The best tablets have traditionally been a large-screened alternative to smartphones. But just as the display sizes of phones continue to grow, tablets have seen their screen size increase as well. This is a welcomed trend for those who do a lot of work on a tablet, including students or those who work remotely and want something thin and lightweight but with a large screen. 

Also:The best small tablets you can buy

So it begs the question -- who else makes tablets with large displays? It turns out, there are more options than you'd think. Not all of them approach 15 inches, but there's more than enough screen real estate in the tablets available today. Our pick for the best large screen tablet is the12.9-inch iPad Pro , but we also included options from Samsung, Microsoft, and more.

The best large tablets of 2023

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch 6th generation

Best large tablet overall

Jason Cipriani/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Big, vibrant display
• iPadOS 16.1's new multitasking feature Strong performance thanks to M2 chip

Cons

• Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard are extra
• A fully loaded iPad Pro can get expensive

More Details

Apple iPad Pro tech specs: Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR displaywith ProMotion and True Tone  Processor: Apple Silicon M2  Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TBor 2TB Biometrics: Face ID  Colors: Silver, space gray  Cameras: 12MP wide, 10MP ultrawide rear and 12MP TrueDepth FaceTime front  Weight: 1.5 pounds  Dimensions: 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches  Connections: USB-C Thunderbolt/USB-4  Battery life: 10 hours

Apple's 2022 iPad Pro lineup is by far the most capable and impressive iPad lineup we've seen, making it our best overall pick. It's also the most expensive by a long shot. The design hasn't changed all that much on the outside, but on the inside, you'll find Apple's M2 processor which consists of 20 billion transistors -- 25 percent more than the M1. It's the same exact processor that Apple is using in the new 13-inch MacBook Pro and MacBook Air.

Review: iPad Pro

I spent some time with the 12.9-inch Apple iPad Pro and found it to be faster and more capable than any other iPad model I've tested to date. You can expect downloads up to 2.4Gbps, twice as fast as the previous model, 15 percent faster performance, and up to 35 percent faster graphics performance. 

The Pro also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, and there's a new hover feature thanks to the M2 chip. The feature works like this: Once the tip of the Apple Pencil gets near the iPad Pro's display, and when it's within 12 millimeters, parts of the interface come to life in apps that support the new feature. The Smart Connector is on the back of the iPad Pro, giving you the option to use it with the Magic Keyboard which includes backlit keys and a trackpad, or Apple's Smart Keyboard.

Also: M1 iPad Pro (2021) vs M2 iPad Pro (2022): Is it worth the upgrade?

And, although the differences between the 5th generation and 6th generation models are more subtle, the M2 chip is really what shines here, making it a powerhouse tablet. The iPad Pro, combined with iPadOS and the M2 chip, is as close as you can get to a laptop without actually buying a laptop. 

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

Best Samsung large tablet

June Wan/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Giant and improved display
• IP68 rating
• Improved S Pen experience

Cons

• Occasional app crashes

More Details

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultratech specs: Display: 14.6-in Dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz   Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy  Storage: 256GB, 512GB, microSD up to 1TB  Memory: 12GB or 16GB  Colors: Graphite or Beige  Cameras: Rear: 13MP main, 8MP ultrawide, Front: 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide  Weight: 1.62lb  Dimensions: 12.85 x 8.21 x 0.21 inches  Connections: USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1  Battery: 11,200mAh 

Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is by and large (pun intended) the tablet with the biggest display on our list. With a 14.6-inch display, you're sure to have enough room for work and play on the Tab S9 Ultra. Included in the box is Samsung's S Pen stylus that can be used for drawing out ideas or writing notes, or you can use it to navigate the tablet's Android 13 interface -- and even write in any text field and have it automatically converted to digital text. 

Among upgrades to the tablet from last year's model includes an improved Dynamic AMOLED display, an IP68 for water- and dust-resistant capabilities, an better S Pen experience, and more. 

Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

writer Maria Diaz went hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, and said these upgrades "give it a definitive edge over the competition."

"An IP68 rating gives the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultrawater and dust resistance that neither the iPad nor any premium tablet on the market is certified for," Diaz wrote. "Though I wouldn't recommend testing the limits, the Tab S9 Ultra can resist dust and is not only splash-proof but it will also survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes."

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Microsoft Surface Pro 8

Best large tablet for those who want a real computer

Jason Cipriani/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Great display
• Runs Windows 11
• Battery life
• Performance

Cons

• You'll pay extra for a keyboard
• Need a stylus? That's going to cost you

More Details

Microsoft Surface Pro 8tech specs: Display: 13-inch PixelSense Flow display  Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7  Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TBMemory:8GB, 16GB, 32GB  Biometrics: Windows Hello   Colors: Platinum, graphite  Cameras: 5MP front-facing, 10MP rear-facing  Weight: 1.96 pounds  Dimensions: 11.3 x 8.2 x 0.37 inches  Connections: 2 x USB-C Thunderbolt 4, 3.5mm headphone jack, 1 x Surface Connect port  Battery life: 16 hours

Microsoft's Surface lineup helped usher in the 2-in-1 detachable computer market, so I'd be remiss if I didn't include it on this list. It is sold as a stand-alone tablet, after all. Microsoft redesigned the Surface Pro 8, shrinking the bezels around the 13-inch display and giving it the same basic design as the Surface Pro X. 

With the Surface Pro 8, you're getting a tablet that runs Windows 11 out of the box, instead of a mobile operating system like Android or iPadOS. That means you're not going to have to worry about finding apps or workarounds for your workflows. 

Review: Microsoft Surface Pro 8for Business

I also got my hands on the Microsft Surface Pro, and was (almost) converted to a Windows user. What particularly impressed me was the the addition of Thunderbolt 4 support. The ability to connect a tablet to an external display and have it actually work how it's supposed to is a huge boost for my productivity. 

Of course, if you want to use the Surface Pro 8 as a laptop you'll need to buy a Surface Pro Signature Keyboard. Or, you can opt to get the combo that includes the keyboard and Microsoft's Slim Pen 2 stylus. There's even a handy compartment on the keyboard itself that stores the pen and charges it at the same time. 

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Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5

Best large tablet for ChromeOS users

Lenovo/ Pros & Cons Pros

• A ChromeOS option
• Routine update schedule
• Battery life

Cons

• You can either survive using ChromeOS or you can't
• Performance may not be all that impressive

More Details

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5tech specs: Display:13.3-inch OLED displayProcessor:?Snapdragon SC7180  Memory: 8GB LPDDR4xStorage: 128GB eMMC SSDCameras: 5mp (front)  Weight:2.22 poundsDimensions:12.05 x 7.32 x 0.27 inchesBattery:12 hours

Finally, there's a tablet that comes with a keyboard. Lenovo's Chromebook Duet 5 is a perfect option for someone who lives and works inside Google's ecosystem of services and products. It's a full-fledged ChromeOS device, but instead of having a permanently attached keyboard, it's a tablet that docks into the keyboard that comes in the box. 

When it's docked, you'll get a standard Chromebook layout and interface. You can access all of your Chrome apps, visit websites, and the like. You can also install Android apps directly from the Google Play Store. These are the same apps you can install on your phone, some of which are optimized for tablets. 

Review: Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5

Contributor Steven Vaughan-Nichols said this Chromebook is a great machine for a great price. 

"In this case, [the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5] scored a decent 61. For ARM-powered Chromebooks, this is a good number," he wrote. "Its battery life also came to a healthy 12+ hours."

When you disconnect the keyboard from the Duet 5, the interface will slightly adjust and adapt to a touch-first approach, ideal for a tablet. If you live and work in Google's ecosystem, then the Chromebook Duet 5 makes a lot of sense. 

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Microsoft Surface Pro X

Best large tablet for those on the go

Microsoft/ Pros & Cons Pros

• Classic Surface design
• LTE connectivity in a Windows 11 device
• Runs Windows 11

Cons

• App compatibility remains an issue
• You will need to splurge on a keyboard and stylus

More Details

Microsoft Surface Pro Xtech specs: Display:13-inch PixelSense display Processor:Microsoft SQ 1 or SQ 2  Storage:128GB SSD Memory:8GB LPDDR4x Cameras:5.0MP front-facing camera with 1080p full HD video, 10.0MP rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p HD and 4k video  Weight:1.7 poundsDimensions:11.3 x 8.2 x 0.28 inchesConnections: 2 USB-C, Surface Connect port, Surface Keyboard port, nano SIMBattery:15 hours

I already included the Surface Pro 8 on this list, but the Surface Pro X deserves its own callout. The Pro 8 and Pro X share the same design along with keyboard and stylus support. What makes the Pro X different is that it's powered by Microsoft's SQ1 or SQ2 ARM-based processor. That's the same kind of processor architecture that's used by Apple in its Apple Silicon chips currently found in the iPad Pro and several Macs. 

The benefits of moving to an ARM processor are seen in battery life and, in the case of the Pro X at least, the addition of LTE connectivity. However, there are some downsides. One of which is that apps need to be rebuilt to support ARM processors, instead of the tried and true Intel or AMD processors Microsoft uses in the rest of its Surface products. 

Review: Microsoft Surface Pro X

I've used a Surface Pro X since it first launched and while the app compatibility issue has gotten a lot better, there's still some work left to do before I'm not able to tell the difference between an app that's been updated and one that hasn't. 

Contributor Simon Bisson also used the Surface Pro X and said, "Microsoft has produced an excellent device for mobile workers, with a focus on Office and the web."

All of that to say -- if you're someone who likes living on the bleeding edge of technology and wants a tablet that has LTE connectivity so you can work from anywhere, the Pro X is worth considering. 

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE

Best budget large tablet

Samsung/ Pros & Cons Pros

• More affordable than the S8 Plus
• Expandable storage
• Good battery life

Cons

• Display could be better

More Details

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE tech specs: Display: 12.4-inch, 2560x1600 display  Processor: Qualcomm SM7325  Storage: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB  Memory: 4GB, 6GB, 8GB  Colors: Black, silver, green, pink  Cameras: 8MP rear, 5MP front camera  Weight: 1.34lb  Dimensions: 7.28 x 11.21 x 0.25 inches  Connections: USB-C  Battery:  12 hours

If you want to spend less on a big tablet, Samsung's "FE" series of devices are designed with Samsung fans in mind. That is, the company takes the best features of its high-end devices, trims some of them down, and releases a more affordable product. 

The Tab S7 FE has a large 12.4-inch display, a snappy processor, as well as multiple storage and memory options. The device, which comes in various colors, also has a 5G version available if you want to use it while on the go. 

Some standout features include face recognition technology, two stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and multi-device connectivity. It also has a great battery life that will last you for at least 12 hours. 

While the display on the S7 FE isn't as nice as the S8 Ultra, it's still more than suitable for streaming or playing games, and it also comes with an S Pen, adding even more to its affordability. 

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What is the best large tablet?

The best large tablet is the iPad Pro (2021), thanks to its powerful Apple M1 chip, impressive cameras, and optional 5G support.

Large tablet	Price	Display	Storage
iPad Pro (6th generation)	Starting at$1,099	12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra	Starting at$1,200	14.6-in Dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz	256GB, 512GB, microSD up to 1TB
Microsoft Surface Pro 8	Starting at$650	13-inch PixelSense Flow display	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5	$369	13.3-inch OLED display	128GB eMMC SSD
Microsoft Surface Pro X	Starting at$406	13-inch PixelSense display	128GB SSD
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE	$450	12.4-inch, 2560x1600 display	64GB, 128GB, 256GB

Which large tablet is right for you?

When trying to decide between one of these tablets, the biggest question to ask yourself is what operating system do you want. Once you figure out if you need a full computer experience or if a mobile-centric operating system is enough, you can narrow it down from there.

If you're stuck deciding between the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro X, I'd recommend going with the Pro 8 only because you don't have to worry about app compatibility as you do with the Pro X. 

Choose this large tablet...	If you want...
iPad Pro 6th generation	The best overall option with a vibrant display and exceptional performance. The M2 processor gives you all the power you need for work, content creation, and streaming.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra	To stay in the Android ecosystem, have a great battery life, and get an included S Pen. It is even waterproof.
Microsoft Surface Pro 8	A large tablet that can replace the need for a desktop computer with its robust display and strong performance. Its compact size makes it perfect for mobile professionals.
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5	A tablet that uses ChromeOS.with a solid battery life and routine update schedule. This tablet is great for students with a 12+ hour battery life.
Microsoft Surface Pro X	A large tablet to take with you on the go thanks to the LTE connectivity and lightweight design. With LTE connectivity, you can access the internet when Wi-Fi networks aren't available.
Samsung Galaxy S7 FE	A super affordable tablet with a large display, expandable storage, and good battery life. For under$500, you'll still get premium-grade features like Dolby Atmos support and a 12-hour battery life.

How did I choose these large-screen tablets?

There aren't many options for tablets with large displays, so I considered a few points while comparing models:

• Price:While we can expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars for a basic tablet, tablets with large screens and/or premium components and features can cost in the thousands.
• Storage:Because having a tablet that you can't actuallyuse is no fun. I chose large-screen tablets that had varying levels of internal storage as well as microSD card expansion slots.
• Connectivity:While Wi-Fi connectivity is now standard for tablets and other mobile devices, it may also be worth looking at tablets that also support LTE cellular data for when Wi-Fi networks are unavailable. This feature is great for mobile professionals who may not always be able to access traditional internet networks.
• Weight:Large screens are all fine and dandy, but if the tablet is a pain to carry around, it's not going to get used much. I made sure to choose large-screen tablets that were still on the lightweight side for better portability.

What are the different tablet sizes?

Tablets range in size from small to large. Small tablets are usually five to seven inches. Mid-size tablets have a screen ranging from nine to 11 inches. Then, there are large tablets with screen sizes from 12-14 inches. 

Keep in mind that the larger the tablet, the heavier it will usually be.

Do I need a keyboard and stylus for a large-screen tablet?

Neither accessory is a requirement. It all depends on how you plan to use the tablet. If you're going to use it for watching movies, playing games, or reading books, a keyboard isn't required. 

However, if you plan on using it as a weekend replacement for your laptop, or for school, then, yes, you'll need to spend the extra money on one. You can get Bluetooth options online or at electronic stores, and they're perfect traveling companions for when you want to work or play on the go. 

Is there really that big of a difference between Android and iPadOS?

There is a big difference in terms of the quantity and quality of apps that are available for iPadOS over Android. Apple and third-party developers have spent years fine-tuning the experience on the larger display device. 

Google has all but admitted it gave up on making Android tablets, and developers have taken the company's lead. You'll find a lot of apps you can install and use, but ultimately they're nothing more than the phone version of the app, and many just don't work as they should.

Are there alternative large-screen tablets to consider?

Large-screen tablets are easier to find than small tablets, so it just takes some research into the market. Here are a few other large-screen tablets I recommend. 

Best Android alternative

Lenovo Yoga Tab 11

This large-screen tablet is perfect for family sharing and catching up on your favorite entertainment.

View at Amazon

BEST PRICE

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra

As a predecessor to the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 lineup, this large-screen tablet has plenty of specs worth considering.

View at Amazon

Best affordable alternative

Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus

This affordable device comes with a solid battery life at a decent price for a large screen.

View at Amazon

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