Today’s world revolves around technology and the classroom is no different. Students need to use technology to be proficiently prepared for life beyond school, and teachers can benefit from all of the apps and websites available. Whether you are using ClassDojo for behavior management, SeeSaw to organize student portfolios, or DoInk to develop creative projects in your classroom, having the right tablet for the job can make teacher-life easier and less stressful.
Features to Consider
While there are many considerations when choosing a tablet, a few factors are key to determining the best tablets for teachers. The biggest consideration is the software used by the school that you work in. Adding an Apple product to a classroom that runs on Microsoft can create compatibility nightmares and vice versa. That said, there are some apps, like DoInk, that only work on certain platforms. Bringing a tablet in to run that platform may be worthwhile if you know it’s an app that you will use often.
Once you’ve decided on an operating system, be sure to consider the following, as well:
- Battery life
- Pen options
- The best speakers and microphone
- Camera specifications
- Processing speed
- Screen size and display quality
- Storage space
- Wifi vs cellular connectivity
1. Apple iPad Pro
For teachers seeking cutting-edge tech, the new iPad Pro is about to become your favorite classroom companion. Its expansive 12.9-inch screen offers clarity for presentations, while Apple’s latest chipset will help you ensure swift multitasking. Paired with the Apple Pencil, lesson planning is sure to quickly become a creative journey that you’ll look forward to instead of dread.
2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
The lightweight Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 makes lessons interactive with its 11” Super AMOLED display and intuitive S Pen. We promise that, as educators, you’ll appreciate the versatility and smooth operation of its DeX mode, long battery life, and integration with other Samsung devices. The fast processor, quad speakers, and dual cameras will further help you access unique annotation and presentation capabilities and empower your teaching efficiency on all fronts.
3. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is one of the newest tablets for teachers available. It comes with a pen, which will make it easy for teachers to record and write notes directly on the tablet, but the best feature of this tablet is its flexibility to turn into a fully functional laptop. It is the newest and best tablet and laptop combination for teachers. This is one of the best tablets for teachers because of its flexibility to transition from laptop to tablet and back again.
The Pro 7 has a processor that is two times faster than the Surface 6, so this tablet is one of the best for fast-moving teachers who want a device that can keep up with the speed of their classroom. It has a battery life of more than 10 hours and can recharge in little more than one hour! Of course, it’s compatible with all of the Microsoft products, so it’s one of the best tablets for schools that use the Microsoft Office Suite.
4. Apple iPad (10.2-Inch)
Apple’s 10.9” iPad Air tablet will help you stay productive on the go. Light enough to cart around without hassle, it can easily be slipped in and out of your bag whether at home or in the classroom. Its speedy M1 performance, vivid Liquid Retina display, and long battery will keep you moving at a steady pace whilst an additional Apple Pencil will further enable your intuitive note-taking.
5. Apple iPad Mini
Perfectly sized for on-the-go teachers, the latest iPad Mini packs a punch! Its vibrant display makes visuals pop, and with its powerful internals, your apps will run seamlessly. When you’re needing to juggle content between lessons and meetings, this compact device promises to be the trusty aide you need.
6. Microsoft Surface Pro 6
For those teachers who want a tablet that is compatible with Microsoft products and has the flexibility to function as a laptop, as well, the Surface 6 is a great option. It’s a bit more “tried and true” than the Pro 7 and has a battery life of more than 13 hours.
Since it weighs less than 2 pounds, you won’t have to build up your arm muscles to carry it around the classroom all day, and the 8th Generation processor will keep up with even the busiest of classrooms.
7. Lenovo Tab M10 Plus
For those teachers who need a powerful device but cannot afford a tablet towards the higher end of the price spectrum, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus offers a premium product with a more affordable $200 price tag. Equipped with Android 9, a full metal body, and a slightly larger 10.3-inch full HD screen, this tablet functions and feels more high-end than the price suggests.
State-of-the-art touch and display driver technology (TDDI) allows for improved and seamless interaction with the tablet screen – an important consideration if it will be used daily for creating lesson plans or activities for students. The 2.3 GHz Octa-Core processor with 4GB RAM and 128GB of storage also ensures that you will experience quick and powerful performance that rivals many of the top performers. Additionally, built in eye protection technology will ensure that, if long hours are required behind the screen, your eyes won’t suffer any strain.
Although the battery life is slightly less impressive than the Apple, Microsoft, and Galaxy alternatives, you will still be able to experience up to 7 hours of video playback and 8 hours when browsing the internet – more than enough to get through a day of teaching activities. You will also benefit from the immersive experience provided by 2 side speakers equipped with Dolby Atmos and the ability to stay connected with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology. Altogether, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is a solid all-rounder that is not only a great option for teachers, but it is also one that won’t break the bank.
8. Amazon Fire HD 10
Specifically tailored for educators, the Fire HD 10 offers a vivid 10-inch display that’s perfect for video lessons and e-book readings. Its responsive interface, coupled with expansive storage, makes it an ideal tool for storing and accessing all of your teaching resources! Affordable and efficient, it’s a must-have for teachers who are striving for more interactive learning experiences.
Conclusion
It’s not easy to identify a single tablet that is best for all teachers, because there are many reasons to bring a tablet into the classroom. Sometime a tablet will be the main electronic device for the teacher and will need to do the job of a laptop and a tablet. Other times, the teacher is looking to bring in the best tablet for a few specific apps that will be used primarily by students. Some teachers may be interested in the best tablets for a reasonable price to add options for students in classrooms that don’t already have devices.
There are many factors to consider when looking at the best tablets for teachers today, but once you find the tablets that will meet your needs, you’ll love the way it can streamline your class record-keeping, organize documentation, and enhance student creativity.