best tablet for small business owners
Looking for the ultimate tool to streamline your business operations? Our guide dives deep into the top & best tablet for small business owners – don’t miss out on finding your perfect match!
Tablets have become an essential tool for small business owners, helping them manage their operations with ease. However, the influx of options can be daunting, making it challenging to identify that perfect fit tailored specifically for your business needs.
We know it’s a struggle, and that’s why this article aims to make things easier by providing an in-depth review of the best tablets suitable for small businesses. From discussing key features to consider when choosing a tablet to breaking down individual specifications of popular choices like Microsoft Surface Pro 7 or Apple iPad Pro – we’ve got you covered! Stay tuned; your ideal business companion awaits discovery.
Key Takeaways
- Tablets are essential tools for small business owners, helping them manage their operations with ease.
- When choosing a tablet for business, important features to consider include size and resolution, design and form factor, keyboard compatibility, connectivity options, and battery life.
- The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is recommended as the best convertible tablet for small business owners due to its powerful performance and versatile design.
- The Apple iPad Pro is widely regarded as the most versatile business tablet thanks to its powerful internals, seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, and compatibility with accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.
- The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is perfect for multitasking with its powerful performance and versatile features.
Essential Features to Consider for a Business Tablet
When looking for a business tablet, it is essential to consider features such as size and resolution, design and form factor, keyboard compatibility, connectivity options, and battery life.
Size and Resolution
In choosing a tablet for business, size and resolution are key factors to consider. Tablets typically range in size from 8 inches to 12 inches. For instance, the Nokia T20 tablet features a generous screen of 10.4 inches, big enough for content creation and document editing.
Along with size, screen resolution impacts display quality; sharper images enhance presentations or video meetings. In terms of clarity, the Nokia T20 leads with its robust resolution of 2,000 x 1,200 pixels offering crisp visibility for detailed tasks like graphic design or reading small text.
Ultimately larger tablets offer more workspace while higher resolution ensures clear visuals on your chosen device.
Design and Form Factor
The design and form factor of a tablet play a crucial role in determining its usability and comfort. A slim and lightweight design, as seen in the iPad Air (2022), enhances portability while still providing powerhouses for professionals.
The IP68-certified constructions yield rugged tablets that can withstand shocks, dust, and water – an ideal choice for businesses constantly on the go.
Size comes into consideration under form factor too. Tablets like Lenovo Tab Extreme come in various sizes suited to different needs. Smaller ones offer better portability; they are apt choices for tasks such as social media management and communication with clients or team members.
Conversely, larger tablets are usually preferred for consuming content or editing documents due to their expansive screens offering more visible workspace.
Keyboard Compatibility
Many business tablets offer keyboard compatibility, providing a significant advantage for users who often type or input data. Keyboards can boost productivity and make note-taking, presentations, and office work more efficient.
Certain tablets like the Microsoft Surface Pro 7, Apple iPad Pro, and Lenovo Tab P11 Pro even integrate with their own brand-specific keyboards. For instance, Apple’s Magic Keyboard is designed to work seamlessly with the iPad Pro.
Some Android-powered devices such as Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 support Bluetooth keyboards for versatile typing options. Therefore, it becomes paramount to choose a tablet that supports keyboard connection according to your business needs for optimal performance and convenience.
Connectivity Options
Optimal connectivity is crucial in a business tablet. It should encompass Wi-Fi capabilities, cellular support for on-the-go internet access, and Bluetooth compatibility for pairing with other devices.
Tablets with an array of ports allow connection to essential external hardware like keyboards, mice, and monitors — increasing their functionality significantly. Future-proof tablets bear 5G-enabled models and support for Wi-Fi 6 or 6E standards that deliver unrivaled wireless speed and performance.
This capability becomes particularly vital if you’re a mobile worker frequently swapping between home broadband and data connections on the road.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration when choosing a business tablet. Small business owners need a device that can keep up with their busy schedules without constantly needing to be charged.
While specific information about the battery life of the iPad Air is not provided, it’s important to look for tablets that offer long-lasting battery performance. This ensures uninterrupted productivity throughout the day and reduces the need for frequent charging breaks.
So when selecting a business tablet, make sure you prioritize battery life to enhance your efficiency and convenience while on the go.
Microsoft Surface Pro 7: Best Convertible Tablet for Business
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is considered the best convertible tablet for business due to its versatile features and capabilities.
Features & Description (Microsoft Surface Pro 7)
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is recommended as the best convertible tablet for small business owners. It boasts an impressive 8th generation Intel i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage, ensuring powerful performance for all your business needs.
The versatile design allows you to use it as both a tablet and a laptop with its detachable keyboard. With a 12.3-inch PixelSense display featuring high resolution, you can enjoy crisp visuals while working on presentations or viewing documents.
Running on Windows 10, this tablet provides seamless integration with Microsoft services and software, making it easy to stay productive. Plus, the long battery life ensures that you can work all day without worrying about running out of power.
Pros & Cons (Microsoft Surface Pro 7)
Starting with the advantages, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is known for its powerful and efficient performance thanks to its 10th generation Intel Core processor. This tablet also boasts a high-resolution touchscreen display that provides clear and vibrant visuals. Users also appreciate its versatile design, allowing it to function as both a tablet and a laptop when paired with a detachable keyboard.
Another major advantage is its long battery life of up to 10.5 hours, ensuring all-day productivity. In addition, it is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for business meetings or traveling. The Surface Pro 7 also supports the use of a stylus pen for precise note-taking or drawing. Finally, it offers a myriad of connectivity options, including USB-C and USB-A ports.
On the downside, some users have reported a lack of USB ports and the Surface Pen is sold separately.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful and efficient performance with the 10th generation Intel Core processor | Lack of USB ports |
| High-resolution touchscreen for clear and vibrant visuals | Surface Pen sold separately |
| Versatile design can be used as a tablet or a laptop with a detachable keyboard | |
| Long battery life of up to 10.5 hours | |
| Lightweight and portable for easy carrying | |
| Supports the use of a stylus pen | |
| Connectivity options, including USB-C and USB-A ports |
Apple iPad Pro: Most Versatile Business Tablet
The Apple iPad Pro is widely regarded as the most versatile business tablet due to its powerful internals, seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, and compatibility with accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.
Features & Description (Apple iPad Pro)
The Apple iPad Pro stands out as one of the most versatile business tablets on the market today. With its lightweight design and long battery life, it is perfect for professionals on the go.
Powered by the high-performance M1 processor, it delivers powerful and fast performance for all your business tasks. The iPad Pro features a large 12.9-inch display, making it the largest and most powerful tablet available.
Its Liquid Retina XDR display with Mini LED technology and a 120Hz refresh rate offers stunning visuals for enhanced productivity. Additionally, the iPad Pro offers a wide array of quality accessories that allow for customization and expanded functionality to meet your specific business needs.
Pros & Cons (Apple iPad Pro)
The Apple iPad Pro is lauded as a top choice for small business owners, but like any product, it has its own set of strengths and weaknesses.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powered by Apple’s first-party silicon for reliable performance, ensuring smooth operation for business tasks. | High-end models can be quite expensive, potentially making it a significant investment for small businesses. |
| Supports Wi-Fi 6 or 6E and 5G-enabled models, making it future-proof and ideal for mobile workers. | Depending on the software your business uses, there might be compatibility issues with iPadOS. |
| Efficient iPadOS operating system enhances the functionality and efficiency of the device. | Not all applications are optimized for the tablet format, which could potentially limit usability. |
| Offers powerful performance and great battery life, ensuring the device can handle demanding tasks and last throughout the work day. | While a great device, the iPad Pro might be overkill for businesses that only require basic functionality. |
| Features like multi-tasking support and USB-C connectivity improve productivity and versatility. | Despite its capabilities, it may not completely replace a laptop for all businesses or individuals. |
| Comes in varying sizes (11 inches, 12.9 inches, 10.2 inches), allowing for choice based on business needs and personal preference. | Accessories like the Apple Pencil and keyboard, which can greatly enhance productivity, are sold separately and can add to the overall cost. |
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6: Best for Multitasking
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is the perfect tablet for multitasking, thanks to its powerful performance and versatile features.
Features & Description (Samsung Galaxy Tab S6)
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is a powerful and versatile tablet that is highly regarded by small business owners for its multitasking capabilities. With its slim and lightweight design, it’s perfect for professionals on the go who need a portable device to keep up with their busy schedules.
The tablet boasts a large, colorful, and sharp screen that delivers an exceptional viewing experience, whether you’re working on spreadsheets or watching presentations. Equipped with a powerful processor, the Galaxy Tab S6 offers fast and efficient performance to handle demanding business tasks effortlessly.
It also comes with a stylus pen for precise note-taking and drawing, making it ideal for meetings or brainstorming sessions. Furthermore, the tablet offers a wide array of quality accessories that allow for customization and expanded functionality to meet various business needs.
Pros & Cons (Samsung Galaxy Tab S6)
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 offers a variety of features that make it a great choice for small business owners, but it also has a few downsides.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry. | May not have enough storage for some users. |
| Large and sharp screen improves viewing experience. | Some users may find the Android operating system complicated. |
| Excellent multitasking capabilities for efficient workflow. | Higher price point compared to other tablets. |
| Supports the use of the S Pen for enhanced functionality. | Not all apps are optimized for the S Pen. |
| Fast and powerful processor ensures smooth performance. | Non-expandable storage might be a concern for some. |
| Wide array of quality accessories available for additional functionality. | Accessories are sold separately, adding to the overall cost. |
Lenovo Tab P11 Pro: Best On-the-Go Experience
The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro offers the best on-the-go experience with its sleek design, lightweight build, and long-lasting battery life.
Features & Description (Lenovo Tab P11 Pro)
The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro is a powerful and versatile tablet designed to meet the needs of small business owners. With its slim and lightweight design, it’s easy to take on the go, making it perfect for professionals who are constantly on the move.
The tablet features a large and vibrant display that provides an excellent viewing experience for presentations, documents, and multimedia content. It is equipped with a powerful processor that ensures fast and efficient performance, allowing you to multitask seamlessly.
Additionally, the Lenovo Tab P11 Pro supports stylus input for note-taking and creative tasks, giving you more flexibility in how you interact with your device. With enhanced security features such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, your data stays protected at all times.
Pros & Cons (Lenovo Tab P11 Pro)
The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro is a versatile choice for business owners, designed with features that cater to professional demands. While it’s not without some drawbacks, it’s worth considering for its advantages.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Slim and sleek design offers portability and style. | While it’s equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G processor, it might not be powerful enough for heavy multitasking. |
| High-resolution OLED display makes images and documents crisp and clear. | Despite its high resolution, the screen might not be as bright under direct sunlight. |
| Powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G processor provides efficient performance. | There might be occasional lags when running multiple applications simultaneously. |
| Built-in stylus is useful for note-taking, sketching, and other professional applications. | The stylus might not be as responsive or precise as some competitors. |
| 4G LTE connectivity allows for work on-the-go. | 4G LTE service depends on carrier coverage and may not be reliable in some remote areas. |
| Long battery life keeps the tablet running through a long business day. | Battery performance may diminish over time and with heavy use. |
| Versatile kickstand allows for comfortable viewing in various settings. | Kickstand might not be sturdy enough to hold the tablet stable during touch interactions. |
Amazon Fire HD 10: Best Budget Business Tablet
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is a top choice for small business owners looking for an affordable tablet that still delivers great features and performance.
Features & Description (Amazon Fire HD 10)
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is a budget-friendly tablet that is highly recommended for small business owners. It features a large and high-definition 10.1-inch screen, providing an excellent viewing experience for all your business needs.
With its long battery life of over 10 hours, you can work on important tasks without having to constantly worry about charging it. The tablet also comes with a useful kickstand case, allowing you to comfortably use it in different positions.
Running on Fire OS, the Amazon Fire HD 10 offers access to a limited subset of apps and games in the Amazon Appstore. While it may not have as extensive app options as other tablets, it is still compatible with a Bluetooth keyboard, which enhances productivity by allowing easy typing and note-taking capabilities.
Pros & Cons (Amazon Fire HD 10)
The Amazon Fire HD 10, a budget-friendly tablet for small business owners, comes with a range of advantages and a few shortcomings. Here are the pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The tablet is affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for small business owners. | Despite its affordability, it does not have the high-performance M1 processor found in more expensive models. |
| Its design is slim and light, making it easily portable for on-the-go business tasks. | The slim and light design might not be as durable as heavier, more robust tablets. |
| It has a large, colorful, and sharp screen, ideal for various tasks such as presentations and document reading. | Its screen resolution might not be as high as some premium tablets, affecting the display quality. |
| A wide array of quality accessories are available for the Amazon Fire HD 10, enhancing its functionality. | The cost of these accessories might add up, increasing the overall cost of ownership. |
| The Amazon Fire HD 10 features Center Stage for video calls, perfect for remote meetings and conferences. | It may not offer as high-quality video or audio as some higher-end tablets, affecting communication quality during video calls. |
Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable: Best Dell Experience
The Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable offers the best Dell experience for small business owners.
Features & Description (Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable)
The Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable is a powerful and reliable business tablet designed to meet the needs of professionals on the go. With its detachable keyboard and slim form factor, it offers both the convenience of a tablet and the functionality of a laptop.
Powered by an efficient processor, this tablet delivers fast performance for multitasking and productivity tasks. The high-resolution display ensures vibrant visuals while working on documents or presentations, providing an excellent viewing experience.
Furthermore, with its durable build quality and long battery life, the Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable is well-suited for professionals who require reliability and portability in their devices.
Pros & Cons (Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable)
The Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable is a versatile and powerful business tablet, providing its users with both the benefits and drawbacks of its unique design and features.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It features a detachable design, providing flexibility to switch between laptop and tablet modes according to user needs. | Despite its versatility, some may find switching between modes cumbersome or unnecessary for their work. |
| The 13-inch, high-resolution display ensures clear and crisp visuals for presentations and content viewing. | However, its size might be considered bulky for those seeking a more compact tablet experience. |
| Equipped with an Intel Core processor, it delivers high performance for multitasking and demanding applications. | Its high-performance capability can lead to significant power consumption, potentially shortening the battery lifespan over time. |
| The tablet’s long battery life enables users to work or connect with clients for extended periods without the need for constant recharging. | Yet, heavier usage might drain the battery quicker than expected. |
| It offers various connectivity options, allowing for easier data transfer and network connection. | However, dependency on external hardware for connectivity might not appeal to some users. |
| With Windows 10 Pro, the tablet supports a familiar and robust operating system for business use. | However, those who prefer Android or iOS might find the Windows operating system challenging or less intuitive to use. |
| The included stylus pen allows for precise input and note-taking, enhancing productivity for business users. | However, the pen might get lost easily and replacing it could be costly. |
Can a Tablet Replace a Laptop for Business Use?
Tablets have come a long way in terms of functionality and power, but can they truly replace laptops for business use? The answer depends on the specific needs of the business owner.
For tasks like note-taking, presentations, and document editing, tablets are more than capable with their touchscreens and stylus pens. Additionally, tablets offer portability and longer battery life compared to laptops.
However, if a business heavily relies on software that is only available on laptops or requires complex multitasking or heavy processing power, a tablet may not be the best option.
Ultimately, it comes down to assessing the unique requirements of the business before deciding whether a tablet can fully replace a laptop for business use.
Selecting the Optimal Tablet Operating System for Business
When selecting the optimal tablet operating system for business, consider factors such as app availability, security features, and compatibility with existing software systems.
iOS
iOS is one of the leading operating systems to consider when choosing a tablet for your small business. Used by Apple tablets, iOS provides users with a highly polished and user-friendly experience.
Specifically designed for iPad devices, iPadOS offers features like multi-tasking support and USB-C connectivity, making it ideal for serious work tasks. By adding a keyboard to an iOS tablet, you can greatly enhance efficiency and productivity for general-purpose computing needs.
With impressive performance capabilities and high-quality displays, iOS tablets are a viable option that can compete with laptops in terms of power and functionality.
Android
Android tablets offer a wide range of choices and affordability. With a larger selection of free apps and games compared to iPadOS devices, Android tablets are known for their versatility and portability.
While manufacturer UIs and forked versions of Android may delay updates and provide a different user experience, these tablets have advanced significantly in recent years, matching the performance and display quality of laptops.
Whether you need it for business tasks like note-taking or presentations, or simply for entertainment purposes, an Android-powered tablet from the Galaxy Tab portfolio or other brands can be a reliable mobile computing tool that meets your business needs.
Windows
Windows tablets are an excellent choice for small business owners who need seamless integration with Microsoft services. These tablets, especially those running Windows 11, offer a range of productivity features and software options to streamline your business tasks.
With easy collaboration and file sharing capabilities across other Windows devices, you can stay connected and productive on the go. While they may be relatively expensive compared to other options, the investment is worth it for a smooth user experience tailored to meet your business needs.
Importance of a Keyboard for a Business Tablet
A keyboard is essential for efficient and accurate typing on a business tablet. It enhances productivity and enables faster data entry, crucial for small business owners. A keyboard improves ergonomics by providing a more comfortable typing experience, reducing the risk of strain or injury.
It enhances functionality with shortcut keys and customized configurations. Small business owners can connect a keyboard to their tablet for a more desktop-like experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Microsoft Office on a tablet?
Can I Use Microsoft Office on a Tablet?
Microsoft Office can indeed be used on a tablet, making it a convenient tool for business tasks. Whether you’re editing documents in Word, creating spreadsheets in Excel, or preparing presentations in PowerPoint, you can rely on the functionality and familiar interface of Microsoft Office on your tablet.
This allows for seamless productivity while on the go, without the need to carry around a laptop. Tablets have become increasingly popular among professionals due to their portability and versatility, making them an ideal choice for conducting business efficiently.
Which Tablet Is Best for Word Processing?
The iPad Air (2022) is considered the best tablet for word processing tasks. Its powerful M1 processor ensures fast and efficient performance, making it ideal for working on documents.
The tablet’s slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and hold during work sessions. Additionally, the large, colorful, and sharp screen of the iPad Air provides an excellent viewing experience while editing or creating documents.
Its versatile software is suitable for both work-related tasks and leisure activities, making it a top choice for professionals in need of a reliable tablet for word processing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPad Air (2022) emerges as the top choice for small business owners. With its powerful M1 processor and versatile software, it offers excellent value for money. Its slim design, sharp screen, and wide range of accessories make it a reliable companion for all your business needs.
While storage capacity and battery life may be limitations for some users, the overall performance and functionality of the iPad Air make it an unbeatable option in the market.
FAQs
1. What is the best overall tablet for small business owners?
The Apple iPad Air and OnePlus Pad are often rated as the best overall tablets, thanks to their high-performance processors and software support.
2. Which affordable tablets can business owners consider?
The Amazon Fire Max 11 or Lenovo Tab M10 Plus can be considered due to their value price point while still maintaining features like a MediaTek Helio G80 octa-core processor or Dolby Atmos surround sound.
3. Can a tablet replace my laptop for business purposes?
Yes, some tablets like the Acer Spin 3 and Microsoft Surface Go 2 offer laptop-level performance with Windows OS making them great for document scanning, video editing or using drawing apps.
4. Are there any specific features I should look out for in a tablet for business use?
Business owners should consider screen size, memory, camera technology, storage space as well as biometric authentication such as fingerprint recognition when choosing tablets.
5. Are there durable options available that can withstand rough handling?
Yes! The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active PRO is shockproof, dust-resistant and water resistant which means it’s built to last even under tough conditions.
6. Can I also use these tablets for gaming during my leisure time?
Absolutely! Tablets equipped with powerful graphic capabilities like Mediatek Dimensity 9000 chip found in OnePlus Pad offer an outstanding gaming experience.
