When your primary goal is to run applications smoothly, the tablet you choose must deliver consistent performance across productivity, creativity, and entertainment. The purpose of this guide is to help you identify the best tablets for running apps, highlighting what makes some devices reliable powerhouses while others falter. We aim this at business professionals who rely on office suites, students using learning platforms, designers working in creative apps, and everyday users who need social media, communication, and gaming to run without lag.
The reality is clear: apps define the modern tablet experience. They shape how you work, connect, and relax. Yet one of the most common complaints comes when an app stutters, crashes, or refuses to open altogether. That problem often traces back not to the app itself, but to the limitations of the hardware running it.
The challenge lies in understanding the demands of different apps. A lightweight note-taking app places little stress on a device, while high-end design tools, video editors, or resource-hungry games can quickly expose weak hardware. Some tablets promise versatility yet underperform once you push them with demanding software. The result is inefficiency, wasted time, and disappointment when the device fails to keep up with your expectations.
The solution is a methodical assessment of the features that directly affect app performance. By identifying these, we can match you with tablets capable of running not only your current apps but also future updates that may demand higher resources.
The first criterion is processor and graphics capability. A powerful CPU combined with a capable GPU ensures apps launch quickly and handle complex tasks such as rendering, animation, or data-heavy calculations. Low-end processors create delays and prevent smooth multitasking. For dependable performance, you should look for at least an octa-core processor, paired with a modern GPU.
Next is RAM capacity. Apps today often run in the background, consuming memory even when not in use. Insufficient RAM causes reloads, crashes, and lag when switching between apps. A minimum of 6 GB RAM is advisable for everyday use, while professionals using creative or editing apps benefit from 8 GB or higher.
Operating system optimization follows closely. The way iPadOS, Android, or Windows manages resources directly impacts how apps perform. iPadOS provides superior app optimization thanks to close integration with hardware. Android offers wider app availability and flexibility, while Windows allows access to full desktop applications. Poor optimization leads to sluggish performance regardless of hardware strength.
Another important factor is storage speed and type. Fast storage allows apps to install quicker, open faster, and access data with minimal delay. Devices with UFS or NVMe storage handle heavy apps far better than those with slower eMMC options. This mitigates the frustration of waiting for applications to respond.
Battery capacity also deserves attention. Running demanding apps drains power faster than light browsing or streaming. A tablet designed for app-heavy use should provide endurance that supports at least 8 to 10 hours of continuous activity, otherwise you face constant charging interruptions.
Finally, connectivity options play a role in how certain apps function. Stable Wi-Fi 6 ensures smoother experiences with cloud-based or online apps, while LTE or 5G keeps mobile users connected. Weak connectivity undermines collaboration tools, streaming, and any app requiring real-time data exchange.
With these criteria in mind, you can expect the tablets we recommend to combine processing strength, memory efficiency, storage speed, and reliable connectivity. You deserve a device that runs apps the way they were designed to run: smoothly, reliably, and without hesitation.
The Following are the Best Tablets for Running Apps:
Contents
- SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi5G (US Cellular) 10.9” 128GB Android Tablet
- SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi 10.9” 256GB Android Tablet, IP68 Water
- Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 512GB, Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular
- Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 512GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP front12MP
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (2022), 13 2-in-1 Tablet & Laptop, Thin & Lightweight, Intel 12th Gen i7
- SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 12.4” 256GB Android Tablet
- Microsoft Surface Book 3 - 13.5 i5 - 8GB Memory - 256GB SSD
- Apple iPad (10th Generation) with A14 Bionic chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 64GB
- Apple iPad (10th Generation) with A14 Bionic chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 256GB, Wi-Fi 6 + 5G Cellular
- CHUWI Hi10 X Tablet
- Google Pixel Slate 2 in 1 i7
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ Wi-Fi, Mystic Black - 256 GB
- NuVision 8-inch Tablet PC 2GB RAM, 32GB SSD
- Dell Latitude 12 7000 7285 12.3 inch 2-IN-1 Tablet
- Samsung Electronics Galaxy Tab S5e 10.5
- CHUWI UBook Tablet
SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi5G (US Cellular) 10.9” 128GB Android Tablet |
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Operating System | Android |
Screen Size | 10.9 inches |
Display Resolution | 2304 X 1440 pixels (WUXGA+) |
Processor | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) |
GPU | Mali-G68 MP5 |
RAM | 6GB |
Storage Space | 128GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes, Up to 1TB expandable storage |
Main Camera | 8 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | 8,000 mAh (up to 18 hrs.) |
Connectivity | Wifi, Bluetooth, 5 G Cellular |
Pros | Performance, Quality Display |
Cons | None |
SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi 10.9” 256GB Android Tablet, IP68 Water |
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Operating System | Android |
Screen Size | 10.9 inches |
Display Resolution | 2304 X 1440 pixels (WUXGA+) |
Processor | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) |
GPU | Mali-G68 MP5 |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage Space | 256GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes, Up to 1TB expandable storage |
Main Camera | 8 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | 8,000 mAh (up to 18 hrs.) |
Connectivity | Wifi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Performance, Quality Display |
Cons | None |
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 512GB, Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular |
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Operating System | iOs |
Screen Size | 12.9 inches |
Display Resolution | 2732 x 2048 Pixels |
Processor | Apple M2 8 Core |
GPU | Apple M2 10 Core |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage Space | 512GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | No |
Main Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 10 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | Li-Po 10758 mAh |
Connectivity | Wifi, 5G, Bluetooth |
Pros | Display, Performance |
Cons | None |
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 512GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP front12MP |
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Operating System | iOs |
Screen Size | 12.9 inches |
Display Resolution | 2732 x 2048 Pixels |
Processor | Apple M2 8 Core |
GPU | Apple M2 10 Core |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage Space | 512GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | No |
Main Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 10 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | Li-Po 10758 mAh |
Connectivity | Wifi |
Pros | Large storage, Performance, Display Quality |
Cons | Quite expensive |
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (2022), 13 2-in-1 Tablet & Laptop, Thin & Lightweight, Intel 12th Gen i7 |
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Operating System | Windows 11 |
Screen Size | 13 inches |
Display Resolution | 2880 x 1920 Pixels |
Processor | Intel Core i7 |
GPU | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
RAM | 16GB |
Storage Space | 256GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 13 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 13 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | 15.5 Hours BATTERY LIFE |
Connectivity | Wifi |
Pros | Good performance, long battery life |
Cons | None |
SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 12.4” 256GB Android Tablet |
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Operating System | Android |
Screen Size | 12.4 inches |
Display Resolution | 2560 x 1600 pixels (WQXGA) |
Processor | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) |
GPU | Mali-G68 MP5 |
RAM | 12GB |
Storage Space | 256GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 8 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | Li-Po 10090 mAh, non-removable |
Connectivity | Wifi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Good performance, Long battery life |
Cons | None |
Microsoft Surface Book 3 - 13.5 i5 - 8GB Memory - 256GB SSD |
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Operating System | Windows 10 |
Screen Size | 13.5 inches |
Display Resolution | 3000 x 2000 (267 PPI) Pixels |
Processor | 10th Gen Intel Core i5 |
GPU | Intel Iris Plus Graphics |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage Space | 256GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 8 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 5 Megapixels |
Battery Life | up to 15.5 hours |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Design, Battery |
Cons | NA |
Apple iPad (10th Generation) with A14 Bionic chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 64GB |
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Operating System | iOS |
Screen Size | 10.9 inches |
Display Resolution | 2360 x 1640 Pixels |
Processor | A14 Bionic |
GPU | A14 Bionic 6 Core |
RAM | 4GB |
Storage Space | 64GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | No |
Main Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | Li-Po 7606 mAh |
Connectivity | Wifi, Bluetooth |
Cons | Storage |
Pros | Good performance, Quality Display |
Apple iPad (10th Generation) with A14 Bionic chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 256GB, Wi-Fi 6 + 5G Cellular |
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Operating System | iOS |
Screen Size | 10.9 inches |
Display Resolution | 2360 x 1640 Pixels |
Processor | A14 Bionic |
GPU | A14 Bionic 6 Core |
RAM | 4GB |
Storage Space | 256GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | No |
Main Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 12 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | Li-Po 7606 mAh |
Connectivity | Wifi, Bluetooth, Cellular |
Battery | Li-Po 7606 mAh |
Pros | Performance, Display, Battery life |
Cons | None |
CHUWI Hi10 X Tablet |
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Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
Screen Size | 10.1 Inches |
Display Resolution | 1920x1200 Pixels |
Processor | Intel Gemini-Lake N4100 CPU (4M Cache, up to 2.4Ghz |
GPU | Intel Graphics 600 |
RAM | LPDDR4 6GB |
Storage Space | 128 GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 5 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 5 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | 7.4V/3250mAh |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Performance, Lightweight and Portable |
Cons | None |
Google Pixel Slate 2 in 1 i7 |
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CPU | 8th Gen Intel Core i7 processo |
GPU | Intel HD |
Display Size | 12.3 inches |
Display Resolution | 3000x2000 pixels |
RAM | 16 GB |
Storage Space | 256 GB |
Operating System | Chrome OS |
Ports | USB, Headphone |
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 11.45 x 7.95 x 0.28 in |
Weight | 1.59 lbs |
Pros | Performance, Display Quality, Design |
Cons | Price |
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ Wi-Fi, Mystic Black - 256 GB |
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Operating System | Android 10.0 |
Screen Size | 12.4 Inches |
Display Resolution | 2800 x 1752 Pixels |
Processor | Qualcomm SDM865+ Octa Core |
GPU | Adreno 650 |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage Space | 256GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 13 + 5 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 8 Megapixels |
Battery Life | up to 14 hours |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Storage, Battery, Performance |
Cons | NA |
NuVision 8-inch Tablet PC 2GB RAM, 32GB SSD |
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Operating System | Windows |
Screen Size | 8 inches |
Display Resolution | 1920 x 1080 pixels |
Processor | Intel Atom Z3735F Quad-Core Processor |
GPU | Intel HD |
RAM | 2GB |
Storage Space | 32GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 8 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 5 Megapixels |
Battery Life | up to 6 hours |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Performance, Affordable |
Cons | None |
Dell Latitude 12 7000 7285 12.3 inch 2-IN-1 Tablet |
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Operating System | Windows 10 |
Screen Size | 12.3 inches |
Display Resolution | 2880x1920 pixels |
Processor | Intel Core i5-7Y54 |
GPU | Intel HD Graphics 615 |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage Space | 256GB SSD |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Back Camera | Not Applicable |
Webcam Camera | YES, Infrared |
Battery Life | up to 8 hours |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Performance, Display Quality, Storage Capacity |
Cons | NA |
Samsung Electronics Galaxy Tab S5e 10.5 |
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Operating System | Android 9 Pie |
Screen Size | 10.5 Inches |
Display Resolution | 2560x1600 pixels |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 |
GPU | Adreno |
RAM | 4GB |
Storage Space | 64GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 13 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 8 Megapixels |
Battery Life | up to 15 hours |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS |
Pros | Storage, Display Quality, Performance |
Cons | NA |
CHUWI UBook Tablet |
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Operating System | Windows 10 Home OS |
Screen Size | 11.6 Inches |
Display Resolution | 1920x1080 Pixels |
Processor | Intel Gemini-Lake N4100 Quad-cores |
GPU | Intel® UHD Graphics 600 , 700MHz |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage Space | 256 GB |
SD Card Expansion Slot | Yes |
Main Camera | 5 Megapixels |
Front Selfie Camera | 5 Megapixels |
Battery Capacity | 3500mAh |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Pros | Performance, Display Quality, Large storage |
Cons | None |
Also take a look at the Best High Performance Tablets in addition to the Best Chinese Tablets.
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