The best gaming tablets offer more than just a screen for play. These devices need to juggle productivity features and entertainment options to make their prices worthwhile, all while still offering a high quality gameplay across a variety of genres. That's why costs can rack up so quickly on these purpose-built devices, you're getting specs that don't typically make their way into everyday tech. However, many mainstream tablets are well suited to your thumb-tapping titles, and with the advent of cloud gaming they're only getting more and more useful as time goes on.
So far, the best gaming tablet I've tested is the Asus ROG Flow Z13, a new release for 2025 that packs an incredibly sophisticated integrated graphics system. The 13.4-inch Windows device ran everything I could throw at it in testing, all on a gorgeous high refresh rate display. It's a premium pick, but if you're looking for the best in the business it's worth the investment.
If you've outgrown your gaming phone, or need something more versatile than a gaming handheld, there are plenty of options out there for you. Not only that, but the best gaming tablets are starting to rival gaming laptops for their performance and value for money these days. If you're looking to invest in a high-end device there's some seriously exciting stuff on the table right now.
The quick list
With a unique integrated graphics system that pushes previously unthinkable framerates and a fantastic display, the 2025 ROG Flow Z13 is the gaming tablet to beat.
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is one of the cheapest gaming tablets worth buying, and still manages to pack a 10.1-inch display of solid quality into its price point. It's a little limited in its apps, but ideal for a budget buy.
The iPad Air sits in the middle of Apple's tablet lineup, but it's also the best mid-range option on the market. You're getting that powerful M2 processor and a 11-inch display.
Packing a 120Hz refresh rate, powerful M4 processor, and the option for a massive 13-inch display - there's plenty to love here.
Boasting a massive 14-inch display, the S8 Ultra is the largest gaming tablet on our list, and it's also the best for Android users.
I've been running as many games as I can on everything from cheap Amazon Fire tablets to iPads for years now, and testing these devices on 12DOVE for the last three. I use everything from PlayStation remote play to Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass streaming to Google Play Store, and use these tablets every day for work, streaming, and note-taking.
Recent updates
February 19 - We have a new contender at the top of this list, but I've also got déjà vu. The Asus ROG Flow Z13 has been replaced by its 2025 descendant, a super-fast QHD+ HDR tablet with full Windows 11 compatibility, plenty of ports, and a blindingly fast integrated graphics system. This is the gaming tablet to beat this year, and it's gone in straight at number one. I've added my review to the top of this page and shifted the older 2022 model down to the 'also tested' section further below.
The best gaming tablet overall
The 2025 Asus ROG Flow Z13 isn't afraid to think outside the box - which is a strange statement to make, considering it looks and functions just like the older models. Relying on integrated graphics is a risky move, but these aren't your Grandma's visuals. Instead, the AMD Ryzen AI Max 380 (and its Radeon 8050S graphics) bring the full game selection of a Windows machine to the gaming tablet form factor for a true Triple-A experience.
✅ You want the power of a PC in tablet form: With Windows 11 you can play anything you would on a PC here - and that's not something we can say for other entries on this list.
✅ You need a flexible option for a full setup: The Z13 can function as a tablet, or slap on the keyboard for a full laptop. Hook it up to an Asus ROG eGPU and you've got a powerful PC to boot.
✅ You see yourself upgrading to an eGPU in the future: It's going to cost a pretty penny to grab the eGPU at the same time as the Z13, but if you see a future where you're using the external dock for desk-based play, this is an excellent first step.
❌ You already have a gaming laptop: The Z13 is an expensive alternative to a gaming laptop, so if you're after something to compliment the PC you already have you can save some cash with a cheaper model.
❌ Battery life is important: With all that power at the helm, the battery inside doesn't hold up to something like a Samsung or Apple model.
Design: I'll get a few things out the way here. The Asus ROG Flow Z13 isn't designed like your typical tablet. It's thicker than an iPad, far heavier than a Samsung, and almost impossible to wield in one hand. It's still incredibly well designed, though. Behind that screen is far more tech than you'll find from either mainstream brand, and it's all kept icy cool by a sophisticated thermal control system. Topped off with a CNC milled aluminum chassis and opened slightly with a slick RGB-lit viewing window on the back, it's an aesthetic that shows the world this device means business. Soft rounded corners are comfortable to grip, but it's the hinge stand that I used most of the time during my testing. There's just the right level of tension in this mechanism, it stands firm without wobbling (even on the arm of a couch) at all angles and feels secure at the same time. Its thinner frame, however, means it doesn't quite sit comfortably propped up on a lap.
Features: Most gaming tablets will limit your access to games by only listing its own selection of titles from its own app store. This is a full Windows device - if you can play it on PC, you can download it here. Not only that, but AMD's incredible integrated graphics system can run pretty much anything I threw at it during testing - without even stuttering during my battery run downs. Sure, I was only able to keep it going for around an hour at a time - but performance remained as smooth as I could ask for.
Up top you've got a 180Hz QHD+ Nebula HDR display, a dramatic improvement over the previous generation - and specs that will be difficult to beat elsewhere on the market. It's a crystal clear, incredibly vivid panel with the color contrast and high saturation many gamers are looking for. From Indiana Jones to Avowed, everything pops. You've also got far more ports than you would expect to find on a gaming tablet, with two USB-C options, a USB-A, and an HDMI 2.1. Considering most Apple tablets supply you with a single USB-C charging connection, that's a massive benefit for those using additional controllers and headsets.
Performance: I was seriously impressed with how the Asus ROG Flow Z13 handled in-game benchmarks and everyday performance. Its 3D Mark tests topped the charts in the gaming laptop category - and those are some high numbers. The Z13 ran with every benchmark tool and backlog item I threw at it, only slightly stuttering on a few more demanding moments with wilder camera sweeps.
Verdict: The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is expensive, and it's not going to be the best choice for those after a streaming device that can also keep up with the latest mobile releases. However, if you're looking for a pure gaming tablet it's the best in the business, with specs, features, and performance that far exceed the competition.
Read more: Asus ROG Flow Z13 review
Value | 4/5 |
Screen quality | 4/5 |
Speed | 5/5 |
Game compatibility | 5/5 |
Storage | 5/5 |
The best budget gaming tablet
If you're on the hunt for a cheap gaming tablet that will see you through your favorite mobile games alongside web browsing and streaming, then the Amazon Fire HD 10 is really all you need.
✅ You'll make use of Fire apps: If the games you want to play have been converted into Fire apps you're golden here.
✅ You want a 10-inch display without the price tag: Those after a gaming tablet for the big screen alone will do best with this cheaper model, you're getting a 10-inch display without the cost.
✅ You play lighter titles on the go: This isn't a tablet for more heavy duty gaming, so it's best suited to those who play lighter titles.
❌ You want a productivity machine as well: Navigating between apps is tricky and there are few productivity-oriented features supplied by the Fire app store.
❌ You're tied to Google Play or Apple App Store: Of course, if the games you want to play aren't offered by Amazon, you're going to need to opt for a different system.
Design: The design is basic, you're picking up a black slate with a screen after all. With thicker bezels than you'll find on more expensive models, and a plastic construction this doesn't feel like a premium product. It doesn't need to, though, it's a cheap chassis to hold everything you need at a price that won't break the bank.
Features: You're picking up a high quality screen that will help your games shine and plenty of internal power for a smooth experience in lighter titles. That's considerable value for money, especially considering just how often these devices go on sale. While the MSRP stands at $149.99 for the 32GB model, that's by no means the cheapest you can find these tablets during sale events. Those speakers are a little tinny and the touchscreen doesn't feel as smooth as some of the more premium options, but it'll certainly do for budget light gameplay.
Performance: The Amazon Fire HD 10 can do what it does very well. Running games from Amazon's own Fire selection and across Luna's streaming service feels slick and smooth, with very few bumps along the way. While navigation between apps can feel a little more cumbersome, once you're there you're good to go. Trying to push the Fire HD 10 past anything lighter left us a few stutters though - this one's for thumb tappers on the big screen.
Verdict: The Amazon Fire HD 10 is perfect for those who need a decent Minecraft or LEGO Star Wars machine but don't need to sink pay cheques into an investment. Sure, you won't be getting the gut-busting performance of a dedicated device like the Asus ROG Flow Z13, or the premium finish and experience of an iPad Pro - but you're not spending anywhere near the costs of those devices.
Value | 4/5 |
Screen quality | 2/5 |
Speed | 2/5 |
Game compatibility | 1/5 |
Storage | 1/5 |
The best mid-range gaming tablet
Apple's latest iPad Air lives in the Goldilocks 'just right' zone of the best gaming tablets. Thanks to a reasonable price - for Apple, anyway - and oodles of power beneath a chic design, it's everything you could want from a mid-range device.
✅ You want a solid all-round level of power: With the Apple M2 chip but fewer extra features to boost the price tag you're getting enough power for everyday play without inflating the price tag.
✅ You don't need the extra features of the Pro: If you're not fussed about boosted refresh rates, won't need bags of storage, and don't mind a few extra mm on your chassis, it's well worth sticking to the Air model.
✅ You don't want to spend more than $600 / £600: The 11-inch Air's price is still considerable - this is Apple we're talking about - but these things last. If you're investing long term but don't want to push too close to $1,000 / £1,000 it's an excellent option.
❌ You want a 120Hz display: Only the Pro models offer a slicker 120Hz refresh rate display at the time of writing, so if you're after smoother motion handling you'd be better off upgrading.
Design: The Air follows the same design language of most iPads released recently. The squared off sides, flat back, and range of color options give it a lightweight profile with a nice level of personalization at checkout. Of course, everything feels sturdy here - we've managed to drop ours several times over the last couple of years and everything is fine.
Features: Besides that revolutionary M2 processor, it offers a handsome 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina display that'll show off your games, movies, and TV shows at their best. Because there's no home button, that screen has a bit more real-estate to play with as well.
Thanks to compatibility with Apple's own keyboard and trackpad, the Air is also giving you the functionality of an iPad Pro without the associated price tag. That makes it an excellent choice for those who don't want to destroy their bank balance for the best of the best, but equally aren't keen on budget alternatives.
Performance: The iPad Air often surprises us in its performance offerings. With that M2 processor at the helm, the majority of larger big releases can run smoothly with settings turned down and you'll be able to enjoy all the App Store's triple-A content as well. The lower refresh rate display compared to the Pro model does mean motion isn't handled quite as well, but considering the Pro's price we're not arguing. With a solid battery life, bright, crisp display, and an impressive set of speakers there's already plenty to love here.
Verdict: While some older 2022 models are still hanging around on the shelves, we'd recommend keeping a closer eye on the 2024 version. It's the best mid-range gaming tablet on the market right now, and older devices are harder to come by.
Value | 5/5 |
Screen quality | 3/5 |
Speed | 4/5 |
Game compatibility | 3/5 |
Storage | 3/5 |
Best Apple gaming tablet
Want the best Apple gaming tablet possible? You can't beat the new generation of iPad Pro.
✅ You want the best iPad gaming experience possible: The iPad Pro isn't just a gaming machine - it's more of a productivity tool - but it does offer the best gaming experience on an Apple tablet yet as a by-product.
✅ A 120Hz refresh rate is a must: Those chasing super slick motion will need to be looking at the Pro - it's the only iPad offering that 120Hz speed.
✅ You also need a tablet for work: As mentioned above, this is a device built for multi-tasking through demanding workflows first and foremost, so if you're after a tablet for work this will be your first reason to buy - gaming will often come second.
❌ You won't make the most of those specs: If you don't need a tablet for productivity and streaming as well, then there's little reason to splash out on an iPad Pro just for gaming.
❌ You're on a stricter budget: These devices carry some hefty price tags, so if you're working with a smaller budget you'll be looking further down the price scale.
Design: There's no doubt about it, the iPad Pro is gorgeous. Between its sleek chassis and that giant Ultra Retina XDR OLED display staring up at you, these are seriously good looking devices. Of course, you're getting the durability and craftsmanship you would expect from an Apple device (just watch those corners if you're not using a bumper case), and a couple of different muted aesthetic options to choose from.
Features: With a powerful Apple M4 processor, trackpad and keyboard functionality, and a truly gorgeous Ultra Retina display with ProMotion technology, this is one of the best gaming tablets on the market by a long shot. Elsewhere, the new Pro offers a dual-camera setup and lidar sensors. These boost the performance of augmented reality apps by allowing the iPad to better judge distances. When combined with an excellent Liquid Retina screen that's perfect for games and movies, FaceID, and compatibility with the must-have Apple Pencil, this is pinnacle tech.
Performance: That M4 processor boosts nearly every aspect of the iPad Pro experience, including the performance of your games. That means you'll load up titles faster, experience less lag, and your device will manage its battery far better when playing intensive software as well. The 120Hz refresh rate display also comes in mighty handy when running faster titles, keeping up with your framerate beautifully for super slick gameplay.
Verdict: The iPad Pro isn't going to be used solely as a gaming tablet for the vast majority of buyers. Instead, this is an all-in-one productivity machines with the best gaming chops among Apple devices. It's an investment, but if you need a creative tablet for media editing, demanding workflows, and impressive gaming you're all set.
Value | 3/5 |
Screen quality | 5/5 |
Speed | 5/5 |
Game compatibility | 3/5 |
Storage | 5/5 |
Best Android gaming tablet
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is a premium affair, but it's the best gaming tablet using the Android operating system on the market right now.
✅ You want as big a screen as possible: With a 14.6-inch display, the S8 Ultra is leading the pack in screen real estate right now.
✅ But don't want extra bulk in your bag: Considering the sheer size of that screen, it's excellent to see a super thin chassis design. That means you won't feel like you're lugging a massive device around with you.
✅ You want to play games not available on Apple: Of course, Fortnite players will need to opt for this Android operating system.
❌ You want a laptop replacement: With an expensive keyboard to throw on and OS limitations with Google Play Store, the S8 Ultra isn't going to replace a laptop for value.
❌ You won't make the most of that screen space: The massive screen on offer here is going to be excellent for those who will use it. If, however, you won't be using the S8 Ultra for productivity, it feels a little over the top considering the price it carries.
Design: Day to day, we loved the look and feel of the Tab S8 Ultra when browsing the web and catching up on YouTube content. Again, that larger screen came in clutch, requiring very little scrolling to read longer articles, however did grow a little too heavy when held vertically. We found the whole slab much easier to hold horizontally, when there's less hardware to create a top-heavy feel, but if you're after a one-handed device this certainly isn't it.
Features: Despite not offering a fully fledged OLED display, we were seriously impressed by the black levels on this screen. It's the largest tablet screen (Asus ROG Flow included) we've had our hands on. That makes for a far more immersive experience than you'll find elsewhere - even if you are paying for that luxury. The speakers pack a serious punch, especially once you switch on Dolby Atmos, you're getting the S Pen stylus included for note-taking (Apple's devices require a separate purchase), and you're also benefiting from task bar app switching as well.
Performance: We were able to maintain a solid refresh rate with Call of Duty Mobile set to max, even if Diablo Immortal struggled to reach the same heights. We would certainly recommend using a mobile controller for these endeavours, though. That larger display makes on-screen controls particularly difficult for anything too taxing, but did make light work of puzzlers like Monument Valley. That massive 14.6-inch display is certainly working hard for you as well, offering up a sense of immersion that can't be matched by other entries on this list.
Verdict: If you're after on-the-go Fortnite on a massive 14-inch display, this is where you need to be. It outsizes Apple's Pro line, and boosts performance over Samsung's regular flagships, making it a go-to if you're after an all-in-one device for play, streaming, and the odd bit of work.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra review
Value | 4/5 |
Screen quality | 4/5 |
Speed | 4/5 |
Game compatibility | 3/5 |
Storage | 4/5 |
Also tested
How we test gaming tablets
We live, work, and play with every gaming tablet that crosses our desks, be it through a full day's note-taking or streaming the latest games through various available services. Every brand has different limitations, though, and sometimes those limitations come in the form of supported content. An Amazon Fire tablet, for example, can't be tested in the same way as a Samsung Galaxy or Apple iPad - its store system is completely different.
For the most part, then, we test all gaming tablets across Xbox Game Pass streaming, PlayStation Remote Play, and demanding native games like Genshin Impact, PUBG Mobile, and MTG Arena. Where these options are unavailable, we instead test across the most well-known titles playable on each tablet, as ranked by player count. We play all of these games at their maximum settings possible, for example where a tablet offers variable refresh rates, and run them both plugged in and off battery. We also run a series of synthetic benchmarks where possible, using 3D Mark's mobile suite.
Outside of gaming, we're also looking to the display, battery life, form factor, speakers, connectivity, and extra accessories on each tablet. We measure display brightness at full settings as well as noting any difference these settings make towards battery and temperature. We fully charge every gaming tablet as soon as it's taken out of the box and run it completely down over the course of a day's constant use. During this time it is used at 50% screen brightness for streaming battery test movies. Our speaker tests are performed with Spotify, running a series of different genres, as well as everyday streaming and gameplay.
At the end of our testing, each tablet is awarded a score based out of five categories; value, screen quality, speed, game compatibility, and storage. These scores are used to compare models within the same price points or use-cases.
For more information on how we test gaming tablets, check out the full 12DOVE Hardware Policy.
How to choose a gaming tablet
Why you can trust 12DOVE Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.
Buying a tablet explicitly for gaming means you'll need to check out a few features that might not make it into your hit list of an every day device. There's one big one, which is the games you can actually play on the device, but other than that things like processing power, WiFi versions, Bluetooth speeds, and refresh rates are more important here than for a more casual use.
What game services does this tablet support?
Different tablets will run on different operating systems, which means you'll need to check out the games you can actually download and run on your device. While the majority of Apple and Android devices will be able to stream from cloud gaming services like Xbox and Nvidia, it's worth having a nose through their app stores as well. Apple, for example, offers the Arcade subscription but doesn't carry Fortnite on its store.
After you've found an operating system, it's time to make sure you're getting enough juice under the hood to run these games properly. The next question you should ask yourself is:
How much power do I need?
The majority of recently released tablets from Apple and Samsung will be able to stomach running games smoothly from either streaming services or native download. However, if you're going back in time for your purchase you'll want to make sure your device has a good amount of RAM and a fairly new processor under the hood to avoid stutters.
How much do I want to pay for my screen's refresh rate?
Brands often use the same displays across their devices, but you can often pay a little more for a 120Hz variable refresh rate display. This screen comes packed with an iPad Pro, for instance. That's going to give you top shelf motion handling and make sure all your games are pristine. However, it's a costly affair. At the budget end of the spectrum, we'd recommend making sure you're getting at least a 60Hz refresh rate for a gaming-focused device.
Do I want to stream my games?
If you want to stream your experiences through Xbox Game Pass or Nvidia you'll need to make sure you've got the internet strength to do so. That stars with the router and internet package that you actually have, but there are ways you can future-proof yourself. You'll want to make sure you're picking up a device with at least WiFi 6E installed. We're also seeing WiFi 7 making its way to more gadgets these days as well.
Do I want to use a wireless controller?
Most tablets will require you to connect your wireless controller via Bluetooth, so you'll need to make sure you're getting a device that can carry high bandwidth Bluetooth signals. These are the minimum for getting a low-latency connection, especially considering 2.4GHz receivers rarely work on mobile.
Best gaming tablet FAQs
What's the difference between a gaming tablet and a regular tablet?
While the tablet market is generally dominated by mainstream releases, there's a smaller sub-section devoted to gaming. Brands like Lenovo and Razer produce their own devices with the RAM and processing grunt to dedicate more power towards gameplay processes rather than features like camera quality, biometrics, and stylus support. Of course, regular tablets can also be considered gaming tablets, provided they have a high refresh rate display, powerful processing chip, and enough cooling tech to keep those thermals under control. Most budget mainstream tablets don't have these features, but take the same price tag and apply it to a dedicated device and you'll get far more bang for your buck by sacrificing other extraneous add-ons.
How much RAM does a gaming tablet need?
Cheaper gaming tablets can ship with as little as 2GB RAM. Because memory is needed far less in a tablet than a laptop or PC, we'd recommend aiming for at least 3GB and hopefully picking up 4GB. Of course, this all depends on your budget, and if you're browsing in the upper echelons of the market you could be offered up to 16GB, though this is only reserved for more specialised devices.
Which budget tablet is best for gaming?
Budget tablets include the likes of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7, Amazon Fire tablet, iPad base model, and Lenovo M-series devices. Of these brands, we'd recommend picking up an Amazon Fire HD 10 for an ultra-cheap gaming tablet experience, or upgrading to an entry level iPad for the best value if you're looking to stream and browse the web as well.
Want a bigger screen to game on after all? Don't forget to take a look at the best gaming TVs or our guide to the best OLED TV. No matter whether you're playing a console game on them or streaming something from Disney Plus, they'll make your content look its best.
Find out more about all the recommendations we make with our full 12DOVE Hardware policy.
