Are you a professional photographer seeking a handy secondary device to edit snaps on the go? Or, as a student you are contemplating a new tablet to edit photos for social media? Regardless of what your preferences are, be it fashion designing or preparing digital arts, it is advisable to invest in a high-quality tablet for photo editing.
Irrespective of the reason for which you want to edit photos, you must ensure that the tablet seamlessly runs apps like Photoshop, Lightroom, Prisma, Snapseed, and more, without stutters.
But then, most of you usually end up at dead ends while looking for the best tablets for photo editing. While the professional photographer in you is often restricted by lesser RAM, darkened visuals, modest storage, and a tatty processor, your casual editing escapades are habitually hindered by a lack of faster internet connections and subpar battery life.
Regardless of the existing bottlenecks, I intend on assisting you to find the best tablets in the photo editing space by extensively reviewing the compatible models across diverse parameters. Most importantly, I shall be using each tablet as my primary portable editing for at least a week, to make the reviews more unbiased and strictly hands-on.
Contents
7 Best Tablets For Photo Editing in 2023
In the subsequent sections, I shall enlist the top 7 tablets for photo editing by appraising each according to the processing setup, performance, ease of usage, battery life, display quality, pricing, and more. I shall start with the top-shelf models, slowly moving on to the mid-range offerings, and eventually concluding the list with dependable budget variants.
1. Best Overall: Microsoft Surface Pro 7
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is my top pick for photo editing, courtesy of the Windows-specific vibes that it imparts. Therefore, if you are habituated to editing pictures and graphics on your laptop, this is a reliable tablet to purchase.
Also, when compared to the dated Surface Pro 6, the Pro 7 is certainly a better bet, courtesy of the 10th gen chipset as opposed to 8, and the inclusion of a Type-C 3.1 port for faster data transfers.
Why is it best suited?
Display Configuration

Photo editors can expect a field day with the 12.3-inch PixelSense panel at their disposal. Plus, the overall resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels ensures better color accuracy. Finally, Microsoft forwards the 3:2 aspect ratio for assisting editors in managing the interface better.
Also, the responsive screen works even better with the compatible Surface Pen. Plus, if you are willing to use the tablet as a fully functional PC, the easy-to-pair Type-C keyboard is also up for grabs and offers an exceptional typing experience.
RAM, Storage, and OS
With 8GB RAM to show for, the Pro 7 can handle multiple photo editing resources, including Photoshop, Fotor, Pic Stitch, and more. Not to mention the 128GB SSD that allows you to stockpile RAW and edited images, without a care in this world.
However, you have the option to upgrade the storage to up to 512GB, if needed. Coming to the OS, the Windows 10 Home comes pre-loaded with this tablet PC and offers an enterprising UI to the editors to work with.
Performance, CPU, and GPU
At the core, the Surface Pro 7 houses a 10th gen Intel Core i5-1035G4 processor, which can reach maximum clock speeds of up to 3.7GHz. The quad-core processor, therefore, allows you to handle almost every single and multi-threaded editing activity, including filtering, blurring, and more.
The Intel iris plus graphics coprocessor works in cohesion with the chipset and ensures better outputs and faster final renders.
Design & Build

The Surface Pro 7 introduces a signatory unibody layout with magnesium as the underlying component. The dimensions at 11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 inches are in line with expectations whereas the tablet weighs a respectable 1.70 pounds, without the Type Cover.
Coming to the other structural inclusions, the Pro 7 makes way for Type-A, Type-C, Surface connect headphone jack, and other inventive ports. Finally, for the buyers, this tablet can be purchased in matte black and platinum shades.
Camera, Speakers, and Add-ons
The camera setup is pretty standard with Microsoft incorporating an 8MP rear shooter with 1080p support alongside the 5MP, similarly-abled selfie camera. The acoustic performance is also worth applauding with 1.6W Dolby speakers in play.
Apart from that, the Surface Pro 7 also comes equipped with Studio microphones, Wi-Fi AX support, a TPM security chip for safer boot-ups, and a decent battery backup of up to 10.5 hours.
Conclusion
Overall, if you’re interested in Windows-powered tablets that take care of almost every pain point for an experienced photo editor, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is the option to settle with. Not just that, it is the multi-mode operability and the ability to run vanilla Photoshop that places this device a cut above other products on the list.
- 10th gen processor
- Stellar display
- Type-C port is fast
- Excellent battery backup
- High-speed RAM for better renders
- Wi-Fi AX support
- Doesn’t support Android-specific editing apps
- The keyboard and stylus need to be purchased separately
2. Best For Photoshop: Apple iPad Pro
Are you specifically looking for an iPad for photo editing? Here’s the best one you can currently get in the market.
If you prefer the Apple ecosystem over Windows and Android platform, the Apple iPad Pro is the perfect tablet to put your money on. But then, only expert photo editors must consider purchasing this tablet, owing to the exorbitant pricing and a premium specs sheet to justify the same.
Also, if you already own the older-variant of the iPad Pro, the new model seems like a relevant upgrade, courtesy of the faster M1 processor as opposed to the A12Z bionic and also a more vivid display.
Why is it best suited?
Display Configuration

The new iPad Pro 11 boasts an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, with 600-nits of overall brightness and Dolby Vision support adding to the visual clarity. Apple also exhibits an overall resolution of 1668 x 2388 pixels followed by a wide color gamut for the photo editors to create and display renders as accurately as possible.
Plus, the alluring display responds perfectly to the Apple Pencil, which is one of the better creative accessories to pair the tablet with. Apparently, the iPad Pro 11 also allows you to fit in an external keyboard.
RAM, Storage, and OS
Unlike the 2020-variant, the new iPad Pro 11 houses 8GB RAM to sail through every edit, filter, and render. Also, apps like Prisma, Photoshop, and more load in virtually no time with the 128GB storage unit in play.
The iPadOS 16 is worth mentioning as it takes productivity to a whole new level, whilst allowing you to upgrade to v14.6, if and when required.
Performance, CPU, and GPU
For starters, the Apple M1 chipset is a virtual force to reckon with, allowing you to crush tasks, define next-level content standards, and even indulge in console-level online games with Apple’s 8-core GPU assisting the same.
The octa-core processor cannot be any more perfect for seasoned photo editors, courtesy of the maximum clock speed of 3.2GHz.
Design & Build

The iPad Pro is appropriately durable, courtesy of the aluminum-clad structuring and scratch-resistant screen. Also, the tablet measures 9.75 x 7.03 x 0.23 inches, in terms of dimensions, which validates the overall sleekness of form.
Plus, the 1.03-pound device also comes equipped with a Type-C or rather Thunderbolt 4 port and DisplayPort for setting up external connections. If you are actually interested in purchasing the iPad Pro, you can get it in Space Gray and Silver colors.
Camera, Speakers, and Add-ons
Apart from photo editing and other relevant processes, the new iPad Pro can also be used as an entertainment hub, courtesy of the 12MP + 10MP + 3D LiDAR rear camera setup. For video calls and team meetings, the 12MP front shooter is also more than adequate.
The iPad also makes way for 4 speakers, Wi-Fi 6 standard, and the Face ID security enhancement. Finally, the 10-hour battery backup is also a gratifying feature for professionals heavy on autonomy.
Conclusion
Unless you are restricted by the budget, there is no better photo editing tablet in the market than the Apple iPad Pro 11 (2021-variant). However, if you wish to compare it with other products on the list, it is the M1 chip, 8GB RAM, and the state-of-art display that separate the iPad Pro from the herd.
- Proprietary processor
- Stellar liquid retina screen
- Innovative camera setup
- Thunderbolt 4 port for faster transfers
- Supports fast charging
- Pricey
- Lacks a 3.5mm jack
3. Best For Ligtroom: Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
When it comes to powerful android tablets, there aren’t many as good as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7. However, I would only recommend this for the experienced photo editors, who usually work on a wide range of android-specific editing platforms like Snapseed, Prisma, and Photoshop Lightroom.
Out of curiosity, I compared it with the Tab S6 Lite, which has been one of my go-to tablets for at least a year now. However, the Tab S7 held up better, courtesy of a brighter and bigger screen.
Why is it best suited?
Display Configuration

There is an 11-inch large display screen for the photo editors to cherish, which is best known for the visually alluring HDR10+ enhancement and overall resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels. The responsive display is stylus-compatible and works swimmingly with the existing S-pen.
Samsung also allows you to pair a keyboard with the tablet and coupled with the kickstand, it can help you deploy the Tab S7 as a fully functional tablet PC.
RAM, Storage, and OS
Samsung makes way for 6GB of RAM, which can handle almost every multitasking load with ease. The storage support is fixed at 128GB but you can consider upgrading it to 512GB, via the micro-SDXC slot. It offers Android 10 OS right out of the closet, which has the One UI 2.5 skin sitting up for making operability easier than ever.
Performance, CPU, and GPU
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 is the chipset of interest here, capable of assuming the highest possible speed of up to 3.09GHz. The octa-core processor clubbed with an Adreno 650 graphics coprocessor ensures faster renders, smoother edits, and zero lags.
Design & Build

The aluminum-clad chassis feels premium and measures 9.99 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches. Also, the 1.10-pound tablet feels extremely good in the hand for editors who prefer moving around with the tablet. Also, Samsung gives you access to a snappy fingerprint scanner and Type-C 3.2 port but misses out on the headphone jack.
Not just that, the aesthetic presence keeps alighting on the global scene as the Tab 7 now comes in four different colors, including the Mystic Black, Mystic Bronze, Phantom Navy, and Mystic Silver.
Camera, Speakers, and Add-ons
The Tab S7 comes equipped with a dual rear camera setup that includes a 13MP primary shooter and a 5MP ultra-wide lens. There is also an 8MP front shooter in play followed by a quad-speaker setup. Also, you get a massive 8000mAh battery with fast charging support, which can help you through 15 hours of usage.
Conclusion
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is one of the better Android tablets for photo editing, especially for the all-inclusive specs sheet and an additional line of security in the fingerprint reader, which set it apart from some of the listed competitors.
- 5G ready processor
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- Stellar screen configuration
- Fast fingerprint scanner
- Massive battery life
- Pricey
- Lacks the 3.5mm jack
4. Best For Snapseed: Microsoft Surface Go 2
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is the most balanced tablet PC on the list, best known for its multimode operability and an enterprising specs sheet. Most importantly, mid-range photo editors who are well-versed with the Windows ecosystem can put their faith in this product.
Also, as compared to the Surface Go, the Go 2 is a much better resource for the photo editors, courtesy of the brighter screen and slimmer bezels.
Why is it best suited?
Display Configuration

As a photo editor, you cannot go wrong with the 10.5-inch PixelSense screen. Plus the overall resolution of 1920 x 1280 ensures the highest possible level of color accuracy. Also, this tablet responds rather perfectly to the Surface Pen and even allows you to pair the Signature, Type Cover keyboard, according to the color of choice.
RAM, Storage, and OS
If you are a seasoned photo editor and into using complex filters and effects, the 8GB RAM can be a handy resource. With the existing chunk of RAM, you can run apps like Snapseed, Photoshop, Prisma, and more without any trouble, whatsoever.
Also, there is a 128GB SSD module in place for loading the Windows 10 S Mode OS in no time. However, if you require additional storage space, the tablet comes equipped with a micro-SDXC card reader for adding a further 512GB.
Performance, CPU, and GPU
It is the inclusion of the low-power Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y that tilts the scales in this tablet’s favor. This dual-core processor works hand in hand with the UHD 615 graphics and paves the way for excellent gaming as well photo edits, renders, and visuals.
Design & Build

This metal-clad tablet weighs 1.2 pounds and measures 9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches. Plus, you can purchase the same in the Platinum shade, once you are convinced enough to take the plunge. Apart from the nifty footprint, you also get access to a type-C port, Surface Connect port, cover port, and the much-anticipated headphone jack.
Camera, Speakers, and Add-ons
The Surface Go comes equipped with one 5MP front snapper followed by an 8MP rear shooter in the rear. In addition to the standard camera setup, you also get access to dual microphones, 2W speakers, Wi-Fi AX support, and at least 10 hours of extended battery backup, which makes it a perfect choice for professionals.
Conclusion
If you are a persistent Windows user and looking to extrapolate the ease of usage to your tablet, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is the best option to consider. Also, as compared to other products on the list, it is the inventive studio mode that makes it worth buying.
- Easy to use
- Excellent visuals
- Dependable battery
- Supports multi-mode operability
- A sizable chunk of RAM
- Underwhelming processor
- Pricey
5. Best Android Tablet: Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is one of the few mid-range tablets on the list that comes bundled with a responsive stylus and even promises an exceptional display, best suited for drawing, digital art and photo editing. Also, if you like interacting with the images via the famed S-Pen but aren’t willing to invest more, you should immediately zero in on this tablet.
I even went one step further and compared the Tab S6 Lite with the Tab A7, only to identify the former as a better bet, courtesy of the better memory allocation.
Why is it best suited?
Display Configuration

The 10.4-inch screen is also a reliable addition for photo editors. Starting from the overall resolution of 1200 x 2000 pixels to the excellent screen-to-chassis ratio, the display takes good care of the visuals and promises clarity. Also, the bundled S-pen makes editing, noting, and drawing easier for the professionals.
Also, you can use the Tab S6 Lite as a handy ultraportable laptop by connecting an external keyboard via Bluetooth or the featured Type-C slot.
RAM, Storage, and OS
If you are frenzied about multitasking, the 8GB RAM can be quite an asset. Plus, you get access to a 128GB storage unit that can be upgraded by an additional 1TB, via the microSD slot. Not to mention the minimal OS loading time as the Android 10 operating system boots up within two seconds of turning on the device.
Performance, CPU, and GPU
At the core, you have the Exynos 9611; a processor stacked with 8 cores and featuring the 10nm architecture. Plus, there is the Mali-G72 MP3 for lending the required graphics support. In fact, the CPU-GPU amalgam ensures top-notch edit quality and professional-grade renders.
Design & Build

From a structural perspective, the Samsung tablet exhibits a premium build quality and measures 9.63 x 6.07 x 0.28 inches. Also, this 1.03-pound tablet feels comfortable in hand and comes in three color choices, namely Oxford gray, angora blue, and chiffon pink. Coming to the port setup, the 3.5mm jack makes an appearance, unlike the Tab S7 and you also get hold of a Type-C port.
Camera, Speakers, and Add-ons
Specific add-ons that improve the functionality of this tablet include stereo speakers, Wi-Fi AC support, an 8MP rear shooter with 1080p support, and a consistent 5MP front snapper. However, it is the 12-hour battery backup that actually makes a few heads roll.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this photo editing tablet strikes the perfect balance between price and productivity, especially for the more motivated photo editors. Also, it is the excellent battery backup that makes it a better bet for the given price, as compared to some of the other listed products.
- Color accurate display
- Responsive UI
- Fast stylus response
- Premium aesthetics
- Dependable processor
- No Wi-Fi 6 support
- Inconsistent Bluetooth connectivity
6. Best With 2K Display: Lenovo Tab P11
The Tab P11 from Lenovo features on this list mainly due to the exceptionally vivid display configuration. This is the reason why it makes sense for fashion and wedding photographers to purchase this tablet.
Not just that, I even compared the P11 with the Tab M10 and could infer that the former is a much better option for the editors, owing to the brighter display and amplified storage space.
Why is it best suited?
Display Configuration

Lenovo brings in an 11-inch screen with an overall resolution of 1200 x 2000 pixels. However, unlike some of the other 2K panels, the one exhibited by the Tab P11 boasts IPS technology and slimmer bezels. The screen is also stylus-compatible and the UI is capable of accepting input from an external keyboard that can be paired via Bluetooth or USB.
RAM, Storage, and OS
There is 4GB for you to work with, especially if you want to manage edits, play games, and even download content, concurrently. Storage-wise, the 128GB UFS 2.1 module is relatively fast and boots up the Android 10 OS, at a faster tick. Plus, you get a microSD slot for upgrading the storage capacity by up to 512GB.
Performance, CPU, and GPU
The Snapdragon 662 is an ever-reliable processor that comes equipped with an integrated Adreno 610 GPU. That said, the processing configuration is good enough for running most photo editing apps without breaking a sweat.
Design & Build

The Tab P11 weighs 1.08 pounds and measures 10.17 x 6.42 x 0.30 when the dimensions are concerned. Also, the chassis looks premium despite having plastic as the underlying structural component. Plus, you also get a Type-C connector to work with.
Camera, Speakers, and Add-ons
Lenovo accommodates a 13MP primary shooter followed by an 8MP front camera for managing meets and conferences. Acoustics, on the other hand, are managed by the 4-speaker setup. In addition to these specifications, the Tab P11 also makes room for a sizable battery with fast charging support and up to 12 hours of backup.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the Lenovo Tab P11 is an excellent tablet for photo editing that scales beyond the rest when the display quality is concerned.
- Stellar 2K screen
- 13MP primary camera
- High-speed processor
- Low-power RAM
- Enterprising UI
- Lacks Wi-Fi 6 support
- Runs a bit hot
7. Best Under $250: Fusion 5 FWIN232 Pro
The Fusion 5 FWIN232 Pro is an affordable elixir for entry-level photo editors, who are still way too attached to the Windows ecosystem. As far as the recommendations go, every novice editor seeking a secondary laptop can consider investing in this product.
But then, if you are second-guessing this variant against the older FWIN232+, the Pro-variant is at least 15 percent faster owing to that additional chunk of RAM.
Why is it best suited?
Display Configuration

The 10.1-inch panel is quite an asset for photo editors. However, if you are a professional editor, you might want to consider other products as the display resolution is fixed at 1280 x 800, which isn’t all that acceptable for experiencing the best visuals.
But then, the stylus response and support for the external keyboard make up for the minor display-specific trade-offs.
RAM, Storage, and OS
This sub-$300 tablet makes room for 4GB RAM and 128GB of storage capacity. The existing memory allocation allows you to multitask and load most apps with relative ease. Plus, the Windows 10 S mode pertaining to this tablet is power-efficient and boots up in no time, courtesy of the nifty storage module.
Performance, CPU, and GPU
Intel’s cherry trail chipset is strictly entry-level but can still handle most photo editing apps like Prisma and Snapseed with ease. Plus, you get hold of the Intel HD integrated graphics for managing edits and renders better.
Design & Build

When it comes to the design and aesthetics, the FWIN232 Pro measures 10.24 x 6.85 x 0.43 inches and assumes a plastic-clad chassis. Plus, the device weighs 1.54 pounds and makes way for a memory expansion slot and useful USB and micro-HDMI ports.
Camera, Speakers, and Add-ons
The 5MP rear shooter is strictly basic whereas the 2MP front camera is more of a standard webcam with questionable clarity. However, the acoustics are more than acceptable, courtesy of the stereo speakers. Also, you get access to wireless and Bluetooth support followed by a 10-hour battery backup.
Conclusion
Overall, the Fusion 5 FWIN232 Pro is a dependable Windows tablet that can double up as a standard laptop for more conventional users. However, it is the cost-to-ownership ratio that makes it a better bet as compared to some of the other tablets on the list.
- Power-efficient OS
- Sizable storage space
- Powerful speakers
- Responsive screen
- Excellent battery life
- Modest cameras
- Lacks Wi-Fi 6 functionality
Frequently Asked Questions
Tablets with octa-core chipsets, Full HD resolution, and a mere 4GB RAM can handle photo editing like pros. However, if I were to make specific selections, I would place my bets on tablets with Windows 10 as they are better equipped in handling the more demanding photo editing apps.
Yes, but there is a slight catch that you need to consider. Unless you are using the tablet in a standard Windows mode, you would only be able to run the Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and not the actual vanilla variant. Also, you can even use the dumbed-down version of Photoshop i.e. the Photoshop Express.
Yes, you can edit quickly and accurately any iPad variant. However, I would still recommend the latest iPad Pro as the M1 chipset is probably the fastest one around when tablets are concerned and can handle any volume of synchronous editing processes with ease.
If you want to run Lightroom on the tablet, whilst being able to make use of every attribute like the crop overlay, graduated filter, library integration, and more, a tablet with 4GB RAM, 128GB storage, 10-inch FHD screen, and a fast processor with at least 6 cores are recommended. For those looking for cost-effective recommendations, the Tab S6 Lite from Samsung is worth considering.
Verdict
Photo editing, on any of the enlisted tablets, is a rewarding experience. But then, here are some of the curated selections that conform to specific use cases:
- If you are looking to continue using Windows 10 as your platform of choice, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a premium yet relevant option to consider
- For users looking to deploy the unmatched customizability of the Android platform, there cannot be a better tablet than the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
- For admirers of the Apple ecosystem and professional photo editors, the new Apple iPad Pro is the best possible product to invest in
- Lastly, if you are looking for a more affordable tablet that concerns random photo editing, the Fusion 5 FWIN232 Pro should be the go-to option
Apart from the mentioned choices, you can even pick some of the other products, depending on your personal, professional, and price-specific preferences.
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