Cheap tablets in the test: price-performance, business use & rental options

Tablets are no longer just a practical gadget for private use – they are also becoming increasingly important in the business sector. Inexpensive tablets are an attractive option, especially for companies that want to use mobile devices flexibly. In this article, we analyze the current price-performance winners among Android tablets and Apple devices, highlight their possible uses in the B2B environment and give tips on how to remain cost-efficient – e.g. by renting instead of buying.

Why inexpensive tablets make sense for business use

Tablets have become indispensable tools, especially for companies with changing requirements – for example at trade fairs, in the field, for short-term projects or in the training sector. And it doesn’t always have to be the expensive high-end model. Inexpensive Android or Apple tablets today offer surprisingly high performance, are ideal for standard tasks and are cost-effective – especially for temporary requirements.

Some typical business applications for inexpensive tablets:

Digital forms for field service or warehouse logistics
Presentations at customer meetings
Use as a customer terminal at trade fairs or events
Participant devices for training courses or workshops
Temporary use in the home office or for hybrid meetings

What makes a “cheap tablet”?

The term “cheap” is subjective. In the B2B context, “cheap” means that you can get a functional, reliable tablet that meets all basic requirements for around 100-300 euros per device. The key factors are a good price/performance ratio and the right features for the intended use.

Important features that companies should look out for:

Size: 8-11 inches are ideal for mobility & readability
Battery life: Longer than 8 hours for all-day use
Processor & RAM: Fast enough for multitasking & apps
Memory & expandability: At least 32 GB, ideally with microSD slot
Operating system: Android is widespread & uncomplicated, iPadOS an alternative with more app compatibility

Current price-performance winners: Cheap tablets in the 2024 test

We have evaluated current device tests from reputable sources such as ComputerBild, chip.de, TechRadar and Notebookcheck and compared the most popular models under 300 euros with a view to business use.

Model	Display size	OS	Power	Special features	Price (RRP)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 or Tab A8	10.1-10.5 inch	Android 13	Octa-Core, 3-4 GB RAM	good sound, solid workmanship	from 180€
Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd gen)	10.6 inch	Android 12 / 13	MediaTek Helio G80, 4 GB RAM	beautiful display, useful in reading mode	from 190€
Huawei MatePad SE	10.4 inch	HarmonyOS 3	Snapdragon 680, 4 GB RAM	very long battery life	from 200€
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023)	10.1 inch	Fire OS (Android-based)	Octa-Core, 3 GB RAM	inexpensive, but limited app access	from 160€
iPad 9 (2021) (used/refurbished)	10.2 inch	iPadOS	A13 chip, 3 GB RAM	very high performance, excellent software	from 280€ (refurbished)

Our recommendation for different business scenarios

Different tablets are recommended depending on the intended use. Here is some orientation:

For training & conferences: Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 or A8 – affordable, stable, sufficient power
For customer presentations: iPad 9 (2021) – top display, intuitive usability
For high-quality, flexible business use: Surface Pro X 12.9″ – Large display area and PC-like features

Conclusion: Inexpensive tablets also impress in the business environment

Inexpensive tablets have become a reliable work partner – even in companies. Buying expensive high-end models makes little economic sense, especially for frequent but not permanent use. Instead, it is worth taking a targeted look at the current budget devices and, if necessary, the rental option.

Whether for events, short-term projects, promotional campaigns or training courses: If you want to remain flexible and save costs at the same time, tablet rental is the right choice. Our experts will be happy to advise you individually on the right device solution – including accessories, software and services.

Use our contact form or call us today – we will configure the right devices for your requirements!

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