Business Tablet Comparison: Models, Brands & Performance

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Today, business tablets are a core component of the IT infrastructure of many organizations. From service industries that use them to show menus to customers or complete speedy checkouts to business organizations that use them for data analysis, tablets can be beneficial for any role at any level. This guide will help you find the right one for your organization.

With many options available in today's tablet-centric world, it is hard to determine the best tablet for business or the best tablet for work purposes. While you might not think of a tablet as an essential tool for your business needs, tablets offer a huge range of productivity applications and can basically perform any function of a traditional laptop computer without the weight and bulk.

Choosing the Right Tablet Brand and Model

Much like computers and cell phones, tablet companies will vary from one to the next, and each of those companies has a fleet of different tablet models available. Before you can consider what the best tablet is for your business needs, you first need to understand which company and model will meet your needs. Below is a sampling of some of the most popular companies and tablet models.

Apple iPad Tablets

Apple has a few variations of their famous iPad tablets, similar to their MacBook and iPhone product lines. The classic iPad is most associated with the tech giant, but there's also the iPad Air (a slimmer and lighter version), the iPad Mini (a smaller but still highly functional tablet) and most recently their iPad Pro, which has processing power similar to most laptops.

Most models have had a refresh recently, with the Apple iPad Pro getting a slew of new features in the 2025 update. Sizes typically range from 7.9-inch screens (for the iPad Mini) to 12.9-inch screens (for the iPad Pro).

Microsoft Surface Tablets

The Surface line of products from Microsoft offers a range of specs based on a user's needs. The Surface Go, for example, is a more basic offering with an affordable price tag. The Surface Laptop, Surface Book, and Surface Pro all offer additional features or more impressive specs—including options like the refurbished Microsoft Surface Pro, which combines professional performance with cost savings.

The hardware behind the machine matters because the Windows OS in the Microsoft Surface products can give users access to a greater range of desktop applications with a tablet experience.

Designers may want something to handle their resource-intensive applications, while a social media manager may only need something that can handle a browser and basic apps. The biggest benefit of the Microsoft Surface tablets is versatility.

Samsung Galaxy Tablets

Samsung offers a range of tablets to meet a variety of business needs. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S and Galaxy Tab A tablets run on an operating system originally designed for a smartphone.

Galaxy Tabs leverage Android tablets tech, which is commonly found on their smartphone fleet — just like how iOS is for Apple devices. However, there are key differences between the Android tablet experience, ultimately boiling down to what kind of customized experience you're looking for.

Samsung offers a range of different products to suit different tablet users. Business tablet users will be especially interested in expandable memory options with SD cards and an operating system that allows greater customization.

Unlike iOS, Android tablets allow users to customize things such as home screen layouts, on-screen keyboards and more in ways that Apple products do not. The Galaxy Tab S also includes an S-Pen stylus.

Common Business Use Cases for Tablets

Entering the enterprise world from personal use is a natural progression for tablets. Used for personal, educational and now workplace applications, tablets have come a long way from their original design and specifications.

While the tablet vs laptop debate will continue to rage for eternity, tablets do have a place in the business world. Here are several advantages to using tablets in the enterprise:

Low Cost: It costs a lot of money to deploy laptops or desktop computers to hundreds or thousands of employees in an organization. Tablets offer a low-cost point with respect to volume purchase, cost per unit and operating costs for departments and organizations looking to provide the same functionality at a lower price point.

Restricting Access: Major limitations and restrictions on what employees can do and what programs can be accessed via company computers. These locked-down systems are even easier to implement on tablets, where employees can have a set of capabilities and applications that they can access, specific websites they can see and nothing more.

Best Tablets for Business Use

There are a lot of tablet devices out in the world, but that doesn't mean they are all suited to business purposes. The first thing to look for is a tablet that has a larger screen, has more-than-adequate storage space and can run the applications necessary for you to complete your work.

Operating System Options

The choice of operating system matters significantly for business use. Apple devices running iPadOS offer excellent security and ease of use, making them ideal for executives and creative professionals. The iPad Pro and iPad Air provide powerful processing with the M-series chips, while entry-level iPad models offer cost-effective solutions for basic business tasks.

Windows Tablets for Full Compatibility

Windows tablets like the Microsoft Surface Pro and Surface Laptop provide full desktop software compatibility, essential for organizations requiring specific Windows applications. The Surface Pro offers laptop-like capabilities with a detachable keyboard and stylus support, while maintaining tablet portability.

Android Tablets for Flexibility

Android tablets, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab series, offer maximum customization and Google Workspace integration. These devices excel for cost-conscious organizations needing flexible solutions, with expandable storage and diverse price points from budget to premium models.

Industry-Specific Considerations

Industry-specific considerations include HIPAA compliance for healthcare, durability for education and field services, and point-of-sale integration for retail environments. Each sector requires different tablet capabilities, from rugged construction to specialized software compatibility.

Healthcare organizations need tablets with antimicrobial coatings, EMR software compatibility, and secure data handling. Educational institutions prioritize durability and classroom management features. Retail and hospitality businesses require point-of-sale integration and customer-facing reliability.

When selecting tablets for your organization, evaluate total cost of ownership, including accessories, software licensing, and ongoing support. Consider implementation requirements like staff training, device deployment strategies, and integration with existing systems to ensure successful adoption across your business operations.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

The tablet market continues evolving with improved processing power, better displays, and enhanced security features. Whether choosing premium iPad Pro models for creative work, versatile Surface tablets for Windows compatibility, or cost-effective Android options for basic tasks, matching device capabilities to actual business requirements ensures optimal productivity and return on investment.

Successful tablet deployment extends beyond the initial purchase decision. Planning for accessories, training, ongoing support, and eventual replacement ensures your tablet investment continues delivering value throughout its lifecycle while supporting your organization's growth and evolving technology needs.

Ready to find the perfect business tablets for your organization? PC Liquidations offers a wide selection of high-quality refurbished tablets from top brands like Apple, Microsoft, and Samsung at significant cost savings. Contact our experts today to discover how refurbished business tablets can meet your technology needs while maximizing your budget.