iPad and Android tablets have different price ranges, and which costs more depends on which specific models you compare

iPads generally cost more than most Android tablets at the same screen size, but the gap narrows or reverses depending on which specific models you're looking at. A base iPad starts around $329, while entry-level Android tablets from Samsung, Lenovo, and Amazon start between $150 and $250. High-end iPads (iPad Pro models) reach $1,099 or more, and premium Android tablets can match or exceed that price. The real question isn't whether one category is cheaper—it's which tablet in each category fits your budget and needs.

The price difference reflects more than just hardware. It includes how long each tablet receives software updates, how many apps are optimized for each system, and how well the tablet holds its resale value. Understanding these factors helps you compare the true cost, not just the sticker price.

Key Takeaways

  • Entry-level Android tablets cost $150 to $250, while the cheapest iPad starts at $329, making budget Android options less expensive for basic use.
  • Mid-range iPads ($500–$800) typically cost more than mid-range Android tablets ($300–$600) with similar screen sizes and processing power.
  • High-end iPad Pro models ($1,099–$1,599) and premium Android tablets (Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, $799–$1,099) overlap in price but serve different software ecosystems.
  • iPads receive software updates for 5 to 7 years after release, while most Android tablets receive 3 to 4 years, affecting long-term value.
  • Refurbished and previous-generation models of both iPad and Android tablets can reduce your cost by 20 to 40 percent.

Entry-level tablets: where Android is cheaper

If you want the lowest price to get a working tablet, Android wins. Amazon Fire tablets start at $99 for the 7-inch model and $149 for the 10-inch. Lenovo Tab M10 and Samsung Galaxy Tab A models fall in the $150–$250 range. The cheapest iPad—the standard iPad with a 10.9-inch screen—costs $329.

The trade-off is real. Entry-level Android tablets often have slower processors, dimmer screens, and fewer apps optimized for their resolution. Amazon Fire tablets run a modified version of Android that pushes Amazon's services. But if you need a tablet for reading, basic web browsing, video streaming, and email, these Android options work and cost significantly less upfront. For someone testing whether a tablet fits their routine, the lower price makes Android a practical choice.

Mid-range tablets: iPad pulls ahead in price

Once you move to tablets meant for regular daily use—not just occasional browsing—iPad prices climb faster than Android. An iPad Air (10.9-inch) costs $599. A Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9-inch) costs $349. Both have decent screens and processors, but the iPad Air is $250 more expensive.

At this price point, you're paying for iPad's reputation for longevity. iPads typically receive software updates for 5 to 7 years after release. Most Android tablets receive 3 to 4 years of updates. If you plan to keep the tablet for five years, the higher upfront cost of an iPad spreads across more years of use. That doesn't make it cheaper overall, but it changes how you think about the cost per year. A tablet you use for seven years costs less per year than one you replace after four years, even if the iPad costs more at purchase.

Premium tablets: prices converge

At the high end, iPad and Android tablets cost nearly the same. An iPad Pro 11-inch with 256GB storage costs $1,099. A Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra (14.6-inch) costs $1,099. Both have excellent screens, fast processors, and stylus support. A Microsoft Surface Pro (which runs Windows, not Android) starts at $999 and competes in the same space.

At this price level, your choice depends on which software ecosystem you already use. If you own a Mac, iPhone, or Apple Watch, an iPad integrates more smoothly. If you use Android phones or prefer Google services, a Samsung tablet or other Android option makes more sense. The hardware quality is comparable; the price difference comes down to brand and ecosystem lock-in. Both will handle demanding tasks like video editing, photo work, and gaming without lag.

What affects the price difference

Apple controls both the hardware and software for iPads, which means fewer manufacturing partners and more consistent pricing. Android tablets come from many manufacturers—Samsung, Lenovo, Amazon, OnePlus—each with different cost structures and profit margins. This fragmentation means Android tablets have a wider price range, with more options at the low end.

Storage capacity also affects price differently. An iPad with 256GB costs $150 more than the 64GB model. A Samsung Galaxy Tab with 256GB might cost $100 more. Both tablets charge for storage, but Apple's markup is steeper. If you need large storage, budget accordingly.

Processor speed matters less than you might think. iPad's A-series chips are fast, but so are Samsung's Snapdragon processors and Lenovo's MediaTek chips. For video, photo editing, and gaming, all three handle the work. The real difference is in app availability—more apps are optimized for iPad, so performance feels smoother even on older iPad hardware. This software advantage is part of why iPads command higher prices.

Refurbished and older models save money on both sides

If you're flexible about age, refurbished tablets cut costs significantly. A refurbished iPad Air from the previous generation costs $400–$450, versus $599 for the current model. A refurbished Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 costs $350–$400, versus $549 for the S9.

Refurbished means the tablet was returned, inspected, cleaned, and repackaged by the manufacturer or a certified seller. It comes with a warranty (usually 90 days to one year). The risk is low, and the savings are real. Check the return policy before buying—most retailers allow 30 days to return a refurbished tablet if it doesn't work as described. Buying refurbished is one of the fastest ways to narrow the price gap between iPad and Android.

Total cost of ownership: more than just the price tag

The tablet's sticker price is only part of what you spend. Accessories add up: a keyboard case for an iPad costs $150–$350, while a keyboard case for a Samsung tablet costs $80–$200. A stylus for iPad (Apple Pencil) costs $99–$129; a stylus for Samsung (S Pen) is often included or costs $30–$50.

Software also matters. Both iPad and Android tablets have free apps, but premium apps and subscriptions (Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, Procreate for iPad) cost the same on both. If you're buying a tablet for work, factor in the software you'll need before comparing prices.

Resale value is another consideration. iPads hold their value better than Android tablets. A two-year-old iPad Air might resell for 50–60% of its original price. A two-year-old Samsung Galaxy Tab might resell for 30–40%. If you plan to upgrade in a few years, the iPad's higher resale value narrows the real cost difference. Over a five-year ownership cycle, this advantage can offset some of the higher purchase price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do iPads cost more if Android is free?

Android is free for manufacturers to use, but that doesn't make tablets cheaper. Samsung, Lenovo, and other makers still pay for processors, screens, and assembly. Apple's higher prices reflect its brand reputation, longer software support, and the fact that it controls the entire supply chain. Free software doesn't automatically mean lower hardware costs.

Is a cheaper Android tablet worth buying if I'm not sure I'll use it much?

Yes. If you're uncertain about how much you'll use a tablet, a $150–$200 Android tablet is a lower-risk way to find out. If you use it regularly, you can upgrade to a better model later. If you don't, you've spent less money. An iPad at $329 is a bigger commitment if you're still deciding.

Do iPad and Android tablets have the same apps?

Most popular apps (Netflix, Gmail, Microsoft Office, Spotify) exist on both. But some apps are iPad-only or Android-only. Games and creative apps are more likely to launch on iPad first. If you need a specific app, check whether it's available on your chosen tablet before buying.

Will a cheap Android tablet last as long as an iPad?

Probably not. Entry-level Android tablets receive 2–3 years of software updates, while iPads receive 5–7 years. After updates stop, the tablet still works, but it becomes slower and less find. If you want a tablet that works well for five years, budget for a mid-range or higher model on either side, or plan to replace it sooner.

Should I buy last year's iPad or this year's Android tablet at the same price?

It depends on how long you want to keep it. Last year's iPad will receive updates for several more years. This year's Android tablet will too, but for fewer years total. If you upgrade every 2–3 years, the Android tablet is fine. If you keep tablets for 5+ years, the older iPad is the better choice.