Readers like you keep news free for everyone.
More than 5,000 readers have already pitched in to keep free access to The Journal.
For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can help keep paywalls away.
# TechKnowHow
What are the tablets to look out for this Christmas?
Because there’s more out there than just the iPad.
DESPITE THE GROWING popularity of larger-screened smartphones, there’s still a place for the tablet. It’s still a handy device to have when you’re at home and you want to watch a movie and videos, or for completing quick tasks when you’re at home.
If you’re in the market for one, here are the best tablets out there this year.
iPad Air 2
Cost: €509 (16GB), €609 (64GB), €709 (64GB)
No matter what way you approach the subject of tablets, Apple will always be mentioned. While there are many competitors out there (and some come pretty close), the Air 2 manages to improve on last year’s model and set the standard for tablets. Lighter than ever, a better camera (yes, people do use it to take snaps), great hardware and Touch ID means the iPad range is still the one to beat.
Nexus 9
Cost: €399 (16GB), €489 (32GB)
Following up the popular Nexus 7 range, Google teamed up with HTC to bring about its successor and it’s also a powerhouse. Light as a feather, running the latest version of Android, and speedy performance means it’s one of the better high-end Android tablets out there.
Surface Pro 3
Cost: €819 (64GB), €919 (128GB), €1,229 (256GB), €1,889 (512GB)
While it doesn’t get as much love as other tablets/laptops, it’s worth looking at Microsoft’s tablet/laptop hybrid. Incredibly light, the kickstand rests on your lap nicely whatever way you use it, and the keyboard cover, while not included with the original purchase, is incredibly handy to use.
As a productivity tablet, it’s one of the best although the high price tag may put some off.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S
Cost: €389 (8.4-inch), €489 (10.5-inch)
If you want power, then Samsung’s tablet will more than suit your needs. Coming in two sizes, 8.4-inch and 10.5-inch, it has a sharp display which is perfect for media, slim build and more than decent battery life places the Tab S as a viable alternative to Apple’s iPad range.
The only potential drawback is the amount of third-party software that’s already included in the software, which can be somewhat annoying when you’re starting out.
Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet
Cost: €469
If there’s one thing that Sony manages to do well, it’s multimedia. Great screen, dual front-facing speakers that deliver great sound, and packing a significant amount of power in a thin body means it’s more than able to handle anything you throw at it.
Also, it’s water and dust resistant so you won’t have to worry if you accidentally spill your drink on it.
Read: Which smartphone should be in your Christmas stocking this year? >
Read: 5 apps worth downloading this week >
