The $400 budget isn’t going to get you a high-end flagship tablet, but most tablets in this price range are more than capable of trumping performances exhibited by budget laptops. With so many options in the market, choosing the best all-around tablet below $400 can get difficult, and that’s where this list shall help.
Unlike the more affordable options, i.e., sub $300 tablets or even sub $200 tablets, these devices resonate more with gamers, content creators, and Stylus fanatics. However, finding the right tablet to cater to all your needs isn’t easy. In most cases, prospective buyers suffer from a lack of actionable information, hindering their ability to make informed tablet buying decisions.
Choosing a device by the budget isn’t wrong, but you can’t just choose a tablet just because it falls in your budget. Before picking one, you’ll also need to make sure that it can handle the tasks or work you’re purchasing it for. Considering such challenges, I have put together a list of the top-rated tablets that work for everyone.
It doesn’t matter what your needs are, whether you need a dedicated tablet for drawing, reading eBooks, stock trading, browsing, watching movies, online classes, etc., this list has the best available options in the mentioned price range.
Contents
6 Best Tablets Under $400 in 2023
Tablets are extremely portable computing resources. However, the tablet market is packed with several sub-par selections and it is more than possible to go wrong and get stuck with a middling machine for the next few years.
This is the reason why I have enlisted 6 of the best tablets that cost less than 400 dollars and can help you with gaming, streaming, video conferencing, productivity, and a lot more. However, the final choice is up to you, based on the specifications you are looking for.
So let’s get the ball rolling without further delays:
1. Best Overall: Microsoft Surface Go 2
To be honest, after testing the device for a good 6 weeks, we had to place it at the topmost position on this list.
Have you ever considered purchasing a tablet that doubles down like a laptop convertible, if needed? If this idea piques your interest, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 might just be the best investment to make.
Processor & Performance
At the core, you get the exciting Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y chipset, which is strictly dual-core. However, do not let the lack of cores discourage you as, unlike regular Android-based tablets, this device is optimized for achieving laptop-like performances.
Besides, the base clock speed of up to 1.7GHz is good enough for handling document management and content creation. The Intel UHD 615 graphics co-processor isn’t much, but it helps keep the display quality up to speed with the latest standards.
RAM, Storage, and OS
Next in line is 8GB RAM, allowing you to manage multi-browser surfing with ease. Moreover, for the given price point, the 128GB SSD storage unit is still quite appropriate.
Furthermore, the tablet readily breaks the monotony of an Android-based ecosystem by offering Windows 10 Home OS, right out of the box. That’s not it as you get access to the S Mode OS for added power efficiency.
The Display
The 10.5-inch PixelSense panel deserves a section of its own. As tested, the viewing angles seem to be pretty sharp, considering the resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. However, the existing touchscreen comes forth as a toughened inclusion, courtesy of the Gorilla Glass 3 paneling.
Cameras
Productivity takes a front seat if you choose to go with the Surface Go 2, owing to the integrated Kickstand, 8MP rear camera, 5MP front shooter for seamless video conferencing experiences, Windows Hello gadget unlocking support, and impactful stereo speakers with Dolby Audio support.
Connectivity
Besides, this gadget allows you to pair the Type-Cover keyboard via the Surface Connect Port. However, the connectivity suite is pretty diverse in general with Type-C, card reader, headphone jack, Wi-Fi AX standard, and Bluetooth 5.0 termed as the standard inclusions.
Design & Build
Besides, this is one of the few Windows-powered tablets in the market to bring in the TPM security chip, specifically for facilitating safer boot-ups. The battery, on the other hand, is pretty competitive and can offer close to 10 hours of autonomy, on standard usage. This is one of the few devices that is intuitively manufactured and weighs close to 1.20 pounds.
To sum it up, the Surface Go 2 is the best Windows tablet for under 400 dollars. Additionally, it’s a lot more than a traditional tablet and best suited if you are looking to procure a secondary laptop sans the bulk.
- Laptop-optimized processor
- High-speed RAM & Storage
- Toughened screen
- Excellent battery life
- Diversified connectivity suite
- Type-Cover needs to be purchased separately
2. Best iPad Under 400: Apple iPad (9th Gen)
The new and improved 9th Gen iPad is one of Apple’s most affordable innovations. However, the best thing about this tablet is the affordable pricing, which is best justified by a revolutionary and performance-friendly specs sheet.
Processor & Performance
To start with, you get hold of the A13 Bionic chipset, which is Apple’s proprietary offering in the tablet arena. This existing mobile processor comes with flaunts Hexa-core architecture with two Vortex cores clocking at a maximum speed of 2.6GHz.
Therefore, it wouldn’t be impractical to expose this tablet to high-end gaming, streaming, and other demanding processes.
RAM, Storage, and OS
Paired along is Apple’s in-house GPU followed by 3GB of high-bandwidth RAM. This attribute sorts the multitasking priorities of the new iPad. However, storage-wise, the reviewed variant stacks in 64GB of space. You can also opt for the 256GB storage variant.
The iPad, quite appropriately, makes way for the iPadOS 14 as the operating platform of choice. However, I was amazed to see the device start-up speed, which in general is at least 25 percent faster as compared to Android and Chrome OS based tablets.
The Display
The 9th Gen iPad also brings in a vibrant, 10.2-inch screen into the mix, which exhibits an overall resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels. Therefore, the visual experience associated with the IPS LCD panel is something that inspires confidence. Besides, the Retina display is further empowered by scratch-resistant glass.
Cameras
Productivity-wise, the iPad has a lot going for it, including an 8MP wide rear shooter, stereo speakers, 12MP ultra-wide front camera, lightning connector, Touch ID fingerprint scanner, and an aluminum-clad chassis.
Design & Build
As far as the tablet weight is concerned, the iPad is tagged at 1.09 pounds. Not just that, this device also flaunts stylus compatibility followed by a decent enough battery backup that extends up to 10 hours. Therefore, if you prefer the Apple ecosystem for tablets, this is the perfect iPad to buy under 400 dollars.
- High-performance
- Decent battery life
- Light and portable
- Great cameras
- Excellent display
- Reasonably priced
- No Wi-Fi 6 support
- No Type-C port
3. Best with Stylus: Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Let us welcome the first gadget on this expansive list of functional tablets with an open mind. Samsung, an OEM that has already conquered the smartphone segment, makes an appearance in the sub $400 tablet segment with a feature-packed Galaxy Tab S6 Lite.
Processor & Performance
For starters, this tablet scores a pretty formidable Exynos 9611 processor, best known for the octa-core architecture. Besides, one of the two quad-core units clocks at 2.3GHz, making it a decent resource for extended gaming and streaming spells. To be honest, we loved playing Asphalt 9 on the same and experienced zero system lags.
Unlike some other mid-range tablets that go easy on the storage support, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite offers more than enough for the occasional content streamers and gaming enthusiasts. Much credit goes to the Mali-G72 MP3 graphics co-processor that stands out.
RAM, Storage, and OS
While the GPU takes care of the visuals, multitasking is made easier than ever with 4GB of RAM. Storming in is the 128GB storage space, which is pretty good considering the $400 price point.
This tablet makes way for a pretty interactive user platform i.e. the One UI 3.1, precisely with the Android 10 OS calling the shots. However, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite also supports Android 11 and allows you to upgrade, when required.
The Display
The 10.4-inch screen is yet another asset, best suited for using the tablet as a streaming hub or even a kindle. Besides, the overall resolution of 2000 x 1200 pixels furthers the visual quality of the same.
Cameras
Despite being loaded with several primary attributes, this tablet is also high on productivity. This means you get access to a dual-camera setup, with the 8MP rear shooter making one of the top-shelf tablets for video recording.
The 5MP front camera is also a capable video-conferencing resource followed by the inclusion of AKG-tuned stereo speakers. Not just that, the Tab S6 Lite also accommodates an S-Pen, allowing you to explore the touch-based capabilities of this tablet better.
Design & Build
Coming to the structural footprint, this metal-clad tablet weighs slightly higher than the 1-pound limit and can be considered as one of the more portable options in the retail space.
Besides, you also get dual-band Wi-Fi support followed by the Type-C connector and a pretty beefed-up battery, capable of churning out 13 hours of autonomy with ease. Overall, there aren’t many better Android tablets below $400 than the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite.
- High-end Exynos processor
- TFT screen offers better refresh rates
- Stand-out acoustics
- Comes with a Stylus Pen
- Bright screen with sharp viewing angles
- Supports Face Unlock
- Lacks Wi-Fi 6 support
- Lacks protective glass
4. Best for Entertainment: Lenovo Tab P11 Plus
The Lenovo Tab P11 Plus is one of the best value for money offerings, provided you are interested in a high-resolution 2K display. Regardless, you still get access to a decent processor, Dolby Atmos speakers, and an overall beefed-up specs sheet for a touch below 400 dollars.
Processor & Performance
At the core, there is a MediaTek Helio G90T mid-range chipset in play, boasting an octa-core setup and maximum clock speed, reaching up to 2GHz. Clubbed with an efficient GPU, this chipset is more than capable of handling demanding games Asphalt 9, PUBG, and more, without system slowdowns.
RAM, Storage, and OS
Working in tandem is 4GB RAM followed by 128GB of internal storage space. In fact, the memory allocation is pretty standard and readily justifies the price tag. Coming to the operating system, you get Android 11 straight out of the box, which can be upgraded to Android 12 when available.
The Display
Nevertheless, it is the 11-inch anti-fingerprint display makes a lasting impression, boasting 2000 x 1200 pixels as screen resolution. The 2K display isn’t just fabulous to touch on but it also flaunts exceptional viewing angles. Performing creative tasks like drawing, photo editing, graphic designing, or even watching Netflix or offline movies is a delight to the eyes!
Camera
This is one of the few gadgets that feature 4 speakers with Dolby Atmos support, provided you are looking to consume content on the move. The camera setup also stands out with Lenovo offering a 13MP rear snapper followed by an 8MP selfie unit for managing Skype and Zoom calls on the go.
Design & Build
Moreover, the tablet weighs just 1.09 pounds and incorporates a pretty useful connectivity suite, including Wi-Fi support, a Type-C connector, and more. This is also one of the few tablets with long battery life, offering close to 15 hours of steady backup.
Overall, the Tab P11 Plus is a sleek and futuristic tablet, best suited if you are into Smart and hands-free media consumption.
- Steller 2K display
- Reliable MediTek chipset
- Dolby Atmos 4 speakers
- Long-lasting battery
- Reliable rear shooter
- Aluminum-Alloy design
- Lacks Wi-Fi 6 support
5. Best Budget 2-in-1: CHUWI Hi10 X
If you are looking to try your luck with a commendable and feature-packed tablet PC that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, consider going with the CHUWI Hi10 X. For starters, this 2-in-1 tablet is one of the more innovative additions to the list, best known for an extended gamut of productivity-centric attributes.
Processor & Performance
As far as the processing firepower is concerned, this tablet makes peace with the Intel Celeron N4100 chipset. Despite being tagged as an entry-level chipset, the turbo clock speed of up to 2.4GHz makes the Hi10 X good enough for basic activities, including stock trading, graphic designing, streaming, and mid-range gaming.
While the graphics support for a mid-range tablet PC is mostly inconsequential, the integrated Intel UHD graphics co-processor can still make way for excellent visuals. This is one of the few tablet PCs in the market to support hard decoding for 4K videos, courtesy of the 700MHz integrated GPU.
RAM, Storage, and OS
Coming to the system memory, CHUWI offers 6GB of low-power DDR4 RAM module that can take care of multi-tab browsing and other multitasking activities without breaking a sweat.
As you can orient the tablet as a PC, the 128GB eMMC storage space makes sense. However, there is also a dedicated micro-SD card unit in play for upgrading the same, if and when necessary. This gadget flaunts Windows 10 Home OS right out of the box.
The Display
The UI looks even better as the Hi10 X offers a 10.1-inch FHD screen for the content and design connoisseurs to work with. With an overall resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, the existing display is easily one of the more vibrant ones in the market.
Cameras
Besides, CHUWI is one of the few companies to bring in the 16:10 aspect ratio for further amplifying the screen real-estate. The tablet also boasts an excellent camera setup, featuring a 5MP rear shooter and a 2MP front camera for productive video conferencing sessions.
Design & Build
This device also supports the H3 Pen, equipped with excellent pressure sensitivity. However, what impressed me the most is the light-weighted chassis, tagged at a mere 1.15 pounds.
Despite being a tablet, the USB connectivity suite associated with this device is next-level, courtesy of two Type-C ports, USB 3.0 slot, Wi-Fi 5 standard, and BT 5.0 support.
The 6-hour battery backup isn’t CHUWI’s strongest suit. That said, if you are willing to ignore this minor gripe, there aren’t many budget 2-in-1 tablets to consider investing in.
- Comes with a detachable keyboard
- The stylus pen is included
- Excellent processor
- Windows 10 Home OS
- A sizable chunk of RAM
- Middling battery
- Not meant for heavy tasks
6. Best with Chrome OS: Lenovo Chromebook Duet
If you have buoyant expectations from the tablet-PC arena, I would recommend the Lenovo Chromebook Duet as the go-to computing device, courtesy of the multi-mode operability, bundled stylus, and the intuitive specs sheet.
Processor & Performance
Lenovo extends its faith in the MediaTek chipset by housing the ever-reliable P60T processor. The octa-core chipset is further segregated into two quad-core units, with each core clocking at 2GHz. And, considering the power underneath, you can expect this tablet to run games like Hearthstone with considerable ease.
Also, there is an integrated ARM Mali-G72 MP3 graphics coprocessor in place for keeping the tablet graphics in the best possible stead.
RAM, Storage & OS
The Chromebook Duet offers 4GB RAM, out of the box, which is good enough for processing documents, editing Docs, and managing diverse online tasks, on the move. The storage support, as exhibited by Lenovo, also deserves a special mention. Perhaps, the 128GB eMCP storage module is the best inclusion for any tablet in a similar price range.
The Chrome OS ensures Bloatware-free performances and smooth sailing when managing the tablet-PC is concerned. If truth be told, I prefer the Chrome-based operating system on my tablets as opposed to Android, as the former offers a better professional experience to online evangelists.
The Display
The 10.1-inch Full HD screen isn’t much but comes with exceptional touch support. Plus, the overall resolution at 1920 x 1200 pixels furthers the vividness of the existing IPS panel. I was also particularly amused by the responsiveness of a bundled stylus.
Cameras
When it comes to camera setup, this tablet-PC proffers a 2MP front shooter followed by a standard 8MP rear unit that is capable of recording videos at 1080p.
Design & Build
Here comes the good part as this sleek and aluminum-clad tablet is certainly an aesthetic marvel, bolstered further by a sleek chassis, innovative and textured cover, and a resolute stand for a hands-free experience.
The Chromebook Duet comes bundled with a detachable keyboard and the Pogo-pin that works as a connector. Despite being a modular unit, the keyboard is quite responsive and the trackpad is one of the more accurate ones around.
As far as the dimensions are concerned, the 2.02-pound tablet measures 9.44 x 6.29 x 0.29 inches. Plus, you can purchase the same in the iron-gray shade that also adorns Ice Blue accents.
Conclusion
Overall, if you are in the market for a meticulously designed tablet that also doubles down as a PC for college students, the Lenovo Duet seems like the best investment to make, more so with the 10-hour battery backup, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a USB Type-C port to show for.
Also, the tablet PC stands out as compared to other products on the list, courtesy of the innovative usage patterns and the availability of the responsive and de-cluttered Chrome OS.
- Stellar aesthetics
- Innovative keyboard
- Excellent sunlight visibility
- Portable and light
- Dependable battery
- Subpar front camera
Frequently Asked Questions
If you only have 400 dollars to spare, it is necessary to rely on a high-end processor more than anything else. While Mediatek Helio P-series chipsets are more common, it is advisable to either opt for Qualcomm Snapdragon or Intel Atom chipsets for better multi-core performances.
If gaming is your only priority, I would recommend the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite as it features a pretty competent octa-core processor from Qualcomm. While it runs most games without even heating the device, the Mali-G72 MP3 graphics co-processor further enhances the detailing and visual angles when game-playing experiences are concerned.
Yes, a bundled stylus, preferably an active pen is always preferred if you are shopping for a tablet. Firstly, a stylus makes it easier for you to navigate through the operating interface. Secondly, if you have a powerful tablet like an iPad, the stylus can be used to indulge in a host of creative tasks, which involve drawing.
If you haven’t considered an iPad or any version of it, try and take a look at the options available for less than 400 dollars. I am sure that you would be impressed by the quality of the A12 Bionic processor that integrates the Neural Engine for AI-centric scalability in the future. Besides, the software-hardware cohesion exhibited by the iPads is way better than that featured by Android tablets.
The Chrome Operating System allows you to manage a host of online processes with ease. While you aren’t expected to get the on-device functionalities, as exhibited by Android and Windows-powered tablets, Google Chrome OS offers extended drive storage and Bloatware-free UI to rely on.
Selecting a tablet running Windows 10 isn’t easy as you need to ascertain the priorities beforehand. However, if you still want to get one, consider a convertible as supposedly, you would be making use of the MS Office and other content creation tools. Therefore, only if you can get your hands on a tablet that makes room for a dockable keyboard, Windows 10 tablets for the given price range are worth investing in.
Verdict
As mentioned, each of the listed tablets was tested extensively and selected accordingly. However, if you still want to pick my brain regarding the best option for a particular set of tasks, here are some of the curated selections to check out:
- If you want the best, go for Microsoft Surface Go 2. It is a great Windows-powered tablet for graphic designing, productivity, and video conferencing.
- If you want a high-resolution display and Dolby Atmos speakers for your media consumption needs, the Lenovo Tab P11 Plus is the best option to go for.
- If you are a student or a professional who need a good tablet for note-taking, I’d anyday recommend the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite. It comes with a responsive stylus and a powerful specs sheet to meet your personal and professional needs.
- Lastly, if you’re trapped in the Apple ecosystem and want to expand it with tablet purchase, the Apple iPad (9th Gen) is the best iPad to buy under 400 dollars.
Apart from these selections, there are a handful of other resourceful tablets on the list for you to skim through and pick, as per preferences.
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