Looking for a tablet but not sure if an iPad is what you’re looking for? Whether you’re looking for a tablet for streaming, note-taking, drawing, or replacing your laptop as your primary device, other great choices might better suit your needs.
Here, we will look at the top iPad alternatives to help you decide which tablet is best for you based on your requirements.
Table of Contents
Tablet market overview
Why look for an iPad alternative?
Top iPad alternatives
1. Samsung Galaxy Tab
2. Huawei
3. Xiaomi
4. Lenovo Tab
5. Microsoft Surface
6. Amazon Fire
7. Google Pixel Tablet
How to choose the right iPad alternative
Final thoughts
Further reading
Tablet market overview
In 2025, the worldwide tablet market is projected to generate a revenue of USD 55.1 billion and experience an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.84% between 2025 and 2029.
According to Canalys, Apple held its lead in the global tablet market during the first quarter of 2025, shipping 13.7 million iPads – a 14% increase from the same period last year. But what does the rest of the tablet market look like?
Samsung remained in second place despite a 5.2% dip in shipments, totaling 6.6 million units. For the first time, Xiaomi overtook Lenovo, fueled by impressive growth in its domestic market, with a 56% year-over-year increase and 3.1 million units shipped. This boosted Xiaomi’s market share by two percentage points. Lenovo took fourth, growing 19% and shipping 2.5 million tablets. Huawei completed the top five with a 6.5% share and 2.4 million units shipped globally.
Why look for an iPad alternative?
Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly cover why someone might want an iPad alternative:
- Price: iPads can be expensive. The latest iPad Pro starts at USD 999 without accessories like a keyboard or Apple Pencil.
- Operating system: Not everyone wants to use iOS or integrate with Apple’s ecosystem.
- Flexibility: Some users need more flexibility with ports, apps, or file systems – areas where Android and Windows tablets often excel.
- Specialized needs: Tablets for gaming, drawing, or heavy productivity sometimes perform better outside of the Apple family.
Top iPad alternatives
Now let’s look at some of the best iPad alternatives on the market.
1. Samsung Galaxy Tab
Best for Android fans and creative professionals
Samsung’s Galaxy tablets are top contenders to rival the iPad Pro in design and performance. And for digital artists and others looking for a tablet for creative work, the S Pen is included in the price (something Apple charges extra for). Another great feature Samsung tablets have over Apple tablets is the expandable storage via microSD card.
Samsung is the second-largest tablet seller in the world, with a 20% global market share in Q1 2024. Samsung often sets the bar for the latest Android technology.
The Samsung S9 Tab is an excellent option for the average user, offering powerful multitasking features and a vibrant AMOLED display that’s ideal for streaming. For those seeking a more powerful device, the Galaxy S10 provides all the features of the S9 and more.
The S10 has a larger display size of 12.4 (or 14.6 for the ultra version), which can be great for those looking for a device that replaces their laptop, but it is obviously less portable.
What are the downsides?
Samsung currently lacks a keyboard that matches the quality of Apple’s Magic Keyboard, and it also lacks the convenient magnet pen storage.
2. Huawei
Best for a premium (non-Google) Android tablet experience
Huawei’s MatePad Pro is a feature-packed tablet with a sleek design and premium hardware. While it doesn’t come with Google services (due to trade restrictions), it uses Huawei’s HarmonyOS and AppGallery for apps.
Key features:
- 13.2” OLED screen, ultra-thin bezels
- Kirin 9000 chip or Snapdragon 888
- Excellent stylus and keyboard support
3. Xiaomi
Best for high performance at a mid-range price
Xiaomi has been making waves in the tablet market, and the Xiaomi Pad 6 is an excellent example of why. With a sleek design, powerful specs, and a competitive price, it’s a strong choice for users who want excellent performance without a premium price tag.
Key features:
- 11” 2.8K LCD with 144Hz refresh rate
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor
- Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support
- 8840mAh high power capacity (they note 99 minutes to full charge)
- Optional keyboard and stylus
Why it’s a good alternative
The Xiaomi Pad 6 delivers high refresh rate performance and multimedia quality at a lower cost than the iPad Air or Pro. It’s great for students, casual gamers, and multitaskers who want value without compromise.
The Xiaomi Pad 7 offers a higher resolution display with AI integration features. And for the Pad 7, Xiaomi offers a floating design keyboard more similar to the Magic keyboard than many typical tablet keyboards.
4. Lenovo Tab
Best for entertainment and streaming
Lenovo has been making waves in the tablet market with its Tab P series. The 2024 Lenovo Tab P12 Pro is no exception. This tablet offers solid performance, a stunning display, and excellent value for users. It is a great Android tablet for media consumption, reading, and casual use.
Key features:
- 12.6” AMOLED display with HDR10+
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor
- Comes with Lenovo Precision Pen 3
- Optional keyboard
Why it’s a good alternative
If you love watching movies or need a reliable tablet for browsing and note-taking, the P12 Pro delivers excellent value with a high-end screen.
Lenovo is also making a significant impact in the portable gaming world with its updated Legion Y700 gaming tablet, released in 2024. This tablet has caught the attention of gamers who want fast, powerful, and smooth gameplay.
5. Microsoft Surface
Best for laptop replacement and productivity
If you want a tablet that doubles as a laptop, the Surface Pro is hard to beat. Running Windows 11, it’s powerful enough to handle full desktop apps like Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and more. This device blurs the line between tablet and laptop, catering to users who need a portable device that can handle traditional computing tasks.
Key features:
- 13” PixelSense touchscreen (now also comes in a 12-inch version)
- Snapdragon X Plus processor (10 or 12 core)
- LCD and OLED display options
- Optional 5G with ARM-based version
- Optional keyboard and Surface Slim Pen 2 (sold separately)
6. Amazon Fire
Best budget-friendly tablet
If you’re looking for a super affordable tablet that still gets the job done, check out the Amazon Fire. According to Future Market Insights, Amazon tablets currently account for approximately 10% of the US tablet market.
The Fire Max 11 is Amazon’s most powerful tablet yet and is great for casual use, eBooks, and streaming.
Key features:
- 11” 2K display
- Octa-core processor, 4GB RAM
- Works with Amazon Alexa
- Optional keyboard and stylus
Why it’s a good alternative
Perfect for families, students, or anyone on a budget. It integrates with Amazon services and has a kid-friendly version available.
7. Google Pixel Tablet
Best for smart home integration and using the Google ecosystem
Google re-entered the tablet game with the Pixel Tablet, designed as both a personal tablet and a smart home hub. It doubles as a speaker when docked and offers a seamless Android experience.
Key features:
- 10.95” LCD display
- Google Tensor G2 processor
- Speaker dock charges and amplifies sound (now an optional add-on)
- Built-in Chromecast and smart home controls
Why it’s a good alternative
The Google Pixel Tablet stands out for its AI-driven features, solid build quality, and deep integration with the Google ecosystem. This makes it an excellent choice for Android fans. Additionally, if you already use Google Nest, this tablet fits right in.
How to choose the right iPad alternative
When picking a tablet, consider what you’ll use it for most. Here are a few quick tips:
| Need | Best choice |
| Drawing and art | Samsung Galaxy Tab S |
| Work and multitasking | Microsoft Surface Pro |
| Streaming and reading | Lenovo Tab or Amazon Fire |
| Affordable all-around tablet | Xiaomi Pad |
| Smart home and tablet in one | Google Pixel Tablet |
Also think about:
- Operating system: Android, Windows, HarmonyOS. What are you most comfortable with?
- Accessories: Does it come with a stylus or keyboard, or are those extras?
- Storage options: Will you need expandable storage?
- Battery life: Can it last through your workday or flight?
Final thoughts
The iPad is popular for good reason, but it’s far from the only high-quality tablet option. Whether you’re looking to save money, try something new, or get specific features, there’s an iPad alternative out there that fits your needs.
With tech evolving quickly, it’s a great time to explore what else is on the market. Android and Windows tablets continue to improve in both hardware and software, giving Apple real competition.
Further reading
- How to Choose the Right Tablet Cases for 2025: A Global Guide for Online Retailers
- Review Analysis of Amazon’s Hottest Selling Tablet Case in the US
- Meet Huawei Pocket 3: The Foldable Tablet Redefining Compact Tech
- Essential Guide for Business Buyers: Computer Tablet Stands
- Kindle vs. Fire Tablets: Key Differences Every Retailer Should Know
- How to Choose the Perfect Kids Tablet: An Ultimate Guide for Sellers 2024
- E-reader vs Tablet: Which Is Better for Reading?
- How To Make Money Buying and Selling Used Tablets
