 hours, the only tablet that can achieve this, it is the best in-class for those looking to stay away from the wall socket for as long as possible.

A higher model the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pros is also available with Intel Atom x5-Z5800 processor clocking at 1.44GHz with Burst Frequency of up to 2.24GHz and ultra high definition 10.1-inch display with 2560 x 1600 pixel resolution.

• Processor: Quad Core 1.3GHz Qualcomm APQ8009/MSM8909
• Memory: 1GB RAM
• Storage: 16GB RAM, MicroSD Slot
• Screen: 10.1-inch 1280 x 800 pixel resolution (149 ppi) with IPS (in-plane switching) technology
• Cameras 8MP rotatable auto focus camera – HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERA
• Battery Life: Up to 18 hours of mixed use with 8400 mAh non-removable battery (up to 125 days standby time)
• Connectivity: WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth V4.0, GPS, G-sensor, Vibrator, Hall Sensor
• Dimensions & Weight: 9.7″ x 0.37~0.13″ x 7.28 (253 mm x 9.5 ~ 3.5 mm x 185 mm), 655 grams
• OS: Android Lollipop 5.0
• Colours: Slate Black

Check Amazon: Lenovo Yoga Tab 3

LG E10 LG V700 10.1-inch Tablet

The LG G Pad 10.1 (v700) tablet features My Launch Pad, the tablet that is aimed at making your life simple, with multitasking, expansive 10.1-inch IPS display, long lasting 8000mAh battery, seamless connectivity with Q pair 2.0 and Knock Code for security and instant access.

The Tablet is powered by quad-core Snapdragon processor with 1GB of RAM enough to power you through every day use and ensure smooth performance.

Customisations such as QPair to connect with an Android Smartphones to send and receive calls and text from the tablet, Dual Window for multitasking with split pane, one for each app with the ability to drag and drop content between window and QMemo to share notes between the tablet and smartphone are great for productivity.

The 10.1-inch screen delivers vibrant colours and details, and together with dual stereo speakers makes the G Pad a good entertainment tablet. For security, there is the Knock Code for secure access giving the tablet the versatility of being business tool as well as for play.

Q pair 2.0 lets you pair with any Android Smartphone. If you are an iPhone user, you will be familiar with the cloud integration between the iPhone and Mac laptop and computer. You can receive important phone calls and text from the tablet.

Dual window mode lets you split the screen for cross tasking. Open two different apps on the tablet and drag and drop content from one window to the other to efficiently use the big display for multitasking.

The smart custom keyboard is more intuitive allowing for easy input, smooth and seamless writing experience. The digital keyboard includes many easy to use features and adapts to your unique writing style.

Another noteworthy feature is the dual stereo speaker offering bigger more powerful sound with less distortion and more detail.

• Processor:Qualcomm MSM8226 Snapdragon 400 Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 with Adreno 305
• Memory: 1GB RAM
• Storage: 16GB, MicroSD Slot supports up to 64GB
• Screen: 10.1-inch HD 1280 x 800 pixel resolution with IPS (in-plane switching) technology
• Cameras: 5MP auto focus rear facing camera with 1080p HD video recording and auto focus , 1.3MP Front facing camera
• Battery Life: Up to 13.5 hours of mixed use with 2 Cell 8000 mAh Li-ion battery – HIGH CAPACITY, GREAT BATTERY LIFE
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA
• Sensors: Accelerometer, compass, dual speakers
• Dimensions & Weight: 260.9 x 165.9 x 8.9 mm (10.27 x 6.53 x 0.35 in), 523 g (1.16 lb)
• OS:Android™ 4.4 KitKat (Includes free upgrade to Android™ 5.0 Lollipop)
• Colours: Black or Red

Check on Amazon: LG E10 LG V700

THE SLIGHTLY MORE EXPENSIVE OPTIONS

If you want to keep up to date with the latest, get the Lenovo Yoga 2 or if you wish for a Windows Tablet from a proven and reliable brand, then get the Toshiba Encore 2 WT10. The fourth generation Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 is a stable and reliable option while the second generation Lenovo Tab 2 A10 has  Full High Definition 1920 x 1200 pixel display, double memory and a faster processor compared to its predecessor above.

Lenovo Tab 2 A10 10.1-inch Tablet

Lenovo has been very consistent with the A10 series providing best value for money with the high possible specification in a 10-inch tablet. This much improved successor to the Lenovo A10-70 has many good things going for it starting with the faster quad core processor, double memory and Full HD display.

In the battery department, it also sees an improved battery life of up to 10 hours with a 2 Cell 7000 mAh Li-ion battery. The front facing camera received a much needed upgrade to 5MP from the standard HD camera while the rear facing camera went from 5MP to 8MP. Without looking at the price tag some might think this to be a premium device. The Lenovo Tab 2 A10 is available in Midnight Blue or Pearl White.

• Processor:MT8165 Quad Core Processor (1.70GHz 1MB)
• Memory: 2GB RAM – DOUBLE MEMORY
• Storage: 16GB, MicroSD Slot supports up to 128GB
• Screen: 10.1-inch Full HD 1920 x 1200 pixel resolution with IPS (in-plane switching) technology and advanced polarising filter – FULL HD DISPLAY
• Cameras: 8MP rear facing camera with 1080p HD video recording and auto focus , 5MP Front facing camera with fixed focus
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of mixed use with 2 Cell 7000 MAH Li-ion
• Connectivity: Dual band WiFi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0
• Sensors: G-Sensor (Accelerometer), Vibration, Hall, Satellite, Glonass, Beidou
• Dimensions & Weight: 159 x 262 x 7.7 mm (9.72″ x 0.35″ x 6.73″), 499 grams (1.10lbs)
• OS:Android™ 4.4 KitKat (Includes free upgrade to Android™ 5.0 Lollipop)
• Colours: Midnight Blue or Pearl White

Check on Amazon: Lenovo Tab 2 A10

Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 10.1-inch Tablet

Equally impressive successor to the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 featured above, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 packs some extra punches with a quad core processor and some extra memory. While the dimensions are nearly the same, the Tab 4 is 23 grams lighter. Better battery life is also slighthly better and it comes with an LTE option. In terms of design, the old Tab 3 has slightly curved edges while the new Tab 4 favours straight lines.

• Processor: 1.2GHz Quad-Core
• Memory: 1.5GB RAM – MORE MEMORY
• Storage: 16GB, MicroSD Slot supports up to 64GB
• Screen: 10.1-inch 1280 x 800 pixel WXGA TFT
• Cameras 3MP (Rear) , 1.3MP (Front)
• Battery Life: 10 Hours (Internet Usage) Li-Ion 6800 mAh – GOOD BATTERY LIFE
• Connectivity: Dual-band WiFi 802.11 abgn, BT4.0, GPS
• Dimensions & Weight: 243.4 x 176.4 x 8 mm, 487g
• OS: Android 4.4 KitKat
• Colours: White, Black

Check on Amazon: Samsung Galaxy Tab 4

Lenovo Yoga 2 Tablet 10.1-inch – BEST BATTERY LIFE

Lenovo started using the Yoga moniker in their range of laptops that converts to tablet, workstation and entertainment stations with a special 360 degree hinge. This time, it’s using the successful Yoga brand for its tablets. Available in both 10 and 8-inch, this solid looking tablet comes in a metal frame body giving it a premium feel with a roll-up base and built in stand lets you use the tablet in 3 different modes (hold, stand and tilt).

The rolled edge lets you hold the tablet comfortably in one hand, best for reading, viewing photos and sharing. While with the stand extended, and the tablet stood on its long edge, you can turn the tablet into an entertainment station for watching movies, listening to music and carrying a video chat. The third mode is the tile, where you would still use the stand by have the tablet lying down on a flat surface, great for web browsing, gaming and typing (see images in the gallery). With the second generation Yoga 2, Lenovo introduced a fourth mode called the hang, allowing the kick stand to double up as a hanger to go on a hook if you have a place to hook it.

The first Yoga tablet was so successful, Lenovo has used the same profile for both the Yoga 2 Android and Windows tablets. They have even introduced a 13″ version, the Yoga Tablet 2 Pro, you can see this and other big tablets in our article Best Android Tablets Bigger than 10-inch.

While this is actually at the top end of our Budget range but it is still a very good buy. It comes with a Full HD display (1920 x 1200), a quad core processor, double the memory on the other tablets listed here and has an unmatched 18 hours use from its 6400mAh battery. The screen is clear and bright, the Dolby surround sound works very well thanks to its front firing speakers but don’t expect earth shattering bass. There is also a multi tasking feature that lets you open windows side by side however this is only supported on certain apps. Overall, a brilliant all round tablet with kick stand built-in A 4G LTE version is also available.

• Processor: Intel Atom Z3745 Processor Quad Core (1.33GHz 1066GHz 2MB)
• Screen: 10.1″ IPS LED LCD Touch Full HD Resolution 1920×1200 – FULL HD DISPLAY
• Memory: 2.0GB LPDDR3 1066 MHz – DOUBLE MEMORY
• Storage: 16GB eMMc built-in storage
• Expansion: MicroSD card expansion slot for up to 64GB or extra storage
• Cameras: 8MP rear camera, which boasts an f2.2 wide-aperture lens, advanced glare-reducing glass, and a BSI 2 sensor. 1.6MP front facing camera. – HIGHEST RR CAMERA DEF.
• Battery: 3 Cell Li-Cylindrical with up to 18 hours battery life – BEST BATTERY LIFE
• Connectivity and Sensors: Dual Band 802.11abgn WLAN, Bluetooth Version 4.0, Micro USB, 3.5 audio jack, front facing, large chamber stereo speakers with Wolfson Master HiFi audio processing and Dolby Surround sound, integrated microphone. 4G LTE option available.
• OS: Android Jelly Bean 4.4 operating system
• Weight: 619 grams

Check Amazon: Lenovo Yoga 2

Toshiba Encore 2 WT10-A-102 Tablet – WINDOWS

If you are not so sure about going with a newcomer when considering a Windows 8.1 Tablet, what about an old timer. Toshiba’s second generation Encore 2 WT10-A-102 offers everything the other guy has in a solid and reliable built quality and satin gold finish with matching bezel. Check out the specifications below and compare this to the ultra low budget Linx 10 Tablet above. You do get a little more in way of sensors , better rear facing camera, longer battery life, lighter, thinner and Dolby Digital Plus surround audio, an overall more convincing package if you don’t mind the price.

• Processor: Intel Atom Z3735F Quad Core processor up to 1.83 GHz Burst speed (1.33 GHz) 2MB cache
• Screen: 10.1″ panel 1280 x 800 resolution Toshiba multi-touch high brightness display with wide viewing angles, 16:10 aspect ratio
• Memory: 2GB DDR3L (1333MHz)
• OS: Windows 8.1 32bit with 12 months Office 365 Personal and 1TB OneDrive storage
• Storage: 32GB eMMC storage
• Expansion: MicroSD card expansion up to 128GB
• Cameras: Front 1.2MP and rear-facing 5MP Full HD camera with auto focus
• Battery: 8.5 to 11 hours usage
• Connectivity and Sensors: WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, wireless display technology support, built-in microphone, combo audio socket, micro USB2.0, micro HDMI out, microSD card slot with SDHC™ / SDXC™ UHS-I support, 3D Acceleration sensor, Compass, GPS, Gyroscopic sensors
• Dimensions and Weight: 258.9 x 175 x 8.96 mm 550 grams

Check Amazon: Toshiba Encore 2

 

OTHER BUDGET TABLETS WORTH A LOOK

Linx 1010 10-inch Tablet

 

The overnight success which is Linx came to be with its ultra affordable Windows tablets. Heavily subsidized by Windows and Intel, the Linx range of tablets, available in 7-inch, 8-inch and 10-inch are even cheaper than the Windows licence and Office subscription put together which by the way are included.

The built quality is good, connectivity options aplenty, display and performance, not something you would expect from a budget tablet. For the 10-inch version you can also an origami case and keyboard from Linx as a bundle for a bit more money.

We prefer the Linx 10 as this comes with double the memory at 2GB compared to its smaller siblings which you would need if you are running a full Windows 8.1 32-bit (with desktop access) and Bing smart search. The bigger 10-inch display also makes it easier when you switch from metro UI to Desktop mode and multitasking.

To make it easier connectivity wise, Linx has included the USB On-The-Go (OTG) cable (micro USB to USB converter) for external USB drives and input device. So all you need is a Mini HDMI to Full HDMI adapter, big scree, Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse and you have your own Windows desktop setup when you are back at base.

• Processor: Intel Atom Z3735F Quad Core processor up to 1.83 GHz Burst speed (1.33 GHz) 2MB cache
• Screen: 10 Point Capacitive Multi-Touch IPS LCD 1280 x 800 resolution display
• Memory: 2GB DDR3L
• OS: Windows 8.1 32bit with 12 months Office 365 Personal and 1TB OneDrive storage
• Storage: 32GB eMMC storage
• Expansion: MicroSD card expansion up to 64GB
• Cameras: Front 2MP and rear-facing 2MP cameras with 720p video capture support
• Battery: 7,900 mAh Li-ion polymer battery with 6- 8 hours usage
• Connectivity and Sensors: 802.11 b/g/n WiFi with Dual antenna, Bluetooth 4.0, 3G or 4G with external USB dongle, WiFi Direct, Micro USB Port, Mini HDMI ports, Gravity Acceleration Sensor (G-sensor), Support for mouse and keyboard both wired or Bluetooth.
• Dimensions and Weight: 172.6 H x 258 W x 10.5 D (mm) 601 grams

Check on Amazon: Linx 1010

Lenovo Tab 2 A10-HD Tablet 10.1-inch

 

Now with an upgraded processor, the MediaTek MT8165 64-bit Quad Core 1.5GHz and 2GB of RAM memory, the Tab 2 is way more capable than its predecessor with MediaTek Quad Core 1.3GHz processor and 1GB memory. Storage wise, you are still stuck with 16GB. It’s best features are the 10.1″ IPS display and dual Dolby Digital Plus speakers, in a sort of sound bar arrangement at the back of the screens. It boast immersive cinema sound with Dolby Atmos for cinematic audio quality. It has a 8MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera, plenty for a tablet.The battery life has also improved from 8 to 10 hours of uninterrupted use.

• Processor: MTK 8165 Quad-Core processor, 1.5GHz
• Screen: 10.1″ Full HD (1,920 x 1200) IPS display IPS LED backlit – FULL HD
• Storage: 16GB eMMc built-in storage, 2GB LPDDR3L memory
• Expansion: MicroSD card expansion up to 32GB
• Cameras: Front 2MP fixed focus and rear-facing 8.0MP auto focus cameras
• Battery: Li-ion polymer battery with up to 10 hours usage
• Connectivity and Sensors: Micro-USB (with On-the-Go support), 3.5mm audio jack, Accelerometer, GPS, e-compass, Brightness Sensor, 802.11bgn Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, Dolby enhanced speakers.
• Dimensions and Weight: H17.1 x W24.7cm x 8.9mm thin, 509 grams

NOTE: There is a standard version, the Lenovo Tab 2 A10-30 with even more affordable price tag but only HD 1280 x 800 display,

Check on Amazon: Lenovo Tab 2 A10-HD

Asus Transformer Pad TF103c Tablet

You can get the Transformer Pad TF103c with Keyboard bundled or on its own, with a small price difference. On its own, it is a cheap Android tablet with Asus’s proven track record for built-quality and performance, just look at the Nexus 7.

Based on the 64-bit Intel Atom Z3745 quad core processor with up to 1.83GHz speed, there is nothing this tablet can’t do. Not only does the processor performs well, it is also good on the battery with the TF103c running up to 9.5 hours of usage life.

The tablet also supports wireless streaming to the big screen with Miracast. You will need a Miracast dongle or Miracast enable HDTV to support streaming of multimedia content from the Transformer Pad. This is also the new generation Asus tablets that adopts the Asus ZenUI skin with over 1000 upgrades and feature enhancements over the stock Android.

• Processor: Intel® Atom™ Z3745 Quad-Core, 1.33 GHz, up to 1.86 GHz, 64bit
• Screen: 10.1″ LED Backlight WXGA (1280×800) Screen IPS Panel with 10 finger multi-touch support and anti-fingerprint coating
• Memory: 1GB
• Storage: 8GB or 16GB eMMC with 5GB Life Time ASUS Webstorage Space
• Cameras: 0.3MP front facing and 2MP rear facing – LOWEST RESOLUTON CAMERAS
• Battery: 9.5 hours, 19Wh Li-Polymer Battery – GOOD BATTERY LIFE
• Connectivity and Sensors: WLAN 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth V4.0, Miracast support, Stereo Speakers MicroUSB, Combo Audio Jack, MicroSD slot, USB 2.0 port mobile dock, G-Sensor, E-compass, GPS and GLONASS.
• OS: Android 4.4
• Dimensions and Weight: 257.46 x 178.4 x 9.9 mm, 550 grams (Tablet Only), 257.46 x 178.4 x 19.8 mm, 550 grams (Dock Only), 257.4 x 178.4 x 19.8mm, 1100 grams (Tablet with Dock)
• Colours: White or Black

Check on Amazon: Asus Transformer Pad TF103c

Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 10.1″ Tablet

One of Samsung’s many Android tablet and smartphone iterations with the name Galaxy. The Galaxy Tab family, now in its 4th Generation consists of three sizes, the 7″, 8″ and 10.1″. The Galaxy Tab series is clearly aimed at the budget segment, while Galaxy Note 10.1″ 2014 Edition, the premium end. Based on the Intel Atom Clover Trail processor, the Galaxy Tab 3 is your standard run of the mill tablet.

Even though the next generation Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 tablets out in full swing, the previous generation Tab 3 tablets are still available from online retailers at bargain prices. These tablets are still very capable and if you are after a budget tablet, here is your chance to grab a full 10.1-inch tablet for less. The key features of Tab 3 includes multi-window or multi tasking support, bright and crisp high definition display, surround sound, and still packs enough juice 3800mAh to last up to 9 hours of use. Don’t just listen to us, thousands of satisfied customers have rated this very highly.

• Processor: Intel Atom Z2560 Clover Trail+ Dual Core 1.6GHz processor
• Memory: 1GB
• Storage: 16G,  MicroSD Slot supports up to 64GB
• Screen: 10.1″ IPS technology 1280 x 800 pixels WXGA TFT
• Camera(s): 1.3 MP front facing, 3.0 MP rear facing
• Connectivity: Dual-band WiFi 802.11 abgn, BT4.0, GPS, 1x micro USB, headphone, microphone
• OS: Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean
• Battery Life: Up to 9 hours
• Dimensions & Weight: 243.1 x 176.1 x 8 mm, 510g
• Colours: White, Black

Check on Amazon: Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 10

UPDATE: Read about the recently launched Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 and how these compare with the Tab 3

ASUS MeMO Pad 10 ME102A 10″ Tablet

We reviewed the ASUS MeMO Pad 7 and thought it was one of the best budget tablets for the 7-inch segment. Here is the bigger sibling at 10″. As with most of the 10-inch budget tablets featured here, there is really nothing…

• Processor: RK101 Quad Core 1.6GHz
• Memory: 1GB
• Storage: 16G
• Screen: 10″ IPS technology 1280 x 800 pixels
• Camera(s): 1.2 MP front facing, 2.0 MP rear facing
• Connections: 1x micro USB, headphone, microphone
• OS: Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
• Battery Life: Up to 9 hours

Check on Amazon: ASUS MeMO Pad 10

ASUS Vivotab Smart ME400 10″ Tablet

The only budget 10-inch Windows tablet in the line up, the Vivotab Smart ME400 is not short on specifications. It has a huge 64GB storage, 2GB of memory, graphics powered by PowerVR chipset and a whooping 8MP rear facing camera, all you’ll need for a tablet. The tablet runs a full version of Windows 8 and NOT the cut down RT, so you can load all your usual windows applications and have access to the desktop. Throw in a keyboard (optional) and you could be running it as a notebook, just don’t expect to be running Photoshop or processor intensive applications on it. Our advise would be to find alternatives from the Windows App Store, there are plenty of photo editing apps for instance that you can install.

• Processor: Intel Atom Z2760 Dual Core 1.6 GHz
• Memory: 2GB
• Storage: 64G
• Screen: 10.1” IPS panel with 1366 x768 resolution
• Camera(s): 2 MP front facing, 8 MP rear facing
• Connections: 1x micro USB, micro HDMI, headphone, microphone
• OS: Windows 8 (Full Version)
• Battery Life: Up to 8.5 hours

Check on Amazon: ASUS Vivotab Smart ME400

Lenovo IdeaTab S6000 10.1″ Tablet

This quad core budget tablet is ready for anything you can throw at it. The High Definition IPS screen has great viewing angles perfect for catching on your favourite TV program or movies on the go. It is not short of conectivity and expansions either, as the S6000 has expandable storage in the form of the microSD slot (up to 32GB), a micro-HDMI port to connect to external display, micro USB port for data and charging as well as a 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo socket. The micro USB port also known as USB On The Go (OTC) lets you connect another USB storage device to access its data or charge your smartphone making it a great smartphone companion for long journeys. It also comes with front and rear cameras although we won’t recommend taking photos with a tablet this size, it’s just too awkward.The high capacity long life Li polymer 6350mAh battery is quoted to last up to 9 hours.

• Processor: MTK MT 8389/8125 Quad Core 1.2GHz
• Memory: 1GB
• Storage: 16GB / 32GB
• Screen: 10″ IPS technology 1280 x 800 pixels
• Camera(s): 0.3 MP front facing, 5.0 MP rear facing
• Connections: 1x micro USB, microSD, combo headphone/mic-in, WiFi 802.11 bgn, Bluetooth 4.0
• OS: Android 4.1 Jelly Bean updates to 4.2.2
• Battery Life: Up to 8 hours

Check on Amazon: Lenovo IdeaTab S6000

Lenovo IdeaTab Yoga 10-inch Tablet (Silver Grey Metal) – BEST BATTERY LIFE

Lenovo started using the Yoga moniker in their range of laptops that converts to tablet, workstation and entertainment stations with a special 360 degree hinge. This time, it’s using the successful Yoga brand for its tablets. Available in both 10 and 8-inch, this solid looking tablet comes in a metal frame body giving it a premium feel with a roll-up base and built in stand lets you use the tablet in 3 different modes (hold, stand and tilt). The rolled edge lets you hold the tablet comfortably in one hand, best for reading, viewing photos and sharing. While with the stand extended, and the tablet stood on its long edge, you can turn the tablet into an entertainment station for watching movies, listening to music and carrying a video chat. The third mode is the tile, where you would still use the stand by have the tablet lying down on a flat surface, great for web browsing, gaming and typing (see images in the gallery).

Last longer and sounds great. The rolled base allows the Yoga to include a high capacity battery, 50% more than other tablets that provides an unmatched, incredibly long battery life of 18 hours. You might think that with a battery that size, the device would be heavy but the Yoga 10-inch only weights 603.3 grams. Customers have also commended on the placement of the speakers. Most manufacturers would have their speaker on the base, bottom edge or the rear of their tablet but with the rolled edge design, the Yoga has its stereo speakers facing the front with Dolby Digital Plus. This works really well in all the 3 modes as you get the sound directed at you.

Fast and Connected. With its quad core processor, PowerVR SGX 544 graphics and Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2, speed is not a problem. Great for high definition movie, gaming and capturing stills and videos. The 1.6MP HD front facing camera lets you carry out video chats on High Definition, while the rear 5.0MP camera with auto focus lets you capture great still shots and video on the go. If you need more storage, the microSD slot hidden under the flip allows you to add up to 64GB or extra storage. The micro-USB port doubles up as a charger and storage, just like the Lenovo S6000 with micro-USB On The Go (OTG). It lets you charge your smartphone or connect a USB storage drive. Lenovo is on to a winner here.

• Processor: MTK 8125 Quad-Core processor, 1.2GHz
• Screen: 10.1″/8″ HD (1,280 x 800) IPS display
• OS: Android Jelly Bean 4.2 operating system
• Storage: 16GB eMMc built-in storage, 1GB LPDDR2 memory
• Expansion: MicroSD card expansion up to 64GB
• Cameras: Front 1.6MP and rear-facing 5.0MP cameras
• Battery: Li-ion polymer battery with up to 18 hours usage – LONGEST BATTERY LIFE
• Connectivity and Sensors: Micro-USB (with On-the-Go support), 3.5mm audio jack, Accelerometer, GPS, e-compass, Brightness Sensor, Vibration Function, Hall Sensor, 802.11bgn Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0/4.0

Check on Amazon: Lenovo IdeaTab Yoga 10

Lenovo Yoga Tablet 10.1-inch HD+

If you love the super long battery life, and wondered if there is a premium edition from Lenovo with High Definition screen, then you are in luck. Lenovo Yoga Tablet 10.1-inch HD+ comes with the same incredible long battery life of up to 18 hours but with a Full HD resolution screen (1920 x 1200), a Quad Core 1.6GHz processor and has double the memory at 2GB (WiFi, BT4.0, x2 Cameras, GPS and 3G option). Looking at those numbers alone would make you think that it is going to cost top money. You are going to love it more when you see the price tag.

For the most up to date pricing, click on the links to the products above and check online retailers for current offer.