This is an article from the Mediagene Commerce Team.
A tablet, a product that allows you to enjoy videos and games on a screen larger than a smartphone. Recently, the number of companies introducing remote work has increased, and it is also popular as a business tool for document creation and online conferencing.
If you want to buy one, you want to choose the one that suits your purpose, but you may be wondering what to pay attention to, such as size, performance, and OS.
This time, we asked Mr. Koyama, a PC & digital home appliance writer, how to choose such a tablet. The commerce team will carefully select and introduce the recommended tablets according to the purpose, referring to the selection points that Mr. Koyama asked, such as "Android if cheapness is important" and "128GB capacity is recommended".
Supervisor of this article
Takahiro Koyama Born in 1973. PC & digital home appliance writer. He reviews, verifies, and conducts development interviews on AV-related digital devices and white goods. He has a lot of TV appearances such as Home Appliance School (BS Japan) and Gaia's Dawn (TV Tokyo).
table of contents
What you can do with your tablet
How to choose a tablet
・ OS (iPad / Android / Windows)
·size
・ Communication method (Wi-Fi / LTE)
・ Storage capacity
・ Other check items
・ Applications
Features of popular manufacturers
Recommended tablet for watching videos and playing games
Recommended tablet for ebooks
Recommended tablet for work and illustrations
Recommended tablet for studying and learning for children
summary
What you can do with your tablet
Koyama
"Tablets are basically used more than smartphones and less than PCs. You can enjoy videos and games on a screen larger than a smartphone, and you can enter with a pen as if you were writing on an ordinary notebook. Semi-professional people draw pictures. In my case, I sometimes bring my work materials so that I can see them when I don't have enough to bring my computer. Is the main usage. "
How to choose a tablet
There are five points to pay attention to when choosing a tablet that suits you: "OS," "size," "connection method," "storage capacity," and "use."
OS (iPad / Android / Windows)
OS is an abbreviation for "Operating System", literally translated as "operating system". There are three main types of tablet OS: "iPad," "Android," and "Windows." We will explain the features, advantages and disadvantages of each OS.
・ IPadOS (iOS)
iPad OS is an OS that customizes iOS for iPad. It is only installed in Apple products such as iPad. It is highly compatible with iPhone, and you can use paid apps downloaded on iPhone on iPad. It is attractive that it is easy to operate and secure in terms of security.
"The iPad is a very good pen device and has a lot of apps. Recently, the trend of tablets as iPads has become a little stronger. Since the storage capacity is not enough, the first one is larger. It is more expensive than Android, but recommended for those who value quality. "
・ Android
Android is a license-free operating system developed by Google. It is highly compatible with Android smartphones and allows smooth data migration.
There are many types because various manufacturers sell various models. There are variations in specifications, from those with excellent cost performance and performance to those with some concerns about security. The price is cheaper than the iPad, and there are many models that support SD cards, so it is attractive to be able to add capacity later.
"Unlike the intuitive iPad, Android requires you to build your own usage. For those who know it, it's a great deal to use like an iPad."
・ Windows
Windows is an OS provided by Microsoft. Office products such as Word and Excel are available and can be used in the same way as a laptop computer. Recommended for work.
"It may be better to think of it as a tablet PC and a different genre from iPad and Android. For those who want to use it as a PC."
size
・ 7-8 inches
7 to 8 inches is a size for those who emphasize cost performance and portability. Recommended for e-books because it is lightweight, does not get tired even if you hold it for a long time, and is easy to carry. It is also suitable for making effective use of gap time, such as learning English words with the app while commuting to school by train. Performance tends to be low, so it is not suitable for video editing or heavy games.
・ 9 to 10 inches
9 to 10 inches has a large screen size and is perfect for enjoying videos and games. Due to its weight, it is easy for your arms to get tired if you hold it for a long time. Recommended for those who value the sense of presence and visibility. If you are considering using it for e-books, please consider the balance between portability and readability.
"The most mainstream size is around 10 inches. Unlike TV, you can see it at a distance of about 30 cm, so you can get a good immersive feeling on YouTube and Netflix. Electronic magazines are displayed in almost the same size as paper ones. You can read it without scaling it one by one. "
・ 11 inches or more
The screen is very large for 11 inches and above, so even people with presbyopia can easily see it. Many high-performance terminals can be used like a laptop computer.
"The size and usage are similar to those of a personal computer. I have the impression that many people use it as a business tool. For those who want to work with a pen and those who want to use a keyboard together."
Communication method (Wi-Fi / LTE)
There are two main types of tablet communication methods: "Wi-Fi" and "LTE".
·Wifi
Wi-Fi models are connected via wireless LAN. You can use it for free if you use your home internet environment or a free Wi-Fi spot.
It cannot be used in places where there is no Wi-Fi environment, so it is not suitable for those who want to use it anytime, anywhere.
・ LTE (SIM free)
LTE connects using the communication system of a mobile phone. Since you need to contract with a mobile phone company, you will be charged a monthly communication fee.
It can be used almost anywhere in Japan. For those who use it frequently on the go.
"If you want to keep running costs down, Wi-Fi. You should choose based on whether you use it in a place where there is no Wi-Fi environment."
| communication | Fixed cost | Available places |
|---|---|---|
| Wifi | Does not take | Where there is a Wi-Fi environment |
| LTE | Take | Almost everywhere |
Storage capacity
Storage is a place to store data such as photos and videos. The larger the capacity, the more data can be stored, but the higher the price. Consider the balance between usage and budget when choosing.
32GB or less: Do not save much data
64GB: Save a little video, photos, etc.
128GB: Large-capacity game that stores a large amount of videos
256GB ~: Use like a personal computer, suitable for work
"Most Android devices can add micro SD. If you don't have enough, you don't have to worry too much about the capacity. The iPad can't add storage, so you have to decide first. Most of the capacity is set by the OS alone. I don't recommend 32GB because I use it. I don't save much data! It's a way to use it. If you want to download cartoons and movies, I'd like 128GB if possible. Recently, syncing iPhone photos fills up space. Since there are many cases, even 64GB may feel less. If it is iPad Air, it is safe to use the 256GB model. "
Other check items
There are some points that you should check in advance depending on the application. Please check each item according to the purpose of use.
・ Whether it can be used as a notebook PC
Tablets are basically not as powerful as laptops, so the range of work you can do is limited. If you want to use it for a wide range of purposes, we recommend a high-performance model such as a terminal with Windows OS or iPad Pro. Also, make sure that you can install the application you want to use, such as Microsoft Office or illustrator.
・ Keyboard support
Keyboards can be broadly divided into two types: "Bluetooth connection type" and "USB connection type". Check "Is your tablet compatible with Bluetooth" and "Is there a USB port?" And choose a keyboard. Also, if the OS does not support it, some inconveniences such as some unusable keys will appear, so you need to check it carefully.
・ Is it waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof?
If you want to use it in the bath or outdoors, it is important to make sure that it is equipped with waterproof and dustproof functions so that it will not break down due to getting wet or dust. If it is for children's learning, we recommend the one with strong impact resistance so that it can be dropped accidentally. If the device you want is not waterproof and dustproof, you can supplement the function with a special case.
▼ iPad 2017/2018 Waterproof Case 9.7 inch
Use
The optimal tablet will change depending on the application. We will introduce the features of the most suitable tablet for each application.
・ Watching videos
"The bigger the screen, the more powerful it is. When watching a movie on a travel destination or on the Shinkansen, 128GB is good if you have a lot of downloads. If you watch it in a hotel room, the sound side is solid. It's better to have one. One option is to choose a model with 4 speakers and Dolby sound. "
·game
"In heavy-duty games such as competitive online games and Minecraft, if the performance is low, the movement will be jerky. Since the performance class is roughly determined by the price range, beginners can determine the performance level by paying attention to the price. It's easy to do. If you have a model with Android for 30,000 yen or more and iPad for 50,000 yen or more, you can enjoy some games. "
·E-book
"E-books don't need much performance if they are mainly novels or paperbacks, so cheap models may be sufficient. For manga, higher resolution is better. HD 1280 x 720 models If you read it cleanly enough, I don't recommend the cheap model of 1024 x 600. If it is around 10 inches, it is easy to see even if you display the book in a double-page spread. "
·work
"Windows devices are suitable for work. Cheap Android devices are scary, including security, so I don't recommend them very much. iPads are recommended because they are easy to use at work. You can project the screen on a projector with a cable connection, There are a lot of business apps. "
・ Study, illustration
"The iPad is an excellent device that can use a pen. It is also recommended for illustrations, and people who are not satisfied with this will use a pen tablet like Wacom. There are plenty of learning apps. It's also suitable for studying. If your child wants to practice writing or calculate with an app, the cheapest iPad may be good for the time being. "
Features of popular manufacturers
Apple
The iPad series sold by Apple is a standard tablet device. Easy to operate even for beginners. The model "iPad Pro" with excellent processing performance operates smoothly even in the latest games that require high specifications. The disadvantages are that it is expensive and the storage capacity is not enough.
"The security aspect is also safe and there are abundant apps. Recently, there are a lot of variations from unbranded iPad to iPad Pro. All iPad series have high resolution and beautiful image quality."
Huawei
Huawei, a telecommunications equipment manufacturer headquartered in China. Android tablets are characterized by an excellent balance between cost performance and performance.
"We have various types of terminals ranging from 10,000 yen to 30,000 yen. Actually, the feature is that the image quality and performance are good. Since the OS is Android, you need to build how to use it yourself."
Amazon
Amazon's Fire tablet is attractive because it can be purchased at a low price. Although the specifications are not very high, it is overwhelmingly supported as a terminal for e-books.
"It has a Fire OS that makes Amazon's services very easy to use. It's easy to use Kindle and Amazon Prime. There are some apps that are not safe for Android, so I have to search from there. You can use it with confidence because only the software that Amazon has OK is placed in the Fire OS app store. "
NEC
NEC is one of Japan's leading electrical equipment manufacturers. Since it is made by a domestic manufacturer, the "LAVIE Tab E" series is gaining popularity as a secure Android tablet.
"NEC has high hardware performance, isn't it? Good sound quality, waterproof specifications, etc. There is a model where you can see a TV with a built-in full-segment tuner, which is unique to Japanese manufacturers."
Lenovo
Lenovo, a popular computer maker headquartered in Hong Kong. In addition to regular tablets, we also have a rich lineup of tablet PCs. The "Lenovo Tab" series is perfect for families because it can be set individually for each user.
"The feature of the Yoga Smart Tab series is that it can be used in an entertaining way. It can be leaned almost upright. It has a good speaker and has a function that answers if you talk with Google Assistant. I think Lenovo is proposing the next stage of the tablet. "
ASUS
ASUS is headquartered in Taiwan and is the world's largest manufacturer of motherboard production. Tablets are popular for studying and playing games because of their high specs and low price.
"Originally, I'm a computer maker, so there are many Windows OSs. Most Android tablets tend to be cheap. Tablets around 50,000 yen and 2in1 tablets are impressive."
Recommended tablet for watching videos and playing games
・ Apple iPad (8th generation, 10.2 inches, Wi-Fi, 32GB)
A standard iPad with an attractive price that can be purchased from the 30,000 yen range.
Equipped with Apple's original "Retina display", it beautifully expresses even the colors of details with high resolution. Immerse yourself in the world of movies and games. Since it can be operated intuitively like an iPhone, it is easy to use even for tablet beginners.
If you connect the controller of Xbox or PlayStation with Bluetooth, it will look like a portable game console. You can draw pictures with the separately sold Apple Pencil, and you can use it like a laptop computer by connecting a keyboard, which is excellent in usability.
An excellent balance between performance and price, this tablet is recommended for the first one.
| Screen size | 10.2 inches |
| Communication method | Wi-Fi (LTE model available) |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 10 hours |
| capacity | 32GB |
Apple iPad (8th generation, 10.2 inches, Wi-Fi, 32GB)
・ Lenovo Tab E8 WiFi model ZA3W0042JP
An 8-inch tablet that weighs 320 g and is 8.9 mm thin, making it ideal for carrying around. Very reasonable price in the 10,000 yen range is attractive. If you mainly watch videos, there will be no problem in terms of specifications.
By adopting an IPS panel, you can enjoy beautifully colored images even if you look into it from an angle other than the front. It's also useful when watching movies and photos with friends and lovers.
In addition, with "Dolby Atmos" installed, you can experience three-dimensional and realistic sound with both speakers and headphones.
With multi-user support, you can freely set wallpapers and SNS for each account. It also has a kids mode function, so it is recommended to share it with your family.
| Screen size | 8 inches |
| Communication method | Wifi |
| Continuous drive time | About 10 hours |
| capacity | 16GB |
12,857 yen
・ HUAWEI MediaPad M5 lite 10 tablet 10.1 inch
HUAWEI tablets are popular for games because high-performance terminals are available at low prices.
The "MediaPad M5 lite" uses ClariVu, a unique video optimization technology, and a high-resolution 10.1-inch display. Beautiful images that clearly express every detail are attractive.
Equipped with a high-performance octa-core CPU "HUAWEI Kirin 659", you can play social games comfortably. With high-quality quad speakers, you can enjoy music games with realistic sound.
Games that require high processing performance, such as online battles, may feel heavy, but it is recommended for those who want to get a game tablet at a reasonable price.
| Screen size | 10.1 inches |
| Communication method | Wi-Fi (LTE model available) |
| Continuous drive time | ―――― |
| capacity | 64GB |
32,800 yen
・ Apple iPad Air (4th generation, 10.9 inches, Wi-Fi, 256GB)
High-end model of iPad (unbranded). Recommended for those who want a high-performance game tablet.
The CPU is equipped with a high-performance "A12 Bionic". You can play 3D games, AR games, and even online competitive games like PUBG.
In addition to the high-quality "Retina display", it is equipped with a "True Tone" function that automatically adjusts the light according to the ambient brightness. It is attractive to be able to concentrate and play anywhere.
Characteristic points include "All Screen", which allows you to use the screen widely because the frame is narrow, and "Touch ID", which unlocks with your fingerprint. There are plenty of color variations, and you can choose from green and sky blue, which were not available on the iPad before.
| Screen size | 10.9 inches |
| Communication method | Wi-Fi (LTE model available) |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 10 hours |
| capacity | 256GB |
87,780 yen
Recommended tablet for ebooks
· Fire HD 8 tablet 32GB
Amazon's Fire series, a standard tablet for ebooks, is attractive because of its low price.
The Fire 7 can be purchased for 5,980 yen for the 16GB model. As it is lightweight at 286g, it is attractive that your arm does not get tired while reading. If you want to enjoy movies and dramas with powerful images, we recommend Fire HD8, which is one size higher.
Amazon's services are designed to be easy to use, so you can quickly buy Kindle books and read them right away. It's easy to download, so it will be useful when reading on the Shinkansen where Wi-Fi is not available.
There are restrictions on the number of apps that can be used and the performance, but it is a perfect spec for enjoying books and videos. It is a nice point that it is compatible with micro SD and the capacity can be expanded later.
| Screen size | 8 inches |
| Communication method | Wifi |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 12 hours |
| capacity | 32GB |
9,980 yen
・ VANKYO S8 tablet 8 inch
An 8-inch tablet with an excellent balance of cost performance and performance. Equipped with a high-resolution 1280x800 8-inch HD display, you can read even small characters.
Equipped with "Eye Health function", the brightness is automatically adjusted according to the surrounding environment. It also reduces harmful blue light.
It has excellent functions that are easy on the eyes, making it ideal for long-term reading. With a built-in 4000mAh battery, it can be used continuously for up to 10 hours. It is also recommended for traveling and reading at cafes because there is less concern about running out of batteries.
High-performance CPU "Quad-core A7" is adopted, and video viewing and application games can be operated comfortably. It is also attractive to be able to listen to FM radio without consuming data communication charges.
| Screen size | 8 inches |
| Communication method | WIFI |
| Continuous drive time | ―――― |
| capacity | 32GB |
10,115 yen
Recommended tablet for work and illustrations
・ NEC LAVIE Tab E PC-TE710KAW
C 10.1 type tablet. With a built-in full-segment tuner, it is a characteristic feature that you can watch TV.
With a wide viewing angle IPS LCD, you can see the image clearly even if you look into it from the lick, which is convenient for meetings with multiple people. Because it is a model with high processing performance equipped with an 8-core processor, you can browse web pages smoothly.
It is dust-proof and drip-proof, so it is safe for people who carry it frequently. Recommended for those looking for an affordable work tablet.
| Screen size | 10.1 inches |
| Communication method | Wifi |
| Continuous drive time | ―――― |
| capacity | 64GB |
35,700 yen
・ Microsoft Surface Go 2
Surface Go 2 is a high-performance tablet with Windows OS. It is lightweight and easy to carry, and can be used as a notebook PC by attaching a type cover keyboard. Ideal for nomad work in cafes.
Equipped with Office software as standard, it is perfect for applications such as quotation creation and data entry. You can write directly on the screen with a digital pen and use it as a whiteboard. You don't even have to take a screenshot of the minutes.
Illustrator and Photoshop can also be installed, so full-scale design is possible. Equipped with a "studio microphone" that makes it easy to pick up voice and a full HD camera, it is a nice point to be able to hold remote meetings with clear images.
Recommended for work on the go, with excellent performance and portability.
| Screen size | 10.5 inches |
| Communication method | Wi-Fi (LTE model available) |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 10 hours |
| capacity | 64GB |
98,560 yen
・ Apple iPad Pro (4th generation, 12.9 inches, Wi-Fi, 256GB)
The top model of the iPad. By adopting "A12Z Bionic Chip", you can comfortably handle heavy work such as 4K video editing and 3D design. Since it can be started immediately, work such as modifying presentation materials on the move can be handled more quickly than with a notebook PC.
It is also strongly supported by professional illustrators and manga artists as a drawing tool. The separately sold Apple Pencil has a smooth drawing feel. One of the reasons for its popularity is that you can draw as soon as you think of it, regardless of location.
Recommended for those who want a high-performance tablet. It is the only iPad that supports Face ID, so security is also safe.
| Screen size | 12.9 inches |
| Communication method | Wi-Fi (LTE model available) |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 10 hours |
| capacity | 256GB |
127,380 yen
Recommended tablet for studying and learning for children
・ ASUS Chromebook Tablet CT100PA
A tablet equipped with Chrome OS and made in pursuit of ease of study.
The high durability of the US military standard is attractive because it will not break even if your child handles it roughly. A rubber bumper is mounted on the edge of the main body and the corner, so it is safe to hit the desk. In addition, the back of the main unit is processed so that scratches and fingerprints are not noticeable.
The included stylus pen, which supports 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, does not require a power supply, so you do not have to worry about running out of battery. Since the pen can be stored in the main body, there is less concern that your child will inadvertently lose it.
Although it has a large 9.7-inch screen, it weighs 510g and is easy to hold with one hand. Recommended for those who want a learning tablet with excellent durability and portability.
| Screen size | 9.7 inches |
| Communication method | Wifi |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 10 hours |
| capacity | 32GB |
36,800 yen
・ Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi 64GB
The smallest 7.9-inch model in the iPad series.
It's very lightweight, about 300g, so it's easy to write with an Apple Pencil while holding it with one hand. Perfect for learning gap time, such as studying English words while traveling by train. In addition, you can search for a learning app that suits your purpose from our extensive lineup.
It is a compact but high-spec terminal, and you can play high-load games exhilaratingly. Recommended for those who want a high-performance pocket-sized tablet. Equipped with Touch ID fingerprint authentication sensor for security.
| Screen size | 7.9 inches |
| Communication method | Wi-Fi (LTE model available) |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 10 hours |
| capacity | 64GB |
50,380 yen
・ Fire 7 tablet kids model 16GB
Amazon's tablet for kids, which is popular for its ability to give parents peace of mind to their children.
Since you can set detailed restrictions on children's use, you can prevent overuse by setting restrictions such as "games are limited to 1 hour a day" and "use is prohibited after 19:00".
When you purchase a device, "Amazon FreeTime Unlimited" will be free for one year. Unlimited use of thousands of children's content such as children's books, Chinese character practice apps, picture books and picture books.
Even if the tablet breaks down or is damaged, it will be replaced free of charge with a 2-year warranty. It has the same specifications as a normal Fire tablet, so it can be used conveniently even after the child grows up.
| Screen size | 7 inches |
| Communication method | Wifi |
| Continuous drive time | Up to 7 hours |
| capacity | 16GB |
11,980 yen
summary
When purchasing a tablet, it is important to have a clear image of the purpose of use. Even if you play games, the best device for puzzle games and high-load online games is different.
Please consider what you want to do, pay attention to screen size, performance, portability, etc. and find the ideal one for you.
