When you buy a tablet, it sort of becomes a part of you, and you’d want to carry it everywhere. One particular bottleneck you might run into, though, is the lack of an internet connection. With the ever-increasing demand for constant connectivity, this can be a bummer. So, let’s talk about the best tablets with a sim card slot (LTE).
Thankfully, with the advancement of technology, we can now use gadgets with internet connectivity. The adaption of cellular (5G / 4G / 3G / LTE) has helped tablets become more relevant and become actual laptop replacements due to their portability and convenience.
Buying an LTE tablet is not an easy task for everyone out there, as we cannot just go and buy any random LTE tablet just because of internet connectivity there are other criteria we should keep in mind: network compatibility, sim card type, battery life, tablet size and portability, operating system, performance, etc. With that said, it can get quite tricky for you to pick out the best LTE tablet that suits your needs.
Top Tablets with SIM Card Slots in 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11
- OS: iPadOS
- Release Date: May 2024
- Screen Size: Medium (11”)
- Processor: Apple M4
- Price: ~$1099
Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- OS: Windows 10
- Release Date: October 2022
- Screen Size: Large (13”)
- Processor: Microsoft SQ 3, 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U, 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U
- Price: ~$1,799
Apple iPad Air 11
- OS: iPadOS
- Release Date: May 2024
- Screen Size: Medium (11”)
- Processor: Apple M2
- Price: ~$599
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus
- OS: Android
- Release Date: August 2023
- Screen Size: Large (12.4”)
- Processor:Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Price: ~$799
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
- OS: Android 13, up to Android 14
- Release Date: October 2023
- Screen Size: Medium (10.9”)
- Processor: Exynos 1380
- Price: ~$449
Apple iPad 10
- OS: iPadOS
- Release Date: October 2022
- Screen Size: Medium (10.9”)
- Processor: Apple A14 Bionic
- Price: ~$449
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024)
- OS: Android
- Release Date: March 2024
- Screen Size: Medium (10.4”)
- Processor: Exynos 1280
- Price: ~$329
Apple iPad Mini
- OS: iPadOS
- Release Date: Sep 2021
- Screen Size: Small (8.3”)
- Processor: Apple A15 Bionic
- Price: ~$499
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus
- OS: Android
- Release Date: 2023, October
- Screen Size: Medium (11.0”)
- Processor: Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G
- Price: ~$220
Lenovo Tab M11
- OS: Android
- Release Date: 2024, April
- Screen Size: Medium (11”)
- Processor: Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm)
- Price: ~$200
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9
- OS: Android
- Released Date: 2023, October
- Screen Size: Small (8.7-inches)
- Processor: Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm)
- Price: ~$180
LTE Tablet Comparison
Apple iPad Pro M4 | Microsoft Surface Pro 9 | Apple iPad Air M2 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE | Apple iPad 10 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024) | Apple iPad Mini 6 | Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ | Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 | Lenovo Tab M11 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operating System | iPad OS | Windows | iPad OS | Android | Android | iPad OS | Android | iPad OS | Android | Android | Android |
Release Year | 2024 | 2022 | 2024 | 2023 | 2023 | 2022 | 2024 | 2021 | 2023 | 2023 | 2024 |
Screen Size | 11-inch | 13-inch | 11-inch | 12.4-inch | 10.9-inch | 10.9-inch | 10.4-inch | 8.3-inch | 11-inch | 8.7-inch | 11-inch |
Resolution | 1668×2420 | 1600×2560 | 1640×2360 | 1752×2800 | 1440×2304 | 1640×2360 | 1200×2000 | 1488×2266 | 1200×1920 | 800×1340 | 1200×1920 |
Processor | Apple M4 | Microsoft SQ 3, 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U, 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U | Apple M2 | Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) | Exynos 1280 | Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) | Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) |
Battery Life | ~10h | ~13h | ~10h | ~10h | ~9h | ~10h | ~12h | ~10h | ~8h | ~12h | ~10h |
LTE | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Stylus | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Best Budget
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9
- OS: Android
- Released: 2023, October
- Chipset: Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm)
- Storage: 64GB, 128GB
- RAM: 4GB, 8GB
- Camera: 2 MP Front Camera and 8MP Back Camera
- Screen Size: 8.7-inches
- Resolution: 800 x 1340
- PPI: ~179
- Port: USB-C
- Battery Life in Hours: Up to 10 hours
- LTE: Yes
- Compatible with Keyboards: No
- Compatible with Stylus: No
If you’re looking for a practical option among the best budget tablets, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 is a solid choice with LTE connectivity. It features an 8.7-inch TFT LCD display with 800 x 1340 resolution, providing decent clarity for streaming and browsing. Powered by a Mediatek Helio G99 chipset with up to 8GB of RAM, it delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks. With expandable storage options and a lightweight, portable design, the Tab A9 is perfect for on-the-go use. Priced around $180, it offers great value for those needing LTE connectivity without spending a fortune.
Best Android
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus
- OS: Android
- Released: 2023, August
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB
- RAM: 12GB
- Camera: 12 MP Front Camera and 13MP Back Camera
- Screen Size: 12.4-inches
- Resolution: 1752 x 2800
- PPI: ~266
- Port: USB-C
- Battery Life in Hours: Up to 9 hours
- LTE: Yes
- Compatible with Keyboards: Yes
- Compatible with Stylus: Yes
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus is a flagship Android tablet with exceptional capabilities, ideal for users seeking a versatile device with a SIM card slot. Featuring a large 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support, it delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and deep contrasts, perfect for media consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks. The tablet is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance even when running demanding applications and games.
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Tab S9 Plus is its support for 5G connectivity, enabling ultra-fast internet speeds for seamless streaming, online gaming, and video calls. The tablet’s robust build includes an aluminum frame and IP68 water and dust resistance, adding durability and peace of mind for outdoor and everyday use. It also supports Samsung DeX, allowing users to transform the tablet into a desktop-like experience when connected to a monitor, enhancing productivity with multitasking capabilities. If you’re considering this model, it’s worth exploring how it ranks among the best Android tablets for its powerful features and versatility.
Best Windows
Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- OS: Windows OS
- Released: 2022, October
- Chipset: Microsoft SQ 3, 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- RAM: 8GB, 16GB
- Camera: 5 MP Front Camera and 10MP Back Camera
- Screen Size: 13-inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 2880
- PPI: ~267
- Port: USB-C
- Battery Life in Hours: 6 hours
- LTE: Yes
- Compatible with Keyboards: Yes
- Compatible with Stylus: Yes
For those seeking a versatile option among the best 2-in-1 tablets with a keyboard, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is an excellent choice. Featuring a 13-inch display with a 2880 x 1920 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, it delivers crisp visuals and smooth performance, powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM. The tablet’s premium aluminum design is both durable and portable, and with a SIM card slot, it offers connectivity on the go. This combination of power, display quality, and flexibility makes the Surface Pro 9 ideal for professionals and multitaskers.
Best For Gaming
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024)
- OS: Android
- Released: 2024, March
- Chipset: Exynos 1280 processor
- Storage: 64GB, 128GB
- RAM: 4GB
- Camera: Front: 5 MP, Back: 8 MP
- Screen Size: 10.4 inches
- Resolution: 1200 x 2000 pixels
- PPI: ~224 ppi density
- Port: USB Type-C
- Battery Life in Hours: Approximately 10 hours
- LTE: Yes
- Compatible with Keyboards: Yes
- Compatible with Stylus: Yes
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024) is a solid choice for gamers seeking a tablet with a SIM card slot, offering a blend of performance and versatility. Powered by an octa-core Exynos 1280 processor with speeds up to 2.4 GHz, coupled with 4GB of RAM, it ensures smooth gameplay for a variety of Android games. The tablet’s 10.4-inch TFT LCD display, while not as vibrant as OLED counterparts, still offers a respectable resolution of 1200 x 2000 pixels, making it suitable for immersive gaming sessions and multimedia consumption.
For gamers, the Tab S6 Lite handles popular titles like PUBG Mobile, Genshin Impact, and Call of Duty Mobile smoothly at moderate graphics settings. However, more demanding games may experience occasional frame drops or lag due to the limitations of its TFT LCD screen and mid-range chipset. It supports Samsung DeX, enabling a desktop-like experience when connected to a monitor or TV, enhancing versatility for gaming and productivity.
Pros of the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite include its sleek design, solid build quality with a glass front and aluminum back, and AKG-tuned stereo speakers for immersive audio. It also features a dedicated microSDXC card slot for expandable storage, accommodating larger game files and media libraries. However, drawbacks include the absence of NFC and the TFT LCD display, which lacks the deep blacks and vibrant colors of OLED, impacting visual fidelity in games compared to higher-end tablets. Priced around 400 EUR, the Tab S6 Lite offers good value for gamers looking for a capable Android tablet with SIM card support, suitable for both gaming and everyday use.
Best Small
Apple iPad Mini 6th gen
- OS: iPadOS
- Released: 2021, September
- Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm)
- Storage: 64GB, 256GB
- RAM: 4GB
- Camera: 12 MP Front & Back
- Screen Size: 8.3-inches
- Resolution: 1488 x 2266 pixels
- PPI: ~327
- Port: USB-C
- Battery Life in Hours: 10 hours
- LTE: Yes
- Compatible with Keyboards: No
- Compatible with Stylus: Yes
The iPad Mini 6th generation is an ideal 8-inch tablet with a SIM card slot, offering a compact yet powerful experience for users seeking portability and connectivity. Featuring a sleek design with a glass front and aluminum back, it is lightweight at 293g (Wi-Fi) / 297g (Wi-Fi + Cellular), making it easy to carry. The tablet’s 8.3-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display delivers vibrant colors and sharp details at 1488 x 2266 pixels, perfect for enjoying multimedia and productivity tasks on the go.
Powered by the Apple A15 Bionic chip, the iPad Mini 6 ensures smooth performance for apps, games, and multitasking. It supports 5G connectivity, allowing for fast internet speeds and seamless streaming without relying on Wi-Fi networks. The tablet’s 12 MP main camera and 12 MP front-facing camera deliver high-quality photos and videos, while features like stereo speakers and USB Type-C 3.1 connectivity enhance its versatility. With iPadOS 15 (upgradable), support for Apple Pencil (2nd generation), and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security, the iPad Mini 6 offers a comprehensive experience tailored for both entertainment and productivity, making it a standout choice in the 8-inch tablet category.
Benefits of Having a Cellular Connectivity
- Mobile Internet Access: An LTE tablet with a SIM card provides ubiquitous internet access wherever there is cellular coverage. This means you can stay connected to the internet on the go, whether you’re traveling, commuting, or in areas without Wi-Fi.
- Flexibility and Convenience: With an LTE tablet, you’re not restricted to Wi-Fi hotspots. This flexibility allows you to access emails, browse the web, stream videos, and use apps wherever you are, without having to rely on finding a Wi-Fi network.
- Emergency Connectivity: In situations where Wi-Fi is unavailable or unreliable (e.g., during natural disasters or emergencies), an LTE tablet ensures you can still communicate and access critical information through mobile networks.
- Personal Hotspot: Many LTE tablets can also act as a personal hotspot, allowing you to share your mobile internet connection with other devices such as laptops or other tablets, which can be particularly useful when traveling or in situations where you need to provide internet access to multiple devices.
In essence, an LTE tablet with a SIM card offers enhanced mobility, reliability, and convenience, making it a valuable choice for users who require constant access to the internet beyond Wi-Fi networks.
SIM Card Compatibility and Connectivity
Types of SIM Cards
When it comes to LTE tablets with SIM card slots, understanding the different types of SIM cards is crucial for compatibility and connectivity. Here are the main types of SIM cards you might encounter:
- Standard SIM (Mini SIM)
- Size: 25mm x 15mm
- This is the largest type of SIM card, commonly used in older mobile devices. It’s becoming increasingly rare in modern tablets.
- Micro SIM
- Size: 15mm x 12mm
- A smaller version of the standard SIM, the micro SIM was widely used in mobile devices until a few years ago. Some older LTE tablets may still use this size.
- Nano SIM
- Size: 12.3mm x 8.8mm
- The smallest and most commonly used SIM card in current devices. Most modern LTE tablets support nano SIM cards due to their compact size and widespread adoption.
- eSIM
- Embedded SIM technology allows the SIM to be built into the device. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you can activate the eSIM digitally by scanning a QR code or using a carrier app. Some high-end LTE tablets support eSIM, providing greater flexibility and ease of switching carriers.
Carrier Compatibility
- Locked vs. Unlocked Tablets
- Locked Tablets: These are typically sold by carriers and are restricted to use with that specific carrier’s network. If you choose a locked tablet, you’ll need to ensure it’s compatible with your carrier’s LTE bands.
- Unlocked Tablets: These devices are not tied to any specific carrier and can be used with any carrier that supports the LTE bands the tablet operates on. Unlocked tablets offer greater flexibility, especially for users who travel frequently or prefer to switch carriers.
- Carrier-Specific Considerations
- GSM vs. CDMA: LTE tablets generally support GSM (used by carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile) or CDMA (used by carriers like Verizon). Most modern LTE tablets support GSM, and some are designed to be compatible with both types of networks.
- LTE Bands: Different carriers operate on different LTE frequency bands. Before purchasing an LTE tablet, check that it supports the LTE bands used by your carrier. Common LTE bands in the US include bands 2, 4, 12, 13, 17, 25, 26, 41, and others. For international use, ensure the tablet supports the bands used in the regions where you’ll be traveling.
Tips for Ensuring Compatibility
- Check Manufacturer Specifications
- Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm which SIM card types and LTE bands are supported by the tablet.
- Consult Your Carrier
- Before purchasing an LTE tablet, consult with your carrier to ensure compatibility with their network. They can provide detailed information about which tablets work best on their service.
- Consider Unlocked Models
- For maximum flexibility and future-proofing, consider purchasing an unlocked LTE tablet. This allows you to switch carriers easily and use local SIM cards when traveling internationally.
By understanding the types of SIM cards and ensuring carrier compatibility, you can make an informed decision and choose an LTE tablet that meets your connectivity needs seamlessly.
Differences Between Wi-Fi Only and LTE Tablets
The main differences between Wi-Fi only and LTE (cellular) tablets revolve around connectivity and functionality:
1. Connectivity:
- Wi-Fi Only: Connects to the internet via Wi-Fi networks only, no cellular modem.
- LTE (Cellular): Has a built-in cellular modem, allowing internet access through both cellular networks (like 4G/5G) and Wi-Fi.
2. Internet Access:
- Wi-Fi Only: Limited to Wi-Fi hotspots, like home or cafes.
- LTE (Cellular): Provides internet access almost anywhere with cellular coverage, offering more flexibility.
3. Portability:
- Wi-Fi Only: Best for use in fixed locations with reliable Wi-Fi.
- LTE (Cellular): Ideal for on-the-go use, as it doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi availability.
4. Cost:
- Wi-Fi Only: Generally more affordable.
- LTE (Cellular): Typically more expensive due to added cellular capabilities.
5. Battery Life:
- Wi-Fi Only: Usually has slightly longer battery life.
- LTE (Cellular): May have shorter battery life, especially with frequent cellular use.
FAQ’s
Are LTE tablets more expensive than Wi-Fi only tablets?
Yes, LTE tablets are typically more expensive than Wi-Fi only tablets due to the additional hardware required for cellular connectivity.
Do LTE tablets support international roaming?
Yes, LTE tablets with a compatible SIM card and plan from a mobile carrier that offers international roaming services can support international roaming. This allows the tablet to access mobile data networks in other countries where the carrier has roaming agreements. However, specific roaming capabilities and costs can vary depending on the carrier and the roaming agreements in place.
How fast is LTE compared to Wi-Fi?
LTE speeds can vary widely depending on network conditions and technology, typically ranging from 10 Mbps to 50 Mbps in real-world scenarios. In comparison, WiFi connections, especially with technologies like WiFi 6, can theoretically reach speeds up to 1.2 Gbps under ideal conditions.
Can I use an LTE tablet without a sim card?
Yes, you may use any tablet without a sim card as most tablets come with only Wi-Fi functionality, so when they can work without LTE or a sim card.
Will my phone sim card work on my tablet?
No, your phone sim does not work on your tablet since they read data in a different manner. But, in some edge cases, your phone SIM might work with your tablet SIM and vice versa.
Remember, though, that if you insert a tablet SIM into your phone, only data will work. And, if you insert a phone SIM into your tablet, you won’t be able to make calls.
Do tablets have phone numbers?
o, your tablet does not possess a phone number. While your tablet can have a SIM card slot, they lack the internal modem needed to make phone calls / send text messages. You can, however, connect your tablet to your phone in some instances and receive calls / messages using your phone’s number.
How do I activate and set up an LTE tablet with a SIM card?
To activate and set up an LTE tablet with a SIM card, start by locating and inserting the SIM card into the designated slot on your tablet. Power on the tablet and wait for it to detect the SIM card, confirming by checking for signal bars or a network indicator. Follow any setup prompts or wizard that may appear, entering your SIM PIN if required. Ensure the tablet connects to the cellular network, and if necessary, configure APN settings provided by your carrier for mobile data access. Test connectivity by opening a web browser or app. Activate the SIM card if it’s new or needs activation by following instructions from your carrier. Optionally, set up a personal hotspot if supported and needed. For any issues, consult the tablet’s manual or contact your carrier’s customer support for assistance.
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.