Best Pro Tablets to Replace Laptop in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: June 4th, 2024

💻In the fast-paced world of tech, pro tablets have become serious rivals to traditional laptops. Whether you're juggling work tasks, coursework, or creative projects, these tablets offer the power, portability, and flexibility you're looking for. After diving deep into the latest models, we’ve picked out the best pro tablets of 2024 that can genuinely stand in for a laptop.

We’ve got an all-around top choice, a close runner-up, a budget-friendly pick, plus specialized tablets for unique needs.

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Overall Best: Apple iPad Pro (11-inch, M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4): Built for Apple Intelligence, Ultra Retina XDR Display - Nano-Texture Glass, 1TB, 12MP Front/Back Camera, LiDAR Scanner, Wi-Fi 6E + 5G Cellular, Face ID — Space Black Wi-Fi + Cellular 1TB Space Black Nano-texture glass

The Apple iPad Pro (11-inch, M4) takes the crown as the best overall pro tablet for 2024. This tablet is powered by the advanced M4 chip, which offers blazing-fast performance, making it perfect for multitasking, graphic design, and video editing. The 11-inch OLED display renders colors vividly and offers deep blacks, enhancing your media consumption and creative projects. Added to this is the compatibility with the updated Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro, transforming the iPad Pro into a high-end productivity powerhouse. However, these premium features come with a hefty price tag, especially when you factor in the cost of accessories. Nevertheless, if superior performance and exceptional display quality are what you seek, the Apple iPad Pro (11-inch, M4) is worth the investment.

Lowest at Amazon
$1,799.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,099.00 at Best Buy

More Answers

Still curious about the iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4)? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Can the Apple iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4) replace a laptop?
Wondering if the Apple iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4) can stand in for a laptop? Let's break it down. **Performance:** This iPad packs a punch with its M4 chip, which means it's fast and has great graphics. The manufacturer says it can have up to 16GB of RAM and 2TB of storage, so it's definitely in the ballpark with some high-end laptops. **Software and Apps:** The iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, which is designed for touchscreens and has loads of apps available. If you mostly use common apps like [Microsoft Office](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmicrosoft%2Boffice%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Adobe Creative Cloud](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dadobe%2Bcreative%2Bcloud%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), then you’re covered. However, if you need certain desktop-only software, you might hit a snag since not everything is available on iPadOS or may have limited features. **Accessories and Interface:** If you're missing that laptop vibe, you can grab accessories like the [Apple Magic Keyboard](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bmagic%2Bkeyboard%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for typing and the [Apple Pencil](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bpencil%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for drawing or taking notes. These add-ons can make it feel more like a laptop. **Portability and Battery Life:** The iPad Pro is super light, under 500 grams, so it's easier to tote around compared to most laptops. The battery is also pretty solid and can last up to 10 hours on average use, according to what the manufacturer claims. **Connectivity:** It comes with Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G, so your internet connection should be speedy. The downside? It doesn't have ports like USB-A or HDMI, which means you'll need adapters for certain peripherals. **Bottom Line:** According to our research, the iPad Pro shines for tasks like email, web browsing, and video calls. If your work revolves around these, it might replace a laptop for you. But if you're into heavy-duty stuff, like serious video editing or coding, you might prefer sticking with a traditional laptop. In the end, whether it can replace your laptop really depends on what you need it to do.
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How does the Ultra Retina XDR display perform on the iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4)?
The Ultra Retina XDR display on the iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4) really shines when it comes to delivering an outstanding visual experience. Our research shows that it offers bright colors, impressive brightness, and high contrast, making it great for everything from streaming and designing to gaming. Apple uses some cutting-edge tech in this display. The manufacturer highlights its wide color range and clarity, which is awesome for anyone who needs precise details and a really immersive experience. It comes with P3 wide color support and True Tone technology, making colors pop realistically, no matter the lighting. On the downside, we've found that some folks have run into minor issues with the durability of the optional matte nano-texture glass. You might need to pay extra attention when cleaning it. It's best to use the special cleaning wipe Apple provides instead of a regular microfiber cloth to avoid any potential damage. Reviewers have praised the display for tasks like drawing, graphic design, and video editing, where high visual quality is essential. People love its responsiveness and how seamlessly it integrates with creative tasks, thanks to ProMotion technology that makes everything feel super smooth. There are some mentions of occasional glitches, like drawing disruptions or the device not turning on, but these seem rare. Plus, Apple offers a warranty and solid support options to help with any unexpected hiccups. Overall, the Ultra Retina XDR display on the iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4) tends to meet, and often exceed, expectations, especially for those who prioritize excellent visual quality and performance. It's a standout in its category for sure.
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What is the battery life of the Apple iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4)?
If you're wondering about the battery life of the Apple iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4), it's pretty solid. The manufacturer claims it can last up to 10 hours if you're browsing the web over Wi-Fi or watching videos, and about 9 hours using cellular data. That's pretty decent for a day of work, streaming movies, or mucking around with creative stuff without needing to plug it in too often. What's cool is that this battery life makes it suitable for anyone—from pros to casual users—especially if you're always on the move and lean on your tablet for work or fun. The M4 chip is powerful enough to handle demanding apps and multitasking, like video editing or serious gaming, without killing the battery. According to our research, people have noted that the iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4) maintains a strong battery life, even during hefty tasks like running apps such as [Adobe Lightroom](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dadobe%2Blightroom%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Final Cut Pro](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfinal%2Bcut%2Bpro%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). It means you can go about your business without worrying much about it dying on you during a trip or fieldwork. The hardware is also designed smartly to make the most out of the battery, with advanced power management to stretch that time even further. Plus, it looks sleek while doing it. And if you ever do need to juice it up quickly, the USB-C port helps get that done fast. So, in short, if you're into photography, videography, or heavy multitasking, this iPad shouldn't disappoint in the battery department.
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Runner-up: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

SAMSUNG Item Name Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra WiFi ONLY Factory Unlocked Tablet SM-X910NZA 14.6 Inch, Android Tablet Including S Pen US Version 2023 (12GB+256GB, Grey)

Our runner-up, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, excels with its massive 14.6-inch AMOLED display and 120Hz refresh rate. Artists and media lovers will appreciate the screen's vibrant colors and smoothness. The included S Pen, with its thousands of levels of pressure sensitivity, is a fantastic tool for digital artists. Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset ensures a smooth, lag-free experience for productivity tasks and gaming. Its large size might be a drawback for some, but for those who require a powerhouse tablet for both creative and productivity purposes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is an excellent choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,084.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 14.6 Inch? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra good for watching videos?
Hey! If you're thinking about getting the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra for watching videos, you're probably going to enjoy it. Just a heads-up, this tablet is Wi-Fi only, so you'll need a Wi-Fi connection to stream content. But once you're connected, it should be a seamless experience. The manufacturer mentions that it's got a really nice big screen, which is perfect for enjoying movies, TV shows, or even YouTube. Our research shows that the video quality is something people really admire about this tablet. The display is impressive, making everything look vibrant and clear. It also comes with an S Pen, which is great for drawing or note-taking, adding to the tablet's versatility. In terms of performance, it seems to handle video playback smoothly, thanks to its solid processing power. Since it's a Wi-Fi only model, it's perfect if you're mostly planning to use it at home or anywhere you can find a good Wi-Fi connection. The bonus of not having cellular radios is that it may last longer on a single charge, giving you more screen time. So, if you're mostly going to watch videos in places with stable Wi-Fi, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is a great pick. But if you need a tablet with on-the-go connectivity, you might want to check out other [Samsung](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSamsung%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) models with cellular options.
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How big is the screen on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra?
If you're wondering about the screen size of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, it's a pretty large 14.6 inches, as the manufacturer describes it. That size is great for those who want an immersive experience, whether you're binge-watching shows, working on projects, or diving into some gaming. As part of the 8th Generation lineup, the Tab S9 Ultra also includes an [S Pen](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ds%2Bpen%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is really handy if you like taking notes or need some precision for drawing or design tasks. It also packs a punch in the performance department, with 12GB of RAM, making multitasking a breeze. Our research indicates that people find the tablet's performance notably impressive. Many appreciate its ability to tackle heavy tasks smoothly, attributing this to the combination of a powerful Qualcomm chipset and ample RAM. So, if a large screen is what you're after, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra's 14.6-inch display should meet your expectations without a hitch.
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What is the battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra?
So, about the battery life on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra—you're in for a pretty solid experience. Our research indicates that it's got a hefty battery designed to handle a full day of use, though the manufacturer doesn't mention specific hours. It's kind of what you'd expect from a premium tablet in terms of lasting power. People who've used it say you can generally go through a whole day on one charge, particularly when doing things like streaming, browsing, or working in productivity apps. This matches up well with what the manufacturer suggests about its battery being great for both entertainment and multitasking. A cool thing about the Tab S9 Ultra is its smart power management in Samsung's software, which tweaks settings based on your usage. So, even if you're pushing it with high-performance tasks or enjoying its big 14.6-inch screen, the battery still holds up pretty well. That said, if you're playing heavy-duty games or running demanding apps, you might notice the battery draining faster. But generally, if you're looking for a tablet with a fantastic display for media that's also got stamina, the Tab S9 Ultra seems to fit the bill. It should hold up for a busy day without you having to chase after a charger.
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Budget Pick: Apple iPad Air (M2)

For those who prefer a Windows-based device, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the go-to option. Running a full version of Windows 11, this tablet offers the familiarity and flexibility of a desktop experience. The Surface Pro 9 boasts an impressive OLED display and robust battery life, powered by Intel processors. It seamlessly transitions between a tablet and a laptop with the optional keyboard, making it an incredibly versatile 2-in-1 device. Whether for work or play, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 stands out as a powerful and adaptable choice.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

Best for Drawing: Wacom One 13 Touch

Wacom One 13 Drawing Tablet with Screen, 13.3" Full HD Laminated Touchscreen Graphics Tablet with Wacom One Pen, Beginners Creative Tablet w/Display for Mac, Windows PC, Chromebook Display 13"

If your main focus is drawing, the Wacom One 13 Touch is the best choice. Known for its silky smooth touchscreen, it allows artists to sketch and draw with precision using a pen that's included in the box. The display offers a natural writing experience, and the setup is straightforward—just connect it to your PC or Mac via USB-C. However, keep in mind that it needs to be tethered to a computer, making it less portable than standalone tablets.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$599.95 at Amazon

Best for Seniors: GrandPad

GrandPad Tablet for Seniors, Accessibility Enabled Tablet, 4G LTE, Bluetooth Enabled Tablet with Wireless Charger, Stylus - 3 Months Premium Service with 4G Included

The GrandPad is specifically designed for seniors, offering a simplified interface that's easy to navigate. Features like large icons, loud speakers, built-in LTE connectivity, and ad-free music streaming make it an ideal tablet for older users. It excels at one-to-one video calls, making it perfect for staying connected with family. While its specs may be dated compared to modern tablets, its usability and intuitiveness are unmatched for this demographic.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$449.97 at Amazon

Best Windows Tablet: Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Surface Pro 9 (2022), 13" 2-in-1 Tablet & Laptop, Thin & Lightweight, Intel 12th Gen i7 Fast Processor for Multi-Tasking, 16GB RAM, 256GB Storage with Windows 11, Graphite Microsoft Copilot

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is our top choice for those who prefer a Windows-based tablet. Running a full version of Windows 11, it's perfect for professionals who need access to desktop-grade applications. The Surface Pro 9 features a magnificent OLED display and excellent battery life, powered by robust Intel processors. Its versatility is further enhanced by the optional keyboard, making it a powerful 2-in-1 device suitable for both work and play.

Lowest at Amazon
$1,539.99 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$1,089.00 at Walmart
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