This guide to tablets with stylus pen capabilities compares some of the most exciting tablets by features and price points, helping you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget
Tablets with stylus pens have become increasingly popular, not just for artists and designers, but for anyone who enjoys note-taking, sketching, or interacting with their device in a more natural way. They can also be an alternative option for freelancers who cannot decide between a tablet and a laptop. With so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
Things to consider when comparing tablets with stylus pens
- Display: Each tablet offers a vibrant, high-resolution display, but the iPad Pro boasts the most advanced mini-LED technology for stunning HDR content. For drawing and design, the Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2’s OLED display and superior pen pressure sensitivity (10,000+) might be the most enticing choice.
- Operating System: Consider your existing ecosystem and app preferences. iPads excel in creative apps and integration with other Apple devices, while Android tablets like the Galaxy Tab offer great gaming and multitasking, and Surface Pro runs full Windows for desktop-like functionality. Huawei’s HarmonyOS is still evolving but offers a user-friendly experience with access to many popular apps.
- Stylus: Some tablets include the stylus in the price, while others require purchasing it separately. Consider the pen’s pressure sensitivity, palm rejection technology, and charging method.
- Price: Prices vary depending on configuration and storage size. Set a budget beforehand to narrow down your options.
Which tablet with a stylus is the best value for money?
Ultimately, the best tablet with a stylus pen depends on your individual needs and priorities. Weigh the pros and cons of each option, considering display quality, operating system, stylus features, and price to find the perfect tablet.
| Feature | iPad Pro 12.9″ (5th Gen) | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra | Microsoft Surface Pro 9 | Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 12.9″ Liquid Retina XDR, mini-LED | 14.6″ Super AMOLED | 13″ PixelSense Flow, LCD | 13.2″ OLED |
| Resolution | 2732 x 2048 | 2960 x 1848 | 2880 x 1920 | 2880 x 1848 |
| Operating System | iPadOS 16 | Android 13 | Windows 11 | HarmonyOS 3 |
| Processor | Apple M2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Intel Core i5/i7-12th Gen | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 |
| RAM | 8GB, 12GB, 16GB | 8GB, 12GB, 16GB | 8GB, 16GB | 8GB, 12GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Stylus | Apple Pencil 2 (sold separately) | S Pen (included) | Surface Pen (sold separately) | M-Pencil 3rd Gen (included) |
| Pen Pressure Levels | 120 | 4096 | 4096 | 10,000+ |
| Price | £799+ | £999+ | £999+ | £799+ |
Top choice by the creative experts
CreativeBloq’s review of the 2022 iPad Air blew the reviewers away with its sheer performance. Packing the powerful M1 chip, it handled even demanding tasks without a hiccup. The stunning display, boasting 500 nits of brightness, offered vibrant visuals and a smooth experience.
For artists, the Apple Pencil 2 remained a dream, delivering an exceptional drawing experience rivalled by none. Combined with accurate handwriting recognition, the Air transformed into a note-taking powerhouse, arguably the best on the market. Photo editing enthusiasts, rejoice! This tablet reigns supreme in that arena too.
But is it perfect? Not quite, according to the review. The 60Hz refresh rate, compared to the Pro’s 120Hz, might leave some artists seeking that extra fluidity for quick sketching. While noticeable only in a side-by-side comparison, the Pro’s smoother response is undeniable.
Overall, the iPad Air (5th Gen) is considered a phenomenal tablet offering exceptional performance, a gorgeous display, and unmatched note-taking capabilities. While the refresh rate might hold back some artists, for most users, this Air is a good choice. The price of these tablets varies widely if you shop online so do your research.
BUT there are rumours that the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, could be “put out to pasture” to make room for a 13-inch iPad Pro with an OLED display,” according to Techradar:
“This prediction comes from Taiwanese research outfit TrendForce, which reported that it expects the largest iPad Pro with a mini-LED display to be discontinued in 2024, and thus suggests the tablet won’t stick around to be something akin to a more affordable version of the iPad Pro.”
Additional Tips:
- Before making a purchase, visit a store to try out different tablets and styluses in person.
- Check online reviews for in-depth insights and user experiences.
- Consider future needs, such as potential software updates or accessory compatibility.
See the video below for more tips and explanations of tablet features.
