The most useful tablet companions are a keyboard, stylus, and external storage
A tablet works best when paired with tools that extend what it can do. The most common complements are a keyboard (which turns a tablet into a laptop-like device for typing), a stylus (which lets you write, draw, or take notes by hand), and external storage (which adds space for files, photos, and videos). Which one matters most depends on how you use your tablet—someone who writes emails all day needs a keyboard more than someone who mainly watches videos or reads.
Beyond those three, other useful additions include a stand (to prop up your tablet hands-free), a case (for protection), headphones or speakers (for better audio), and a charging dock (for convenient power). None of these are required to use a tablet, but each solves a real problem that comes up once you start using one regularly.
Key Takeaways
- A keyboard is the most common tablet accessory and is essential if you plan to type long documents, emails, or messages regularly.
- A stylus lets you write, draw, or annotate documents by hand, and works best on tablets with stylus support built in (iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab S, Microsoft Surface).
- External storage via USB-C, microSD card, or cloud services extends your tablet's capacity without replacing the device.
- A stand or case keeps your tablet accessible and protected, and many keyboard cases combine both functions.
- Headphones, speakers, and charging docks improve comfort and convenience but are not necessary for basic tablet use.
Keyboards: when you need to type more than a few sentences
A keyboard is the single most popular tablet accessory because typing on a tablet screen gets uncomfortable after a few minutes. Keyboards come in three main types: case keyboards (built into a protective cover), detachable keyboards (that connect magnetically or via Bluetooth), and standalone wireless keyboards (that pair with your tablet but sit separately).
Case keyboards are the most convenient—they stay attached, protect your tablet, and fold into a stand position. Detachable keyboards offer flexibility: you can use your tablet alone when you want, then snap the keyboard on when you need to type. Standalone keyboards give you the most freedom to position your tablet however you like, but you have to manage three separate pieces.
Most tablets connect to keyboards via Bluetooth, which is wireless and works with many brands. Some iPads and Microsoft Surface devices use magnetic connectors or proprietary docks instead, which are faster to connect but lock you into one brand. If you type more than a few sentences a day—emails, documents, messages—a keyboard pays for itself in comfort and speed.
Styluses: for writing, drawing, and note-taking by hand
A stylus (also called a digital pen) lets you write or draw directly on your tablet screen. It feels more natural than typing for some tasks: taking handwritten notes in a meeting, annotating a PDF, sketching, or signing documents. Not all tablets support styluses—you need one with a pressure-sensitive screen.
iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Mini all support the Apple Pencil. Samsung Galaxy Tab S models support the S Pen. Microsoft Surface devices support the Surface Pen. Standard iPad and basic Android tablets usually do not have stylus support, so check your tablet's specs before buying a stylus.
Styluses range from $20 basic models to $130 for advanced ones with pressure sensitivity and tilt detection. The more expensive versions feel closer to writing with a real pen, but basic styluses work fine for note-taking and casual drawing. If you rarely write by hand on your tablet, you probably do not need one. If you take notes in meetings, annotate documents, or draw regularly, a stylus makes those tasks much faster and more natural.
External storage: when your tablet runs out of space
Tablets come with fixed storage—usually 64 GB, 128 GB, or 256 GB—and you cannot swap out the drive like you can on some laptops. When you run out of space, you have three options: delete files, use cloud storage, or add external storage.
Cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud, Dropbox) lets you store files on the internet and access them from any device. This works well for documents and photos, but it requires an internet connection and a subscription if you need more than a few gigabytes. External storage devices connect directly to your tablet via USB-C or a USB adapter. A portable SSD (solid-state drive) or USB flash drive gives you when ready access to large files without needing the internet. Some tablets also support microSD cards (small memory cards that slot into a card reader), though many newer tablets have removed this option.
If you store a lot of videos, photos, or large files on your tablet, external storage or cloud storage is worth considering. For most people who mainly use apps, email, and web browsing, the built-in storage is enough.
Stands: for hands-free viewing and typing
A tablet stand props your device up at an angle so you can watch videos, read, or type without holding it. Stands range from straightforward plastic props (under $10) to adjustable arms that clamp to a desk or bed frame. Some keyboard cases have built-in stands, which is convenient if you already have a keyboard.
A stand is most useful if you watch videos or video calls on your tablet regularly, or if you use a keyboard and want to position your screen at eye level. Without a stand, you either hold the tablet (tiring) or prop it against something unstable. If your tablet spends most of its time in your hands or on your lap, a stand is optional.
Cases and protection: balancing durability and weight
A case protects your tablet from drops, scratches, and dust. Cases range from thin sleeves (lightweight but minimal protection) to rugged cases with thick padding (heavy but very protective). Many people choose a case keyboard, which combines protection and typing in one piece.
A basic case costs $15 to $40 and is worth buying if you carry your tablet around or have kids in the house. If your tablet mostly stays on a desk or table at home, a case is less critical. Screen protectors (thin films that cover the display) are less common for tablets than for phones, but they can prevent scratches if you use a stylus frequently.
Headphones, speakers, and charging docks: comfort and convenience
Tablets have built-in speakers, but they are often tinny and quiet. Bluetooth headphones or external speakers make video, music, and calls sound much better. A good portable Bluetooth speaker costs $30 to $100 and works with any tablet.
A charging dock holds your tablet upright while it charges, which is convenient if you use it as a bedside alarm or kitchen display. Most tablets charge via USB-C cable, so a dock is optional—you can charge with the cable alone. If you want your tablet to look like a smart display (showing the time, weather, or calendar while charging), a dock with a stand is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a keyboard for my tablet?
Only if you type regularly. If you mainly browse, watch videos, or use apps, the on-screen keyboard is fine. If you write emails, documents, or messages for more than a few minutes at a time, a keyboard makes typing much faster and more comfortable.
Can I use any keyboard with my tablet?
Most Bluetooth keyboards work with any tablet, but some keyboards are designed for specific brands. Check the product description to confirm it works with your tablet's operating system (iPad, Android, or Windows). Magnetic or proprietary connectors only work with certain models.
What is the difference between a stylus and a regular pen?
A stylus has a special tip that the tablet screen recognizes. A regular pen will not work on a tablet screen. Not all tablets support styluses—only models with pressure-sensitive screens do. Check your tablet's specs before buying a stylus.
Is cloud storage better than external storage?
Cloud storage is convenient because you can access files from any device, but it requires internet and may cost money for large amounts. External storage is faster and does not need internet, but you have to carry the device with you. Many people use both: cloud for important documents and external storage for large video or photo libraries.
Can I use my tablet as a laptop replacement?
With a keyboard, stylus, and stand, a tablet can handle many laptop tasks like email, web browsing, document editing, and note-taking. It is less suited to heavy video editing, coding, or running specialized software. It depends on what you do most often.