Best Android Tablet For Gaming In 2021: Our Top Recommendations

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Portable gaming has come a long way in the past years. From dedicated handheld consoles like the Nintendo gaming devices to smartphones and now, you can also use your tablets for your on-the-go gaming. That’s why for today, I’ll be giving you my top picks for the best Android tablet for gaming in 2021.

While a lot of you might prefer something more mobile like a smartphone, your overall gaming experience might prove to be a lot better if you have a bigger screen.

Laptops are too big and heavy nowadays, plus they take up too much space in your backpack. Not to mention, the lightweight options for a laptop are sometimes just not too powerful enough to run the games we want smoothly.

But something that balances portability, a bigger display size, and power is a tablet. It can be powerful enough to run even the most demanding games on mobile without taking up too much space in your bags. Some are even as good as laptops!

All you have to do is pair it with a keyboard and mouse and voila! You have yourself a makeshift laptop.

That’s why some players around the globe prefer to carry tablets around for their gaming and even professional needs. But with the market brimming and oversaturated with so many tablet choices, it can be quite confusing which one works the best for gaming.

So to help you narrow down your choices, I have compiled a list of the best Android tablets for gaming in 2021 just for you.

Why Choose An Android Tablet?

While smartphones still reign supreme in terms of portability, a tablet’s bigger screen can bring you a more overall immersive experience. Gone are the days when hardcore gamers see tablets as a joke in the gaming community. Nowadays, more and more people are embracing mobile gaming and see this just as competitive with PC gaming.

In addition to that, with so many companies and brands coming out with tablets with very powerful processors, it’s quite hard to stop the increasing popularity of gaming on the go with tablets. Understandably, some might still prefer PC gaming, but having the ability to bring your games wherever with you is still a great option to have.

Tablets vs. Smartphones

But why choose a tablet over a smartphone? There’s a ton of reasons why. First, gaming itself is a visual experience. And the tablet’s obviously bigger display size allows gamers to have better visuals with the games they are playing.

If you have small hands, a smartphone might be enough for you but if you’re someone who likes to look at a bigger screen and want to have bigger control options, then a tablet would be perfect for you. You won’t have to worry about clicking on the correct buttons because your fingers are too big and any other related problems.

Other than that, who would want to choose to play games on their primary device and lose out on battery life quickly before your day even ends?

Let’s face it, most of us cling to our smartphones to help with our existing tasks already on a daily basis. So having a separate device to run our games can be quite practical if you have the budget to spare.

Moreover, tablets that use Android for their operating system are just a lot more accessible and affordable in comparison to Apple’s iOS. As you already know, iOS does have more restrictions and limitations when it comes to the games you can download. While Android is just overall a lot more flexible and customizable.

Not to mention, Apple’s lineup of iPads is just really darn expensive. Meanwhile, Android tablets have a broader range of units to choose from and have varying price points that are sure to fit anyone’s budget.

Our Top Recommendations

Here are some of the best Android tablets you can buy in 2021 that will be perfect for your gaming needs!

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 Plus

Overview

Taking our top spot on our list is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 Plus. While Samsung might have lagged behind just a little when it came to producing a tablet worthy of rivaling Apple’s, it’s safe to say that this particular model is definitely one of the best out there in the market.

This can easily go toe-to-toe with Apple’s latest release, the Apple Ipad Pro with the M1 chip. That’s how good the Galaxy Tab S7 Plus is. In addition, you don’t have to pay any additional costs for the supporting accessories. The S Pen is included in the box once you purchase this unit.

With a 12.4-inch Super AMOLED screen that offers a 120 Hz refresh rate, the possibilities for gaming on this tablet are practically endless. Just imagine how smooth and quick the response time would be when you’re an avid player of games like PUBG or Fortnite.

The big display also allows you to appreciate the stunning graphics of even the most demanding games on mobile as well as the ability to crank up your game settings to the highest resolution possible.

If that’s not enough, the built-in storage starts at a base of 128 GB and can go up to 512 GB for an added cost. But you can also opt to expand the storage for up to 1 Tb.

If you have the budget, I would suggest going for the maximum storage offered so you can freely install games like Genshin Impact without worrying if your memory is getting low.

Check Out Our Dedicated Review Of The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 Plus Here.

Features & Specifications

• Product Dimensions: 0.22 x 7.28 x 11.22 inches
• Manufacturer / Brand: Samsung
• Item Weight: 2.01 lbs.
• Screen Size: 12.4 inches
• Screen Resolution: ‎2800 x 1752 Pixels
• Operating System: Android 10.0
• Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 Plus
• RAM: 8 GB.
• Storage: 128 gb, 256 gb, and 512 gb. (expandable up to 1 TB of storage)
• Batteries Used: 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. (included)
• Battery Life: Between 14-15 hours of battery life depending on usage.
• Front Camera: 8MP
• Rear Camera: 13MP + 5MP
• Colors: Black, Bronze, Mystic Navy, and Silver.
• Accessories: S Pen (included), keyboard, and bookcover.
• Extra Special Features: Included S Pen, Bixby, Super AMOLED screen, and quad speakers tuned by AKG with Dolby Atmos surround sound.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 Plus?

2. Microsoft Surface Pro 7

Overview

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is one of the best and most versatile devices I have come across in the market. While it’s not entirely an Android tablet, it’s still an overall excellent machine for people who needs to get things done while they’re on the go.

It’s amazingly lightweight and easy to carry around in your backpack without adding too much extra weight. This particular unit is perfect for students and employees due to its impressive 2-in-1 features that can handle multiple and different tasks at once.

Aside from those terrific attributes, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 comes with Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors with varying price points.

Personally, the i7 processor is quite tempting but if you’re only going to use the tablet for gaming, the i5 is more than sufficient. Any mobile game in the market will most likely run with ease with just an i5 processor. But if you plan to use it for other tasks like work or online classes, then the i7 is perfect and definitely worth the splurge.

Though if you have heavier AAA titles to play, the i5 might need more a little more power to run them smoothly.

What’s more, one of the biggest selling points of the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is its ability to shapeshift into a laptop efficiently. Just simply connect the accompanying keyboard and you can start your work or games right away.

Check Out Our Dedicated Review Of The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Here.

Features & Specifications

• Product Dimensions: 12.8 x 2.68 x 9.21 inches
• Manufacturer / Brand: Microsoft
• Item Weight: 1.10 lbs
• Wireless Communication Technology: WiFi, Bluetooth
• Screen Size: ‎12.3 Inches
• Screen Resolution: ‎2736 x 1824
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home
• CPU: Intel Iris Plus Graphics (i7, i5) / Intel UHD Graphics (i3)
• RAM: ‎4 GB (i3) / 8 GB (i5) / 16 GB (i7).
• Storage: 1TB SSD / 512GB SSD / 256GB SSD / 128GB SSD
• Batteries Used: ‎1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. (included)
• Battery Life: Up to 10.5 hours depending on usage.
• Front Camera: 5.0MP
• Rear Camera: 8 MP
• Colors: Platinum and matte black.
• Accessories: Detachable keyboard, Surface Pen (bought separately)
• Extra Special Features: Intel Iris Plus Graphics, Windows 10 Home OS, and 12.3 Inch PixelSense Display.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The Microsoft Surface Pro 7?

3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite

Overview

Another tablet from Samsung is the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite. If the price of the Galaxy Tab S7 Plus seems too much for you, then this is the next best thing for people who are on a budget.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is actually a more compact version of the Galaxy Tab S7’s predecessor, the Galaxy Tab S6. And since the S6 is technically a last-gen device, you can expect that the price point has gone down ever since its release.

But I hope that doesn’t put you off. Despite Samsung already moving on to the S7 Plus, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is still pretty more than capable of handling your games. Offering an Exynos 9610 chipset with options for either 4 GB or 6 GB of RAM, and up to 128 GB of storage, this small Android tablet packs a hefty punch.

While some of you might be tempted and feel like you’re missing out on the Super AMOLED display of the S7 Plus, the 10.4-inch WUXGA+ screen on the S6 Lite still performs admirably for a TFT LCD display.

Most games shouldn’t have a problem running on the S6 Lite as long as the graphics settings are adjusted accordingly. Moreover, the 13 hours of battery life on this unit should be more than enough for most gamers who are on the go.

Obviously, this is still quite a step-down from Samsung’s latest release but you get what you pay for and the S6 Lite is not that bad at all. It’s just up to you and what you’re willing to spend.

Features & Specifications

• Product Dimensions: 0.28 x 6.07 x 9.63 inches
• Manufacturer / Brand: Samsung
• Item Weight: 1.55 lbs.
• Screen Size: 10.4 inches.
• Screen Resolution: 2000 x 1200 (WUXGA+) TFT
• Operating System: Android
• Wireless Communication Technology: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS
• CPU: Samsung Exynos 9611
• RAM: ‎4 GB or 6 GB.
• Storage: Up to 128 GB of storage.
• Batteries Used: ‎1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. (included)
• Battery Life: Can last up to more than 13 hours on a single charge depending on usage.
• Front Camera: 5MP 
• Rear Camera: 8MP
• Colors: Gray, Blue, and Rose.
• Accessories: S Pen (included). Bookcover and ear buds. (both sold separately)
• Extra Special Features: AKG supply spacious Dolby Atmos surround sound, S Pen, external memory (microSD up to 1TB).

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite?

4. Lenovo Tab M10 Plus

Overview

Another budget-friendly option in this list is the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus.

This particular value-packed tablet is suitable for gaming thanks to its 4 GB of RAM, up to 128 GB GB of storage, MediaTek P22 Tab, Octa-Core chipset, and a bright, colorful 10.3″ FHD IPS display.

While admittedly, this is not the most high-tech or advanced specifications, it’s best to keep in mind that most budget-friendly or entry-level tablets can’t really be compared to flagship models. However, this should be enough for most mobile games that are not too extensive in the graphics department.

More graphics-demanding games can still work if the settings aren’t maxed out and are tweaked to avoid overheating and quick battery drainage. But even then, you might still want to lower your expectations and get ready for stuttering and frame rate issues from time to time.

Overall, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is still a pretty great contender on this list and is perfectly suitable for more casual gamers who just want a tablet that can run their games decently without splurging a lot of money for a more premium device.

Features & Specifications

• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.04 x 0.33 inches
• Manufacturer / Brand: Lenovo
• Item Weight: ‎1.48 pounds
• Screen Size: 10.3 inches
• Screen Resolution: 10.3″ FHD (1920 x 1200), IPS, TDDI, 220 PPI, 330 nits, 10-point touchscreen
• Operating System: Android 9 Pie
• Wireless Communication Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS
• CPU: MediaTek Helio P22T Tab, octa-core, 4 x A53 @ 2.3GHz, 4 x A53 @ 1.8GHz
• RAM: 2 GB and 4 GB.
• Storage: 32 GB (2 GB RAM) / 64 GB (4 GB RAM) / 128 GB (4 GB RAM)
• Batteries Used: ‎1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
• Battery Life: 10 Hours
• Front Camera: 5 MP
• Rear Camera: ‎8 MP
• Colors: Iron Grey
• Accessories: Tablet Sleeve, Keyboard, Precision Pen, Protective Case. (all sold separately)
• Extra Special Features: Kid’s Mode, Dolby Atmos, Expandable SD, up to 256GB.

Rating: 7 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus?

5. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE

Overview

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE is another more affordable option for those who can’t afford the flagship Galaxy Tab S7 Plus. Though honestly if you ask me, the $500 price point still seems pretty steep to me. But it’s definitely cheaper than the S7 Plus.

There are obvious downgrades in this model in comparison to its predecessor but it is still a pretty powerful device that should run most games quite smoothly without much stuttering or facing issues with the frame rate.

However, do keep in mind that the S7 FE only has the mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G chipset, along with either 4 GB or 6 GB of RAM as your options. It’s still decent but you should expect adjustments on your games’ overall graphic settings.

On the bright side, unlike the S6 Lite variant, the S7 FE offers the full Galaxy Tab experience. This means you’re getting the same screen size as the S7 Plus, as well as DeX, Samsung’s new feature that enables you to use a desktop-like interface on your tablet.

Apart from gaming, the S7 FE works really well for other productivity tasks like work and online classes. It’s also good to know that this unit still comes with an inclusion of the S Pen.

Features & Specifications

• Product Dimensions: 0.25 x 7.28 x 11.21 inches
• Manufacturer / Brand: Samsung
• Item Weight: ‎1.34 pounds
• Screen Size: 12.4 inches
• Screen Resolution: 2560×1600 px
• Operating System: Android 11.0
• CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G
• RAM: 4 GB or 6 GB
• Storage: 64 GB or 256 GB.
• Batteries Used: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
• Battery Life: More than 24 hours depending on usage.
• Front Camera: 8 MP
• Rear Camera: 5 MP
• Colors: Mystic Black, Mystic Silver, Mystic Green, and Mystic Pink.
• Accessories: S Pen (included), Book cover and keyboard are sold separately.
• Extra Special Features: S Pen, Book cover and keyboard, free access to Samsung Mobile TV Plus, Samsung DeX.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S7 FE?

6. Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

Overview

When it comes to entry-level and budget-friendly options for tablets, Samsung’s Tab A lineup seems to reign supreme in the market. This particular unit lets you enjoy some of Samsung’s best features you might spot in their more high-end models without breaking the bank.

With a pretty large screen coming in at 10.4 inches, an impressive battery life, an expandable storage of up to 1 TB, and a chipset of Octa-Core Exynos 9611, you can totally count on this tablet to serve you well for your mobile gaming needs.

The 3GB of RAM might seem too little, but it’s nothing some tweaking on your game’s settings couldn’t fix. However, more demanding games like PUBG and Genshin Impact might experience some lagging and issues with the tablet’s frame rates.

Features & Specifications

• Product Dimensions: ‎0.28 x 6.2 x 9.75 inches
• Manufacturer / Brand: Samsung
• Item Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Screen Size: 10.4 inches
• Screen Resolution: 2000 x 1200 (WUXGA+)
• Operating System: Android Q
• CPU: Qualcomm SDM865 Plus
• RAM: 3 GB
• Storage: 32 GB / 64 GB (expandable external memory: microSD up to 1TB)
• Audio: Quad + Dolby Atmos
• Batteries Used: ‎1 Lithium Polymer batteries required.
• Battery Life: More than 24 hours depending on usage.
• Front Camera: 5 MP
• Rear Camera: 8 MP
• Colors: Gold, Silver, and Gray.
• Accessories: Protective casing is sold separately.
• Extra Special Features: Expandable external memory of up to 1 TB, Quad + Dolby Atmos audio.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 ?

Before You Buy

Now that we have gone through our top picks for the best android tablet for gaming in 2021, here are some additional friendly reminders to keep in mind before making your final purchase!

Know Your Budget

With so many tablets out in the market, it’s pretty easy to get lost and be overwhelmed by your seemingly endless choices. But with an oversaturation of tablets, that also means that you will find a variety of tablets from different price ranges.

From budget-friendly deals to more high-end units, you are bound to find one that suits your needs.

That’s also why knowing and setting your budget for your next tablet purchase is very important as it can significantly narrow down your options and prevent you from straying far from what you can actually afford.

Nothing hurts more than finding a tablet you like then finding out that it’s out of your budget. So I highly suggest filtering out the prices when shopping through Amazon.

Keep In Mind The Games You’re Planning To Play

Another thing to keep in mind when shopping for your desired gaming tablet is knowing the games you are planning to play with it. Not every tablet in the market is built equally. Some have more powerful processors than others which allow them to play more demanding games smoothly.

But do remember that tablets that have these types of processors are usually more expensive. So set your expectations accordingly.

While most games have settings you can configure and customize to fit your tablet’s specs, it is still best to find out the minimum specs needed by your games. Trust me, this will save you a lot of trouble in the future.

However, I am aware that some players don’t really prioritize playing in the highest resolution possible and don’t mind setting their games in low resolutions so they can get more affordable tablets. So if you’re one of them, then that’s an option for you too.

Consider The Specifications & Features

Once you know the type of games you want to play on your chosen tablet, it can be pretty easy to base off your chosen tablet’s specifications and features on those certain games. You will want to make sure that the tablet has enough power to run those games as smoothly as possible for an optimum gaming experience.

Some of the most important things to consider in a gaming tablet are the RAM, storage, and the display. The higher the RAM, the better. As time progresses, so does the games that are being released in the market.

More and more games nowadays are a lot more demanding in terms of memory and graphics as well as needing an adequate amount of power to run them. So if you want to make sure that your tablet has enough power and memory, I highly suggest opting for a unit that has at least 4-8 GB of RAM with at least 128 storage capacity.

When it comes to a display, however, an AMOLED screen is always the best option. 4k resolution is not yet an option for tablets unfortunately but a lot of units from Samsung and other high-end brands still offer really amazing screen resolutions for their tablets.

It’s just up to your preference if you like your game’s graphics and visuals crisp and color accurate.

Battery Life

Battery life is important when choosing a tablet since you will most likely be carrying this outside whether for work, classes, or you just like to feel the fresh air while you’re gaming. The last thing anyone wants is for their device to run out of battery while they’re doing work or playing games.

So if you don’t want to worry about such incidents, getting a tablet with a beefy battery life is highly suggested. Though fortunately for you, most tablets nowadays can easily last up to 10 hours and even more than 24 hours depending on usage. Just use them wisely!

Portability

Another thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is your tablet’s weight and size. Especially if you will be carrying this around in your backpack wherever you go, you are going to want something that is completely lightweight and won’t take up too much space in your bag.

So look around for tablets that are slim, sleek, and aren’t too chunky.

Conclusion

Overall, tablets are a great alternative for gaming if you like a bigger screen size and find smartphones a little too small in your hands. At the same time, you don’t want to use up all of your phone’s battery on just gaming alone when you’re outside.

However, there is really little contest when it comes to Android tablets that might be suitable for gaming. After all, most tablets are usually made for other activities for productivity like work and online classes.

Every tablet in the market is built differently, most premium specs come at a cost and with more affordable options, you’ll have to sacrifice some really great features. At the end of the day, it’s really up to your preference and how much your budget will allow.

Do you already own any one of these Android tablets for gaming? Did your favorite make it to our list? How were your experiences with them? Do you have any suggestions or insights to add? Let me know in the comments section below. I would love to hear all your thoughts!

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