For a portable gaming experience, nothing beats the convenience and versatility of a gaming tablet. Unlike bulky gaming rigs, a top-notch gaming tablet offers a decent gaming experience that is light, sleek, and incredibly versatile.

That’s why we have picked some of the best gaming tablet options available in 2023. We’ve spent dedicated hours researching and testing various models to bring you a curated list of the best gaming tablets available.

Whether you’re a casual gamer, a streamer, or an esports enthusiast looking for a reliable gaming device, you’ll find something on our list that suits your needs.

So without further ado, let’s get started!

Quick Pick Section

ProductsScreen SizeStorageWeight Check Pricre On Amazon!
Apple iPad Pro12.9 inches256 GB1.5 lbsCheck Latest Price
ASUS ROG Flow Z13 13.4 inches512 GB2.6 lbsCheck Latest Price
Apple iPad Air M1 10.9 inches256 GB1.0 lbsCheck Latest Price
Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation)8.3 inches64 GB0.65 lbsCheck Latest Price
SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S812.4 inches128 GB1.27 lbsCheck Latest Price
Microsoft Surface Pro 913 inches256 GB1.9 lbsCheck Latest Price
Apple iPad (9th Generation)10.2 inches64 GB1.07 lbsCheck Latest Price

What Is The Best Gaming Tablet in 2023?

1. Apple iPad Pro Tablet For Gaming – Our Top Pick

best gaming tablet

Whether you plan for streaming, stable gaming, or multitasking, the Apple iPad Pro is our top pick for 2023. It has a 12.9-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate to make gaming even more enjoyable.

Its 6th generation M2 chip packs a powerful punch, speeding up game loads and ensuring a lag-free experience even with the most demanding titles. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display is a visual treat. Colors pop, details are sharp, and the action unfolds smoothly, letting gamers immerse in vivid universes.

It’s not just about gaming performance, though. Weighing just 1.03 lbs, this tablet is incredibly portable. Its dual-camera setup, FaceID for added security, and compatibility with the coveted Apple Pencil make it versatile beyond gaming.

Specs Overview

  • Screen Size – 12.9 inches
  • Storage – 256 GB
  • Display Resolution – 2732 x 2048 Pixels
  • Weight – 1.5 lbs
  • Chipset – M2 chip

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High refresh rate
  • Vibrant liquid retina
  • Access to large Apple app store

Cons

  • Quite expensive than other Apple models

Check Price On Amazon!

2. ASUS ROG Flow Z13 Gaming Laptop Tablet – Runner-Up

When it comes to gaming on the go, ASUS has something quite compelling with the ROG Flow Z13 Gaming Laptop Tablet. It’s effortlessly morphed into a gaming tablet. With its 13.4-inch touchscreen, which boasts a stunning 4K+ resolution, gamers can dive into their favorite titles in rich detail. Thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate, every movement is buttery smooth, elevating the gaming experience.

The detachable keyboard is not just a design gimmick; it’s genuinely useful for those moments when typing is essential. But the real gaming prowess of this device lies in its powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics.

Add to that the Dolby Vision support and every frame looks as if it’s leaping off the screen. Now, while its battery life is capped at five hours, that’s not bad for a device with such beefy specs.

And when you think about compatibility, this tablet is a champ. Whether you’re a fan of Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass, prefer Valve’s Steam, or want to try Nvidia GeForce Now, this gaming tablet has got you covered.

Specs Overview

  • Screen Size – 13.4 inches
  • Storage – 512 GB
  • Display Resolution – ‎1920 x 1200 pixels
  • Weight – 2.6 lbs
  • Chipset – ‎NVIDIA

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Detachable design
  • Gaming-centric features
  • High-performance GPU

Cons

  • Bulkier than tablets

Check Price On Amazon!

3. Apple iPad Air Gaming Tablet – Best Mid-Range Gaming Tablet

Next up, we have the iPad Air with M1 chip.

The M1 processor in this sleek IOS tablet tells the gamer it’s a serious gaming device. That processor, the same powerhouse found in some of Apple’s latest laptops, makes sure games run smoother, graphics are crisp, and the gameplay experience is on par with what most would expect from higher-end devices.

When you boot up your favorite game, the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display takes center stage. It ensures a visual treat for the eyes, offering vibrant colors and sharpness. This is a pretty sweet deal, especially for those who want their avatars, landscapes, and power-ups to pop in detail.

And, with 256Gb storage, most gamers will find enough space to store their beloved games and apps. While the Apple 2nd generation Pencil Compatibility hints at its versatility for design and note-taking, gamers might appreciate it in titles that require precision touches. Now, as with most gaming gadgets, intensive gameplay can be a bit hungry for power. The tablet’s up-to-10-hour battery life might dip somewhat with high-end games, but still, it’s pretty resilient.

Specs Overview

  • Screen Size – 10.9 inches
  • Storage – 256 GB
  • Display Resolution – 2360 x 1640 pixels
  • Weight – 1.0 lbs
  • Chipset – M1 chip

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight design
  • Immersive display
  • Efficient thermal management

Cons

  • Limited storage options

Check Price On Amazon!

4. Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation) Tablet – For compact gaming

The Apple iPad Mini is the perfect compact gaming tablet. With its 0.7 pounds weight and 8.3-inch screen, it’s easy to hold in one hand and carry around wherever you need it. And with its A15 Bionic chip, you don’t have to worry about any lag in-game performance.

The built-in 64 GB storage allows you to store all your favorite games without overloading it. Plus, with up to 10 hours of battery life, there’s enough juice to get through multiple rounds of your favorite game – perfect for those long flights!

Connecting your accessories is simple, too. Just use the USB-C port on the side! This Apple iPad Mini is a convenient way of combining portability and gaming power like never before – perfect for gamers who like to experience cutting-edge performance while on the move.

Specs Overview

  • Screen Size – 8.3 inches
  • Storage – 64 GB
  • Display Resolution – 2266 x 1488 Pixels
  • Weight – 0.65 lbs
  • Chipset – A15 Bionic chip

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Portable size
  • USB-C connectivity
  • Stereo speakers

Cons

  • Smaller screen size

Check Price On Amazon!

5. SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S8+ – Best Android Tablet

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ Tablet is a powerhouse of an Android tablet. You will be able to conquer any game with its USB Type-C port and Wi-Fi 6 networking. With Dolby Atmos support built-in, you will experience immersive audio unlike any other.

The 12.4-inch screen has a fast 120Hz refresh rate, so you won’t miss out on any of the action! With 128GB of storage, you’ll have plenty of space to store your games and music.

Plus, it’s powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, making it one of the most powerful Android tablets on the market! Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just looking for something fun and portable for casual gaming, this is a great mobile gamer choice for you!

Specs Overview

  • Screen Size – 12.4 inches
  • Storage – 128 GB
  • Display Resolution – 2800 x 1752 pixels
  • Weight – 1.27 lbs
  • Chipset- ‎Qualcomm

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Best Android gaming tablet
  • Super AMOLED display
  • Expandable storage

Cons

  • Android game optimization

Check Price On Amazon!

6. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 – Best for Xbox Game Pass

This ultra-powerful gaming tablet is just what you need for your Xbox Game Pass experience. Boasting a 2-in-1 format, the Surface Pro 9 combines the convenience and portability of a tablet with all the computing power of a laptop.

Not only does it seamlessly sync with your Xbox controller, making gaming a breeze, but its speedy 120Hz refresh rate also ensures stunning visuals, impressive audio, and top-notch performance.

It also has two USB Type-C ports to which you can plug in your headphones or earbuds for even more entertainment options. And when it comes to battery life, the Surface Pro 9 will not let you down, counting up to 15 hours!

Specs Overview

  • Screen Size – 13 Inches
  • Storage – ‎256 GB
  • Display Resolution – 2880 x 1920 pixels
  • Weight – 1.9 lbs
  • Chipset- ‎Intel

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Versatile form factor.
  • Improved graphics
  • Wide app compatibility

Cons

  • Limited gaming library

Check Price On Amazon!

7. Apple iPad (9th Generation)

The Apple iPad (9th Generation) is the most affordable gaming tablet on the market for Apple devices. You can enjoy high-performance gaming with this powerful tablet without breaking the bank. It has a solid build and a decent appearance.

At just under $300, this budget iPad tablet ensures that you get great value for your money. With 64GB of storage, you won’t have to worry about running out of space or power if you’re playing casual games.

Although this iPad may not be the latest, it still provides a good budget option for students, children or casual gamers of all ages.

Moreover, this tablet is also very lightweight, making it easier for it to be brought around.

Specs Overview

  • Screen Size – 10.2 inches
  • Storage – 64 GB
  • Display Resolution – 2160×1620 Pixels
  • Weight – ‎1.07 lbs

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Decent performance
  • Good battery life
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not gaming-centric

Check Price On Amazon!

Things to Look For When Buying a Gaming Tablet?

Whether you’re an Apple iPad aficionado, a fan of the best Android tablet for gaming, or someone who prefers the versatility of a Windows device, making an informed choice is paramount. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to find the great gaming tablet that suits your needs and ensures epic gaming on the go.

1. Operating System

Which operating system will you choose: Android, iPadOS, Or Windows?

You’ll have to decide which operating system works best for you. The Apple iPad runs on iPadOS and is known for its seamless user experience, zero fall behind, vast game library, and top-notch hardware quality.

On the other hand, if you’re leaning towards the best Android tablet for gaming, options are bountiful, with brands offering features tailored to gamers. Android gaming has been on the rise with a slew of dedicated titles. Meanwhile, Windows tablets cater to those who’d like a mix of gaming and productivity, giving the advantage of running PC games and apps.

2. Processor

The processor is the beating heart of any device. To ensure smooth and lag-free gaming on the go, you need a tablet with a strong CPU. The best tablet for gaming will have a processor capable of handling heavy graphics and multitasking. Tablets like the apple iPad Pro, Apple iPad mini, apple iPad air, and some of the best Android tablets on the market, such as those from Samsung and ASUS, come equipped with powerful chips that make gaming a breeze.

3. Display Quality & Refresh Rate

Visuals and refresh rate make all the difference when it comes to an even gaming experience. Opt for tablets with high-resolution screens to make games look stunning. Plus, a 120Hz refresh rate, found in some top-tier tablets, offers a smoother gaming experience, especially for fast-paced action games.

4. RAM & Storage Space

Your gaming experience will also rely heavily on RAM and storage space. More RAM ensures your tablet can handle multiple tasks simultaneously without hiccups. 4GB is decent, but if you’re aiming for the best, 8GB or more is ideal. As for storage, the best mid-range tablets offer 64GB, but if you’re a gaming enthusiast with a penchant for big titles or cloud gaming, consider options with 128GB or even 256GB.

5. Budget

While everyone would love to own the most powerful gaming tablet out there, finding a balance between features and affordability is key. Luckily, the tablet market offers a spectrum of options. Whether you’re looking for a premium device or the best mid-range tablet for gaming, there’s something for everyone. Consider what features are non-negotiable for you and then explore from there.

Related Questions

What sets a gaming tablet apart from a regular tablet?

While both may appear similar, a gaming tablet is particularly designed to enhance the gaming experience. It offers powerful hardware, higher refresh rates, and optimizations ideal for gaming. In contrast, regular tablets focus on multitasking and may not be able to handle intense gaming sessions as efficiently.

Which tablet brand offers the best gaming experience?

Multiple brands manufacture tablets optimized for gaming. Prominent names include the best Apple gaming tablets, certain Samsung tablet models, and many Android gaming tablet options. However, the “best” brand may vary based on personal preferences, budget, and specific gaming requirements.

What is the minimum RAM for a gaming tablet?

For a gaming experience as smooth as butter, we recommend a minimum of 4GB RAM. But, if you want to level up your game and conquer those high-end titles, 6GB or even 8GB might just be your cheat code.

Which is more suitable for gaming: mobile or tablet?

It really depends on personal preference and gaming habits. Tablets generally have larger screens and better battery life, making them suitable for peaceful extended gaming sessions. Mobile phones are more portable but might not be as comfortable for prolonged gameplay.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, folks! We’ve journeyed from the heights of premium tablets to the realms of budget-friendly options, all in the quest for gaming perfection. These power-packed tablets, each with its unique blend of features, make gaming portable and fun.

Whether you’re an Android fan or an Apple user, a casual gamer, or a pro, there’s something here for everyone. 

I hope this article has helped you choose the right tablet for your gaming needs, thanks for reading!