The best gaming tablets in 2022

The best gaming tablets juggle a lot of jobs; they need to offer high quality gameplay across a wide library of titles, all while still holding up as everyday streaming, web-browsing, and productivity devices. That’s why dedicated gaming tablets can be so pricey – you’re getting features and specs that don’t typically make their way into everyday tech under the hood. However, many mainstream tablets are well suited to your thumb-tapping titles, and with the advent of cloud gaming they’re only getting more and more useful as time goes on. 

If you’ve outgrown your gaming phone, there are plenty of options out there for you. Not only that, but the best gaming tablets are starting to rival gaming laptops for their performance and value for money these days. If you’re looking to invest in a high-end device there’s some seriously exciting stuff on the table right now.

That’s where we come in. The recommendations listed below will breeze through everything from Call of Duty Mobile to Apple Arcade, not to mention all the day-to-day tasks you need. This page is constantly updated with the lowest prices too, so check back every now and then to see the latest discounts on the greatest slabs.

We’re rounding up our top picks based on price-to-performance ratio and our own healthy love for tablet devices, but you’ll find options for cheaper machines and those ready to take on the world of PC gaming alike. Before you take the plunge, though, make sure your favorite games are available on your operating system of choice – we’re looking at you, Fortnite. 

Best gaming tablets – top 10

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1. Asus ROG Flow Z13

The best gaming tablet overall

Specifications

Operating system: Windows 11Screen: 13.4-inch, 1920 x 1200, 60Hz, 30msCPU: Intel i5-12500H / i7-12700H / i9-12900HStorage: 512GB / 1TBRear camera: 8MPFront camera: 720P HDWeight: 2.6 lbs (1.18kg)

Reasons to buy

+Unrivalled tablet specs and performance+2-in-1 form factor+Versatile design+Solid build quality

Reasons to avoid

-Can buy far cheaper laptops with RTX 3050 Ti graphics-Shorter battery life

The Asus ROG Flow Z13 goes where no gaming tablet has gone before. This is a hybrid tablet and laptop, packing Intel’s latest 12th generation processors and an RTX 3050 Ti graphics card. While we struggled to recommend it as a gaming laptop in its entirety (this thing is particularly expensive), those on the hunt for a high-end gaming tablet with PC-level performance should definitely take note. 

We found that RTX 3050 Ti GPU to struggle a little in our testing, but you’ll still get far better performance than in other multi-purpose devices. Plus, there’s the whole world of PC gaming at your fingertips here thanks to Windows 11. Using the Asus ROG Flow Z13 in both tablet and laptop mode was a dream, with a responsive magnetic keyboard and a sturdy kickstand to keep everything safe. Not only that, but we particularly enjoyed the subtle RGB window into the circuitry on the back – a premium touch that lets the whole world know exactly what this tablet is being used for. 

It’s important to note that this is an incredibly well engineered piece of kit. Our unit had an i9-12900H processor under the hood with that latest generation graphics card, 16GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD – all working together to offer some serious performance without the temperature and noise concerns of similar slimline devices. While the price point will lock many out of this luxury experience – and won’t be worth it for those after a laptop – this is certainly the best gaming tablet on the market right now when it comes down to sheer power. 

Read more: Asus ROG Flow Z13 review

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(Image credit: Amazon)

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2. Amazon Fire HD 10

The best gaming tablet under $150 / £150

Specifications

Operating system: Fire OSScreen: 10.1 inches, 1920 x 1200CPU: Mediatek MT8183 Helio P60TStorage: 32GB / 64GBRear camera: 5MPFront camera: 720P HDWeight: 1.03 lbs (465g)

Reasons to buy

+Low entry level price point +Excellent value for money+Solid display quality

Reasons to avoid

-Not as powerful as Apple or Samsung-Limited in OS -Can be ad-heavy

If you’re on the hunt for a cheap gaming tablet that will see you through your favorite mobile games alongside web browsing and streaming, then the Fire HD 10 is really all you need. Sure, you won’t be getting the gut-busting performance of a dedicated device like the Asus ROG Flow Z13, or the premium finish and experience of an iPad Pro – but you’re not spending anywhere near the costs of those devices. 

Instead, you’re picking up a high quality screen that will help your games shine and plenty of internal power for a smooth experience in lighter titles. That’s considerable value for money, especially considering just how often these devices go on sale. While the MSRP stands at $149.99 for the 32GB model, that’s by no means the cheapest you can find these tablets during sale events. 

The Amazon Fire HD 10 is perfect for those who need a decent Minecraft or LEGO Star Wars machine but don’t need to sink pay cheques into an investment. 

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3. iPad Air (2022)

The best mid-range gaming tablet

Specifications

Operating system: iOSScreen: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina (2360 x 1640)CPU: M1Storage: 64GB / 256GBRear camera: 12MP wideFront camera: 12MPWeight: 1.02lb (461g)

Reasons to buy

+Lightweight+Powerful new M1 processor+Larger screen

Reasons to avoid

-Storage options are limited

Apple’s latest iPad Air lives in the Goldilocks ‘just right’ zone of the best gaming tablets. Thanks to a reasonable price – for Apple, anyway – and oodles of power beneath a chic design, it’s everything you could want from a mid-range device.

As the fifth version of the iPad Air, this one has plenty of feathers in its cap. Besides that revolutionary M1 processor, it offers a handsome 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display that’ll show off your games, movies, and TV shows at their best. Because there’s no home button, that screen has a bit more real-estate to play with as well.

Thanks to compatibility with Apple’s own keyboard and trackpad, the Air is also giving you the functionality of an iPad Pro without the associated price tag. That makes it an excellent choice for those who don’t want to destroy their bank balance for the best of the best, but equally aren’t keen on budget alternatives.

While some older 2020 models are still hanging around on the shelves, we’d recommend keeping a closer eye on the 2022 version. It’s the best mid-range gaming tablet on the market right now, and while you could pick up an older processor for around $70 less during a good discount the value of that M1 makes the extra investment worthwhile. 

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(Image credit: Microsoft)

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4. Microsoft Surface Pro 8

The best gaming tablet for productivity

Specifications

Operating system: Windows 11Screen: 13-inch PixelSense (2880 x 1920)CPU: i5-1135G7 / i7-1185G7Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TBRear camera: 10MPFront camera: 5MPWeight: 1.96lbs (891g)

Reasons to buy

+Slimline design+Excellent screen+Great keyboard attachment

Reasons to avoid

-Prices near the Asus ROG Flow Z13 without dedicated GPU

If you’re angling for a device that has the versatility of a tablet to go with the power of a laptop, Microsoft’s Surface Pro 8 is calling your name. It’s arguably the best gaming tablet for users wanting a high-end productivity experience that can also keep up with lighter games. 

That’s because it’s crammed with premium gear including Intel’s 11th generation processors, up to 32GB RAM, and up to 1TB of SSD storage for super-fast loading. In fact, this particular Surface is capable of running full-blown PC games when specced out with the right components. However, the cost of those additional features means you might be running close to the Asus ROG Flow Z13. If that’s the case, we’d heavily recommend considering the upgrade to a dedicated device with a similar form factor. Cheaper configurations will keep you locked to low-end games, but you’re still getting PC games nonetheless. How’s that for peak performance?

Additionally, it’s possible to attach a keyboard and mouse to the Pro 8 for a more traditional experience. That makes it a great choice for work as well as play, offering the best of both worlds in one easy-to-transport package.

Naturally, you’re paying rather a lot for that kind of excellence. But if you’re happy to foot the bill, you’ll be getting a device at the top of its game which bridges the gap between laptops and mobile beautifully. This is one we’d recommend most to those looking for a new everyday laptop as well as a gaming tablet. 

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5. iPad Pro (2021)

The best Apple gaming tablet

Specifications

Operating system: iOSScreen: 11-inch Liquid Retina (2388×1668) / 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR (2732×2048)CPU: Apple M1Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TBRear camera: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide, LiDAR ScannerFront camera: 7MP TrueDepthWeight: 1.03lbs (466g) / 1.5lbs (682g)

Reasons to buy

+Incredibly versatile+Features mouse support+Powerful chipset

Reasons to avoid

-Far more expensive than other Apple options

Want the best gaming tablet possible? You can’t beat the new generation of iPad Pro. With a powerful Apple M1 processor, trackpad and keyboard functionality, and a truly gorgeous Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology, this is one of the best gaming tablets on the market by a long shot.

That M1 processor boosts nearly every aspect of the iPad Pro experience, including the performance of your games. That means you’ll load up titles faster, experience less lag, and your device will manage its battery far better when playing intensive software as well. 

Elsewhere, the new Pro offers a dual-camera setup and lidar sensors. These boost the performance of augmented reality apps by allowing the iPad to better judge distances. When combined with an excellent Liquid Retina screen that’s perfect for games and movies, FaceID, and compatibility with the must-have Apple Pencil, this is pinnacle tech.

Linked above is the XDR display-toting 12.9-inch model, but you’ll also find the latest prices for the cheaper 11-inch version just below as well. 

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6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The best Android gaming tablet

Specifications

Operating system: Android 12Screen: 11-inch (1600 x 2560), 120HzCPU: Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1Storage: 128GB / 256GBRear camera: 13MP + 6MPFront camera: 6MPWeight: 1.11lbs (503g)

Reasons to buy

+Amazing AMOLED display on Plus models+120Hz display+Expandable storage

Reasons to avoid

-No headphone jack

Samsung has carved out a name for itself within the crowded world of tablets, and now its products rival any on offer from Apple. Indeed, the latest Galaxy might be Samsung’s best one yet. Driven by incredible technology and capped with a beautiful 111-inch screen that can offer a 120Hz refresh rate, the S8 line offers the best gaming tablet running Android by a wide margin.

Thanks to a Snapdragon chipset, it has plenty of oomph that allows it to power even the most demanding games. What’s more, it’ll do so at an impressive speed. Sure, most mobile games don’t require that kind of grunt. But if you’re playing something a bit more intensive (Fortnite, say), you’ll appreciate the boost.

It’s not too bulky, either. Despite having a narrower screen than your common iPad Pro, this keeps the weight down and allows the S8 to be more portable than earlier models. Because the point of mobile gaming is to play anywhere, that’s a real plus.

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7. Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

The best cheap Android gaming tablet

Specifications

Operating system: AndroidScreen: 10.4-inch (2000 x 1200)CPU: Octa-CoreStorage: 32GBRear camera: 8MPFront camera: 5MPWeight: 1.04lbs (476g)

Reasons to buy

+Cheaper Galaxy Tab+Fast processor+Lightweight

Reasons to avoid

-Screen could be sharper

Sure, you can get Android or Apple products that are flashier. But few provide the same level of bang for buck as the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7. It’s one of the best gaming tablets around if you’re trying to save money and aren’t keen on getting an iPad.

While its Qualcomm SM6115 processor won’t be able to keep up with more expensive competitors, the Tab A7 is still miles ahead of cheap and cheerful alternatives. That means it’ll be able to take most games in its stride. Indeed, it’ll only struggle when you ask it to run more demanding software, or lots of programs at once.

A sleeker design with smaller bezels helps maintain that image of quality; as well as looking modern, it allows more space for a larger screen. In turn, that’s backed up by a quad speaker and Dolby Atmos for a more cinematic experience. 

You get some cool toys to play with despite cutting costs, too. Namely, the A7 features facial recognition for faster unlocks. After using the feature for a while, it’s difficult to go back.

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8. iPad Mini (2021)

The best mini gaming tablet

Specifications

Operating System: iOSScreen: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina (2266×1488)CPU: Hexa-coreStorage: 64GB / 256GBRear Camera: 12MPFront Camera: 12MPWeight: 0.65lbs (293g)

Reasons to buy

+Portable+Lightweight+Surprisingly powerful

Reasons to avoid

-Not much bigger than a phone

If you’d prefer something a little smaller, the iPad Mini is one of the best gaming tablets you can get. Dainty but powerful, it’s as capable of running the latest releases as it is a movie or TV show. It runs rings around the competition as well – you won’t find a pint-sized tablet that performs better than this.

Even so, you’re still getting the same great iPad experience for a more palatable – yet admittedly hefty – price. Considering how costly Apple products can be, that’s no bad thing. Particularly because it offers extra value thanks to its compatibility with the 1st-gen Apple Pencil (it’s a good choice for anyone who wants to develop their artistic streak as a result).

Sure, the screen isn’t that much bigger than some cell phones. Nevertheless, it’s enough of an improvement to split the difference. Plus, that tighter footprint makes it ideal for commutes, vacations, or being curled up on the sofa.

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9. iPad 10.2 (2021)

The best cheap Apple gaming tablet

Specifications

Operating system: iOSScreen: 10.2-inch Retina (2160 x 1620)CPU: A13 BionicStorage: 64GB / 256GBRear camera: 8MPFront camera: 1.2MP FaceTime HDWeight: 1.07lbs (487g)

Reasons to buy

+More affordable+Excellent screen quality+Classy design

Reasons to avoid

-Storage options are limited

You don’t need an iPad Pro to experience everything Apple tablets have to offer. Its mid-range cousin is brilliant in its own right, and the 2021 iPad 10.2 (9th generation) is an all-rounder and the best gaming tablet for most people.

That’s because there’s a lot of advanced technology under the hood. Thanks to an A13 Bionic chip with more than enough grunt to handle most games, it offers everything you need – and then some – from an everyday tablet. Plus, that 10.2-inch Retina display makes sure everything looks its best at all times. It’s a gorgeous device.

What’s more, this iPad makes up for its lack of storage options and a disappointing selfie camera by being compatible with the Apple Pencil. The latter is a revelation for artists and doodlers alike, responding to pressure in a way that blows many digital drawing pads out of the water.

Thanks to a 20W plug, the iPad 10.2 also charges much faster than earlier versions. This (along with an iconic, timeless design) results in a tablet that feels premium without the crippling price tag to match.


Want a bigger screen to game on after all? Don’t forget to take a look at the best gaming TVs or our guide to the best OLED TV. No matter whether you’re playing a console game on them or streaming something from Disney Plus, they’ll make your content look its best.

Find out more about all the recommendations we make with our full GamesRadar+ Hardware policy.

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