Android tablets have evolved tremendously over the years, from being mere iPad copycats lacking in features to full-fledged productivity and entertainment devices in their own right. While premium tablets still demand $500+, there are now fantastic budget options delivering solid performance at under $200.
This guide looks at the 5 best Android tablets under $200 available in 2024 based on display quality, battery life, performance benchmarks, storage, connectivity and special features. We considered over 15 popular devices in this price segment while making recommendations best suited for everyday usage like web browsing, streaming shows, light gaming and more.
How To Choose The Right Budget Tablet?
Before picking a sub-$200 Android tablet, consider a few key factors depending on your intended usage:
Display Size: 7, 8 or 10-inch? Larger is better for entertainment while compact ones are more portable. Aim for 1080p resolution at the minimum.
Performance: CPU, RAM, GPU specifications determine how smooth the tablet runs apps and games. Look for octa-core processors with at least 3GB RAM.
Battery Life: 6000-8000mAh batteries last 8+ hours of mixed usage. Fast charging support is a bonus.
Storage: 32GB and above needed for storing photos, videos, apps. Expandable storage via microSD card slot is preferred.
5 Best Android Tablets Under $200 in 2024
1. Best Overall: Lenovo Tab M10 Plus
With thin bezels on a 10.6” FHD screen, excellent battery life and capable performance, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is the best Android tablet you can currently buy under $200.
Display: 10.6” 1920×1200 IPS LCD, 350 nits brightness
Processor: MediaTek Helio G80 octa-core
RAM/Storage: 3GB/32GB, microSD card slot
Battery: 5000mAh, up to 12 hours video playback
Cameras: 8MP rear, 5MP front
Pros:
- Beautiful bezel-less design
- Vibrant and sharp display
- Great battery backup
- Decent performance for the price
- Charges quickly via USB-C
Cons:
- Average camera quality
- Speakers lack bass
With a beautiful high-resolution display, sehr lange battery life and smooth everyday performance, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is a well-rounded package for media consumption, light gaming and web browsing.
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2. Best Runner Up: Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
The closest competitor to the Lenovo is Samsung’s brilliant Galaxy Tab A8 with its gorgeous 10.5” LCD display, decent battery life and One UI interface.
Display: 10.5” 1920×1200 LCD
Processor: Unisoc T618 octa-core
RAM/Storage: 3GB/32GB
Battery: 7040mAh
Cameras: 8MP rear, 5MP front
Pros:
- Stunning 10.5′′ LCD screen
- Sleek and lightweight design
- Decent battery life
- Expandable storage
- Kids mode with parental controls
Cons:
- Average rear camera
- Tad overpriced
For those looking for a tablet with fantastic media playback support via high-quality speakers and display, the Galaxy Tab A8 is a reliable choice.
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3. Best for Media: Amazon Fire HD 10
With excellent integration with Amazon’s entertainment services like Prime Video and a powerful processor, the Fire HD 10 is best suited for movies and TV shows.
Display: 10.1” 1080p
Processor: MT8183 octa-core
RAM/Storage: 3GB/32GB or 64GB
Battery: Up to 12 hours mixed usage
Cameras: 5MP rear, 2MP front
Pros:
- Sharp and vibrant 10′′ full HD display
- Powerful performance
- Excellent battery backup
- Seamless access to Amazon’s media ecosystem
Cons
- Heavily optimized for Amazon’s services
- No Google Play Store access
For Prime members looking for a entertainment-focused tablet with excellent battery life perfect for binge watching shows offline, the Fire HD 10 is the perfect choice.
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4. Best Display: Lenovo Tab M9
Standing out with its unique 9” panel size, the Lenovo Tab M9 offers a gorgeous HD display and excellent battery life making it great for reading ebooks.
Display: 9” 1280×800 IPS
Processor: MediaTek Helio G80
RAM/Storage: 3GB/32GB
Battery: 5100mAh, up to 15 hours reading
Cameras: 8MP rear, 5MP front
Pros:
- Sharp and color accurate 9′′ IPS display
-Slim and lightweight design - Long lasting battery
- Decent performance for the price
- Dolby Atmos speakers
Cons:
- Smaller screen less suited for videos
- Average camera quality
For an equally portable media consumption and reading focused tablet with fantastic battery backup, the Lenovo Tab M9 is highly recommended.
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5. Best for Multitasking: TCL Tab 10S
With ample RAM and display real estate, the slick TCL Tab 10S powered by Snapdragon is perfect for juggling between apps.
Display: 10.1” 1920×1200 IPS
Processor: Snapdragon 665
RAM/Storage: 4GB/64GB expandable
Battery: 8000mAh
Cameras: 8MP rear, 5MP front
Pros:
- Sharp and bright 10′′ screen perfect for productivity
- Excellent performance via Snapdragon 665
- Multitasking friendly 4GB RAM
- Long lasting battery with 18W fast charging
Cons:
- Cameras are below average
- Bulky and heavier than competitors
If your usage involves having multiple apps open like email, documents, web browsers etc, the excellent multitasking capabilities of the TCL Tab 10S make it a fantastic choice.
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How to Make The Most Out Of An Android Tablet?
Here are some tips to boost productivity on your new Android tablet:
- Use a keyboard case for quicker typing when working on documents or emails
- Get a tablet stand for comfortable hands-free viewing angles
- Install microSD card for extra storage for large media files and apps
- Customize software navigation buttons for easier one-handed use
- Disable unnecessary background processes to save battery life
- Try gaming with wireless controller for better experience
Bottom Line
Android tablets under $200 have come a long way with fantastic displays, premium designs and smooth performance perfect for everyday requirements. We highly recommend the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus for its brilliant mix of battery life, display and smooth all round performance. For excellent media consumption via Amazon‘s ecosystem, the Fire HD 10 is a reliable choice while the Galaxy Tab A8 offers stunning display quality. Depending on your exact needs, this guide covers the 5 best options currently available in 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a budget tablet for work?
Yes, budget Android tablets can be excellent for work purposes like reviewing documents, spreadsheet editing, emails etc when paired with a Bluetooth keyboard. Just ensure to pick one with at least full HD display, 3GB RAM and 32GB storage to seamlessly multi-task.
How good are the cameras on sub-$200 tablets?
Most affordable Android tablets have average front and rear cameras in the 5 to 8MP range. They can click decent photos and enable video calls, but don‘t expect intricate details or top-notch quality. Rely on your smartphone for serious photography.
Do budget tablets support stylus input?
Stylus support is still mostly limited to premium tablets. However, there are a few exceptional sub-$200 devices like the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus which support third party styluses. This allows drawing, taking notes and precision input.
Can I play high-end games on cheap Android tablets?
Gaming is still better left to flagship tablets and iPad Pros. However, affordable tablets can still run casual games, older titles and some graphics intensive games at lower settings. Pick one with higher processor clock speeds and RAM to maximize performance.
