It’s not that common to hear of someone owning a Windows tablet. These devices are in the market and have some good features. If you’re too familiar with Windows to give it up when using a tablet-sized touchscreen, a Windows device lets you get the best of the operating system.
People use Windows tablets for all sorts of tasks. They play games, study, work, watch movies, take notes, and even draw on them. But despite being aware of all the available functionalities, you may not know the best models that suit your needs.
Let’s look at the 7 best Windows tablets and how you can choose the right one for you.
What Are Windows Tablets?
A Windows tablet is a device that runs the Windows operating system. These units can offer enough storage, RAM, and CPU power for you to be able to play games, watch movies, and handle heavy processing tasks such as video editing, data processing, cryptocurrency mining, and many others. Furthermore, these small gadgets can run the same programs and apps you use on a Windows computer or laptop.
Which Windows Tablets Are the Best?
Here are the top Windows tablets that come with great features and that you should consider if you like the Windows operating system:
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- Microsoft Surface Go 3
- Dell XPS 13 2-IN-1
- Asus ROG Flow Z13
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet
- HP Spectre Fold
- ASUS Vivobook 13 Slate
Criteria We Used to Find the Best Windows Tablets
When choosing the best Windows tablets, we considered 11 aspects, respectively:
- Release Year – Newer tablets have features that meet quality standards and suit your needs better. So, we looked for tablet models that were released more recently.
- Screen Size – The screen size will determine how large or small the images and details will be when you use the device. Screen size has an impact on your gaming sessions, productivity, comfort, and content consumption, which is why it’s such an important consideration.
- Display Quality – Good display quality makes things look clearer and lets you see everything in better detail. We take in consideration resolution, ratio and PPI density.
- Processor – The quality of the processor impacts how well your tablet performs. Basically, the processor influences the tablet’s speed and overall performance. This includes how fast it opens the applications, how fast it handles them, as well as how well you can multitask. A bad processor would only decrease the performance of the device.
- Brand – Windows tablets are created by various brands. Different brands release tablets with varied interfaces, features, and capabilities. We selected models from more manufacturers so you can diversify your options.
- Battery Life – A longer battery life means you won’t have to rely on your charger all the time, particularly when you’re using your tablet on the go. When the battery is better, it will last longer on one charge, allowing you to do more tasks before you need to recharge it.
- Storage Capacity – Some people want more storage space, especially when they use their tablet for artwork, gaming, storing photos, or watching movies. More space means you get to install more apps, take more photos, store more of your artwork, and download more films and other things.
- RAM – Because RAM stores data that must be used quickly, more RAM will improve performance by making it possible to open multiple apps and run various processes at once without issues.
- Camera – Having good cameras is paramount if you like to take photos regularly. This ensures you get good image quality. So, we looked for tablets with top-notch cameras.
- Cellular Connectivity – Cellular connectivity ensures that you won’t always rely on WiFi. It lets you connect to the Internet even when there is no WiFi network nearby. This is convenient when you’re away from home.
- Stylus Support – Stylus support is a must for artists and people who study and take notes. It makes it easy to draw smoothly and write on your tablet when necessary.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- Price: $849.99
- Release Date: 2022, October
- Screen Size: Large (13-inch)
Microsoft Surface Go 3
- Price: $399.99
- Release Date: 2021, September
- Screen Size: Medium (10.5-inches)
Dell XPS 13 2-IN-1
- Price: $1,099
- Release Date: 2022, August
- Screen Size: Large (13-inches)
Asus ROG Flow Z13
- Price: $1,750
- Release Date: 2023, April
- Screen Size: Large (13.4-inch)
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet
- Price: $1,750
- Release Date: 2023, April
- Screen Size: Large (13.4-inch)
6. HP Spectre Fold
- Price: $5,000
- Release Date: 2023, September
- Screen Size: Large (17-inch)
ASUS Vivobook 13 Slate
- Price: $750
- Release Date: 2021, November
- Screen Size: Large (13.3-inches)
Comparison Chart
| Tablet Model | Micrososft Surface Pro 9 | Microsoft Surface Go 3 | Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 | Asus ROG Flow Z13 | Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet | HP Spectre Fold | ASUS Vivobook 13 Slate |
| Operating System | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 | Windows 11 | Windows 11 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2018 | 2023 | 2021 |
| Screen Size | 13-inch | 10.5-inch | 13-inch | 13.4-inch | 13-inch | 17-inch | 13.3-inch |
| Display Quality | 2880 x 1920 | 1920 x 1280 | 2880 x 1920 | 2560 x 1600 | 3000 x 2000 | 1920 x 2560 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Processor | Microsoft SQ 312th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U | Intel Pentium Gold 6500YDual-core 10th Gen Intel Core i3-10100Y | 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1250U12th Gen Intel Core i5-1230U | 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900H | Intel Core i7-8550U Intel Core i7-8650U | Intel Core i7-1250U | Pentium Silver N6000 |
| Battery Life | Up to 13 hours | Up to 11 hours | Up to 7 hours | Up to 6 hours and 30 minutes | Up to 9 hours and 30 minutes | Up to 14 hours and 30 minutes | Up to 9 hours |
| Storage | 1TB | 128GB | 1 TB | 1TB | 512GB | 1TB | 256GB |
| Cellular Connectivity | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Camera Quality | Medium | Low | Medium | Medium | Low | Low | Medium |
| Price | High-end | Mid-range | High-end | High-End | High-End | High-End | High-end |
Which Windows Tablet Is Best for You?
Thanks to its large 13-inch screen, up to 1TB of storage, and a long 13-hour battery life, the Surface Pro 9 is the best tablet overall. However, maybe you are looking for something cheaper for entertainment or for watching movies without breaking the bank like Microsoft Surface Go 3.
Which Windows Tablet Is Best for Drawing?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the best tablet for drawing. It has a large 13-inch screen and a battery life of 13 hours, and it’s also compatible with the Surface Slim Pen 2. It also has 1TB of storage space, letting you safely store all of your art.
Which Windows Tablet Is Best for Gaming?
Asus ROG Flow Z13 is the best tablet for gaming thanks to its strong 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900H Processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU. It also has a large 13.4-inch screen with 2560 x 1600 resolution and can store up to 1TB of data and files.
Which Windows Tablet Is Best for Movies?
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 is the best tablet for watching movies because it has a 13-inch screen and an incredible 3000 x 2000 resolution. Moreover, the battery can also last for up to 9.5 hours.
Which Windows Tablet Is Best for Note-Taking?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the best tablet for note-taking. With a 13-inch screen and a 2880 x 1920 resolution, this device has a refresh rate of 120Hz. Moreover, it’s compatible with the Surface Slim Pen 2.
Alternatives to Windows Tablets
Windows tablets may not be suitable for everyone. However, there’s no need to worry, as there are solutions for you too. Here are some of the best alternatives from different operating systems:
- Chrome OS – Lenovo Ideapad 5
- Amazon Fire OS – Amazon Fire Max 11
- iPad OS – iPad Pro 12.9-inch
- Android – Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Who Uses Windows Tablets?
Windows tablets are used by a wide range of people thanks to their features and functionalities.
The audience includes creative individuals such as videographers and photographers, as well as artists. Most of these tablets have good cameras that take high-quality photos, letting you explore your creativity. Moreover, they have stylus pen compatibility, so you can create art whenever you want.
Students also find Windows tablets very useful. The devices make it possible to download all sorts of academic programs and applications, not to mention that it’s easy to take notes thanks to the stylus pen connectivity.
Furthermore, professionals in various niches can also take advantage of Windows tablets. Since these gadgets have stylus pen compatibility and give people access to programs for writing, creating designs, and more, they’re often ideal for architects, writers or journalists.
FAQ
Does Windows have tablet mode?
Yes, Windows has a tablet mode. To switch to it, you must go to the action center in the taskbar and choose “Tablet mode.”
Why can’t I buy a Microsoft Surface Go 4?
The Microsoft Surface Go 4 is not for sale to the general public. This is because the tablet is only available for business entities at the moment.
Can you sync an Android smartphone with a Windows tablet?
You can sync your Android smartphone with Windows tablets using Phone Link. Here are the 4 steps you must follow once you download the Phone Link app:
Click on Get Started.
Log into your Microsoft account.
Pull down the Quick settings category, then select Link to Windows. You can also install the link to the Windows mobile app by copying the www.aka.ms/yourpc link in the browser or searching for the application in Google Play.
Scan the QR code to pair your PC and phone.
Can you sync an iPhone with a Windows tablet?
You can sync your iPhone with your Windows tablet via iCloud. Here are the 4 steps to take:
Download iCloud for Windows.
Install the program and restart your device.
Sign into your iCloud account using your Apple ID.
Select what you want to sync and choose Apply.
How do Windows tablets differ from iPad OS?
Windows tablets are usually 2-in-1 convertible designs that can be used as laptops and tablets. They also come with keyboards and run on the Windows operating system. On the other hand, iPad OS tablets run on Apple’s own iOS version for its tablets. Also, iPads come only in tablet form, without included keyboards. The interfaces are different, too, with iPads offering more of a smartphone-like experience.
How do Windows tablets differ from Android tablets?
Windows tablets run on Microsoft’s Windows operating system. They can be used as both laptops and tablets because they come with a detachable keyboard. They also allow you to switch between desktop and tablet modes and are more compatible with enterprise-grade programs. On the other hand, Android tablets run on Google’s operating system and are optimized for a smartphone-like experience.
How do Windows tablets differ from Chrome OS tablets?
While Windows tablets operate on Microsoft’s operating system, Chrome OS tablets run on a system created by Google. The latter is optimized more for speed and efficiency instead of power, making these units more suitable for smaller tasks and less demanding activities. On the other hand, Windows tablets consume more resources and use more power, and they are better for gaming and other intense tasks.
How do Windows tablets differ from Amazon Fire OS tablets?
Amazon Fire OS tablets run on the Fire OS. They have access to Android applications and are more suitable for less powerful activities as they don’t have the strongest processors or largest storage space. Meanwhile, Windows tablets run on Microsoft’s Windows operating system, which has more power and storage. Furthermore, it doesn’t have access to Android applications but has its own software options that you can download from the Microsoft Store or third-party sources.
What brands make Windows tablets?
There are numerous brands that manufacture Windows tablets. These include Microsoft, Dell, Lenovo, HP, and ASUS.
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.