Tablets are handy for streaming, reading, video calls, and even casual productivity. But you don’t need to splurge on a flagship model to get a solid device for everyday use. Here’s what to consider when buying a budget tablet. Performance: Good Enough Is Often Good Enough You’re not buying a laptop replacement. Most budget tablets under $200 can handle: Streaming services like Netflix or YouTube Video calls Web browsing Reading e-books Basic games and apps Look for at least 2–3 GB of RAM and a modern processor (e.g., MediaTek or Snapdragon) for smoother use. Display Quality Matters More Than Resolution While high resolution is nice, clarity and brightness are more important: 8 to 10 inches is a sweet spot for screen size Look for IPS panels for better viewing angles Avoid screens with low brightness or poor contrast if you plan to use it outdoors Storage and Expandability Many budget tablets only offer 32GB of internal storage. If you plan to download apps or videos, choose a model that supports microSD cards — this can extend usable space at a low cost. Battery Life Aim for 7–10 hours of usage per charge. Real-world reviews are more accurate than claimed numbers. A tablet with decent standby time and quick charging is more practical. Operating System and Updates Android: Offers more affordable models and app flexibility Fire OS (Amazon tablets): Cheaper, but tied to Amazon’s app store iPad (older models): Still excellent, but rarely below $200 If longevity matters, check how often the brand pushes security and software updates. Build and Ports Plastic builds are common but not necessarily a drawback. Look for: USB-C ports for charging and data Headphone jack if you still use wired audio Dual speakers for better sound quality Trusted Entry-Level Brands Amazon Fire HD series Samsung Galaxy Tab A Lenovo Tab M-series TCL Tab These models balance price, reliability, and support well. Final Thought An affordable tablet won’t replace a high-end device, but it doesn’t need to. If you focus on the right features — display, battery, and expandability — you can enjoy smooth daily use without stretching your budget.