Tablet prices range from around $150 to $2,000 depending on the brand, screen size, storage capacity, and whether it has cellular connectivity

The most affordable tablets start at $150 to $250 and come from manufacturers like Amazon and Apple's older models. Mid-range tablets, which most households choose, cost $300 to $800 and include current iPad models, Samsung Galaxy Tabs, and Lenovo devices. High-end tablets designed for professionals or heavy use run $1,000 to $2,000. The price you pay depends on five main factors: the brand name, the size of the screen, how much storage space it has, whether it connects to cellular networks, and how new the model is.

Most people spend between $400 and $600 on a tablet that will last several years and handle everyday tasks like browsing, email, video, and reading. Budget shoppers can find usable tablets for $200 to $300, while professionals or heavy users may spend $800 to $1,200 for advanced features and performance.

Key Takeaways

  • Budget tablets cost $150 to $300, mid-range tablets cost $300 to $800, and premium tablets cost $800 and up.
  • Screen size matters: a 7-inch tablet costs less than a 10-inch or 12-inch model from the same brand.
  • Storage capacity (64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or higher) adds $50 to $200 to the base price.
  • Adding cellular connectivity (LTE or 5G) typically adds $100 to $150 to the price of a Wi-Fi-only model.
  • Older models and refurbished tablets can cost 20 to 40 percent less than the newest versions.

How screen size affects the price

Larger screens cost more because they require bigger components and more material. A 7-inch tablet is the smallest common size and usually the cheapest option in any product line. An 8-inch tablet sits in the middle. A 10-inch tablet is the most popular size for general use and costs more than smaller models. An 11-inch or 12-inch tablet, often called a "pro" model, costs the most because it approaches laptop size.

For example, within Apple's iPad line, a 10.9-inch iPad costs more than a 10.2-inch iPad, and an 11-inch iPad Pro costs significantly more than both. The same pattern holds for Samsung Galaxy Tabs and other brands. If you want to keep costs down, a 7 or 8-inch tablet saves money, though the smaller screen makes reading and typing less comfortable for extended use. The jump from 10 inches to 12 inches can add $200 to $400 to the price, so consider how you will actually use the device before paying for the largest size.

Storage capacity and its impact on price

Tablets come with different amounts of built-in storage: typically 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB. Each step up in storage usually costs $50 to $100 more. A 64GB model is the entry-level option and is often the cheapest version of a tablet. A 128GB model is the middle ground and works for most people who store photos, videos, and apps. A 256GB or 512GB model is for people who keep large video libraries or work with design files.

Unlike phones, most tablets do not have expandable storage slots where you can add a memory card. This means you choose your storage size at purchase and cannot upgrade it later. If you plan to store many videos or large files, buying the higher storage option upfront is worth the extra cost rather than paying for cloud storage subscriptions over time. For casual use—email, web browsing, and streaming—64GB or 128GB is usually enough.

Wi-Fi versus cellular connectivity

A Wi-Fi-only tablet connects to the internet through your home network or public Wi-Fi. A cellular tablet has a built-in modem and can connect to the internet through a mobile carrier's network, similar to a phone. Cellular tablets cost $100 to $150 more than the Wi-Fi version of the same model.

Whether to pay for cellular depends on how you use the tablet. If you mainly use it at home or in places with Wi-Fi, a Wi-Fi-only model saves money. If you travel frequently or want internet access anywhere, a cellular model is worth the extra cost. Keep in mind that adding cellular also means a monthly bill from a carrier, which is a separate ongoing cost beyond the tablet's purchase price. Most carriers charge $10 to $30 per month for tablet data plans, or you can add a tablet to an existing phone plan for less.

Brand differences and what you pay for

Apple iPads tend to cost more than Android tablets from Samsung, Lenovo, or Amazon. A base iPad starts around $329, while a Samsung Galaxy Tab S starts around $349 to $449. Amazon Fire tablets are among the cheapest options, starting at $150 to $200. The price difference reflects the brand's reputation, software support, build quality, and how long the company typically updates the device with new features.

Apple products hold their resale value better than Android tablets, which matters if you plan to sell or trade in your tablet later. Samsung and Lenovo tablets often offer more customization and flexibility for technical users. Amazon Fire tablets are designed to work closely with Amazon services like Prime Video and Kindle. None of these choices is objectively "best"—the right brand depends on whether you already use that company's ecosystem and what features matter to you. If you own an iPhone or Mac, an iPad integrates more smoothly; if you use Android phones or Windows computers, a Samsung or Lenovo tablet may be a better fit.

Older models and refurbished tablets cost less

When a new tablet model launches, the previous year's model usually drops in price by 20 to 40 percent. A tablet that cost $500 when new might cost $300 to $400 six months later. This is a legitimate way to save money if you do not need the absolute newest features. Older models still receive software updates for several years and perform well for everyday tasks like browsing, email, and video.

Refurbished tablets—devices that were returned, repaired, and resold—can cost 30 to 50 percent less than new ones. Refurbished devices sold by the manufacturer (like Apple's refurbished store) come with the same warranty as new tablets and are reliable. Refurbished tablets from third-party sellers may have shorter warranties or less protection, so check the return policy before buying. If you are budget-conscious, waiting a few months for a price drop or buying a refurbished model from the manufacturer is a smart strategy.

What you should expect to spend

For most households, a mid-range tablet in the $400 to $600 range offers the best balance of cost and performance. This price point gets you a current-generation device with enough storage for photos and apps, a screen size that is comfortable for reading and video, and software support for several years. If you are buying for a child or occasional use, a budget tablet at $200 to $300 is sufficient. If you use a tablet for work, design, or video editing, spending $800 to $1,200 on a professional-grade model is justified.

Before you buy, decide what matters most to you: screen size, storage, brand loyalty, or the lowest possible price. That choice will guide you to the right tablet at the right price for your situation. Check the manufacturer's website or major retailers to compare current prices, and look for sales around major shopping events or when new models are announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay for a plan after I buy a cellular tablet?

Yes. A cellular tablet requires a monthly plan from a carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile. Plans typically cost $10 to $30 per month depending on data allowance. Some carriers offer shared plans where you add a tablet to an existing phone plan, which may cost less than a standalone tablet plan.

Can I use a tablet without paying for Wi-Fi or cellular?

Yes. A Wi-Fi-only tablet works offline for reading, writing, drawing, and playing games. You only need internet when you want to browse the web, stream video, or read new apps. Many people use tablets offline at home and connect to Wi-Fi when needed.

Is a refurbished tablet as good as a new one?

Refurbished tablets sold directly by the manufacturer are reliable and come with a warranty. They have been tested and repaired to like-new condition. Refurbished tablets from third-party sellers vary in quality, so check the warranty and return policy. Manufacturer refurbished is the safer choice.

Will the price of tablets drop if I wait?

Prices typically drop when new models are announced, usually in spring or fall depending on the brand. If a new model is expected soon, waiting a few weeks or months can save you money on the current model. Checking the manufacturer's announcement schedule helps you time your purchase.

What is the difference between an iPad and an Android tablet?

iPads run Apple's iOS software and work best with other Apple devices. Android tablets run Google's Android software and work with a wider range of devices and services. iPads generally cost more but hold value longer. Android tablets offer more variety in price and features. The choice depends on what devices you already own and what software you prefer.