Tablets are the midway between your smartphone and laptop, and there are some great use cases for them. People buy them for note-taking, entertainment, video calls, web surfing, online shopping, etc.
You don’t change them every year. On average, they last more than five years, so you will be stuck with this decision.
There are 4 popular Operating systems on tablets: iPad OS, Android, Windows, and Chrome OS.
Let’s compare the two most popular ones. iPads vs Android Tablets. Let me show you the key differences between these devices and things you should know before you decide which one is better for you,
Android or iPad: Which Is Better For You?
If you have two devices in the same ecosystem, it will be easier to exchange files, photos, and passwords, connect them, etc. Not to mention that the user interface will be more familiar as well.
But do you need that?
If you have an iPhone, you can have an Android Tablet. If you have an Android Smartphone, you can have an iPad.
You can still sync photos, contacts, calendars, notes, passwords, bookmarks, etc., between Android and iOS devices.
| iPad | Android Tablet | |
| iPhone + MacBook | 🟩 | 🟨 |
| iPhone + Windows | 🟨 | 🟨 |
| Android Smartphone + MacBook | 🟨 | 🟨 |
| Android Smartphone + Windows | 🟨 | 🟩 |
The advantages of picking your tablet device in the same ecosystem are:
easier setup, familiar interface, easier file transfers, and password transfer.
Advantages of Choosing an iPad over an Android Tablet, and Vice Versa
When choosing between an iPad and an Android tablet, it’s important to weigh the distinct advantages and drawbacks of each software.
iPad
- Premium Build Quality: iPads are known for their high-quality materials and sleek design.
- Optimized Software: iOS is optimized for iPads, offering a smooth and user-friendly experience.
- App Ecosystem: iPads have a vast selection of tablet-optimized apps available through the App Store.
- Integration with Apple Ecosystem: Seamless integration with other Apple devices like iPhones, Macs, and Apple Watch.
- Regular Updates: Apple provides timely software updates for several years, ensuring security and feature enhancements.
- Exclusive Apps: iOS offers apps that are not available for Android users.
- Expensive: iPads tend to be more expensive compared to many Android tablets.
- Limited Customization: iOS restricts customization options compared to Android.
- Closed Ecosystem: Limited flexibility in terms of file management and external storage options.
- No Expandable Storage: Most iPad models do not support expandable storage via SD cards.
- No Native Multiple User Support: iPads lack native support for multiple user accounts.
Android
- Variety of Price Points: Android tablets are available at various price ranges, catering to different budgets.
- Customization: Android offers extensive customization options, including widgets, launchers, and more.
- Expandable Storage: Many Android tablets support expandable storage via microSD cards.
- Multiple User Support: Android tablets typically support multiple user profiles, ideal for shared devices.
- Diverse Hardware Options: Android tablets come in various sizes, designs, and specifications to suit different needs.
- Fragmentation: Android's open-source nature can lead to fragmentation, with varying software updates and user experiences.
- App Quality: Some Android apps may not be as well-optimized for tablets compared to iOS apps.
- Security Concerns: Android devices may face more security risks compared to iPads, especially on lower-end models.
- Bloatware: Depending on the manufacturer, Android tablets may come with pre-installed apps that cannot be easily removed.
- Inconsistent Performance: Lower-end Android tablets may experience slower performance and lag compared to iPads.
Software Updates/Lifespan: Android vs iOS
Tablets don’t run forever. When you can no longer update your device to the latest software security concerns arrive. Also, you can’t get the latest apps with the latest updates, your device becomes limited in usability.
- Android Tablets, on average, are supported for 3-5 years, depending on the brand.
- iPad Tablets, on average, are supported for 5-9 years.
An iPad lasts 2-3 years longer on average compared to an Android tablet and also performs much better than an equally priced counterpart right from the get-go.
Some Android tablets are supported only for 3-years, Samsung gives their customers 5 years of support. If you decide on an Android tablet, the brand you pick is also important.
Android Price vs iPad Price
Generally speaking, Android tablets tend to have a wider range of prices compared to iPads. Android tablets can be found at various price points, starting from very affordable options for $100 to higher-end models that can exceed $500 and even $1000+ if you are buying Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra.
On the other hand, iPads are typically positioned as premium devices by Apple, and thus their prices tend to start higher compared to Android tablets. As of recent models, iPads can range from around $349 for the entry-level iPad to over $1,000 for the top-tier iPad Pro models, with variations based on storage capacity, connectivity options (like Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular), and screen size.
Why iPads Are More Expensive Than Android Tablets?
- Apple has a stronger brand.
- Apple has more extensive ecosystem.
- Apple provides longer software support.
- iPads have more demand than Android Tablets.
- Android tablets have multiple options in varying budget categories.
- Apple uses Quality and premium materials, such as the use of aluminum and high-resolution Retina displays, which leads to higher cost.
iPads cost more because of the strong Apple brand, the fact that they get updates for a longer time, and because they have more demand. They’re made with high-quality materials and super clear screens.
iPads also have more unique apps, and they have more to offer. On the other hand, Android tablets are there if you want something more budget-friendly with tons of options.
Multiple Users: iPad vs Android
| Multiple Users? | |
| iPad | ❌ |
| Android Tablets | ✅ |
Android Tablets: ✅ Android tablets support multiple user profiles, allowing you to create separate accounts for different users—such as yourself, kids, or parents. Each profile can have its own set of apps, emails, contacts, browsing history, and personalized settings.
iPad: ❌ Unlike Android tablets, iPads do not natively support multiple user profiles. However, there are workarounds if multiple people need to use the same iPad. Each user can use their own browser and email app, though it’s not as seamless or comprehensive as having separate user profiles.
Which Has Better Security And Privacy Android or iOS?
iPads are considered to be much more secure compared to Android tablets. This is because Apple maintains a strict check on all the applications that are present on the Apple Store and is approved alongside ensuring that none take any extra permissions that they aren’t intended to do.
Even if they do – somehow, slip through the cracks; iOS immediately notifies you with visible indicators as to whether an application is using your microphone / camera or is intercepting your location. Plus, with Do Not Track recently added to iOS, even advertisers can’t track you without your permission.
Besides that, features like iCloud Relay and Hide My Email add an extra layer of security that Android just doesn’t offer at this particular stage. Moreover, the Google Play Store is riddled with malicious applications that seem to have seeped through Google’s QC and are especially dangerous if your tablet is in the hands of a child.
In essence, if its security is what you are after, there is no replacement for an iPad due to Apple’s strict adherence to maintaining their user’s privacy and security.
Specific Features That Are Unique to Android Tablets and iPads
Both Android tablets and iPads have unique features and functionalities:
- Android tablets often offer more customization options, such as widgets, customizable home screens, and the ability to set default apps for various functions.
- iPads benefit from seamless integration with other Apple devices through features like Handoff, AirDrop, and Continuity. They also have exclusive software like iMessage and FaceTime, which are not available on Android tablets.
These unique features cater to different preferences and ecosystem preferences, influencing the choice between Android tablets and iPads.
Handoff Feature on iPads
Handoff is a feature that allows two apple devices connect and communicate seamlessly. You copy something on iPhone and you immediately can paste it in your iPad.
- If you are getting a text on iPhone you can receive it on your iPad.
- If you are getting a call on your iPhone you can answer it on your iPad.
You can turn it on/off whenever you want. Settings > General > AirPlay & Handoff
Android devices for now don’t have this feature, but it’s rumoured that they will have it in the future.
Customization on Android and iPad
Android tablets offer a great deal of customization compared to iPads. For instance, you can change your entire launcher so that it matches a particular style. Besides that, you can customize and manipulate almost every instance of your tablet by installing custom firmware and modifications that allow you to truly customize your Android device to your liking.
On the other hand, iPads are fairly linear in nature and offer almost no customization.
To summarize, iPads have iOS limits. Android, not so much. Everything can get customized.
Exclusive Apps for iPad
If you are a creative person, whether it’s music, art, photos, videos, iPad offers a lot more.
iPads have a few exclusive apps that Android Tablets don’t have.
Currently there are no exclusive apps that you can download on Android tablets, but can’t download on iPad OS tablets.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between iOS and Android OS comes down to your specific requirements, preferences, and budget.
Generally speaking iPads have more to offer than Android tablets.
- If you are an artist – the iPad is a better choice.
- If you are a student – the iPad is a better choice.
- If you are a gamer – the iPad is a better choice.
- If you want to customize things – Android is a better choice.
- If you want to use your tablet casually – watch Netflix, do online shopping, web browsing – Android tablets are a cheaper choice.
- If you want to have multiple users – Android is a better choice.
Are There Other Tablet Operating Systems besides iOS and Android?
Yes, there 7 popular tablet computer operating systems that you can choose from: iPad OS, Android OS, Windows OS, Fire OS, Chrome OS, Harmony OS, Linux OS.
Is iPad OS better than Android?
In terms of what the tablet can offer you – yes, iPads are better than Android tablets, but it comes down to person preference, requirements and budget.
Are there significant differences in hardware quality between Android tablets and iPads?
Yes, there can be significant differences in hardware quality between Android tablets and iPads. iPads are known for their premium build quality, using high-quality materials and precise manufacturing standards that contribute to a more robust and refined feel. On the other hand, Android tablets vary widely in quality depending on the manufacturer and price point. Higher-end Android tablets can offer comparable build quality to iPads, but lower-cost models may use cheaper materials and have less durability.
How do Android tablets and iPads compare in terms of battery life?
Generally, iPads tend to have better battery life compared to Android tablets. This is partly due to the optimized hardware and software integration in iPads, which helps in maximizing battery efficiency. Android tablets, while also offering decent battery life depending on the model and usage, may not always match the longevity provided by iPads, especially in higher-end models.
Tablet Options: Android and iOS
Here are the top tablets of 2024 so far. They have different operating systems, sizes, and features, ranging from mid-range to premium tablets. If you are looking for budget tablets, I recommend you take a look at this article.
| Image | Tablet | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | 9.6 | Buy | |
Largest Tablet  | 9.6 | Buy | |
2-in-1  | 9.5 | Buy | |
Best Medium Size  | 9.5 | Buy | |
Best Bang For Buck  | 9.1 | Buy | |
Best iPad For Most  | 8.9 | Buy | |
Best For Corporates  | 8.9 | Buy | |
Best Google Tablet  | 8.6 | Buy | |
Samsung Budget  | 8.2 | Buy | |
Best For Creatives  | 8.2 | Buy | |
Highest Refresh Rate  | 7.8 | Buy | |
Best Fire OS  | 7.5 | Buy | |
Best Chrome OS  | 7.4 | Buy | |
Best Small Tablet  | 7.4 | Buy |
I'm a writer and editor in iPads & Android Tablets, Windows Tablet section. I'm passionate about technology, especially about tablets. I'm on a mission to assist people in discovering their ideal tablets. In addition, I'm dedicated to producing helpful how-to guides and sharing top-notch tips and tricks. In my early carrier I founded and became and editor at worldoftablet and have been a guest author at many other tech blogs. In wolfoftablet I'm focusing on iPads, Tablets, Apple Pencil, Apps, Reviews, Buyers Guides and Tablet Accessories. In free time I like to play games on my PS5 or iOS.