Best Note-Taking Tablets With Stylus

Discover the best tablets that are compatible with stylus pens and are great for handwritten notes. Different operating systems, different sizes and different price ranges, budget, medium, and premium.

  • 🥇 Apple iPad Pro(2024) – Best Overall
  • 🥈 Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus(2023) – Best Android
  • 🥉 Apple iPad Air (2024) – Best Value For Money

People are replacing their pens and notebooks with tablets. It has become a more convenient way to take notes and write down your ideas, recipes, sketches, etc. Even if you lose your device, your notes will be accessible. It’s easy to find notes because you have a quick search. Your dog can’t eat them. You can’t spill coffee over them.


Top Note-Taking Tablets

1
Apple iPad Pro 13

Apple iPad Pro 13

  • OS: iPadOS
  • Release Date: May 2024
  • Screen Size: Large (13”)
  • Processor: Apple M4
  • Price: ~$1299

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Apple iPad Pro 13 was released in 2024, featuring a 38.99-watt-hour rechargeable lithium‑polymer battery with up to 10 hours of life, a 13-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 2064 x 2752 screen resolution and ~86.9% screen-to-body ratio. This iPad runs on iPadOS.

The iPad model can be purchased with 4 different storage options. 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. There’s no memory card slot, though. Also, the RAM changes with each storage alternative. You get 8GB RAM for all storage versions below 1TB. Meanwhile, for 1TB and 2TB, you get 16GB RAM. Cellular connectivity is also available, but you have to pay extra for that.

There are 4 stereo speakers in total, but no 3.5mm sound jack. Furthermore, the device has a main camera and a selfie camera. The main one has a 12 MP wide lens. As for the selfie one, it’s a 12 MP ultrawide camera. Biometrical authentication is a feature available with this tablet, as it lets you turn on Face ID to unlock the screen. 

The tablet is compatible with the Apple Pencil as well. It works with Apple Pencil Pro, as well as Apple Pencil USB-C. 

The Apple iPad Pro 13 has an aluminum back and frame, as well as a glass front. Also, you can purchase it in Silver or Space Black shades.  The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch 7th gen is the most powerful iPad, with the biggest screen and the brightest. It's perfect for power users.

Pros

  • Large screen
  • Long battery life
  • It has good speakers
  • A lot of storage options
  • It has cellular connectivity

Cons

  • Quite heavy
  • It is pretty expensive
  • There’s no 3.5mm jack
  • It’s only available in 2 colors

2
Apple iPad Pro 11

Apple iPad Pro 11

  • OS: iPadOS
  • Release Date: May 2024
  • Screen Size: Medium (11”)
  • Processor: Apple M4
  • Price: ~$1099

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Apple iPad Pro 11 was released in 2024, featuring a 31.29-watt-hour rechargeable lithium‑polymer battery with up to 10 hours of life, a 11-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 1668 x 2420 screen resolution and ~84.2% screen-to-body ratio. This iPad runs on iPadOS.

The iPad model can be purchased with 4 different storage options. 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. There’s no memory card slot, though. Also, the RAM changes with each storage alternative. You get 8GB RAM for all storage versions below 1TB. Meanwhile, for 1TB and 2TB, you get 16GB RAM. Cellular connectivity is also available, but you have to pay extra for that.

There are 4 stereo speakers in total but no 3.5mm sound jack. Furthermore, the device has a main camera and a selfie camera. The main one has a 12 MP wide lens. As for the selfie one, it’s a 12 MP ultrawide camera. Biometrical authentication is a feature available with this tablet, as it lets you turn on Face ID to unlock the screen. 

The tablet is compatible with the Apple Pencil as well. It works with Apple Pencil Pro, as well as Apple Pencil USB-C. 

The Apple iPad Pro 11 has an aluminum back and frame, as well as a glass front. Also, you can purchase it in Silver or Space Black shades.  The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch 5th gen is one of the best tablets you can buy.

Pros

  • Good speakers
  • Long battery life
  • A lot of storage options
  • It has cellular connectivity

Cons

  • It is pretty expensive
  • There’s no 3.5mm jack
  • It’s only available in 2 colors
  • No accessories are included

3
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Largest Tablet

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

  • OS: Android
  • Release Date: August 2023
  • Screen Size: Large (14.6”)
  • Processor: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
  • Price: ~$1,200

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The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is available in Graphite and Beige colors, and it’s a great model for those who are into large-screen tablets. It has an aluminum frame and back and a glass front. The display measures 14.6 inches and is a dynamic AMOLED 2x screen. Its refresh rate is 120Hz, with a resolution of 1848 x 2960 pixels, a 16:10 ratio, and a ppi density of 239. Not only that, but it has a ~90.7% screen-to-body ratio as well. It has 592 adaptive nits and 749 HDR nits. The large screen makes it great not only for watching movies but also for drawing. 

A notable aspect of this device is that it has cellular connectivity with nano-SIM and eSIM support. It uses a Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and has an 11200 mAh battery that can last up to 9 hours and 27 minutes. It also comes with a USB Type-C 3.2 port and a magnetic connector. 

The tablet has two cameras. These include a dual main camera with a 13MP wide and 8MP ultrawide lens and a dual selfie camera with a 12MP wide and ultrawide lens. It’s available in several storage options, respectively 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB with 12GB RAM. However, you can also get the 1TB version with 16GB RAM. Fortunately, there’s also a dedicated slot for microSDCX. 

The device has stylus support, making it ideal for professionals who must take notes, as well as students. The S Pen is one of its most popular accessories. Many people also get the Galaxy Buds with the tablet. On average, the tablet costs around $1,200.

Pros

  • It has two dual cameras
  • It has a microSD slot
  • Powerful processor
  • Large screen, a lot of real estate

Cons

  • It’s a bit pricey
  • It's a bit heavy
  • It doesn’t have a 3.5mm jack
  • Heard to hold in hands due to size and weight

4
Microsoft Surface Pro 9
Best 2-in-1 Tablet

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

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The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the most expensive tablet you can get. This device has a lot to deliver at around $1,799 for its priciest version. It was released in 2022 and features a 12MP rear camera and a 5MP webcam. Furthermore, it has optional 5G connectivity, allowing you to use data when you’re away from a trusted network. 

This device comes in several storage space options. You can get its 5G version with a 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB SSD. On the other hand, the version without cellular connectivity is available with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD. It has no MicroSD card slot, though. 

This model has a 13-inch screen that peaks at 450 nits. Its display has a 2880 x 1920 resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz. Also, it has 267 ppi and an aspect ratio of 3:2. The screen-to-body ratio is ~83.9%. To make the screen durable, Microsoft used Corning Gorilla Glass 5, which is damage-resistant. The tablet itself was made from aluminum. 

The ports include 2 USB-C ports, 1 Surface Connect port, 1 Surface Type Cover port, and 1 Surface Keyboard port for the 5G option.

With its 47.7Wh battery, this device can run up to 13 hours. It has stylus support as well, and the Surface Slim Pen 2 is an accessory often used with it. Given that the device is also a 2-in-1 laptop, it’s ideal for professionals. You can convert it from a laptop to a tablet and vice-versa and take notes easily. This also makes it a good tablet for students. 

The standard version uses the 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U and i7-1255U processors, while the 5G one uses a Microsoft SQ 3 processor. Its color options include Graphite, Platinum, Sapphire, and Forest.

Pros

  • It’s a 2-in-1 convertible design laptop
  • Its screen is strong and damage-resistant
  • It has powerful processors

Cons

  • The webcam doesn’t have the best quality
  • It’s very pricey
  • The stylus is not included

5
Apple iPad Air 13

Apple iPad Air 13

  • OS: iPadOS
  • Release Date: May 2024
  • Screen Size: Large (13”)
  • Processor: Apple M2
  • Price: ~$799

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Apple iPad Air 13 was released in 2024. It features a 36.59-watt-hour rechargeable lithium‑polymer battery. That can last up to 10 hours of usage. a 13-inch screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. (iPad Pro models have 120Hz) and a 2048 x 2732(~265 PPI) screen resolution and ~86.1% screen-to-body ratio. 

New iPad Air has upgraded storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB. Still has no memory slot and no 3.5mm headphone jack. All storage options have the same RAM: 8GB. It comes with WiFi and WiFi+LTE.

It has good 4 built-in speakers. Furthermore, the device has a main camera and a selfie camera. The main one has a 12 MP wide lens. As for the selfie one, it’s a 12 MP ultrawide camera. Biometrical authentication is a feature available with this tablet, as it lets you unlock th device with Touch ID. 

The tablet is compatible with the Apple Pencil and iPad Magic Keyboard.

The Apple iPad Air 13 has an aluminum back and frame, as well as a glass front. Also, you can purchase it in Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, Blue. The Apple iPad Air 13-inch is the first of it's kind. In comparison to the iPad Air 11 model it has brighter and bigger screen. 

Pros

  • Good price
  • Long battery life
  • A lot of storage options
  • Wi-Fi+LTE connectivity

Cons

  • No Face-ID
  • There’s no 3.5mm jack
  • No accessories are included
  • Expensive accessories

6
Apple iPad Air 11

Apple iPad Air 11

  • OS: iPadOS
  • Release Date: May 2024
  • Screen Size: Medium (11”)
  • Processor: Apple M2
  • Price: ~$599

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Apple iPad Air 11 was released in 2024. It features a 28.93-watt-hour rechargeable lithium‑polymer battery. That can last up to 10 hours of usage. a 11-inch screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. (iPad Pro models have 120Hz) and a 1640 x 2360(~265 PPI) screen resolution and ~80.9% screen-to-body ratio. 

New iPad Air has upgraded storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB. Still has no memory slot and no 3.5mm headphone jack. All storage options have the same RAM: 8GB. It comes with WiFi and WiFi+LTE.

It has good 4 built-in speakers. Furthermore, the device has a main camera and a selfie camera. The main one has a 12 MP wide lens. As for the selfie one, it’s a 12 MP ultrawide camera. Biometrical authentication is a feature available with this tablet, as it lets you unlock the device with Touch ID. 

The tablet is compatible with the Apple Pencil and iPad Magic Keyboard.

The Apple iPad Air 11 has an aluminum back and frame, as well as a glass front. Also, you can purchase it in Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, Blue. The Apple iPad Air 11-inch 6th gen is one of the most popular iPad choices.

Pros

  • Good price
  • Long battery life
  • A lot of storage options
  • It has cellular connectivity

Cons

  • No Face-ID
  • There’s no 3.5mm jack
  • No accessories are included
  • Expensive accessories

8
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus

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

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Fans of Samsung tablets that don’t mind smaller screens could consider the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus. With a 12.4-inch screen and 1752x2800-pixel quality, this model was released in 2023. It runs on Android 13 and can operate on up to Android 14, One UI 6. 

It has an Octa-core Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and a non-removable 10,090 mAh battery, which can last up to 8 hours and 44 minutes, depending on your tasks. 

Storage capacity comes in 256GB and 512GB, but you also get a microSDXC dedicated slot. As for the cameras, you get a 13 MP wide and 8 MP ultrawide main camera and a 12 MP ultrawide selfie camera. 

To make things even better, this tablet has nano-SIM and eSIM support. 

Pros

  • It has cellular connectivity
  • It has a big screen
  • Good processor
  • Good and bright display

Cons

  • It doesn’t have a 3.5mm jack
  • No charger is included in the box
  • A bit expensive for general use

7
Lenovo Tab Extreme

Lenovo Tab Extreme

  • OS: Android
  • Release Date: Jun 2023
  • Screen Size: Large (14.5”)
  • Processor: Mediatek Dimensity 9000 (4 nm)
  • Price: ~$930

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If you’re looking for something with a larger display, the Lenovo Tab Extreme is a good option. It measures 14.5 inches and has an OLED screen. It features a resolution of 1876 x 3000 pixels and a 16:10 ratio. Also, it has a ~244 ppi density and a 88.2% screen-to-body ratio. It can reach up to 500 nits and has a 120Hz refresh rate. 

This model was released in 2023 and runs on Android 13. A Mediatek Dimensity 9000 chipset lets you perform many tasks smoothly, whether browsing social media or watching a movie. Its ports include a USB Type-C 2.0 and USB Type-C 3.2, DisplayPort, OTG, and accessory connector. What’s great is that it has 8 stereo speakers, which gives it quality sound. It’s ideal for families who like to listen to music or watch movies together, but even for gamers who want to experience games to the fullest. 

It only comes in one size: 256GB. Luckily, it has a microSDXC dedicated slot. The device also comes with 12GB RAM. This model is compatible with a stylus, and a common accessory people get with it is the Lenovo Precision Pen 3. 

The main camera is a dual one. The ultrawide option has 5MP, while the wide one has 13MP. On top of that, the selfie camera is a 13MP ultrawide one. Unfortunately, it has no cellular connectivity. Depending on your use, the 12300 mAh battery will last up to 12 hours. 

This device was built from aluminum and comes in Storm Grey only. 

Pros
  • Large display
  • It runs smoothly thanks to the 12GB RAM
  • It has 8 speakers and great sound quality
Cons
  • There’s no 3.5mm jack
  • It only comes in one color option
  • There’s no cellular connectivity 
  • Hard to hold in hands, due to the large size
1
Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14

Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14

  • OS: Android, MIUI Pad
  • Release Date: August 2023
  • Screen Size: Large(14”)
  • Processor: Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
  • Price: ~$630

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The Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14 features a stunning 14.0-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1800 x 2880 pixels. It supports 1 billion colors, a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10, and Dolby Vision, ensuring an immersive viewing experience with vivid colors and smooth visuals. With a peak brightness of 600 nits, it remains clear and bright even in well-lit environments. The tablet boasts a sleek design. Its premium build includes a glass front, aluminum back, and aluminum frame, exuding durability and elegance.

Performance and Storage

Under the hood, the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14 is powered by the Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset with an octa-core CPU (1x3.19 GHz Cortex-X2, 3x2.75 GHz Cortex-A710, and 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A510) and Adreno 730 GPU. This powerful setup ensures exceptional performance for multitasking, running demanding applications, and gaming. The tablet is available in multiple configurations: 256GB with 8GB RAM, 256GB with 12GB RAM, 512GB with 12GB RAM, and 1TB with 16GB RAM, all utilizing UFS 3.1 for fast data access. However, it does not support expandable storage via a card slot.

Camera Capabilities

The Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14 is equipped with a dual rear camera system consisting of a 50 MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture and a 2 MP depth sensor with an f/2.4 aperture. This setup allows for detailed photos and features like HDR, panorama, and LED flash. It supports video recording in 4K at 30/60fps and 1080p at 30/60fps. The front camera is a 20 MP sensor with an f/2.2 aperture and ToF sensor, capable of 1080p video recording at 30/60fps. This makes it perfect for high-quality selfies and video calls. It has one of the best cameras for tablets.

Battery Life

The tablet is powered by a robust 10000 mAh Li-Po battery, ensuring extended usage without frequent recharges. It can last up to 15 hours. It supports 67W wired charging with PD3.0 and QC4, providing fast recharging times. It can charge from 0 to 100% in around 1hour and 40 minutes. Additionally, it offers 33W reverse wired charging, allowing the tablet to charge other devices, making it a versatile tool for students on the go.

Usage Scenarios

The Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14 is a versatile device tailored for a wide range of needs. Its large, high-resolution display and stylus support make it ideal for note-taking, studying, working and reading. The powerful processor and ample RAM handle multitasking, running apps, and online research efficiently. Its vibrant display and high-quality audio with stereo speakers enhance media consumption for videos and other entertainment. 

Pros

  • Large, High-Quality Display
  • Powerful Performance
  • Long Battery Life

Cons

  • No Cellular Connectivity
  • Heavy Weight

9
Apple iPad 10

Apple iPad 10

  • OS: iPadOS
  • Release Date: October 2022 
  • Screen Size: Medium (10.9”)
  • Processor: Apple A14 Bionic
  • Price: ~$449

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The Apple iPad 10th Gen is a good budget tablet for people who like Apple products. It's starting price is $449 and you can buy it in pink, silver, yellow, and blue. You can choose between 64GB or 256GB internal storage with 4GB RAM, no memory card slot, a 12MP wide main and a 12MP ultrawide selfie camera. The device was released in 2022 and runs on iPadOS 16.1, but it’s upgradeable to iPad OS 17.4. 

Built from aluminum and having a glass front, this unit has an excellent display. It measures only 10.9 inches but has a 1640 x 2360-pixel resolution and can reach 500 nits. The screen is a liquid retina IPS LCD with a ~264 ppi density and a 60Hz refresh rate. Makes it a great choice for Netflix and YouTube watching. The glass is scratch-resistant and has an oleophobic coating. It has a non-laminated display, meaning there's a small gap between the screen and the display. It's compatible with Apple Pencil gen 1 and Apple Pencil USB-C if you want to draw and take-notes.

This gadget runs on an Apple A14 Bionic chipset and comes with stylus support. You can also insert an eSIM or nano-SIM into it for cellular connectivity. The USB ports include a USB Type-C 2.0, a Display Port, and a magnetic connector. It also has a 7606 mAh battery lasting up to 10 hours. 

This iPad can be useful for casual Internet use or even for work. Great for families that share the tablet. 

Pros

  • It's affordable
  • Apps open quickly and smoothly
  • It’s available in many fun colors

Cons

  • The processor is not the best
  • It has non-laminated screen
  • You can't charge Apple Pencil magnetically

11
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus

  • OS: Android
  • Release Date: October 2023
  • Screen Size: Large (12.4”)
  • Processor:Exynos 1380 
  • Price: ~$599

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Samsung recently introduced the world to its FE(Fan Edition) tablets.The Fan Edition devices are designed to offer flagship features at a more accessible price point. In other words, the FE tablets are cheaper and more budget-friendly.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus comes with a 12.4-inch screen, but it has an LCD display instead of the OLED, and the refresh rate is 90Hz instead of 120Hz. 

The FE tablets, just like other Samsung tablets, run the Android operating system and in the package, you can find an S pen. 

The biggest compromises are made on the display, SoC, and camera. This one also doesn't feature a headphone jack, but just like the flagship tablets it has water and dust resistance (IP68).

Samsung cut the right corners to create a more affordable Samsun tablet. It still feels like a premium device that has a good display and can handle the demanding apps, making everyone happy with the overall experience. I would say Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus is a great tablet for those that want a premium tablet but don't want to pay the premium price. 

Pros

  • Good SoC & Processor Considering Price
  • Fast Charging Time
  • Great Battery Life
  • Good Price For Value

Cons
  • No Headphone Jack
  • Still Expensive with Accessories(Keyboard Cover)
  • Limited DeX Mode (won't work with Monitors and TV's)
12
OnePlus Pad

OnePlus Pad

  • OS: Android, OxygenOS
  • Release Date: Apr 2023
  • Screen Size: Medium (11.61”)
  • Processor: Mediatek Dimensity 9000 (4 nm)
  • Price: ~$479

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The OnePlus Pad was released in 2023, April. This device has a strong aluminum frame and a glass front. It also runs on Android 13 and OxygenOS13.1. It has a Mediatek Dimensity 9000 chipset and 4 good stereo speakers. 

First things first, let’s talk about the display. The unit has an IPS LCD screen with a 144Hz refresh rate and 500 nits. Also, it measures 11.61 inches, has a 2000 x 2800 pixels resolution, and a ~296 ppi density. The screen-to-body ratio is ~84.2%. It is a great choice for everyone that's into movies, videos and games with visual details.

This tablet has a 13MP wide main camera and an 8MP wide selfie camera. It also comes in 2 versions: 128GB with 8GB RAM or 256GB with 12GB RAM. Sadly, it doesn’t have the option to insert a memory card. The USB ports include a USB Type-C 2.0, OTG, and accessory connector. There’s stylus support as well. However, it has no cellular connectivity. 

The only color option is Halo Green, and this tablet costs around $545. This tablet is great for kids thanks to its strong build, smaller screen, and decent chipset. It will last longer and can even run games and videos smoothly enough. Also, the 9510 mAh battery can last up to 13 hours. 

Pros
  • Long battery life
  • It has a 144Hz refresh rate
  • It has a strong and durable construction
  • It can open and run apps quickly and smoothly
Cons
  • There’s no memory card slot
  • It lacks cellular connectivity
  • There’s only one color option
Kindle Scribe

Kindle Scribe

  • OS: KindleOS
  • Processor:
  • Storage: 16 GB / 32 GB / 64 GB
  • RAM: 
  • Camera:
  • Display Size: 10.2 inches
  • Resolution: 2480×1860 (300 ppi)
  • Refresh Rate: Not applicable
  • Weight: 0.95 lbs
  • Port: USB-C Port
  • Battery: Up to 13 hours 
  • Stylus Included?: Yes
  • Keyboard Support: No
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If you want a device on which you can take notes and read ebooks – Kindle Scribe is the good option, the only option in fact, if you don’t want other features.

It’s designed so you can sketch, take notes, annotate PDF files, and read kindle books on it. 

The battery life is great. You can get 13 hours of usage. Unlike traditional tablets that will run out of battery even when you don’t use them this one will not, at least not so fast. 

It also comes with a Pen that doesn’t require charging. 

You can’t get any colors on it, only black & white, the pen has pressure sensitivity that comes in handy when you need to sketch something.

Also, it has a backlight unlike other e-ink tablets.

All the notes you can share between whichever devices you want. 

Overall, if you are easily distracted this minimalistic device might be the right pick for you.

 

Pros
  • Minimalistic Device
  • 2-in-1 (Reading & Writing)
  • Can Play Audiobooks
  • Backlight
Cons
  • Limited
  • Medium Export Quality
ReMarkable 2

ReMarkable 2

  • OS: Codex
  • Processor: 1.2 GHz Dual Core ARM
  • Storage: 8 GB
  • RAM: 1 GB DDR3
  • Camera:
  • Display Size: 10.3 inches
  • Resolution: 1872×1404 (~226 ppi)
  • Refresh Rate: Not applicable
  • Weight: 0.89 lbs
  • Port: Micro USB
  • Battery: Up 15 hours 
  • Stylus Included?: Yes
  • Keyboard Support: Yes, but not included
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If you just want to take notes, the ReMarkable 2 is a solid choice. It features a low-latency E ink display that has a simplistic UI primarily meant for annotating PDFs and taking notes. That’s the only functionality for the device and it excels in it. 

 Built off Wacom’s EMR technology, you can use some other styluses such as the Samsung S21 Ultra’s S Pen, just fine. However, stuff that uses Bluetooth, like the Apple Pencil, will not work. People love how simple the reMarkable 2 is. It’s simple and meant just for notes. You can transfer files from the tablet to your mobile / PC, and that’s pretty much all you need.

 It has limited storage, but you can connect Google Drive, Dropbox, and other cloud storage.

 But, when it comes to pure note-taking experience, this E Ink tablet is the closest to a paperlike feeling. You can still tell you are not writing on paper.

When you buy the tablet, the keyboard, and the pen, it gets very expensive, but its only use case is notes and you can also read some files on it(very limited options – ePUB and PDFs)

Due to this, I find it expensive. For the same price you can get a tablet with bigger storage, that will also allow you to watch movies, and videos and read on it.

But I understand the charm. This device guarantees you distraction-free work. 

 

Pros
  • Distraction Fee
  • Mimics Paper Very Good
Cons
  • Has a Micro USB Charging Port 
  • Limited Usage

If you can’t decide between Kindle Scribe and Remarkable 2, I recommend reading this article. Where we compare these two e-ink tablets side-by-side.

Which OS Is Better For Note-Taking?

The first decision you have to make is which OS you want for your tablet. You have to make a decision between iOS, Android & Windows.

  • If you have a MacBook and iPhone, I recommend staying in that ecosystem.
Apple iPadAndroid TabletWindows Tablet
MacBook & iPhone
MacBook & Android Phone
Windows & iPhone
Windows & Android Phone

When it comes to note-taking, Apple offers more. You have more apps to choose from. More competition means higher standards and better experience. It also means more support and more guides.

Sharing Notes Between Devices

You can share notes between any two devices, but it’s much more convenient and faster if your devices are in the same ecosystem.

  • I recommend picking an app that’s available on all devices.

I personally use Notability because I have a Mac, iPad, and iPhone. If I had other devices I would have chosen Goodnotes 6.

MacBooksiPhoneWindowsAndroid
NotabilityXX
Goodnotes 6
Nebo
Microsoft OneNote
Apple NotesXX

What Makes A Tablet Good For Note-Taking?

Tablets offer a distinctive feature that sets them apart: the ability to take handwritten notes, a functionality that can not be found in smartphones or laptops.

Buying a tablet for note-taking can be challenging. A lot of information can be more confusing than helpful.

In this article, I want to mention key factors that you should pay attention to when buying a tablet for note-taking.

Stylus Support

You need to look for a tablet that has Stylus support and you have to be careful because there are two types of Styluses: active Stylus and passive Stylus.

Passive Stylus will work with any touchscreen surface, smartphones, touchscreen laptops, and all tablets, but it works more as a finger than a Stylus. That’s why you need to look for a tablet that has Active Stylus support. The key difference is that they require a power source like a battery, while a passive stylus doesn’t. They also often come with tilt sensitivity and pressure sensitivity and are a lot more precise than passive styluses.

Tip: Samsung tablets (mid-range and premium) have stylus pens included in the price.

Operating System

You will have a different application store depending on which operating system you choose for your tablet.

  • iPadOS – App Store
  • Android OS – Google Play Store
  • Chrome OS – Google Play Store
  • Windows OS – Microsfot Store
  • Fire OS – Amazon App Store

App Store offers the widest variety of note-taking apps. They have exclusive apps that are only available in their ecosystem. One of those apps is Notability.

As a rule of thumb, I recommend choosing an operating system you already use on your phone or laptop. The tablet interface will feel more familiar, and it will be easier to navigate it.

The tablet’s operating system will determine what note-taking apps you can use.

Screen Size

Screen size is important if you want to take notes on your tablet. I recommend picking at least a 10+ inch screen size.

Picking a smaller screen size is not advisable for note-taking. The more screen real estate you have, the easier it is to manage your notes.

Of course, you can also take notes on ‘sticky notes’, but it’s not as convenient as to take notes in notebook.

Refresh Rate

Usually, tablets come with 60Hz, 90Hz, or 120Hz screens.

The refresh rate on a tablet refers to how many times per second the screen updates the displayed image. It is measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate, such as 90Hz or 120Hz, means the screen refreshes more frequently.

The main difference between a 60Hz and a 120Hz screen on tablets, especially for note-taking, lies in the smoothness and responsiveness of the display.

A higher refresh rate can create a more natural and fluid writing experience. Stylus movements are tracked more accurately, resulting in lines and strokes that closely mimic the feel of writing on paper.

Battery Life

Tablets generally have good battery life, and they last longer than laptops and smartphones on average.

But make sure your tablet has 6+ hours of battery life. You don’t want your device to run out of battery while in the middle of class.

You can take notes on a tablet while it’s charging, but it’s another inconvenience.

Split-Screen Feature

Make sure the tablet has a split-screen feature a.k.a Multitasking feature.

split screen
split screen: watching video while taking notes

This will allow you to watch a video or read documents while taking notes next to it. This feature is very handy and makes you a lot more productive.

Apps

You might want to access your notes from your smartphone or laptop, so whichever note-taking app you choose, I recommend making sure it’s also available on your smartphone and laptop so you can access your notes from any device.

Make sure the app has:

  • handwritten recognition
  • cloud synchronization
  • multimedia support
  • collaboration option

What Is The Difference Between An Active And A Passive Stylus?

The difference between an active and a passive stylus is significant in terms of functionality, technology, and user experience.

Active Stylus

  • Electronic Components: Contains internal electronic components such as circuits and batteries.
  • Pressure Sensitivity: Can detect varying levels of pressure, allowing for different line thicknesses and shading techniques.
  • Tilt Sensitivity: Recognizes the angle at which the stylus is held, which is useful for creating artistic effects.
  • Buttons: Often has programmable buttons for shortcuts and additional functions.
  • Palm Rejection: Works with the tablet to ignore accidental touches from your hand resting on the screen.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: May connect to the tablet via Bluetooth for enhanced functionality and precision.

Use cases for active stylus:

  • Professional Artists and Designers: For detailed drawing, sketching, and graphic design.
  • Note-Taking Enthusiasts: For those who need precise and varied line thickness.
  • Students and Professionals: For annotating documents, drawing diagrams, and other tasks requiring precision.

Passive Stylus

  • No Electronic Components: Lacks internal electronics, working through simple touch.
  • Basic Functionality: Mimics a finger touch, with no advanced features like pressure sensitivity or tilt recognition.
  • No Connectivity: Does not require Bluetooth or any other form of connectivity.

Usage Scenarios for passive stylus:

  • Casual Users: For simple tasks like navigating the tablet, basic note-taking, or casual drawing.
  • Budget-Conscious Consumers: Those who need a basic stylus without the extra cost.

Cheapest Note-Taking Tablet by Apple

The most affordable iPad suitable for note-taking is the classic iPad 10.9-inch (10th generation). This model offers a good balance between functionality and cost, making it a great choice for students and anyone looking for an entry-level iPad for note-taking.

Cheapest iPad
Apple iPad

Apple iPad

  • OS: iPadOS
  • Released: 2022, October
  • Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm)
  • Storage: 64GB, 256GB
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Camera: 12 MP Front & Back
  • Screen Size: 10.9-inches
  • Resolution: 1640 x 2360
  • PPI: ~264
  • Port: USB-C
  • Battery Life in Hours: 10 hours
  • LTE: Yes
  • Compatible with Keyboards: Yes
  • Compatible with Stylus: Yes

Cheapest Tablet For Note-Taking Running Android OS

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is the best and cheapest Android tablet for note-taking. It features a 10.9-inch display with a 1440 x 2304 resolution, an Exynos 1380 (5 nm) processor, and up to 256GB of storage. It also has a long battery life of up to 15 hours and is compatible with various note-taking apps.

Budget Samsung Tablet
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE

  • OS: Android
  • Released: 2023, October
  • Chipset: Exynos 1380 (5 nm)
  • Storage: 128GB, 256GB
  • RAM: 6GB, 8GB
  • Camera: 12 MP Front Camera and 8MP Back Camera
  • Screen Size: 10.9-inches
  • Resolution: 1440 x 2304 
  • PPI: ~249
  • Port: USB-C
  • Battery Life in Hours: Up to 15 hours
  • LTE: Yes
  • Compatible with Keyboards: Yes
  • Compatible with Stylus: Yes

Note-Taking Tablet with Large Screen

The largest tablet for note-taking is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. It features a massive 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 1848 x 2960 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, offering a smooth and vibrant viewing experience. This tablet is equipped with the powerful Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapd-ragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) processor, making it highly responsive for note-taking and multitasking. It also supports the S Pen and it’s included in the price. Making it the best large screen tablet for handwritten notes.

Large Screen Tablet
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

  • OS: Android
  • Released: 2023, August
  • Chipset: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)
  • Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
  • RAM: 8GB, 16GB
  • Camera: 13 MP Front Camera and 12MP Back Camera
  • Screen Size: 14.6-inches
  • Resolution: 1848 x 2960
  • PPI: ~239
  • Port: USB-C
  • Battery Life in Hours: 10 hours
  • LTE: Yes
  • Compatible with Keyboards: Yes
  • Compatible with Stylus: Yes

Note-Taking Apps For Tablets (iOS & Android)

Here are the most popular Note-Taking apps for tablets:

Exclusive to Apple
Notability

Notability

Apple Notes

Apple Notes

Endless Paper & Notebook
Nebo

Nebo

FAQ

What Is A Stylus Pen?

A stylus pen is a special pen-like tool used to write or draw on touchscreens, like those on tablets or smartphones. It lets you interact with the screen more precisely than using your finger. Some stylus pens can also sense pressure, allowing for different line thicknesses, similar to a real pen or pencil.

Is Apple Pencil Worth It Just For Note Taking?

Yes, the Apple Pencil is worth it just for note-taking. So, if you want to take notes on your iPad, you will need to use the Apple Pencil as no other stylus really comes close to the original one. Doubling down, it also is an excellent tool for artists and professionals alike.

Is The iPad Air vs Mini For Note Taking?

The iPad Air is better than the iPad Mini for note-taking. This is because of two reasons. Firstly, iPad Air has a larger screen (10.9 inches vs iPad Mini 8.3 inches) which allows for more note-taking real estate. Secondly, it has a more powerful CPU (the M1) which lets you use more complex applications such as Autodesk Sketchbook with ease. But the biggest difference is definitely the size. It’s hard to take notes on an 8-inch screen.

Is It Better To Take Notes On An iPad Or Notebook?

It is better to take notes on an iPad. This is because you’ll be able to digitally save and keep all your notes piled up in one place forever. You’ll also be able to export and share them quickly and can also print them out if needed. Moreover, it’s healthier for the environment to use a tablet over an elongated series of times rather than investing in swathes of paper.

Is Amazon Fire Good For Note Taking?

Quite recently, Amazon released – Amazon Fire Max 11 Tablet. You can also get a Stylus with it and take notes on it. It isn’t as great as iPad, Android or Windows for note-taking, but it can definitely get the job done. It isn’t as fast, and there are certain limitations that come with Amazon Tablets – the biggest one – app availability.

Can note-taking tablets replace traditional notebooks?

Yes, note-taking tablets can replace traditional notebooks for many users by offering benefits such as digital organization, searchability, and the ability to integrate multimedia elements. However, personal preference, the tactile feel of paper, and specific use cases might still make traditional notebooks preferable for some individuals.

Is it possible to convert handwritten notes to text?

Yes, it is possible to convert handwritten notes to text using various note-taking tablets and apps that offer handwriting recognition features. Popular apps like OneNote, Evernote, Notability and GoodNotes can perform this conversion efficiently.

Can I use a note-taking tablet for other purposes, like drawing, entertainment, or reading?

Yes, you can use a note-taking tablet for other purposes like drawing, movies, games, or reading, as they typically support a wide range of apps for various tasks.

Founder & Chief Editor | ernests@wolfoftablet.com

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.