Tablet prices range from under $100 to over $2,000 depending on brand, screen size, storage, and processing power
A basic tablet costs between $80 and $150. Mid-range tablets run $200 to $500. High-end tablets from Apple, Samsung, and Microsoft can exceed $1,000. The price you pay depends on what you actually use the device for — reading, video calls, light work, or demanding tasks like photo editing or gaming.
Most people find what they need in the $200 to $400 range. That buys you a tablet with a responsive screen, enough storage for apps and files, and a processor that handles everyday tasks without lag. Spending more gets you a larger screen, faster chip, more storage, or a stylus included in the box.
Key Takeaways
- Budget tablets under $150 work for reading, streaming, and web browsing but have slower processors and smaller screens.
- Mid-range tablets between $250 and $500 offer the best balance of screen quality, speed, and storage for most users.
- Premium tablets over $600 include features like stylus support, high refresh rate screens, or the latest processors, but cost significantly more.
- Storage capacity, screen size, and whether you choose WiFi-only or cellular connectivity all affect the final price.
Budget tablets: $80 to $150
Entry-level tablets are made by Amazon, Lenovo, and Samsung. The Amazon Fire 7 and Fire HD 8 start around $100. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A series begins near $150. These devices have smaller screens (7 to 10 inches), less RAM, and slower processors than pricier models.
A budget tablet is practical for watching videos, reading books, checking email, and light web browsing. The screen refresh rate is usually 60Hz, which means scrolling looks less smooth than on expensive tablets. Storage typically maxes out at 64GB or 128GB. Battery life is usually adequate — six to eight hours of active use.
The trade-off is speed. Apps take longer to open. Multitasking can cause stuttering. Games with heavy graphics will not run well. If you only need a device for casual use and do not mind waiting a few seconds for things to load, a budget tablet saves you money.
Mid-range tablets: $200 to $500
This category includes the iPad (10th generation), Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, and Lenovo Tab P11 Pro. Screens are larger — 10 to 11 inches — and sharper. Processors are faster. RAM is higher, usually 4GB to 8GB. Storage options go up to 256GB.
A mid-range tablet handles everyday work: document editing, video calls, photo viewing, and streaming. The screen refresh rate is often 90Hz or 120Hz, making scrolling feel smoother. Battery life typically reaches 10 to 12 hours. These tablets are fast enough that you will not notice lag when switching between apps or opening files.
Many mid-range tablets support a stylus, though you may need to buy it separately. The iPad includes Apple Pencil support at this price point. Samsung tablets in this range often come with a stylus included or sold separately for $30 to $80. If you plan to take notes or sketch, factor in the stylus cost.
Premium tablets: $600 to $2,000
High-end tablets include the iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, and Microsoft Surface Pro. These devices have the largest screens (11 to 13 inches), the fastest processors, and the most RAM (8GB to 16GB). Storage can reach 1TB. Screen technology is top-tier — high refresh rates (120Hz or 144Hz), OLED panels, or mini-LED backlighting.
Premium tablets are built for professional work: video editing, graphic design, 3D modeling, and coding. The stylus is often included and has pressure sensitivity that rivals a drawing tablet. Keyboards are sold separately but integrate seamlessly. These devices can replace a laptop for many tasks.
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch with 256GB storage costs around $1,100. The 11-inch version starts near $800. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra with 256GB runs approximately $1,100. Microsoft's Surface Pro 9 with 256GB storage and a processor upgrade can exceed $1,500. At this price, you are paying for processing power, screen quality, and professional-grade accessories.
Storage and connectivity affect the price
A tablet with 64GB storage costs less than the same model with 256GB. The difference is usually $50 to $150 depending on the brand. If you store many photos, videos, or apps, larger storage is worth the cost. If you use cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud), you can manage with less local storage.
WiFi-only tablets are cheaper than models with cellular connectivity. A WiFi iPad costs $329; the same iPad with cellular costs $479 — a $150 difference. Cellular is useful if you travel and need internet away from WiFi networks. Most people use WiFi at home and work, so the extra cost may not be necessary.
Some tablets come with a stylus included; others sell it separately. An Apple Pencil costs $99 to $129. Samsung's S Pen is often bundled with Galaxy Tab S models but costs $40 to $70 if purchased alone. A keyboard case for a tablet runs $50 to $300 depending on quality and brand.
Comparing prices across major brands
| Brand and Model | Screen Size | Base Storage | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Fire 7 | 7 inches | 16GB | $60–$100 |
| Amazon Fire HD 8 | 8 inches | 32GB | $90–$150 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 | 10.4 inches | 32GB | $150–$200 |
| iPad (10th generation) | 10.9 inches | 64GB | $329 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite | 10.4 inches | 64GB | $250–$350 |
| iPad Air | 10.9 inches | 64GB | $599 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 | 11 inches | 128GB | $799–$900 |
| iPad Pro 11-inch | 11 inches | 128GB | $799 |
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch | 12.9 inches | 128GB | $1,099 |
Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices and may vary by retailer or region. Sales and discounts are common, especially during holiday shopping seasons. Older models often drop in price when new versions release.
Where prices differ by retailer and timing
The same tablet may cost different amounts at different stores. Apple's iPad prices are consistent across retailers because Apple controls pricing. Samsung, Amazon, and Lenovo tablets often have sales at Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Prices may drop $30 to $100 during Black Friday, back-to-school sales, or when a new model launches.
Refurbished and open-box tablets cost 15 to 30 percent less than new ones. A refurbished iPad that originally cost $329 might sell for $250 to $280. Refurbished devices are tested and come with a warranty, though usually shorter than a new device warranty. Open-box items are returned by customers and resold at a discount; they may have minor cosmetic damage but are otherwise functional.
Trade-in programs let you explore the value of an old tablet toward a new one. Apple offers trade-in credit up to $300 depending on the device's age and condition. Best Buy and other retailers run similar programs. If you have an older tablet, trading it in can reduce the effective cost of an upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a $100 tablet worth buying?
A $100 tablet is worth buying if you only need it for reading, streaming, and web browsing. The screen is smaller and the processor is slower than pricier models, but it handles basic tasks. If you plan to use it for work, photo editing, or gaming, spend more.
What is the cheapest iPad?
The iPad (10th generation) starts at $329 with 64GB storage and WiFi connectivity. This is Apple's least expensive full-size iPad. The iPad mini is smaller and starts at $499. Older iPad models sometimes sell at a discount when new versions release.
Do I need to spend $1,000 on a tablet?
No. Most people find what they need for $250 to $500. Spend $1,000 or more only if you do professional work like video editing, graphic design, or coding. For everyday use, a mid-range tablet is sufficient.
Why do tablets with cellular cost more?
Cellular tablets include a modem and SIM card slot, which adds hardware cost. You also pay a monthly fee to a carrier for data service. WiFi-only tablets are cheaper upfront and have no monthly cost, but you need WiFi to connect to the internet.
Can I find a tablet cheaper than the prices listed?
Yes. Sales, discounts, and refurbished models often cost less than the manufacturer's suggested price. Check Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Amazon for current deals. Older tablet models drop in price when new versions release.