7-inch tablets are most sought by people who are looking for a compact device with mid-tier specifications. If you’re one of them and are looking for a reliable 7-inch tablet device, then you’ve arrived at the right place.
Tablets are mostly prioritized if you are always on the move and looking to stay updated with the emails, assignments, and other commitments. Therefore, you should look for targeted features like an anti-reflective screen, longer battery life, and a powerful camera setup in small screen tabs.
However, purchasing a similarly loaded tablet isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. You may usually find it hard to zero in on the perfect tablet due to budget-centric challenges, lack of information, and the inability to locate the gadget that fits into their work and leisure module.
Out here, I help you scale beyond the challenges by enlisting top 7-inches tablets. Not just that, as a part of the process, I ended up testing close to 13 tablets with screen sizes ranging from 7-8 inches, only to come up with a list of 8 options and their worthy alternatives.
Contents
Best 7-inch Tablets in 2023
Unlike the standard 10-inch tablets, there are not many 7 inches tablets to choose from. Still, I researched thoroughly and found 4 good options that are reviewed below. However, note that popular tablet-making brands like Samsung and Lenovo do not focus on this segment. So, if you have a brand preference, I have included the top 3 tablets with 8-inch screens.
In the subsequent sections, I enlist the 7 best tablet devices based on their processing power, battery life, overall resourcefulness, ease of handling, quality of the display, and other factors. As I’ve tested each device for at least a month, I am better off identifying the hits and misses associated with the device.
1. Best Overall: Apple iPad Mini
The feature-packed Apple iPad Mini quite appropriately finds a top spot on our list. While the feature sets and usability quotient are top-notch, it is the heartwarming design, the company’s most powerful chipset, and compact that makes quite a few heads roll.
Performance
At the core, Apple houses the resourceful A15 Bionic chipset, best known for its low-heating capabilities and 7nm architecture. The processor is easily one of the best offerings on tablets, capable of managing almost every compatible game and multitasking process with ease.
In case you are worried about the clock speeds, two Vortex cores are capable of clocking at 2.9GHz each, which in turn paves the way for better operations.
RAM and Storage
Coming to the system memory, the iPad Mini makes room for 4GB RAM, which takes care of several design solutions like Cricut or Procreate without stressing out. Not just that, we got a 64GB storage variant as the review unit and felt the need for an upgradeable slot, something that Apple chooses not to include.
Graphics and OS
Apple also makes room for a proprietary GPU, which furthers the already remarkable visual quality. Coming to the OS, the iPad runs iPadOS 14 straight out of the box and even makes room for upgradeability to iPadOS 16.6.
Display
The interface pairs perfectly with the stellar visuals, led by the 8.3-inch Retina screen. As far as the resolution is concerned, Apple exhibits 2266 x 1488 pixels. The True Tone screen also features a wider color gamut, precisely to cover your creative professional indulgences, even on the move, especially for gamers. Then again, the tablet comes equipped with dedicated privacy-specific features, including the fingerprint sensor.
Other Features
Other functional specs include the stereo speakers, support for FaceTime interactions, and the premise for setting up augmented reality resources. Besides, the dual-camera setup associated with this tablet is also worth mentioning.
At the back, there is a solid, 8MP shooter capable of recording videos in 1080p. The 12MP front shooter is no pushover and incorporates Auto HDR support for facilitating better clicks, making it one of the best tablets for video recording and editing.
Ports & Connectivity
Coming to the connectivity suite, you get access to the USB Type-C port. You also get Wi-Fi 6 support and a massive battery that can last up to 10 hours on moderate to heavy usage.
Is this Tablet for you?
As a gold standard for tablets, the iPad Mini also accommodates the oleophobic coating followed by the elusive, scratch-resistant panel. Overall, if you are in the market for a premium compact tablet that even features Stylus compatibility, the 0.65-pound iPad Mini is the one to invest in.
- Premium build quality
- 6-Core A15 Bionic chip
- Excellent camera setup
- Brilliant and sharp display
- Nifty fingerprint sensor
- Type-C port for charging
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- Pricier than usual
2. Best Runner Up: Samsung Galaxy Tab A
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is a dependable tablet in the Android department. It’s best suited for casual gamers, readers, streamers, and even stock market traders. The most impressive aspect of this tablet is the availability of the sparingly powerful Snapdragon chipset and a fast eMMC storage unit.
Compared to the 2016-launched Tab A 7.0, the Tab A 8.0 brings in a justified larger screen size and a much improved SoC.
Performance
At the core, Samsung offers the Snapdragon 429 chipset, capable of clocking speeds of up to 2GHz. Therefore, you can expect the tablet to stream like a pro whilst supporting most Roblox games and graphic designing apps with ease.
RAM and Storage
Enabling all the functionalities is 3GB RAM, which seems quite sufficient for most mid-range tasks. Samsung offers 64GB of storage space right out of the box, but you can always upgrade the same with an additional 512GB. The eMMC storage module also helps you boot the pre-existing OS faster.
Graphics and OS
The Adreno 504 graphics coprocessor is a good enough feature, attributed to zero gaming lags and frame drops. As for the operating system, you get Android 9.0 Pie out of the box. Plus, the OS can always be upgraded to Android 10 if needed.
Display
The 8-inch screen is big enough for online gaming, watching Netflix, and reading comics. The TFT panel assumes a cumulative resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels followed by a 16:10 aspect ratio for a better viewing experience.
Other Features
The camera setup isn’t the Tab A 8.0’s strongest suit. Still, the 8MP rear shooter with 1080p video capturing and playback support is a reliable inclusion. The 2MP selfie shooter is dependable and can see you through most video conferencing tasks.
Ports & Connectivity
This tablet isn’t loaded with ports and orifices but still manages to fit in a micro-USB 2.0 slot followed by the 3.5mm jack.
Design
The plastic-clad Tab A 8.0 weighs close to 0.80 pounds, which is quite light for a 7+ inch tablet. The dimensions at 8.27 x 4.90 x 0.31 inches are in line with expectations when it comes to the sleekness of form.
Is this tablet for you?
The Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is the perfect Samsung-branded tablet for you if you are more invested in streaming as the 13-hour battery life and powerful dual speakers can see you through a majority of requirements, much better than some of the other affordable tablets on the list.
- Fast quad-core processor
- Reliable rear shooter
- Powerful speakers
- Light form factor
- Excellent battery life
- Subpar front shooter
- Not the most premium build quality
3. Best Build Quality: Lenovo Tab M8
Despite being a dated tablet, the Lenovo Tab M8 is still one of the more relevant gadgets around. Barring the obsolete OS coverage, this gadget has everything to feature on this list. However, it has a slightly bigger display, i.e., an 8-inch screen but packs the overall best performance in a handy form factor.
Performance
Firstly, Lenovo flaunts an entry-level Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, best known for the four cores in play and a maximum clock speed limit of up to 2GHz.
Although the SoC isn’t as good as some of the newer options in the market, it is the best processor you can get on a smaller screen. It easily handles video conferencing, basic surfing, and email management without breaking a sweat.
RAM and Storage
This sub $100 tablet features 2GB of RAM, which is more than adequate for a basic user. However, the 32GB storage space isn’t all that great but still enough, considering you would be using the same for streaming YouTube videos and listening to music.
Graphics and OS
You get Android 9.0 straight out of the box, which seems like a pretty redundant choice of OS. Then again, this variant is literally Bloatware-free and even upgradeable to Android 10.
Display
You also get an 8-inch HD display, best known for its sharper viewing angles. However, it is the IPS LCD paneling that takes visual productivity to the next level, despite Lenovo exhibiting a middling resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. The camera setup is also basic but does the job of attending Zoom meetings.
Ports & Connectivity
However, the beefy Tab M8 brings home the standard micro USB port and a micro SDHC card slot to upgrade the existing storage support. Not just that, the 5000mAh battery module is top-of-the-line and promises a usage time of close to 18 hours on balance usage.
Is this Tablet for you?
Lastly, the Tab M8 also brings forth a brilliant acoustic setup, led by the Dolby Audio enhancement. Therefore, if you are looking for brand presence while purchasing the next tablet for under 100 dollars, this model might be a pretty good investment.
- Reliable processor
- Upgradeable storage
- Excellent battery
- Dolby Audio support
- Durable
- Slightly larger screen
4. Best for Home Use: PRITOM P7 Pro
If you have a penchant for affordable tablets, the PRITOM P7 Pro is the one to purchase. Although the company doesn’t throw in several bells and whistles, it still manages to make its presence felt, courtesy of the good quality 7-inch display and a reliable processing conglomerate.
Performance
To start with, PRITOM P7 Pro throws in a pretty hush-hush quad-core processor. At a maximum of 1.5GHz, the base clock speed is pretty average but capable of handling basic games and productivity-centric tasks like home automation with ease.
Graphics and OS
Gauging the performances and the frame refresh rates, we are also looking at a pretty middling graphics co-processor integrated with the chipset. Furthermore, we also liked the boot-up speeds of this Android tablet as the Pie 9.0 OS loads up in virtually no time once the device is switched on.
RAM and Storage
However, you get 2GB of RAM for managing multiple tabs and applications with seamless ease. In case of storage is one of your priorities, PRITOM throws in 32GB of space that can be upgraded up to 128GB.
Display
This sub $100 tablet brings forth a pretty basic, 7-inch HD screen. The overall resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels is still worth investing in, as the existing display takes pride in projecting the best viewing angles.
Moreover, this model showcases a better visual experience than its predecessor. Lastly, the display isn’t that bland as you get access to a 178-degree, wide-angle screen followed by the eye-protection feature for reading through the night.
Other Features
Coming to productivity, this tablet allows you to stream content via every available OTT application. Moreover, the speaker setup is also worth mentioning, followed by the 5MP rear shooter and a 2MP selfie camera for managing video conferencing on the go.
Ports & Connectivity
PRITOM also makes room for the micro USB Port slot followed by single-band wireless support, Bluetooth 4.2, and almost 8 hours of steady battery backup.
Is this Tablet for you?
The PRITOM P7 Pro offers 2GB RAM, 64-bit quad-core processor, better energy efficiency, and a smaller battery, albeit with comparable backup. Not just that, the camera on this portable voice-controlled tablet also gets demoted to 2MP.
- Light and portable
- Reliable rear shooter
- Wide-angle screen
- Good enough for day-to-day tasks
- Upgradeable storage support
- Middling battery life
- Subpar speakers
5. Best for Reading: Fire HD 7
The new and improved Fire HD 7 tablet from Amazon is a reboot of the older 2017 model. While the new variant looks similar to the predecessor, it boasts quite a few nifty improvements over the older version.
Performance
Despite Mediatek MT8163 being an entry-level processor, it still features a wide range of processing capabilities. As we were intrigued by the power of this chipset, I tested the Fire 7 tablet for diverse real-time situations. The data refresh speeds stood out, courtesy of the excellent processing frequency of 1.3GHz.
RAM and Storage
This 7-inch device goes easy on the RAM count and considers a mere 1GB for the same. It comes with 32GB of internal storage, which is sufficient for storing lots of ebooks, documents, etc. Not just that, it can also handle most basic operations like email access, Skype calls, and more. However, it might get stretched in case you consider extended spells of online gaming. Then again, the upgradeability limit of up to 512GB takes care of this bottleneck.
Graphics and OS
The 28nm mobile SoC architecture also allows you to manage most low-end games without even breaking a sweat. This chipset also houses the ARM Mali-T720 MP2 graphics co-processor, which takes good care of the visuals and display-centric capabilities. A decent chunk of the storage space is taken up by the Fire OS v6.0, which sits atop Android Nougat.
If tablet interface is one of the priorities, be prepared to experience innovation, clubbed with built-in Alexa compatibility.
Display
Besides, the Fire OS allows you to create specific profiles for kids, allowing them to surf with restraint. Coming to the display, the Fire 7 tablet makes room for a 7-inch screen, bolstered further with an overall resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels.
Besides, the IPS screen also comes with a polarizing filter and durable paneling precisely to make e-reading easier than ever. Other productivity-centric specs include the VoiceView reader, screen magnifier, Color Inversion support, and a wide range of display-centric perks.
Other Features
Not just that, you get access to two 2MP shooters, one each at the front and rear ends. Both these camera units are capable of recording videos in 720p. Then again, if you plan on getting something just for the child at home, the Fire 7 Kid's Tablet is also a balanced choice as well.
Ports & Connectivity
Moreover, you also get access to a USB 2.0 and dual-band WiFi 5 support. As far as autonomy is concerned, basic WiFi usage would ensure a decent backup of almost 7 hours.
Design
As far as the acoustic setup is concerned, Fire HD 7 throws in potent speakers and even the stereo jack for a never-before audio-centric experience while donning headphones. This Fire HD 7 is one of the lighter gadgets on the list at 0.63 pounds in terms of structural presence. However, I was most impressed with the durability, which is at par with the famed iPad Mini.
Is this Tablet for you?
With this device, you get a 2-year guarantee on the product itself, followed by similar storage space, comparable battery life, and 512GB worth of memory upgradeability. However, the gadget is heavier and comes pre-loaded with kids-centric content and a child-proof case.
If you are an avid reader and aren’t looking to spend a fortune on a new tablet, the Fire HD 7 is the tablet to invest in. Despite the affordability, Amazon still offers access to volume controllers and Bluetooth support followed by a quick charging time.
- Affordable
- Durable and light
- Excellent headphone-centric acoustic performance
- Excellent display with decent sunlight visibility
- Reliable processor
- Basic tablet for the budget seekers
6. Best for Kids: AWOW Funtab 701
While there are several cost-effective 7-inch tablets in the market, none exhibit better durability than the AWOW Funtab 701. Retailed specifically for kids, this tablet is best known for the appropriate accessories that make the most sense to home-schooled children, eBook readers, and even the young create blood that thrives on drawings and graphics.
Moreover, there are quite a few similar tablets on the list, including the qunyiCO 7-inch and Arknikko SophPad X11, but the Funtab 701 beats the market with the active pen that comes bundled along.
Performance
Apps, tasks, video calls, and other processes work swimmingly with the existing quad-core processor, capable of clocking at speeds of up to 1.5GHz. Overall, every app and task felt relatively smooth, despite the tablet housing an entry-level chipset.
RAM and Storage
When it comes to system memory, 2GB RAM might feel a tad underwhelming but works well, considering the tasks you might consider using the tablet for. Storage space at 16GB isn’t at par with other products on the list. However, the tablet redeems itself by offering an upgradable microSD slot and an expandable limit of up to 512GB.
Graphics and OS
The integrated graphics coprocessor offers the best-possible visual experience, especially for the given price tag. The tablet houses the Android 10 Go operating system, which loads quickly enough and projects itself as a more power-efficient and curated version of the vanilla Android 10 OS.
Most importantly, the UI experience is further bolstered by multi-lingual support, a wide array of pre-installed applications, child safety resources, integrated parental control, and over 3,000 applications pertaining to games, puzzles, and creative tasks.
Display
Visuals are more than acceptable, with the 7-inch HD screen sporting an overall resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. The IPS screen is a steal for this price and boasts excellent viewing angles.
Other Features
AWOW features a couple of basic shooters, including a 2MP rear camera and a 2MP front snapper. While the shooters seem pretty basic, the video calling performances are surprisingly decent.
Ports & Connectivity
There is a micro-USB port for seamless data transfers followed by an expected 3.5mm audio jack for accommodating legacy earphones.
Design
All that hands-free utility and ease of usage is further validated by the structural strength exhibited by the tablet. The Funtab 701 is made of plastic and measures 13.74 x 8.19 x 0.45 inches, making it thicker than some of the other tablets on the list. However, it weighs a manageable 1.48 pounds despite the thickness, thereby qualifying it as a portable product.
Is this tablet for you?
Finally, the 8-hour battery backup is a bankable resource that furthers its utility as a kids’-specific android tablet.
If you have a kid at home who is quite careless with how a tablet is handled, the AWOW Funtab 701 is one of the better investments to make, courtesy of the kid-proof, durable casing. Plus, faster internet and Bluetooth connectivity place this budget tablet a cut above other similarly priced products on the list.
- Durable casing
- IPS screen is bright enough
- Upgradable storage
- Several pre-installed resources
- Responsive active pen
- Not enough on-device storage space
- Middling rear shooter
7. Cheapest Option: AEEZO Tronpad 7-TP701
Just like the other tables we discussed so far, the AEEZO Tronpad 7-TP701 is also not manufactured by a popular brand. Nevertheless, it’s a good offering for the price they’re asking.
Performance
To start with, it ditches the conventional Mediatek and Qualcomm processors for the efficient Allwinner A133 chipset. As a quad-core processor, the featured element showcases ample processing firepower, specifically if you are involved in day-to-day tasks like web browsing, online studies, watching movies, and more.
RAM and Storage
Despite the hype, you still get hold of 2GB RAM, which is the bare minimum for any decent tablet in 2023. Next in line is the 32GB onboard storage support that can be upgraded up to 128GB via the existing SD card slot. As far as the operating system is concerned, you get the Android 10 right out of the closet.
Graphics and OS
There is an integrated graphics processor to work with, which in turn takes good care of the visuals. Despite the generation older OS, it is smooth and very well optimized, offering several essential attributes for a standard user to feel good about. These include 7 inches full HD display, fast charging, and a slimmer profile.
Display
Asus doesn’t cut corners when the display is concerned and persists with a standard 7-inch screen. In terms of resolution, you get access to 1920 x 1200 pixels, whereas the TruVivid technology furthers the visual quality for the more creative users.
Other Features
AEEZO offers access to a more refined chassis embellished by the plastic body. Regardless, this tablet is still pretty light at 0.52 pounds. When it comes to other productivity-centric features, there is not much that stands out.
You get a typical 2MP front shooter and a 5MP rear shooter that clicks some good pictures. However, you can’t rely on this for recording videos as the quality is pretty average.
Ports & Connectivity
Moreover, AEEZO also brings a USB Type-C port and high-speed Wireless standards to make connectivity easier for the users.
Is this Tablet for you?
This is one of the few tablets on the list to offer a decent battery backup that closes in on the 9-hour mark. Therefore, if you are interested in a good 7-inch tablet on a budget and willing to let go of camera quality, the AEEZO Tronpad 7-TP701 is the gadget to consider.
- Stellar full HD display
- Thin and Lightweight design
- Upgradeable storage support
- USB Type-C port
- Supports fast charging
- Average cameras
Frequently Asked Questions
There have been smartphones with screens measuring well beyond the 6-inch mark. This is why; a 7-inch device strikes the perfect balance between size and utility whilst allowing you to hold the gadget with ease. Besides, if you have bigger hands, a 7-inch tablet can also be held in one hand.
Mostly, tablets are called travel allies and require individuals to operate the device out in the open. Therefore, in-Plane Switching technology takes care of the viewing angles and offers an anti-reflective feel to the overall display. This, in turn, increases the sunlight visibility of the concerned tablet.
The best-case scenario for any tablet is to have at least 3GB of RAM. However, if your requirements are restricted to basic book reading or using the tablet as a kindle, 1GB or even 2GB is good enough.
Verdict
Each of the mentioned tablets has a select clientele. However, it often becomes hard to purchase one that completely justifies user requirements. If you are still confused, here are some of the options to consider, along with the relevant use cases:
- The Apple iPad Mini is the best option for demanding app management, gaming, photography, streaming, and voice calling
- But if you are an Android lover, go for Samsung Galaxy Tab A. It is well suited for most basic tasks and carrying around in the open for work and leisure.
- If you’re a student looking for a budget option with better build and balanced features, the Lenovo Tab M8 is a recommended one.
- In case you need a tablet solely for reading and watching YouTube, Fire HD 7 is the best option to choose from.
In addition to these models, there are three more tablets on the list that offer exact 7-inch screens to the users. However, if the slightly increased screen size isn’t an issue, I would any day ask you to select between these four models.
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