These days, tablets have become an essential tool for many people, from students and professionals to casual users. That being said, most tablets are out of reach of the mainstream audience due to their high cost. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options available for those on a budget. If you’re searching for the best budget tablets out there, you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, we will be taking a look at some of the best budget tablets under $100 that you can buy.
So whether you’re looking for a device to browse the web, watch videos, or get some work done on the go, we’ve got you covered. But first, you might want to check out the following:
- Read books and take notes easily on these amazing tablets
- Don’t compromise entertainment on your next adventure with these rugged tablets
1. Amazon Fire HD 8 (12th-Gen)
- Display: 8 inches (1280 x 800)
- RAM: 2GB | Storage: 32GB
- Rear Camera: 2MP | Front Camera: 2MP
Featuring an 8-inch 1280 x 800 resolution display, the Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet is great for media consumption. You also get access to Amazon’s vast library of movies, TV shows, books, and music. Additionally, it also supports popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. There’s support for Dolby Atmos as well on its dual speakers to allow for great entertainment.
As far as the design is concerned, it’s quite basic, thanks to its plastic build. It’s available in Black, Denim, and Rose color options too. As for the OS, the tablet runs on the company’s Fire OS 7 based on Android 11. However, it doesn’t have access to the Google Play Store, which limits the app selection. Instead, you can use the Amazon Appstore to download apps of your choice.
One thing to keep in mind is that Amazon offers both Ad-Supported and Without Lockscreen Ads versions of it. Depending on your budget, you can opt for either of them. Nonetheless, the 8-inch screen size coupled with access to Amazon’s Kindle bookstore makes the Fire HD 8 a great tablet for readers, who prefer to have some entertainment on the side.
2. Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus
- Display: 8 inches (1280 x 800)
- RAM: 3GB | Storage: 32GB
- Rear Camera: 5MP | Front Camera: 2MP
For the most part, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is similar to the Fire HD 8 (12th-gen) but offers some noticeable improvements. First up, you get 3GB of RAM here, which directly translates to better multitasking. Additionally, this also allows you to run slightly heavy-duty apps on your tablet that might require more resources.
There’s also a bigger 5MP camera on the rear side, that allows you to capture better photos. You also get support for 1080p video recording, an improvement over its little brother capped at 720p. Now, while the battery capacity remains the same, you get support for faster charging, which takes the charging time from the standard 5 hours down to just 3 hours. What’s more, is that you also get support for wireless charging here.
The wireless charging dock needs to be purchased separately but is otherwise great for conveniently charging your Fire HD 8 Plus tablet while watching content over it. While the Alexa Show Mode is available on both HD 8 and HD 8 Plus, thanks to its wireless charging dock, you can just enjoy using the hands-free mode without running out of juice.
3. Amazon Fire HD 7 Kids
- Display: 7 inches (1024 x 600)
- RAM: 2GB | Storage: 16GB
- Rear Camera: 2MP | Front Camera: 2MP
In terms of design, the Fire HD 7 Kids features a rugged, kid-proof case that can withstand accidental drops, spills, and bumps. It also features a built-in stand for hands-free use, making it easier for kids to watch videos or play games.
What’s more? Amazon includes a 2-year worry-free guarantee with it. As such, on the off chance that this tablet breaks, Amazon will return and replace it for free, no questions asked.
The Amazon Fire HD 7 Kids comes with a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+. The service offers access to over 20,000 books, videos, games, and educational apps that are age-appropriate for kids. The tablet also includes a web browser, but parents can choose to disable it if they want to limit access to the internet.
Speaking of limiting access, parents have the option to utilize the tablet’s parental control features, which enable them to set educational targets, curfews, and screen time limits for up to four child profiles. Additionally, they can manage the content their children access, providing a safe and age-appropriate browsing experience.
4. Winsing Android Tablet
- Display: 10 inches (1200 x 800)
- RAM: 2GB | Storage: 32GB
- Rear Camera: 5MP | Front Camera: 2MP
The Winsing Android Tablet comes with Android 9.0 Pie inside. This isn’t the latest Android version by any means but is a definite improvement over Amazon’s Fire OS in many ways. You get access to the full Google Play Store, allowing you to download and install any app of your choice.
In terms of entertainment, the 10-inch display coupled with the dual speakers makes for a nice package. You can comfortably enjoy watching movies or TV shows on this tablet. Add to that the IPS display means that the viewing angles aren’t bad either. So, you can always watch content on it with a friend or a family member.
As far as performance is concerned, 2GB of RAM coupled with a MediaTek MT6580 processor suggests mediocre performance. Add to that, consumers have stated that neither the battery life nor the charging speeds are something to boast about. With that being said, if you don’t mind using this tablet just for your entertainment needs, it should fit the bill for sure.
5. Lenovo Tab M8 (2nd-gen)
- Display: 8 inches (1280 x 800)
- RAM: 2GB | Storage: 32GB
- Rear Camera: 8MP | Front Camera: 2MP
On paper, the Lenovo Tab M8’s 8-inch display seems similar to the rest of the options on this list. However, this is a TÜV®-certified display, which gets rid of blue light. As a result, this panel is safe on the eyes, coming in handy for extended usage. The IPS panel is also aided by Dolby Audio-tuned side speaker, which allows for entertainment on the go.
Similar to the Winsing Android Tablet, the Lenovo Tab M8 (2nd-Gen) also comes with Android 9 Pie inside. However, you get a much improved 8MP rear camera which is great for snapping pictures. And if you want to attend a quick video call on Zoom or Google Meet, the 2MP camera should suffice for you.
As far as the charging is concerned, you get an outdated micro USB port here. However, the 5,000mAh battery should easily last an entire day of mixed usage. If you’re looking for an all-rounded tablet from a reliable brand, the Lenovo Tab M8 (2nd-gen) is an easy recommendation.
6. TCL Tab 8
- Display: 8 inches (1280 x 800)
- RAM: 3GB | Storage: 32GB
- Rear Camera: 5MP | Front Camera: 2MP
TCL is another renowned brand that makes reliable smartphones and tablets alike. The TCL Tab 8 is one such example. Right off the bat, the first thing that makes it better than all the other options on this list is that it comes with a far more modern Android 11. You also get a carrying case and a screen protector included inside the package, so you don’t have to go hunting for a new one.
The tablet also comes with the TCL Kids edutainment platform with parental controls. Similar to Amazon, it has a carefully built library with dozens of educational videos, stories, and apps. Alternatively, if you wish to use this tablet for reading eBooks, it also features a dedicated Reading Mode. Effectively the panel goes monotone, allowing for less eye strain and offering better comfort.
Also, the 5500mAh battery should easily last an entire day of mixed usage. That being said, the 5W charging is slow. As such, in case you are heading out, it’s best to charge it in advance. Another downside of this tablet is that while it does come with a full-fletched Android experience, some consumers have reported multiple apps to not be compatible with this tablet.
That being said, your mileage may vary. And even so, the TCL Tab 8 is a much more reliable offering as compared to the plethora of off-brand Chinese tablets otherwise available in the market.
FAQs About Budget Tablets
While a tablet can perform many of the same functions as a laptop, it may not necessarily be able to fully replace a laptop for everyone. It depends on your specific needs and use cases. While tablets are great for entertainment purposes, a laptop is better suited for more performance-related tasks.
If you prefer a different operating system than Android and do not wish to spend over $100, you will have to take a look at the used market. Neither Apple nor Microsoft sells any budget tablet under $100 currently.
Pick up a Budget Tablet Today
Finding an affordable tablet that meets your needs doesn’t have to be a difficult task. We’ve covered the best budget tablets under $100 each with their unique set of features and capabilities. Whether you’re looking for a basic tablet for browsing the web or a more advanced device for productivity and entertainment, there’s an option for you on this list.
While the Lenovo Tab M8 seems like a nice option if you want the full Android experience, there’s no denying that Amazon’s Fire HD tablets are great for the majority of folks out there.
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Last updated on 30 March, 2023
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