Rental solutions for companies
iPad vs. tablet – the difference in 2025 and which devices are worth renting for companies
iPad or tablet? The difference and the right choice for your business
In the age of digitalization, mobile devices such as tablets have become an integral part of everyday working life in many industries. They enable mobile working, optimize internal processes and offer flexible solutions for presentations, events or training courses. However, when deciding on a suitable device, many companies are faced with the question: What is the difference between an iPad and a tablet? And which device is better suited to their own business?
In this article, we not only clarify the differences between iPads and other tablets, but also show you which device types make sense for certain areas of use. We also look at current industry developments in 2025 and provide you with decision-making aids for your next mobile device rental.
What is the fundamental difference between iPad and tablet?
The term “tablet” is a generic term for an entire class of devices – flat, portable touchscreen computers without a keyboard (which can usually be used optionally via Bluetooth or a docking station). An iPad is a tablet – but it comes exclusively from the US technology giant Apple. This means that every iPad is a tablet, but not every tablet is an iPad.
Various manufacturers offer tablets with different operating systems, performance features and price ranges. The best-known iPad alternatives include devices from:
- Samsung (Galaxy Tab series, Android)
- Lenovo (Tab P series, Android or Windows)
- Microsoft (Surface series, Windows)
- Huawei (MatePad series, HarmonyOS, Android)
However, the main difference usually lies in the operating system, the user interface, the underlying ecosystem and the price structures.
Tablet comparison 2025: iPad vs. other tablets
In the following table, we have summarized some of the most important technical and functional differences between iPads and other popular tablet models in 2025:
| Criterion | iPad (Apple) | Android tablet (e.g. Samsung) | Windows tablet (e.g. Microsoft Surface) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating system | iPadOS | Android 15 | Windows 11 |
| App compatibility | Wide range, optimized for iPad | Very large, but inconsistent support | All Windows programs, desktop-capable |
| Accessories | Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard, Cases | S Pen, Book Cover Keyboard | Surface Pen, Type Cover |
| Integration into corporate infrastructure | Strong in Apple-based environments | More flexible with mixed systems | Ideal for Office 365/Windows environments |
| Price-performance ratio | High-priced, but durable | Many price levels | Medium to high price |
| Update policy | 5-6 years regular updates | 3-4 years depending on manufacturer | Corresponds to typical Windows update practice |
| Availability for equipment rental | Very often available | Varies depending on model | Focus on Surface Pro models in particular |
When is an iPad worthwhile for your company?
Choosing an iPad such as the latest Apple iPad 11 makes particular sense if you value the following aspects:
- Seamless integration into an existing Apple ecosystem (e.g. with iPhones or Macs in the company)
- High-quality hardware and software
- Long service life and resale value
- Best performance for creative applications such as design, video or audio production
- Intuitive user experience for your employees or event guests
Android tablets: The better choice for project diversity?
Android-based tablets such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 Plus offer a higher degree of flexibility, especially if you need a diverse fleet of devices or use special software developed for Android.
- Broader selection of devices and price ranges
- Easily customizable via launchers and specific settings
- Integration with Google services and apps
- Easily scalable for large device fleets
Surface & Co – Windows tablets for professional work
Windows tablets such as the Surface Pro X from Microsoft are powerful and are particularly aimed at business customers. They combine tablet flexibility with laptop performance and are ideal if you want to use classic Windows software such as SAP, AutoCAD or Office efficiently.
Our recommendation: Renting instead of buying
Especially for temporary assignments – be it an event, workshop, roadshow or short-term additional employee requirements – renting tablets is much more worthwhile than buying them. Advantages of our rental solutions:
- No capital commitment, attractive rental model
- Large selection of devices (iPads, Android tablets, Windows tablets)
- Flexible rental periods (1 day to several months)
- Optional accessory packages and configurations
- Fast shipping, configured directly on request
- Professional support and device management possible
Our technology experts will be happy to advise you on choosing the right tablet for your application.
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