The Best Budget Tablets of 2026: No Expenses or Disappointments
December 22, 2025
When you’re looking for a tablet that works properly and doesn’t bite you on price, it turns into a real quest — especially in 2026. There are tons of models on the market, but truly solid budget options aren’t that common. We went through the current devices and compared which ones can actually handle video, messengers, studying, or light work. No “ads” and no vague advice here — just practical observations. If you want to buy a tablet and not regret it a couple of weeks later, this guide will save you time and nerves.
1. Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE 8.7
The Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4/64GB Wi-Fi is built for everyday use: from watching videos to chatting and running simple apps. It comes with an 8.7-inch IPS display at 1340×800 resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate, which makes the image smoother and easier to read — especially while scrolling. The tablet runs Android 14 and is powered by the MediaTek Helio G85, which handles basic tasks without noticeable lag. Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos add more depth to the sound, making it a nice option for movies and YouTube.
For its price, it also offers a microSD slot up to 2 TB — a lifesaver if the built-in 64 GB isn’t enough. The 5 MP front camera and 8 MP rear camera with autofocus work well for video calls and simple photos. A 6650 mAh battery supports 18W charging, so topping up doesn’t take forever.
Key highlights:
Compact size and lightweight body
Good sound with Dolby Atmos support
Expandable storage up to 2 TB
90 Hz display refresh rate
Specs:
Display: 8.7" IPS, 1340×800, 90 Hz
Processor: MediaTek Helio G85, 8-core
Memory: 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage
OS: Android 14
Cameras: 8 MP rear, 5 MP front
Audio: Stereo, Dolby Atmos
Battery: 6650 mAh, 18W charging
Ports: USB Type-C, 3.5 mm
2. Blackview Oscal Pad 60 Kids
The Blackview Oscal Pad 60 Kids 4/128GB is designed for everyday learning, reading, and light entertainment. Its 10.1-inch IPS display with 1280×800 resolution is suitable for cartoons and video lessons. Inside you get the Allwinner A523 octa-core processor and 4 GB of RAM — enough for educational apps, browsing, and video calls. It runs Android 15, which means modern interface features and good compatibility with up-to-date apps.
Storage is 128 GB and can be expanded via microSD up to 512 GB, so there’s plenty of room for books and videos. The rear camera is 8 MP and the front is 5 MP. You get stereo speakers plus Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. A 5100 mAh battery is рассчитed for a full day of moderate use.
Key highlights:
Updated Android 15
Bright 10-inch IPS display
128 GB storage with expansion
Rugged, kid-friendly build
Specs:
Display: 10.1" IPS, 1280×800, 60 Hz
Processor: Allwinner A523, 8-core, 2.0 GHz
Memory: 4 GB RAM, 128 GB storage
OS: Android 15
Cameras: 8 MP rear, 5 MP front
Audio: Stereo
Battery: 5100 mAh
Ports: USB Type-C, 3.5 mm jack
3. Samsung Galaxy Tab A9
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 4/64GB LTE is a compact LTE tablet for those who want to stay connected outside the house. Its 8.7-inch TFT display at 1340×800 resolution delivers basic image quality for browsing, messaging, and video. It runs Android 13 with OneUI 5.1, so the interface is familiar and easy to navigate. Performance comes from the MediaTek Helio G99 (up to 2.2 GHz), which is plenty for everyday use.
It includes 64 GB of storage, expandable up to 1 TB via microSD. The battery is 5100 mAh with USB-C charging. Cameras are an 8 MP rear unit and a 2 MP front camera — okay for video calls. You also get Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and GPS with support for Galileo, BeiDou, and other systems.
Key highlights:
LTE connectivity without relying on Wi-Fi
Updated OneUI 5.1 interface
Compact and lightweight form factor
Expandable storage up to 1 TB
Specs:
Display: 8.7" TFT, 1340×800
Processor: MediaTek Helio G99, 8-core, 2.2 GHz
Memory: 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage
OS: Android 13, OneUI 5.1
Cameras: 8 MP rear, 2 MP front
Battery: 5100 mAh
Ports: USB Type-C, 3.5 mm
Wi-Fi: 802.11ac
Bluetooth: 5.3
4. Lenovo Tab M11
The Lenovo Tab M11 4/128GB is a versatile 11-inch IPS tablet built for both work and entertainment. With 1920×1200 resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate, video and scrolling feel noticeably smoother — especially during long sessions. A built-in light sensor automatically adjusts brightness based on your environment, helping reduce eye strain. It runs Android 13 and supports most current apps and everyday tasks.
You get 4 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, which covers basic needs for apps and files. There’s no cellular connectivity, but Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1 are included. It also comes with a stylus in the box — handy for notes, quick sketches, and marking up PDFs.
Key highlights:
90 Hz refresh rate
Stylus included
IPS display with solid viewing angles
Automatic brightness adjustment
Specs:
Display: 11" IPS, 1920×1200, 90 Hz
Memory: 4 GB RAM, 128 GB storage
OS: Android 13
Wireless: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1
Color: Grey
Cellular: No
5. DOOGEE T30 Ultra
The DOOGEE T30 Ultra 12/256GB puts a strong emphasis on memory: 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage — still uncommon at this price point. It’s a good fit for users who constantly switch between apps or work with heavier files. The design is simple and practical, with a clean black body and no extra “flash.”
Display and other specs are listed minimally here, but it’s worth noting Bluetooth 5.0 and the lack of cellular modules. This tablet is primarily for viewing content, storing files, reading, and working with documents — basically a Wi-Fi “laptop substitute” for everyday use.
Key highlights:
Large memory capacity (12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage)
Simple, no-nonsense build
Designed for multitasking
No cellular module (Wi-Fi version)
Specs:
Memory: 12 GB RAM, 256 GB storage
Bluetooth: 5.0
Body color: Black
4G/5G support: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
6. Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2
The Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2 4/128GB strikes a strong balance between display quality, performance, and battery life. It features an 11-inch IPS panel with 2560×1600 resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate. Brightness up to 600 nits makes it comfortable even in daylight, while TÜV Rheinland certification helps reduce harmful blue light. The tablet runs Android 15 with HyperOS 2 and is powered by the MediaTek Helio G100 Ultra (8-core), handling daily tasks well without overheating.
Cameras include an 8 MP rear and a 5 MP front. Audio comes from four speakers with Dolby Atmos. A 9000 mAh battery provides long runtime, and 18W USB-C charging helps you top up when needed. Wireless options include Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.3.
Key highlights:
11" 2.5K display with 90 Hz
Large 9000 mAh battery
Four speakers with Dolby Atmos
Android 15 with HyperOS 2
Specs:
Display: 11", 2560×1600, IPS-LCD, 90 Hz
Processor: MediaTek Helio G100 Ultra (8-core)
Memory: 4 GB RAM, 128 GB storage
Cameras: 8 MP rear, 5 MP front
Audio: 4 speakers, Dolby Atmos
Battery: 9000 mAh, 18W charging
OS: Android 15, HyperOS 2
Wireless: USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 5
7. Honor Pad X8a
The Honor Pad X8a 4/128GB combines solid everyday specs with a fairly sharp display. It’s powered by the Snapdragon 680 (up to 2.4 GHz). The 11-inch 1920×1200 screen with a 90 Hz refresh rate works well for video and reading. The tablet runs Android 14, and it includes four speakers with Huawei Histen for fuller sound.
Cameras are 5 MP on the back and 5 MP on the front — fine for video calls and simple snaps. You get 128 GB storage, and while microSD support isn’t specified here, it’s commonly included in this lineup. Connectivity includes USB-C, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.1. The body is quite thin at 7.25 mm.
Key highlights:
90 Hz refresh rate
Four built-in speakers
11" IPS display
Automatic brightness adjustment
Specs:
Processor: Snapdragon 680, 8-core, 2.4 GHz
Memory: 4 GB RAM, 128 GB storage
Display: 11", IPS, 1920×1200, 90 Hz
OS: Android 14
Cameras: 5 MP rear, 5 MP front
Audio: 4 speakers, Huawei Histen
Ports/Wireless: USB-C, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1
8. Blackview MEGA 2
The Blackview MEGA 2 12/256GB is a large-screen tablet with a strong focus on storage. It features a 12-inch IPS display at 2000×1200 resolution, making it suitable for movies, reading, and document work. Inside is the Unisoc T615 (8-core), plus 12 GB of RAM (with virtual expansion available). It runs Android 15 with DokeOS 5.0, adding extra interface tweaks and handy features.
Cameras include a 16 MP rear and an 8 MP front camera, and the tablet has two speakers. The 9000 mAh battery supports 18W charging. Wireless options include Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz). SIM support is also included.
Key highlights:
Large 12-inch display
12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage
microSD support up to 2 TB
Big 9000 mAh battery
Specs:
Display: 12", IPS, 2000×1200
Processor: Unisoc T615, 8-core
Memory: 12 GB RAM, 256 GB storage
Cameras: 16 MP rear, 8 MP front
OS: Android 15, DokeOS 5.0
Wireless: USB-C, Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz, Bluetooth 5.0
Battery: 9000 mAh, 18W charging
9. Oukitel Pad RT9
The Oukitel Pad RT9 6/256GB LTE is built for users who need a rugged tablet for tougher environments. It comes with IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certifications, meaning strong resistance to dust, water, and physical stress. The 10.1-inch IPS display is 800×1280 with 400 nits brightness. Inside you get the Unisoc T606 (1.6 GHz) and 6 GB RAM with virtual expansion.
It runs Android 14 and supports 4G LTE, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz), GPS, and Bluetooth 5.0. Both cameras are 16 MP and support 1080p video. Storage is 256 GB and can be expanded via microSD up to 1 TB. A massive 11000 mAh battery supports 18W fast charging, with a full charge taking around 3.5 hours.
Key highlights:
IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H protection
Huge 11000 mAh battery
4G LTE support
Specs:
Display: 10.1" IPS, 800×1280, 400 nits
Processor: Unisoc T606, 8-core
Memory: 6 GB RAM, 256 GB storage
Cameras: 16 MP rear, 16 MP front
OS: Android 14
Connectivity: USB-C, Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS
SIM: LTE, Dual SIM
Battery: 11000 mAh, 18W charging
10. Blackview Tab 16 Pro
The Blackview Tab 16 Pro 8/256GB is a mid-size tablet with a solid memory setup. It has an 11-inch IPS display at 1920×1200 resolution and supports auto brightness. Performance comes from the Unisoc T616 — good for browsing, video, and messaging. You get 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage, plus microSD expansion up to 1 TB. It features stereo speakers and supports both 4G LTE and Wi-Fi 802.11ac.
For photos and video calls, there’s a 13 MP rear camera and an 8 MP front camera. The tablet runs Android 14 and packs a 7700 mAh battery. Ports include USB-C and a 3.5 mm audio jack.
Key highlights:
8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage
4G LTE support
Automatic brightness adjustment
microSD slot up to 1 TB
Specs:
Display: 11" IPS, 1920×1200
Processor: Unisoc Tiger T616, 8-core, 2.0 GHz
Memory: 8 GB RAM, 256 GB storage
Cameras: 13 MP rear, 8 MP front
Audio: Dual-box stereo speakers
Connectivity: USB-C, 3.5 mm, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth, GPS
OS: Android 14
Battery: 7700 mAh
11. OPPO Pad SE
The OPPO Pad SE 4/128GB is a balanced tablet focused on comfortable media use. Its 11-inch IPS screen at 2000×1200 looks sharp and bright, and with four speakers plus Dolby Atmos support, audio feels fuller both with and without headphones. It runs on the Snapdragon 680, which is enough for video, web browsing, documents, and even some light gaming. ColorOS for Pad keeps navigation smooth, while the 8000 mAh battery delivers solid endurance.
The body is thin (6.9 mm) and light (490 g), with an aluminum back. You get Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, and a microSD slot (up to 1 TB). Overall, it’s a good “no-drama” option for home, studying, and streaming — nothing excessive, just the essentials done right.
Key highlights:
Snapdragon 680 processor, 4 GB RAM
128 GB storage + microSD up to 1 TB
4 speakers with Dolby Atmos
8000 mAh battery, 18W charging
490 g weight, 6.9 mm thickness
Specs:
Display: 11" 2000×1200
RAM / Storage: 4/128 GB
4G support: No
OS: ColorOS based on Android
Bluetooth: 5.4
Conclusion
Sometimes the most ordinary things hide exactly what you need. No feature overload, no inflated expectations — just a device that turns on, works, and doesn’t get in the way. In a world where everything constantly updates, it’s nice when at least something simply does its job — calmly and without surprises.
A tablet is exactly that kind of thing. It can be a screen for an evening movie, a notebook for quick notes, a window into your messengers, or a travel companion. The key is that it fits you. That it doesn’t annoy you, doesn’t act up, and doesn’t create extra questions.
And even if there’s nothing “wow” about it — sometimes that’s actually a good thing. When everything is in its place, you don’t necessarily need to change anything.