7 Best Tablets for Gaming in 2023 [According to Pro Gamers]

Whether you are a hardcore gamer who needs a tablet to play intensive games or a beginner who wants a large-screen tablet to run your favorite game without any lags, this list shall assist you with choosing the right tablet for your gaming needs.

You prefer playing games on a tablet over computers/laptops because of “the satisfactory feel” you get by interacting with the game element directly with your fingers. Besides, purchasing a gaming laptop or building a gaming PC is expensive, and smartphones don’t come with enough screen-estate.

Since you’re here, you already know what I’ve written above, the main question you’re looking for an answer to is, which gaming tablet to buy in 2023? Well, I got in touch with 16 professional gamers who have a huge following on YouTube Gaming. Based on their opinion, here are the 7 best-rated gaming tablets available in the market.

Things to Consider [Important]

Before beginning with the list, here are the aspects you should consider before purchasing a tablet for playing games. Know them already? Skip to the list!

• Processor: Next, it is essential to pick a tablet with a high-speed processor. Most of the high-end versions are powered by dual-core processors. Many tablets are equipped with ARM or Advanced RISC processing architecture designed by companies like Texas, Nvidia, and Qualcomm. However, Apple designs its processors in the name of the AX chip.
• Display: You will not enjoy a rich gaming experience if your tablet lacks high resolution or is small-screened. Screens with AMOLED pixels turn off and on fast and are ideal for moving images. The other hi-tech screen types you can consider are OLED, Retina, and LCD.
• Graphics: GPU is another vital specification for a gaming tablet. The tablet must have a good GPU that efficiently handles the graphics needs of most games.
• OS: The two most reputed operating systems are Google Android and Apple (iOS). You can choose either of them depending on the games you want to play and your budget.
• Battery: Finally, the tablet battery must be long-lasting as you would want your device to shut down in the middle of an important gaming move. I suggest picking up a tablet with at least 8 hours of battery life.

7 Best Tablets for Gaming in 2023

To simplify things for you, I have listed the best tablets, which will render a rich gaming experience and serve you as the best resource for your entertainment needs. I did test each of the below-listed devices and added them based on their potential. I tried to cover different budget range so that you can buy one accordingly.

1. Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is one of the more promising gaming tablets on the market, provided you are on the lookout for an all-inclusive specs sheet. But then, I was more than happy to compare it with the ever-reliable Tab S6, which was released way back in 2019.

The Tab S6 pales in comparison to the Tab S7 as the latter features a bigger battery, faster-charging support, dual rear shooter, and a slightly improved chipset.

SoC & Performance

At the core, Samsung has the Snapdragon 865, with one quad-core, one triple-core, and one single-core processing segment assigned to manage some of the more demanding games like Asphalt, The Escapists 2, Minecraft, and more. Also, this is one 5G-ready processor with the one Kryo core capable of reaching turbo speeds of up to 3.09GHz.

The gaming performance is top-notch, courtesy of the Adreno 650 graphics card and the ability of this octa-core processor to manage games like Alto’s Odyssey that boasts 180+ goals and several NPCs.

RAM & Storage

Assisting the chipset is 6GB RAM, which ensures high-speed gaming and efficient multitasking. The Galaxy Tab S7 is therefore one of the few tablets on the list that can run multiple processes and updates while playing games, without experiencing any lag. Storing games, recording videos and documents is hardly an issue with the upgradeable, 128GB storage space in play.

OS & Experience

This tablet runs Android 10 OS, right out of the box. However, Samsung adds to the Bloatware quotient by featuring the One UI 2.5, which sits atop the operating system. Despite eating into the storage space, the overall tablet handling experience is probably the smoothest on any Android tablet.

Display

Samsung makes way for a vivid, 11-inch screen, which is good enough for games like the Rebel Inc, Tsuro, and other board games that require an expansive panel for the best possible experience. As far as the resolution is concerned, Samsung exhibits 2560 x 1600 pixels.

What adds to the gaming experience is the 16:10 aspect ratio followed by the excellent screen refresh rate of 120Hz, which is a rarity in tablets.

Keyboard and Inputs

The Tab S7 is stylus compatible and features a standard TFT panel with the HDR10+ enhancement. However, the 26ms latency isn’t avant-garde and might be off-putting for some graphic designers. Also, Samsung allows you to connect an external keyboard for a more seasoned gaming experience, via Bluetooth or the featured Type-C port.

Camera

This Android tablet comes equipped with a class-leading, dual rear camera module, with the 13MP wide shooter leading the way. You also get a 5MP secondary camera unit, boasting an f/2.2 aperture and an ultra-wide coverage. Samsung also fits in an 8MP front snapper for selfie enthusiasts, which is capable of recording videos in 1080p. 

Design and Build

The wireless variant of the Tab S7 is the one I am currently reviewing. While this tablet measures a standard 9.99 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches, I was most impressed with the minimal heft, restricted at 1.1 pounds

The Tab S7 is aesthetically impressive with the aluminum-clad form factor leading the way. Plus, the glass-paneled front end of the tablet is a sight to behold. In case you are interested in the color options, there are mystic silver, black, bronze, and phantom navy variants to choose from, with me reviewing the Black variant, which is slightly susceptible to fingerprints and smudges. 

As far as the functional enhancements are concerned, this product features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, followed by 4 speakers, a Type-C port with a magnetic connector, and the micro-SDXC slot for upgrading the storage space.

Conclusion

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is one of the market-leading Android tablets for gaming that fits in an 8000mAh, fast-charging battery unit, capable of offering 15 hours of extended backup. Also, upon comparing it with other gaming tablets on the list, the Tab S7 fares way better in terms of memory allocation and gaming experience, courtesy of the brilliant speakers and an intuitive UI.

But then, if you are willing to spend more on your new gaming tablet, I would also recommend the insanely powerful Galaxy Tab S7+ from Samsung.

As compared to the vanilla Tab S7, the S7+ features a beefed-up screen at 12.4 inches, a faster stylus, a display-adhering Fingerprint scanner, and a massive battery unit that surprisingly offers 14 hours of backup i.e. one hour less than what the Tab S7 promises.

2. Best iPad for Gaming: Apple iPad Pro

Gaming tablets cannot get any better than the Apple iPad Pro, which promises an exceptional specs sheet and class-leading aesthetics. I even ended up comparing it with the 2018 model and despite the comparable screen, I would consider persisting with this model, courtesy of the sizable storage unit, a bigger chunk of RAM, and a redesigned rear camera unit.

SoC & Performance

Apple makes room for the insanely powerful A12Z Bionic chipset, best known for its octa-core architecture and maximum clock speed of up to 2.5GHz. Working in tandem is the 8-core integrated GPU, which is primarily a proprietary coprocessor from Apple but extremely capable when it comes to running games like Genshin Impact, PUBG, Kingdom Rush, and more, at the best possible settings.

RAM & Storage

You get 6GB RAM for seamless multitasking followed by a 128GB storage unit. However, upgradeability isn’t an option as Apple doesn’t accommodate a card slot into the iPad Pro. Despite the standardized memory allocation, this tablet loads most games faster than a comparable android product, courtesy of the software-hardware cohesion.

OS & Experience

Coming to the user interface, the iPad Pro runs iPadOS 16.6, right out of the closet. As a user, you would be impressed with the faster response times and quickest possible boot-ups. Also, the stylus interacts with the UI better than most mid-range Android tablets.

Display

Apple brings in a sizable, 12.9-inch IPS screen, which is strengthened with scratch-resistant glass. When it comes to resolution, you get 2048 x 2732 pixels, making it one of the brightest displays for gaming. Also, this top-shelf tablet exhibits an impressive refresh rate of 120Hz, which is important to get the most of the FPS games.

Color reproduction is hardly an issue with Apple making way for true-tone visuals and the widest possible color gamut.

Keyboard and Inputs

It is possible to connect an external keyboard with the iPad Pro, via the Type-C port. Also, when it comes to stylus support, this tablet is way more responsive than some of the other products on the market.

In case you are interested in the compatible modules, I would recommend the Smart Folio, Magic keyboard, and the high-end Apple pencil as the options to accessorize the tablet with.

Camera

The iPad Pro boasts a standout rear camera setup, led by the 12MP primary camera with an f/1.8 lens aperture. Plus, there is also a 10MP ultra-wide shooter to account for, followed by the 3D LiDAR depth-sensing lens.

These inclusions qualify the iPad Pro as one of the best tablets for AR-ready gaming. Also, there is a 7MP selfie unit in place, capable of recording 1080p videos at 60fps.

Design and Build

Despite the loaded specs sheet, it is the aesthetic presence of the iPad Pro that stands out, courtesy of the aluminum frame. As far as the dimensions are concerned, the unit measures 11.05 x 8.46 x 0.23 inches.

At present, the 1.41-pound tablet is retailing in Space Gray and silver shades but I feel that the former is a better option for the gamers, who would want a more enduring shade.

Conclusion

Overall, the Apple iPad Pro is more of the best gaming tablets in the market, courtesy of a holistic specs sheet and the availability of several functional enhancements, including the Face ID integration and a massive battery that promises 10 hours of backup and fast charging support.

Also, the Wi-Fi AX standard and the exceptional acoustic presence make it the best Apple-branded device on the list and even better than some high-end Android tablets in terms of screen and aesthetic quality.

3. Best Windows Tablet: Microsoft Surface Pro 7

If you wish to play games like Forza Horizon and Minecraft on your Windows tablet, I would recommend the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 over any other device on the list. Also, as compared to the Pro 6, it is at least 20 percent faster as the Pro 7 brings in a 10^th gen processor as opposed to the 8^th gen i5 SoC featured by the Surface Pro 6.

SoC & Performance

Now that I am talking about SoCs, it is better to acknowledge the Intel Core i5-1035G4 processor, associated with the Surface Pro 7. With a maximum clock speed of up to 3.70GHz, this chipset is more than capable of handling almost every online game, pertaining to the Windows ecosystem.

Also, when tested with Minecraft, I experienced zero lags and even minimal heating. Coming to the GPU, the Intel Iris Plus coprocessor is a standout performer and takes good care of the visuals.

RAM & Storage

As far as the memory allocation is concerned, Microsoft offers 8GB RAM for seamless multitasking followed by a 128GB SSD unit. The existing storage space can be upgraded, in case you want to empower this Windows tablet further.

OS & Experience

Coming to the operating system, the Windows 10 Home edition boots up faster than expected and offers an enviable user experience. What worked for me was the integrated TPM firmware, thereby adding to the overall security safeguards associated with this tablet.

Display

The 12.3-inch screen on this Windows 10 tablet is vibrant and assumes an overall resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. Also, the outdoor gaming experiences are way better, courtesy of the excellent sunlight visibility.

Keyboard and Inputs

The Surface Pro 7 allows you to pair the Type-Cover keyboard for using the same as a professional tablet PC. Also, you are free to use the Surface Pen with this device, provided you want to work on the graphics and designs.

Camera

This tablet isn’t exactly known for its cameras but it still manages to hold its own with a 5MP front shooter and an 8MP rear camera module. However, the camera units are assisted by the 1.6W front-firing stereo speakers and far-field microphones, making it suitable for online gaming as well as work calls on Zoom Meeting, Skype, etc.

Design and Build

When it comes to the aesthetics and form factor, the Surface Pro 7 exhibits a magnesium-clad chassis, measuring 11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 inches. Therefore, despite the cumulative heft of almost 1.70 pounds, the tablet is pretty sleek.

Also, you can consider purchasing the same in the matte black and platinum shade. For those who are invested in ports and slots, Microsoft brings in a Micro-SDXC card slot followed by a Surface Connect port and the 3.5mm jack for pairing headphones. As this is an indigenous tablet PC, you can consider using the same with a kickstand or even in the tablet or studio mode, as per requirements.

Conclusion

Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is one of the more dependable Windows tablets for a PC-like gaming experience. Plus the exceptional battery life can go up to 10.5 hours. Also, as compared to other tablets on the list, the Surface Pro 7 highlights the Windows ecosystem and the Wi-Fi 6 standard, thereby qualifying it as a much better bet for the professionals-turned-gamers.

4. Best with S-Pen: Samsung Tab S6 Lite

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is a promising, mid-range gaming tablet, capable of running most Android-specific games like Stardew Valley, Levelhead, and Minecraft. 

I even compared it with the entry-level Galaxy Tab 4 Lite, which features a 10.1-inch screen, a basic quad-core processor, and 1.5GB RAM. As anticipated, the Tab S6 Lite performs better, courtesy of the 4GB RAM module, 8-core chipset, and a better-looking aesthetic profile. 

SoC & Performance

Samsung integrates the Exynos 9611 at the core, which works closely with the Mali-G72 MP3 graphics coprocessor. Also, the chipset is further segregated into two quad-core units. The maximum clock speed of 2.3GHz ensures excellent processing coverage, especially if you are invested in stock trading, photo editing, and online gaming. 

RAM & Storage

With 4GB RAM at the helm, the Tab S6 Lite allows you to handle a wide range of tasks, apps, and processes while running games in real-time. I ran the latest version of Minecraft on this tablet, rather extensively while the apps were being updated in the background.

However, I hardly experienced any lag with the sizable chunk of RAM in play. Storage-specific requirements are managed by the 64GB unit, which can be upgraded via the micro-SDXC slot. 

OS & Experience

The S6 Lite runs Android 10 out of the box, which can be upgraded to Android 11, if and when available. However, it is the One UI 3.1 that exudes the best possible tablet viewing experience by clinging onto the existing OS. 

Display

The 10.4-inch TFT screen is perfect for gaming, owing to the inherently fast refresh rate and an overall resolution of 1200 x 2000 pixels. I also feel that the sunlight visibility is at par with any top-shelf gaming tablet. 

Keyboard and Inputs

It is possible to connect an external keyboard to the Tab S6 Lite via the Type-C port or Bluetooth integration. Plus, when it comes to inputs, this stylus compatible tablet responds pretty well to the S pen that comes bundled with the product itself. 

Camera

This Samsung tablet incorporates an 8MP rear shooter followed by the standard 5MP selfie camera unit. Both these modules are capable of recording videos in 1080p. 

Design and Build

When it comes to the build quality, the Tab S6 Lite feels premium, courtesy of the aluminum-clad chassis. The dimensions, however, are tagged at 9.63 x 6.07 x 0.28 inches. Also, when it comes to heft, the Tab S6 lite weighs 1.03 pounds, which is pretty reasonable for a 10-inch tablet.

In case you want to make a purchase, you are free to choose between Oxford gay, angora blue, and chiffon pink, with the second shade being my favorite. 

Conclusion

The Samsung Tab S6 Lite is capable of holding its own in a star-studded list, with the 13-hour battery backup, dual-band wireless support, and AKG tuned stereo speakers to show for. Also, it fares better than other products on the list if the cost-to-ownership ratio is one of the priorities.

5. Best Affordable iPad: Apple iPad Air

If you are interested in a top-shelf 10-inch tablet, regardless of the ecosystem, I feel the Apple iPad Air is the best buying decision to make. Most importantly, I replaced my older iPad Air with this device, which was launched way back in 2013.

While I was initially sceptical regarding the transition, I was pleasantly impressed by the bigger screen, improved hexa-core processor as opposed to a dual-core unit, and a sizable increment in terms of system memory.

Overall, I would say that the this variant of the iPad Air is a worthy successor to the existing 2013 model with a 9.7-inch screen.

SoC & Performance

The iPad Air makes way for the A14 Bionic chipset. If you are interested in mobile gaming, the hexa-core processor, coupled with a 4-core GPU is quite an efficient processing setup to rely on. The performances are top-notch as most games like Minecraft and Monument Valley return the best possible frame rates. 

RAM & Storage

This tablet makes way for 4GB RAM, which is good enough for managing other tasks in the background while you keep playing the preferred game. Storage-wise, there is a 64GB unit in play that can store multiple games and files without breaking a sweat.

OS & Experience

The iPad Air runs the intuitive iPadOS 16.6, right out of the box. Also, you can easily upgrade the operating platform to the latest iPadOS 14.6, if and when available. The gadget using experience cannot be any better and the boot-up times, as experienced personally, are only bested by the previously mentioned iPad Pro. 

Display

The the10.9-inch screen is worth investing in, more so with an overall resolution of 1640x 2360 pixels to account for. In addition, Apple also makes way for a scratch-resistant front panel for added durability. The liquid retina screen is vivid enough and ensures the sharpest possible viewing angles, strictly from a gaming perspective.

Keyboard and Inputs

The iPad Air allows you to pair an external magic keyboard, via Bluetooth or the existing Type-C port. Also, you can use the newly designed 2^nd gen Apple Pencil with this iPad.

Camera

When it comes to the camera arrangement, the iPad Air features a 12MP rear snapper with 4K recording capabilities. You also get hold of a top-shelf, 7MP front shooter with support for 1080p video recording.

Design and Build

The aluminum-clad iPad Air measures 9.75 x 7.03 x 0.24 inches when tablet dimensions are concerned. However, it weighs a manageable 1.01 pounds and can be purchased in Rose Gold, Sky Blue, Silver, and Space Gray shades.

But then, after testing the space gray and silver variant separately, I would personally place my bets on the former. Apart from the timeless aesthetics, the iPad Air also makes way for a top-mounted fingerprint scanner with Touch ID support followed by stereo speakers. 

Conclusion

Overall, Apple iPad Air steals the show when 10+-inch tablets are to be purchased. Also, as a gaming ally, the beautiful screen packs quite a punch and is followed by 10 hours of extended battery backup and Wi-Fi 6 support.

Therefore, it wouldn’t be wrong to surmise that the holistic specs sheet and inventive aesthetics validate its position on the list, over some of its more competent Android counterparts.

6. Best Value for Money: TECLAST M40

The TECLAST M40 is an affordable tablet that can handle a majority of games. Despite being a budget tablet, the company packs it in a metal body which adds to the premium and durable build. Not just that, it also stacks in powerful hardware along with cellular connectivity support, making it the most versatile tablet in its price range.

Also, I compared it with the TELCAST P20HD and identified the M40 to be a better tablet when it comes to handling games, with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage in play, as opposed to 4GB RAM and 64GB storage on the standard P20HD.

SoC & Performance

The octa-core Unisoc Tiger T618 processor doesn’t sound like a beast but it surely can manage Minecraft quite easily on the high settings. Also, the CPU base frequency is clocked at the 1.8GHz mark, which makes it more of a gaming tablet with the focus being on smooth performance. Moreover, the ARM Mali-G52 coprocessor manages the graphics and ensures high-fidelity visuals.

RAM & Storage

The Telcast brings home 6GB RAM that can handle advanced levels of multitasking with ease. When it comes to storage, the 128GB unit is more than adequate for the standard gamers.

OS & Experience

Just like the tablets on this list, the Telcast M40 also brings in Android 10 as the operating system of choice. Therefore, you are free to use the same for academic needs, provided you get the right set of accessories to pair the tablet with.

Display

The tablet boasts a 10.1-inch Full HD screen and is adequately bright with sharper viewing angles. It is the IPS panel that takes the cake by taking good care of the sunlight visibility and color reproduction levels.

Keyboard and Inputs

The M40 is open towards multimode operability and allows you to pair the keyboard via Bluetooth. You can also use a stylus with this device and even make use of the micro-HDMI port for pairing an external display.

Camera

The 8MP primary shooter is intuitively placed at the rear panel and supports 1080p video recording. The device also brings in a standard 5MP selfie camera, which is strictly basic but gets the job done while attending Zoom meetings on a tablet.

Design and Build

This metal built tablet weighs 1.17 pounds and measures ‎9.56 x 6.4 x 0.37 inches. Furthermore, the M40 is quite a thin tablet with metal chassis and 2.5D curved edges. Plus, there is a micro-SD slot in play that allows you to upgrade the storage as and when needed.

Conclusion

Overall, the M40 is an excellent value for money tablet that retails under $200. It is fit enough for games like Hearthstone, Candy Crush, Temple Run, Pokemon Go, owing to the IPS panel in play. The stereo speaker support and the 8-hour battery backup for the given price, readily justify its inclusion in the list.

7. Best Speakers: Lenovo Tab M10 Plus

Gaming tablets on a budget are hard to find, especially if you are planning to go with a credible brand. However, you can put your efforts to rest and consider investing in the ever-reliable, Lenovo Tab M10 Plus. Also, if you are already using the Tab M10 with an FHD screen, you still purchase the M10 Plus as it comes with 4GB RAM, as compared to 2GB on the former.

SoC & Performance

The performances exhibited by the M10 Plus are more than reasonable, courtesy of the mid-range Helio P22 processor. The chipset is capable of reaching the highest possible clock speed of up to 2.3GHz, which empowers it to handle most tablet games like Minecraft and Asphalt 9 without even a hint of slowdown.

Graphics are taken care of by the PowerVR GPU, which is also known for exuberant heat generation. 

RAM & Storage

You get access to 4GB RAM as your multitasking ally. Games, apps, and other resources find their place in the 128GB storage unit, which can always be upgraded up to 256GB, if necessary, making it suitable for college students who want a tablet for both gaming and studying.

OS & Experience

Coming to the OS, Lenovo runs Android Pie, right out of the box, albeit with a bit of added Bloatware, stealthily camouflaged as the interactive UI. Also, Lenovo adds to the user experience by offering the face unlock feature, as a part of the enhanced security measure.

Display

The Tab M10 Plus includes a 10.3-inch Full HD screen, which is adequately bright and even exhibits an aspect ratio of 16:10, thereby adding to the visual presentation of each game that you interact with.

Keyboard and Inputs

Despite missing out on a stylus and a keyboard, this tablet allows you to pair relevant accessories in an effort to facilitate multi-mode operability. Also, using a stylus makes it easier for you to access the built-in software solutions, owing to the unmatched responsiveness of the screen.

Camera

As far as the camera units are concerned, Lenovo offers a standard 8MP rear camera unit followed by the basic 5MP front shooter.

Design and Build

Despite the affordable price tag, the M10 Plus from Lenovo is a good-looking tablet. While the plastic-clad chassis equates to 1-pound, in terms of heft, the tablet in general measures 9.61 x 6.04 x 0.32 inches.

Other structural enhancements include a metallic back panel followed by stereo speakers and a Type-C port. Also, if you are already willing to make a purchase, you can get this tablet in the iron-grey color.

Conclusion

Keeping every aspect in mind, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus comes across as one of the more valued gaming tablets on the market. What sets it apart from the competition is the excellent price-to-value ratio followed by the innovative Face Unlock spec for added security.

However, my only gripe with this tablet is its 7-hour battery backup, which then requires frequent charging to sustain the gaming demands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

On this page, I have reviewed some of the best-suited tablets for gaming. I have tried to mention each detail carefully and am sure you would make a perfect choice. However, if you’re still unsure and need expert advice, let me help you with clear suggestions. Here you go:

• If you want the best gaming experience on a tablet, nothing beats the Apple iPad Pro. It has got a large display, a powerful M1 chipset, and amazing RAM management. Of course, it’s costly but worth investing in if you’re a heavy gamer.
• If you’re in the market for tablet-cum-laptop, the Surface Pro 7 is great Windows-based tablets from Microsoft. Since it is a 2-in-1 device, you can even use it for business meetings, office work, and more.
• If you’re looking for a powerful tablet in the Android department, the Galaxy Tab S7 from Samsung is the way to go.
• Lastly, if you’re seeking a budget tablet that provide excellent value for the money, the TECLAST M40 would be my top recommendation.

Enjoy gaming with your new tablet!