What tablet parameters are needed for games. Gaming tablets

The productivity of tablets is growing at a tremendous pace from year to year: it’s not for nothing that they are called portable computers. Along with this, opportunities also grow. They turn into full-fledged gaming devices. And consumers, in turn, need to figure out which tablet is best for gaming?

Why tablet games are so popular

If we consider the IT market as a whole, then, surprisingly, one of the most dynamically developing segments is the gaming industry. According to some analysts, in 2016 the share of mobile games will reach 30% of the total volume of software content in the world and will only increase in the future.

Here are the main factors influencing the development of mobile games:

first of all, increasing the number of available mobile devices that provide the required performance;
high popularity of free and shareware games (with further purchase of additional options within the game or display of advertising);
an increase in the quality of application games, which includes not only improvements in graphics and interface, but also in the gameplay itself, and the buyer is really willing to pay money for this;
introducing an element of competition through the use of online solutions.

Everyone now plays games on phones and tablets: from children at a very early age to grandparents. Let's consider what is worth paying attention to if you decide to buy a tablet for such games.

What parameters are most important for a gaming tablet?

The general features of a gaming tablet look like this: high performance; large screen with good resolution; Capacious internal memory. In this case, the main characteristic of the tablet will be its performance. They depend on the quality of the electronic filling: a powerful multi-core processor, a large amount of RAM, a separate video chip; simply put, the higher the numbers, the better and faster your tablet will work.

At the same time, all other characteristics (case materials, screen diagonal, etc.) fade into the background, but there are those that should not be neglected.

Which processors are best for gaming?

If you want to understand which tablet is best for gaming, then you need to understand the performance. Each device has a processor. And it is better to give preference to well-known brands: Nvidia Tegra; Samsung Exynos; Qualcomm Snapdragon, Intel Atom.

Some devices have Chinese analogues, which sometimes cause problems. Even when choosing a tablet with a well-known brand processor, you need to pay attention to number of cores and clock speed, because there are budget versions of chips. You can also look for reviews on how certain processors behave in a particular game. A particular problem with Android tablets from second-tier brands that use little-known chips is that they cannot get technical support to help solve their problems with drivers, device performance, and so on.

Also, most users do not distinguish between the concepts chipset, processor and SoC(system-on-chip). In fact, these are three different terms. A chipset is a set of chips that enable the processor, memory, and other electronics to work together. SoC is a multifunctional system built on a single chip. The SoC includes not only the processor whose performance is usually discussed, but additional processors responsible for processing audio, video, standard tasks, and so on. And each individual block processor is called a core. Many may also be confused by the marketing ploys of sellers in describing the number of cores. For example, Nvidia's eight-core Tegra 2 SoC includes a dual-core Cortex-A9 processor. The remaining six core blocks are responsible for other functions: audio processing, video encoding/decoding, working with graphics (there are 8 more mini-cores inside this block) and standard services.

For processors the parameter is also important heat transfer. This factor depends both on the actual operation of the chip itself and on the design features of the tablets themselves (size, type of material used, etc.). It’s not very pleasant to play on a tablet that will “burn” in your hands after 20 minutes. Such features should also be learned from reviews of a specific model.

As a result, when choosing a device for gaming, if you take into account the chipset, the name of the device manufacturer, the history of its other models, OS updates, stability and similar parameters - they will tell you much more than simple numbers from the specifications.

What other parameters are important in a gaming tablet?

As described above, it is important for a gaming device to have graphics accelerator, which allows you to run applications in higher quality. They take on some of the image processing tasks. Currently, most graphics chips are produced using cores: PowerVR (Imagination Technologies), Mali (ARM), Adreno (Qualcomm) and GeForce ULP (nVIDIA).

Regarding RAM, then the principle “the more the better” works here. The minimum volume for a modern gaming tablet is 2 GB. In addition, gaming applications require a lot of space, so it is better to choose a device with a large internal memory capacity, with no less than 32 GB. The presence of a slot for memory cards will be a definite plus for those who like to store a large game library.

In terms of ergonomics, an important parameter is device weight– if you use it for a long time, your hands will hurt from a heavy tablet. Playing on small devices is not always convenient. It is advisable to purchase a model with a screen of at least 8 inches diagonally and permissions not lower than FullHD. The device's sensor must support simultaneous pressing at 10 points. If you often play, for example, on the road, then it is better to look at models with a high battery volume– such devices will not discharge after an hour of play. Additionally, you can buy, with tips for choosing which we have a separate one.

Let's look at several tablet options that are great for games from:

Sony develops its tablets in an evolutionary way and alternates full-size devices with compact ones. The latest generation has increased the screen resolution to QHD and acquired a powerful hardware platform that scores more than 50 thousand points in AnTuTu. Considering the 3 GB of RAM, the gaming resource will last the tablet for a long time. Sony mobile devices traditionally integrate well with the PlayStation line and stand out from competitors with increased dust and moisture resistance. For the model in question, it corresponds to IP68 class and allows you to endure a half-hour dive to a depth of one and a half meters without consequences. The display matrix has a wide dynamic range, so the tablet is comfortable to use both in complete darkness and in direct sunlight, and it is convenient to hold it in any orientation, thanks to the wide frames on all sides.

We cannot ignore the model from Apple - . It has proven itself to be the best in many respects. The developers equipped their gadget with a latest-generation tri-core processor, which is perfectly adapted to iOS. Well, most of the games here just fly thanks to good optimization. 4G support will allow you to play the most popular games online. The clarity of the picture on the 9.7-inch Retina screen leaves no questions. It is also worth noting the lightness of the device and the absence of overheating of the case.

Samsung decided to take into account consumer preferences and transferred its older lines of tablets to a 4:3 form factor. According to the new concept, they are now supposed to be used primarily for the Internet and working with documents. At the same time, the powerful filling and wide end frames make it attractive in terms of gaming. A significant contribution to the gaming appeal of the tablet is made by the excellent Super AMOLED screen and 3 GB of RAM. If the choice is within the same model range, then keep in mind that the older representative of the Galaxy Tab S2 has significantly better autonomy compared to the younger one. If you need a high-speed mobile connection to data networks, pay attention to the SM-815 modification with 4G support.

The gaming orientation of the device is indicated by a design more suitable for a two-handed grip and a symmetrical arrangement of stereo speakers. Thanks to proprietary BoomSound technology and a good selection of components, it can boast of fairly high-quality sound. The display matrix has a large dynamic range, so the screen does not dazzle in the dark or fade in the sun, and due to the good oleophobic coating, there are almost no fingerprints left on the glass. The device is equipped with a 64-bit version of the NVidia Tegra K1 SoC, which scores more than 50 thousand points in tests in AnTuTu. The ninth Nexus also has all the necessary sensors: an electronic compass, a light sensor, a gyroscope and an accelerometer.

Updated: 09/13/2018 18:41:06

Expert: Lev Kaufman

Despite the fact that modern “shovel” smartphones with their diagonals have greatly pushed tablets out of the gadget market, the latter still remain relevant. Such a thing will be especially useful if you give it to a child to keep him busy. Such special devices will be discussed in today’s rating-review of the best gaming tablets from Expertology.

How to choose a tablet for gaming

Let's start with what you should consider when choosing a tablet for games for a child, and for an adult too. In a nutshell - the same as when choosing a desktop PC: the power of the processor, the graphics module, the screen parameters, and much more will be important here. But there will be nuances for almost every point, and we will briefly consider them.

CPU

Tablets, like desktop PCs, are also naturally equipped with central processors, but here they are somewhat different - the so-called “mobile” ones and often have names that are not entirely familiar. They often take on some of the functions of the graphics module.

The processors included in the review are Snapdragons 435, 625, 660, 820, 835; also a slightly exotic HiSilicon Kirin 960 in a tablet from Huawei and separately for special connoisseurs of the Apple A10X. You can use them as a guide when choosing.

RAM and permanent memory

Tablets use RAM and ROM. The same principles apply here, just different numbers. For a comfortable game you need as much RAM as possible, so our experts recommend gaming tablets with at least 3 GB of RAM. As for the internal memory, variations are possible here, especially since it can usually be expanded with an additional SD card.

Screen and general dimensions

Although the technical data described above are the most important in a gaming tablet, they may not mean much to the average user, but the screen size is obvious to everyone. Here you should be guided by personal comfort and conditions of future use (carrying, convenience for the child, etc.). There are also such parameters as resistive or capacitive screen. We do not consider the first ones at all in our rating-review, since they are completely unsuitable for a comfortable game. Matrix type – IPS only and multi-touch function. When choosing, you should not forget about the overall dimensions of the device, since an inexpensive tablet may turn out to be thick and weighty. Our experts have selected the optimal models.

Autonomy

This is an important point when you are going to carry the gaming tablet with you for a long time, and give it to your child only for a short time. You can always forget your charger at home. Moreover, with a resource-intensive modern game the battery will drain very quickly. In principle, you need to ensure that the battery capacity is not lower than 4000 mAh, but Expertology experts decided to look ahead at progress and in our review you will find devices with a capacity of 7000 mAh and even higher. Expertology experts strongly do not recommend saving on this seemingly insignificant point.

Design and material

There is already a complete taste here. Metal is not always and not necessarily good, and plastic is not always and not necessarily bad. You need to listen to tactile sensations, how the tablet fits in your hands, whether it fits where you need it, etc. The only thing is that the soft-touch coating is very pleasant to the touch, but, unfortunately, rarely do any copies hold it for a long time. In general, any external coating does not always hold up well, especially if used less carefully. But this applies not only to tablets, but to everything in general.

operating system

And finally, a few words about the moment that you may miss, and then face disappointment. Modern tablets are mainly available on one of three operating systems: Android, iOS and Windows. The problem is that even a powerful and fast gadget may turn out to be useless in terms of suitability for a particular game. Here our experts recommend starting from the following. Most games are adapted specifically for Android, since it is the most popular OS in the world. As for Windows tablets, they are more suitable for work use, but there are exceptions. It is difficult to advise users of iOS gadgets, since they themselves know everything. The only thing is that some game makers do not like iOS for a number of reasons.

Rating of the best tablets for games

Nomination	place	product name	price
Best Cheap Gaming Tablets	1		13,990 RUR
	2		RUB 14,553
The best tablets for gaming in the mid-price segment	1		RUB 27,490
	2		22,790 RUR
	3		19,420 ₽
The most powerful tablets for gaming	1		RUB 57,480
	2		RUB 44,590
	3		RUB 35,800

Best Cheap Gaming Tablets

Now let’s move directly to the rating and determine which tablets are still the best according to Expertology. And the first group will be devoted to the most budget models. This includes two gaming tablets - from Huawei and Xiaomi. Both models are equipped with glossy capacitive screens with multi-touch support, IPS matrix, and automatic screen orientation. They also contain all the obvious options for modern tablets, such as headphone/headset output, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radio modules, GPS and GLONASS navigation tools, built-in microphone and speakers.

This model was announced in 2017 and even created some sensation, quite rightly so. The gaming tablet is equipped with an 8-inch widescreen screen with a resolution of 1920x1200. The dimensions of the device themselves are 213x123x7.5 mm, and the weight is 310 g. The case is combined - a metal frame, a plastic back cover.

The tablet is equipped with a central eight-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 processor at 1.4 GHz. The processor core is Cortex-A53. Manufactured using a 28 nm process technology. Fast graphics are provided by the Adreno 505 video chip. The tablet has 3 GB of RAM on board and 32 GB of internal memory. The internal memory can be expanded via microSDXC up to 128 GB.

Like many, but not all, tablets, this model is equipped with a single slot for a nano SIM mobile phone card. The module itself supports a wide range of standards from GSM900 to LTE.

Both cameras of the tablet - the rear and the front - have a resolution of 8 megapixels, the rear one is equipped with autofocus. Sensors include an accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, and light sensor. A nice bonus is the presence of a fingerprint scanner.

A micro-USB connector is used to charge the device; it can be connected to a desktop PC via regular USB. The function of connecting external peripherals exists, but as an option, and this question needs to be clarified for the specific modification.

The battery capacity of this model is quite “average”, but quite sufficient for the budget category - 4800 mAh.

The developers chose Android 7.0 as the operating system for this model.

Advantages

high-quality assembly;
Quite powerful considering the affordable price;
good color rendering;

Flaws

Over time, energy consumption begins to significantly increase.

So, the tablet from Xiaomi is completely fresh - introduced in 2018. Equipped with a widescreen 8-inch screen with a high-quality IPS matrix with a resolution of 1920x1200. Its dimensions are 200.2x120.3x7.9 mm, and its weight is 342 g. The case is metal.

The center of the electronics is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor with a frequency of 2.2 GHz, which is already significantly better than the previous model. There are also eight cores, but in this case the chip is manufactured using a 14 nm process technology, which is actually a whole generation newer technology than 22 nm. The video chip is also newer - Adreno 512. The situation with RAM and built-in memory is exactly the same - 3 GB and 32 GB, respectively. The only negative in this regard is that standard modifications do not have a slot for an external memory card.

Continuing the question of disadvantages, it is worth saying that the most affordable modifications also do not have a slot for a mobile SIM card. The rest of the wireless connection is presented almost in its entirety - Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, excluding the GPS navigation module. The sensors include an accelerometer, a gyroscope and a light sensor.

The rear camera of this model is noticeably better than the previous one - 13 megapixels, the front one is slightly weaker - 5 megapixels. The “trick” of this gaming tablet is the presence of a face unlock function.

A USB-C socket is used for charging; it is possible to connect to a computer via regular USB. Separately, as a bonus, there is also a USB 3.1 Type-C connector. Connecting external peripherals is possible as an option - please check this question at the point of sale.

What else in this model gives a significant head start to the previous one is the battery. Its capacity is 6000 mAh.

The operating system here is also newer - Android 8.1.

Advantages

fairly powerful electronics;
one of the newest models (2018);
many reviews about ease of use for children;
metal body;

Flaws

There are no navigation or mobile communication modules.

The best tablets for gaming in the mid-price segment

The second group of the Expertology rating, dedicated to the best tablets for games, considers the middle price segment. Here, our experts have already noticed three models - from Samsung, Huawei and Lenovo. All of them are approximately equal in price, have an auto-screen orientation function, GPS and GLONASS navigation modules, the ability to connect to a computer via USB, a standard headset output, built-in speakers, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless communications, and a slot for a nanoSIM mobile phone card. We will describe the individual features of each model below.

Let's start with a gaming tablet from a Korean manufacturer, whose authority is beyond doubt. This striking model was presented to the public in February 2017 and immediately earned its recognition.

A notable feature of the model is its impressive 9.7-inch diagonal screen. A noticeable feature is a non-widescreen screen with a Super AMOLED matrix with a resolution of 2048x1536 with a PPI of 264. The physical dimensions of the device are 237.3x169x6 mm, and the weight is 429 g. The body is made of high-quality plastic.

The tablet uses a 4-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor at 2.15 GHz as the center of all computing. The chip is manufactured using the latest 14 nm process technology. Built-in memory on board is 32 GB, RAM (high-performance LPDDR4) is 4 GB. The built-in memory can be expanded with an external microSDXC card. Video module - Adreno 530.

The developers proposed an interesting solution for the video system. If the front camera is not particularly remarkable - a regular 5-megapixel camera, then the rear one has a resolution of 13 megapixels and is equipped with a flash with autofocus.

In terms of autonomy, this model’s performance is very good. The battery capacity is 6000 mAh, and the nominal continuous operation time declared by the manufacturer when watching videos is 12 hours.

Now a few words about interesting features. The tablet comes with a stylus, the tablet itself is equipped with a docking station connector, and an optional QWERTY keyboard can be used.

The operating system is Android 7.1.

Advantages

dock connector;
stylus included;
very thin;
Super AMOLED matrix;
good autonomy;

Flaws

There is no room for a stylus in the tablet itself.

The rating continues with a very worthy gaming tablet from Huawei, presented in 2018. Its screen is slightly smaller than the previous model - 8.4 inches, but it is widescreen and has a resolution of 2560x1600. Matrix – IPS. Dimensions of the device - 212.6x124.8x7.3 mm, weight - 316 g. The case is metal.

The “heart” of the device is the not quite “mainstream” mobile processor HiSilicon Kirin 960 with eight Cortex-A53/A73 cores. Manufactured using the 16 nm process technology. The RAM is the same as the previous model - 4 GB, but the permanent built-in memory is twice as much - 64 GB. It can also be expanded using a microSDXC memory card with an upper limit of 256 GB. The video chip in this model is also “non-standard”, but very worthy - Mali-G71 MP8.

The photo and video recording capabilities of this model are as follows: a 13-megapixel rear camera with autofocus and an 8-megapixel front camera. Sensors: light, gyroscope, compass, accelerometer.

The tablet is charged via USB-C; there are also USB Type-C and USB 3.1 Type-C connectors. The battery capacity of this model is slightly smaller than the previous one - 5100 mAh.

Individual features of the model: the presence of a vibration motor, a fingerprint scanner, the mobile communication module covers only three standards - 3G, HSDPA and LTE.

The operating system is Android 8.0.

Advantages

powerful processor;
strong metal case;
rich, rich colors;
high-quality assembly;

Flaws

There is no 3.5 mm mini jack connector.

And the third point in the ranking of tablets for games in the mid-price category is the brainchild of Lenovo. Let's say right away that it is suitable for an older child, since its diagonal is very impressive - 10.1 inches. The resolution of a very good widescreen IPS matrix is 1920x1200. Physical dimensions - 247x173x7.1 mm, weight - 475 g. The case is made of high-quality plastic.

The computing system of the device is built around a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 processor with eight Cortex-A53 cores at a frequency of 2 GHz. The chip was manufactured using a 14 nm process technology. The tablet contains 64 GB of internal memory and 4 GB of RAM. Using a microSDXC memory card, the internal memory can be expanded by another 128 GB. Video processor - Adreno 506.

The rear camera here is weaker than the previous model - 8 megapixels, but it is equipped not only with autofocus, but also with a flash. The front camera is quite ordinary - a regular 5-megapixel camera. Sensors include proximity and light sensors and an accelerometer.

The tablet is charged from the USB-C connector; there is also a USB 3.1 Type-C socket. The battery capacity is a record in this group - 7000 mAh. According to the manufacturer, this should be enough for 13 hours of “average” work.

Features of the model: the presence of an FM tuner, the optional use of a QWERTY keyboard, a fingerprint scanner, the ability to charge from USB, the mobile communication module covers a wide range of the most popular standards, including 3G and LTE.

The operating system is Android 7.0.

Advantages

juicy, high-quality picture;
the most affordable price in the group;
capacious battery;
beautiful design;

Flaws

the buttons are slightly loose;
fragile back panel.

The most powerful tablets for gaming

And finally, we move on to the most interesting group of our rating, where we will look at the most powerful tablets selected by Expertology specialists that will provide you and your child with maximum gaming comfort. All four listed models have common features: a capacitive touch screen with multi-touch support, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless modules of different standards, built-in stereo speakers and a microphone, automatic screen orientation, a slot for a nano SIM mobile phone card, GPS and GLONASS positioning tools, optional use of a QWERTY keyboard, ability to connect to a computer via USB, optional ability to connect peripherals.

Let's start with the “king” of tablets, with whose name, in fact, it all began. Of course, this is a much newer generation after the legendary first iPad, presented personally by the no less legendary Steve Jobs, and it was announced in 2017.

This powerful model is equipped with a large 10.5-inch (not widescreen) screen with an impeccable IPS matrix and a resolution of 2224x1668. The PPI (pixels per inch) is 264. In addition, the tablet glass is scratch-resistant. The dimensions of the device are 250.6x174.1x6.1 mm, and the weight is 477 g. The case is metal.

This beauty is equipped with a powerful native Apple A10X processor at 2.36 GHz with six ARM8 cores. The processor is manufactured using a technological process of almost tomorrow - 10 nm.

The built-in memory here is prohibitive and absolutely record-breaking for this group of devices: 256 GB. But, in fairness, it should be said that the Cupertino team used this move to compensate for the typical lack of ability for Apple devices to use external memory cards.

As for RAM, 4 GB is quite ordinary for powerful tablets, although the memory itself is high-performance LPDDR4 at 1.6 GHz. The video processor in this case is an excellent high-performance PowerVR GT7600 chip. The mobile communication module supports a record wide range of standards, including even LTE Advanced.

The video system in this gaming tablet is as follows. A 12 megapixel rear camera with autofocus, flash and optical stabilization is of impeccable “Apple” quality, plus a front camera with a decent resolution of 7 megapixels for a front camera.

And a small blitz on other functions: a docking station connector, a fingerprint scanner, support for the Apple Pencil stylus, USB charging, battery capacity - 30.4 Wh

There are no surprises here regarding the operating system – iOS.

Advantages

renowned brand;
high liquidity;
stability and reliability;
impeccable colors;
high-quality sound;
high performance;
easy;
high-quality assembly;

Flaws

a noticeable percentage of complaints about long periods of absence from sleep mode.

The screen size of this model is also 10.5 inches. The screen is widescreen with a Super AMOLED matrix with a resolution of 2560x1600. The linear dimensions of the gaming tablet are 249.3x164.3x7.1 mm, weight is 483 g.

The center of everything in the device is the super-powerful new generation Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 MSM8998 processor with eight Kryo cores with a frequency of 2.35 GHz. The processor is built similarly to the previous iPad using the latest 10 nm process technology.

Manufacturers have provided 64 GB of built-in memory in this model, 4 GB of RAM (LPDDR4). Thanks to the microSDXC memory card slot, the built-in memory can be expanded up to another 400 GB. The video chip is Adreno 540. The cellular communication module covers a wide range of standards up to LTE.

The rear camera is quite powerful - 13 megapixels with flash and autofocus, the front one even has a slightly higher resolution than the iPad described above - 8 megapixels.

The tablet's battery capacity is as much as 7300 mAh; the nominal operating time when watching videos, according to the manufacturer, is 16 hours. The USB-C connector is used for charging; there is also USB 3.1 Type-C.

Briefly about other features: docking station connector, connection to a TV or monitor (optional), stylus, iris scanner, gyroscope, presence sensor, light sensor, accelerometer, fast charging function.

Advantages

high performance;
impeccable color rendition;
connection to a docking station;
fast charging function;
stylus included;
newest generation;

Flaws

There were no obvious deficiencies noted by users.

The screen diagonal here is even slightly larger than the two previous options - 10.8 inches on a widescreen IPS matrix with a resolution of 2560x1600. Tablet dimensions - 258.7x171.8x7.3 mm, weight - 498 g, metal case.

The processor installed is “typical” for many Huawei gaming tablets - HiSilicon Kirin 960 with eight Cortex-A53/A73 cores. The processor was manufactured using the 16 nm process technology. The volumes of built-in and RAM are similar to the previous model - 64 and 4 GB, respectively. Thanks to the microSDXC memory card slot, the permanent memory can be supplemented with 256 gigabytes. Video processor - Mali-G71 MP8. The cellular module covers only three standards - 3G, HSDPA and LTE.

The video system parameters are almost similar to the previous model - 13 megapixel rear camera and 8 megapixel front camera. The only difference is that the rear one is equipped only with autofocus, without a flash.

The tablet's battery capacity is slightly larger than that of the previous model - 7500 mAh. The device is charged via the USB-C connector. There is also a USB 3.1 Type-C socket.

Additional features: vibration motor, light sensor, gyroscope, accelerometer, compass, dock connector, fingerprint scanner, stylus.

Separately, it is worth mentioning that this model has a headphone/headphone output - USB Type-C, an adapter is included in the package.

Operating system - Android 8.0.

Advantages

relatively affordable price;
good autonomy;
good surround sound;
power;

Flaws

non-standard headphone output.

Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The industry of computer game manufacturers is developing at such a rapid pace that sometimes only top-segment equipment suppliers are able to keep up with it. Constantly improving graphics, increasingly detailed gameplay, and the “physics” of games require maximum performance from the hardware, and three-dimensional games that are rapidly gaining popularity give this race of processors and memory new dynamics.

Where to start?

Before approaching the procedure for choosing a specific brand and model of tablet, you have to decide on the main thing: for which operating system the future tablet is being purchased. It’s very difficult to give any advice here: everyone has their own preferences, habits and favorite games.

Serious game developers release their programs for all major operating systems at once, so, other things being equal, you should remember that a gaming tablet running iOS will obviously be more expensive than its approximate analogue on Android. This is practically the only difference, and statements that the best gaming tablet should run exclusively on Android or, conversely, exclusively on iOS, will always be a subject of debate.

Productivity Components

Continuing the selection of a gaming tablet, it is worth understanding what requirements a modern resource-intensive game imposes on the technical part and, above all, on performance.

The performance of tablet devices consists of three components:

processor, its clock speed and number of cores;
RAM;
graphics accelerator, its type and amount of memory.

The presence of a powerful multi-core processor, a modern graphics accelerator and a large amount of RAM are the first important indicators of how a gaming tablet differs from a regular one. Let's talk about each position in a little more detail.

CPU.

The main characteristics are clock speed and number of cores. Both criteria are extremely simple: the more of both, the better. Modern mobile processors from leading manufacturers (Apple, Intel, Qualcomm, Kirin, Samsung, Mediatek) are already built using an eight-core design and operate at clock frequencies of 2.2 MHz and higher.

RAM and internal memory.

Here, too, everything is simple: as they say, there is no such thing as too much memory. The most powerful gaming gadgets have 4 GB of RAM or more “on board”. Don’t forget about the internal memory for storing files: modern games “weigh” quite a lot, and the storage must be appropriate. The possibility of expanding it using a flash drive of the largest possible capacity has also not harmed anyone yet.

Graphics accelerator.

From the point of view of resource consumption, a game is, first of all, graphics, so a lot depends on the capabilities of the graphics accelerator in the debate about which gaming tablet is the most powerful. The battle between hardware manufacturers in this segment flared up no less than in the processor segment. The largest and most reputable manufacturers of graphics accelerators are the same Qualcomm with its Adreno, Imagination Technologies with PowerVR, ARM (Mali, Mitgard accelerators), Nvidia (GeForse Tegra architecture).

Additional Features

All of the above is extremely important to determine the most productive gaming tablet, but other characteristics should not be ignored.

First of all, this is the display. Playing a serious game on a seven-inch tablet, even a very powerful one, is not pleasant both for the eyes and in terms of ease of control. Therefore, a diagonal of 10’’ can be considered the minimum for such needs. It is also recommended to choose the maximum screen resolution available: the quality of graphics in the game is something that developers pay special attention to. It is advisable to have a viewing angle of the display approaching 180 degrees: dynamic games require a different tilt of the device relative to the eyes.

Communication with the outside world is also an almost obligatory attribute. And if a SIM card slot is an almost unimportant thing for a player, then having a high-speed wireless connection is vital, especially in online games.

To summarize, we can say: the endless debate about which best gaming tablet to choose is very subjective and largely depends on the preferences of a particular gamer. Choose according to the criteria we have given - and positive emotions from computer games will be guaranteed, regardless of the specific tablet manufacturer!

A tablet computer is an excellent assistant for students, secretaries and people in other professions. However, first of all, such a device is purchased by users for entertainment and recreation. In particular, many buyers want to choose a tablet for gaming, on which they can compete in accuracy with other players in shooters or prove their ability to handle cars in races. Other buyers prefer simpler entertainment, such as various cooking games, all kinds of platformers or fun arcade games. And our review of the best gaming tablets for 2019 will help you choose the right device for any project.

The Best Cheap Tablets for Gaming

The low cost of the tablet does not mean at all that apart from projects from the “three in a row” category, you won’t be able to play anything on it. In fact, such devices often boast impressive performance. If you love games like Guns of Boom, Asphalt 8, WoT Blitz or similar games, then any of the tablets below are perfect for you! Moreover, each of the three models selected for this category also stands out for its good design, high-quality assembly and convenience, which will appeal to students and people planning to use a tablet computer not only for games.

1. Lenovo Tab 3 Plus 8703X

The rating opens with a device from the Chinese brand Lenovo. The stylish Tab 3 Plus is the most powerful budget device in the ranking. In terms of price and quality, this tablet beats all its main competitors, because it is able to please the owner with the Snapdragon 625 processor manufactured by Qualcomm and the Adreno 506 graphics chip, which allows you to run any games at maximum settings. There is also a lot of RAM here - 3 gigabytes. The built-in storage in the reviewed device is only 16 GB, which is not enough to install a large number of applications. And support for drives only up to 64 gigabytes is also not encouraging. In this case, the microSD slot is combined with the SIM card tray of the tablet. However, all these shortcomings can be forgiven due to the excellent build quality and high performance. In video reviews of the tablet, its stable operation in Wi-Fi and LTE networks is also highlighted as advantages.

Advantages:

For a budget device, the device is very powerful;
wireless modules work just perfectly;
good appearance and high build quality;
there are two slots for installing SIM cards;
top sound;
the system operates very quickly;
good matrix (1920 by 1200) with a diagonal of 8 inches.

Flaws:

There is no protective coating on the screen.

Video review of Lenovo Tab 3 Plus

2. Huawei MediaPad M3 Lite 8.0 32GB Wi-Fi

The second place in the TOP of inexpensive devices is occupied by the popular tablet model from Huawei. The metal body of the MediaPad M3 Lite, high-quality stereo speakers and a fast fingerprint scanner are three important reasons to pay attention to the model under review. The hardware platform of the device is also quite good. It uses a Snapdragon 435 processor with an Adreno 505 graphics accelerator. The RAM and storage in this device are 3 and 32 GB, respectively. But there is no SIM tray here, which did not allow the device to be placed in the first position. But if this nuance does not bother you, and you have not yet decided which tablet to choose with an 8-inch screen, then the MediaPad M3 will be an ideal option for purchase.

Advantages:

durable metal case;
visually and tactilely feels more expensive than its price;
the balance between power and autonomy is perfectly maintained;
The quality of the 8-inch (1920x1200) display is very good;
excellent stereo speakers with clear sound;
fast fingerprint scanner;
great battery.

Flaws:

There is no SIM card tray.

3. Lenovo Tab 4 TB-X304L

The next line was occupied by a model with only a Snapdragon 425 chipset and Adreno 308 video. But for a screen with a resolution of 1280x800 pixels, this “filling” is quite enough. On the Tab 4 TB-X304L it is quite possible to run most modern games, enjoying high frame rates. The tablet’s powerful 7000 mAh battery deserves special attention. With such a battery, the device can easily work for 12 hours in standard use. In addition, the inexpensive gaming gadget produced by Lenovo has a SIM card tray (there is LTE support) and good stereo speakers.

Advantages:

the system works quickly and without failures;
The quality of the 10.1-inch screen is simply excellent;
there is a SIM card tray;
The volume of the stereo speakers is surprising;
The battery life will suit any user.

Flaws:

pixel density and low resolution may be uncomfortable for the eyes;
The protective coating of the display leaves much to be desired;
For some games it is still weak.

The best gaming tablets

Today, more and more entertainment is appearing on mobile phones, which a few years ago were developed only for full-fledged consoles and computers. At the same time, many modern games are created simultaneously for several platforms, including tablet computers. If this does not convince you of the importance of mobile gaming, then you should additionally pay attention to regularly organized championships, where players compete using their smartphones and tablets. And, of course, both pros and ordinary connoisseurs of mobile entertainment will be able to get maximum pleasure and opportunities from games only on advanced devices. The quality of the matrix, the power of hardware, the stability of wireless networks, battery life - all this must be impeccable. And we can name the following 4 models as the first among the best in terms of characteristics.

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 SM-T825 LTE

This category opens with the best gaming tablet in the review – Galaxy Tab C3 9.7 from the South Korean giant Samsung. This is a new device, the presentation of which took place only in February 2017. For this reason, we have before us a powerful tablet built on the modern hardware platform Snapdragon 820 with Adreno 530 graphics. The RAM here complies with the LPPDR4 standard, and its volume is 4 gigabytes. The built-in storage, alas, is not as impressive in volume, because 32 GB is installed today even in many state-owned vehicles. However, if necessary, the tablet with a large 6000 mAh battery allows you to expand the storage with microSD cards.

Advantages:

a pretty good S-Pen stylus included;
very high quality 9.7-inch matrix (2040x1536);
decent sound quality of speakers;
The battery life is pleasing;
works very quickly;
The tablet handles absolutely any games;
Samsung's signature design stands out among its competitors.

Flaws:

impressive weight;
For some reason the touch buttons are not backlit.

Video review of Samsung Galaxy Tab S3

2. Apple iPad Pro 12.9 32GB Wi-Fi

Apple is a unique technology manufacturer. For several decades now, Americans have been making their products of much higher quality and functionality than all competitors. However, users have to “vote with their rubles” for reliability and performance. So for the iPad Pro 12.9 you will have to pay more than 40 thousand rubles. And for this price, the smart Apple tablet cannot boast of the ability to install a SIM card. The built-in memory is only 32 GB, and it cannot be expanded. And the camera of the device can hardly be called impressive, but the quality of the images cannot but rejoice. Apart from these shortcomings, there are no disadvantages in the reviewed model. Here we have the most functional tablet with powerful hardware: an A9X processor with a pair of 2.26 GHz cores, 4 GB RAM, a first-class 12.9-inch Retina screen (2732x2048 pixels) and one of the best stereo speakers installed in portable devices. The performance of the fingerprint scanner is also satisfactory. If you are choosing a device not only for entertainment, but also for work and creativity, then a powerful gaming tablet model with a good 38.5 Wh battery will delight you with support for the convenient proprietary Apple Pencil stylus.

Advantages:

recognizable corporate style of the manufacturer;
high-quality metal case;
impressive operating time;
huge matrix with impeccable color rendition;
very productive hardware and OS speed;
support for a functional proprietary stylus.

Flaws:

significant overpayment for the brand;
The stylus must be purchased separately;
The cameras are good, but Apple usually installs better sensors;
The built-in storage is not enough and cannot be expanded.

Video review of Apple iPad Pro 12.9

3. Google Pixel C

Google offers a top-notch 10-inch tablet. Elegant design, NFC module, stable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the latest version of Android, excellent stereo sound, and a USB-C 3.1 port are just some of the advantages that the Pixel C can boast of. This tablet can be used for work or play: additionally The device comes with a comfortable keyboard that allows you to quickly type large amounts of text, and the NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor with a Maxwell video chip copes well with any modern games. Among the advantages we can also highlight a high-quality matrix (2560 by 1800 pixels) and 4 built-in microphones. As for the disadvantages of this device, we can highlight only a small number of offers on the market and the associated increase in cost. And if previously users could purchase the device in the official Google store, then at the end of 2017 the manufacturer removed this good tablet from it.

Advantages:

comfortable keyboard (optional) with inductive charging from the tablet;
bright and well-calibrated 10.2-inch matrix;
high quality workmanship and Google corporate style;
performance of the hardware platform in games;
the presence of 4 microphones, stereo speakers and NFC.

Flaws:

The device is very difficult to find for sale in Russia.

4. ASUS ZenPad 10 Z500KL

The main advantage of a productive tablet from ASUS over its competitors is its price. The average cost of ZenPad 10 Z500KL is only 30,000 rubles. For this amount, the user gets a good design, a high-quality display measuring 9.7 inches and a resolution of 2048x1536 pixels, a Snapdragon 650 processor with powerful Adreno 510 graphics and 4 gigabytes of RAM. The device is powered by a capacious 7800 mAh battery (fast charging is present). In addition, the tablet is equipped with SIM card support (nano format), a modern Type-C 3.1 port and excellent stereo speakers. As an option, you can purchase a proprietary stylus for the device. However, alas, ASUS failed to make an ideal device. Thus, the ZenPad 10 tablet with a large screen does not have a fingerprint scanner or backlit touch buttons, and many users call the location of the speakers inconvenient.

Advantages:

display color rendition is well adjusted;
build quality and design reliability;
overall hardware performance;
good sound from built-in speakers;
the convenience of a proprietary stylus (not included);
impressive battery capacity.

Flaws:

inexplicable refusal of the fingerprint scanner and button illumination;
Not everyone will like the placement of the speakers.

Which gaming tablet to buy

As when choosing any other equipment, you can choose a specific device after determining the basic requirements for the device. For simple games and while away time on public transport, models from the first category are suitable. For advanced gaming, we included the best premium devices from 4 global IT companies in the gaming tablet rating. Among them, you can purchase any suitable device based on the OS features, display quality, attractive design and additional features you require.

The best gaming tablets for the most interesting games.

Have you ever bought a tablet only to find out it wasn't as good as you thought it was? Perhaps it took too long to think, froze, or did not launch certain applications at all.

A tablet feels comfortable when it comes to social media, but what if you want to game on a tablet? While no 2018 gaming tablet will run Grand Theft Auto V, there are plenty of high-quality games optimized for mobile phones and tablets that promise plenty of excitement.

In fact, gaming on tablets has seen a real boom in the last few years with the rise of games like , so there's never been a better time to upgrade your old tablet to a new gaming one.

So what are they: the best gaming tablets of 2018? We've done our research, looking at a variety of potential gaming tablet contenders, and then selected the top ten so you can make an informed decision and buy the gaming tablet that best suits your needs.

If you want to use your tablet for more purposes, such as working, taking photos, or even editing photos and videos, you need a rating: .

The best gaming tablets:

1. MICROSOFTSURFACEPRO

The best gaming tablet on Windows 10

Pros: Battery life | Convenient keyboard cover;
Cons: Stylus separately | Only the Core i7 is comparable to the iPad Pro;

If you're looking for a solid gaming tablet, Microsoft's new 2017 Surface Pro is worth a look. While gaming is not the only purpose of this tablet, given its hardware, it is able to handle not only mobile games, but also most traditional games that you are used to playing on a PC or laptop. Moreover, the tablet easily turns into a laptop if you want to get some work done. While the Surface Pro may seem expensive, its monster performance potential promises to be money well spent.

A gaming tablet can offer significant potential when it comes to performance. Multitasking and gaming are no problem for the Surface Pro. You'll need an emulator to play Android and iOS games, but otherwise you're not limited. To be fair, if you want to play AAA PC games, you may be disappointed. But as long as you're willing to put up with older games, play around with graphics settings, or rely on mobile gaming, the Surface Pro (2017) remains a great option. We also note that the tablet’s battery is 20% larger than on previous devices in the series.

Bottom line, if you're looking for something cool and durable, and you don't mind the high price tag, then the new Surface Pro is worth buying. While the tablet can't match the gaming performance of the , it offers great versatility and unparalleled portability. If you want a laptop experience, you can purchase a dedicated keyboard. Does your budget allow it? In this case, this is the best gaming tablet of 2018.

More details: .

2. SAMSUNGGALAXYTABS3

Best Android tablet for today's games.

Pros: Great premium design | High performance;
Cons: The keyboard is separate and expensive | High price;

One of the first companies to enter the tablet market is returning with a new device. Launched early last year, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 is a great choice for those looking for games and other entertainment on the Android platform. This is a thin and fashionable tablet with high-end specifications and an included stylus that will come in handy on social networks. You can connect your tablet to a keyboard if you want a PC-like racing simulator experience. The keyboard will also allow you to work on the go. Despite being a flagship tablet, which comes with a price tag, the Galaxy Tab S3 provides everything you need to game on the go.

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, supported by 4 GB of RAM, is responsible for gaming performance. The visual component of the gameplay is taken over by a Super AMOLED screen with an impressive resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. Overall, if you're looking for something lightweight and mobile, and are willing to stick with Android gaming, then the Galaxy Tab S3 is a great buy.

3. APPLEiPad 2017

Premium gaming tablet.

Pros: Beautiful 9.7-inch screen | Cheaper than iPad Air 2;
Cons: Thicker than Air 2 | No 256 GB model;

For many people, "iPad" is synonymous with "tablet", which is not surprising since Apple has been regularly releasing high-end (and expensive) tablets and smartphones over the past few years. The 2017 iPad offers everything you'd expect from a gaming tablet, plus an enjoyable gaming experience. In fact, we don't recommend buying Apple tablets more expensive than the 2017 iPad if your main mobile activity is gaming, as you'll be overpaying for specs and features that aren't relevant to the gaming experience.

The iPad (2017) also uses one of Apple's "Retina" displays, with a high resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. We noticed that Retina panels significantly reduce pixelation and brighten colors compared to other gaming tablets, with the exception of Samsung's Super AMOLED screens.

You can pay more for the 3G and 4G models of the 2017 iPad, but in our experience the standard Wi-Fi model is more than enough unless you plan to use the tablet frequently in areas without Wi-Fi.

4. AMAZON FIRE HD10

The best budget tablet for gaming.

Pros: Price / Quality | Large Full HD display;
Cons: Plastic Design | Weak cameras;

If you're looking for a reliable and affordable gaming tablet, the latest Amazon Fire HD 10 might be the best choice for you. First of all, it has a Full HD resolution (1920 x 1200), while many tablets that cost more are limited to a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. As a result, you get better pixel density and impressive gaming visuals.

Not only that, the Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet is powered by a powerful 1.8GHz quad-core MediaTek MT8173 processor, an exceptional PowerVR GX6250 GPU, and is supported by 2GB of RAM. You will find similar characteristics only in tablets over 18,000 rubles, which makes the Amazon Fire HD the best gaming tablet for your money in 2018.

Alas, the tablet does not come without its drawbacks, which, if you're going to be primarily gaming on a tablet, aren't worth mentioning. It uses mediocre cameras and also runs on Amazon's Fire OS 5.6, which is based on the .

5. ASUS TRANSFORMER BOOK T100HA

Inexpensive, functional, playable!

Pros: Extremely lightweight | Durable keyboard connector;
Cons: Slow charging | Poor quality keyboard;

The Asus Transformer Book T100HA is one of the best tablets when it comes to low-budget gaming or work. It is a Windows 10 machine designed to offer users a fully functional tablet that can be converted into a laptop by docking it with a keyboard.

The tablet may not feature the best design, but it will certainly make up for the lack of performance and functionality. The performance of the Book T100HA will significantly expand your capabilities. According to the manufacturer, the T100HA beats every test and offers twice the graphics performance of previous Transformer Books. The tablet is equipped with a 4-core Intel Cherry Trail Z8500 processor with integrated Intel HD graphics and 4 GB of RAM, considering the low price of this tablet, the characteristics for a hybrid device are not bad at all. The T100HA can offer decent gaming performance, but if you want to play the latest Windows 10 games, you'll be disappointed. It's also worth noting that gaming isn't the tablet's only purpose.

If you're looking for something inexpensive with decent build quality and performance, this is definitely something you should consider. With its price tag, this is most likely the one on Windows 10 that you can use for gaming.

6.LENOVO YOGA TAB 3 PRO

The Lenovo tablet is designed for one hand and may limit gaming capabilities in some situations.

Pros: Built-in projector | Great screen | Great sound;
Cons: Dear | Heavy | The interface is sluggish;

The Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro has a built-in pico projector that performs better than some movie nights, but don't let that feature fool you, it's the best gaming tablet on the market, loaded with performance to bursting. It's a hair faster than the iPad Air 2 and offers four (yes, four) front-facing speakers that deliver unparalleled sound for a tablet. The bad news is that, thanks to its design that includes a round, chunky edge, holding the tablet horizontally (which many games require) can make the Yoga Tab 3 Pro feel awkward and bulky. Apart from this, the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro has virtually no flaws in gaming.

7. NVIDIA SHIELD K1

The fastest gaming tablet with controller.

Pros: Stylish design | Price / Quality | Stream the game on PC;
Cons: No charger | Expensive accessories;

It's a powerful Android tablet that can deliver decent frame rates even in the latest games, and it also offers several features that make the Shield K1 a great buy for any gamer. Firstly, the left and right edges of the tablet are covered with rubber bumpers to prevent the tablet from slipping out of your hands while playing. Secondly, the top and bottom edges of the gaming tablet contain speakers, meaning you get stereo sound instead of the usual mono sound for tablets. Finally, the tablet is equipped with a Mini-HDMI port, so you can transfer the picture to a huge screen.

The Nvidia Shield K1 offers two features that make it the fastest gaming tablet, although they will cost you extra. The tablet supports Shield Controller, which is an Xbox-style game controller that you can connect to for superior in-game control. This is a huge advantage since gaming on tablets is usually limited to the touch screen, and some games work better with a controller.

8.GOOGLE PIXEL C

Pros: Fantastic screen | Performance;
Cons: Heavy | Expensive keyboard;

The Google Pixel C has a 10.2-inch screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1800 and a density of 308 pixels per inch, leaving us with a crystal clear display. For an additional cost, you can upgrade your Pixel C with a full-size keyboard, which was also designed and built by Google along with the tablet. The keyboard has an automatic pairing feature, so connecting it will not be a problem.

The performance of this tablet is outstanding, without a doubt. Powered by Nvidia Tegra X1 (64-bit 4-core chipset) and 3GB of RAM, Google's tablet offers explosive performance. With its crystal clear display, Tegra X1 processor, Maxwell GPU and 3GB of RAM, the Pixel C can ensure your gaming sessions are reliable. Loading times are fast and playback is smooth. The keyboard offers better gaming experience in some games as well as PC experience.

Overall, the Pixel C is one of the Android tablets out there. Without a doubt, the best tablet for gaming and general use. Its position in the ranking is due to its high price. If you're not an Apple fan and feel like Google is a better option, then this is definitely the gaming tablet for you.

9. APPLE IPAD PRO

Most fast game tablet .

Pros: True Tone Display | 256 GB model;
Cons: High price | Keyboard without backlight;

If you're an Apple fan and prefer iOS mobile gaming, this is definitely a tablet you should consider. While the original Apple iPad Pro 9.7 is aging, it combines the performance of the 12.9-inch model with the slim silhouette of the iPad Air 2. And while gaming may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of an iPad, the tablet offers powerful The equipment handles games just fine. The only drawback is that you do not have access to the Play Market with Android games.

Speaking of performance, the tablet offers excellent speed in games and applications. It is equipped with a 2.2 GHz processor and 2 GB of RAM. The iPad Pro 9.7's display is perhaps one of the best screens you'll find on a tablet. The device features a Retina display with a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch, similar to what you'll find on the 12.9-inch model. Good news: Unlike most tablets on the market, the iPad Pro offers an amazing camera that can take amazing photos. If you want to play on your tablet all day, you may need to reconsider, as the tablet's battery isn't that great and you'll be looking for a power outlet after a few hours of gaming. The keyboard can also be purchased among other accessories and will help enhance the gaming experience. Other accessories include Apple Pencil.

Overall, if you're an Apple fan and prefer a small tablet for short gaming sessions, this is definitely a good gaming tablet that you should consider. The camera becomes an added advantage and can be used for everyday purposes. The tablet is available in 32, 128 and 256 GB models, and an LTE version is available for an additional fee.

More details: .

10. SAMSUNGGALAXYTABS2

One of the best gaming Android tablets?

Pros: Gaming Performance | Super AMOLED display;
Cons: Battery life could be better;

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 is the best tablet for gaming if you couldn't stretch the budget for the Galaxy Tab S3. In case you can't afford it at the moment, we recommend choosing the Fire HD 10 and saving money. You may also want to invest in the Nvidia Shield K1 if you plan to primarily play games on your tablet.

Featuring a Super AMOLED panel, the Galaxy Tab S2 delivers remarkable visuals with an infinite contrast ratio to ensure true blacks. Plus, the 2048 x 1536 screen resolution and 4:3 aspect ratio make every detail in games clear and sharp.

The tablet is powered by a 64-bit processor with an octa-core chipset, four cores clocked at 1.9 GHz and four cores clocked at 1.3 GHz, supported by 3GB RAM and ARM Mali-T760 MP6 GPU, the tablet delivers smooth gaming experience. performance even in the most complex games such as .

Battery life is perhaps the tablet's weakest point, with 15 hours of standby time and about 6 hours of Wi-Fi surfing. This is acceptable considering the price and overall performance as well as image quality. Overall, this is one of the best gaming tablets in the Android world, an excellent and economical option for gaming.

In the above ranking, we have outlined the best gaming tablets designed for different purposes and wallets. We're sure you'll find a tablet that perfectly suits your needs and gaming habits, but the most versatile gaming tablet for mobile gaming in our opinion is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2. It's a fairly powerful tablet that keeps the price reasonable and can handle anything you can think of.

If gaming isn't your only priority, check out our ratings. And if you're not tied to the Android ecosystem, you might enjoy our 2018 picks, regardless of platform.