Top 5 Best Tablets for Online Classes or Note-Taking
Whether you’re a student attending Zoom lectures, a teacher preparing lessons, or a professional who prefers writing digitally — a good tablet can upgrade your workflow. But with so many choices, finding the perfect balance of price, performance, and portability can be tricky.
That’s why we’ve listed the best tablets for online classes or note-taking — tested, reliable, and worth your money.
Apple iPad (9th Gen or 10th Gen)
If you’re looking for a smooth, no-lag experience, the iPad is a top choice. It supports Apple Pencil, handles multitasking well, and offers great display quality.
Why it’s great:
– Strong app ecosystem (Notability, GoodNotes, Zoom, etc.)
– Long battery life
– Fast processor for video calls and note-taking
– Great resale value
Note: The 9th Gen is more budget-friendly, while the 10th Gen has a newer design and better display.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite / S7 FE
For Android users, Samsung’s tablets hit the sweet spot. Both the Tab S6 Lite and S7 FE come with an S Pen included — a big bonus for writing and drawing.
Why it works:
– Included stylus = ready to write
– Samsung Notes syncs easily with other devices
– DeX mode for multitasking like a laptop
– Ideal for both studying and casual entertainment
Tip: Go for S7 FE if you want a bigger screen and faster processing.
Lenovo Tab P11 Plus / P12
Lenovo tablets are often underrated but deliver amazing value — especially for students on a budget. These are great for Google Classroom, YouTube tutorials, and digital notes.
What you get:
– Decent display quality
– Strong battery life
– Optional keyboard and pen support
– Clean UI, perfect for study environments
Good to know: Lenovo’s newer P12 model has better speakers and performance.
Microsoft Surface Go 3
If you’re looking for a 2-in-1 experience — part tablet, part laptop — Surface Go 3 is a great option. It runs full Windows, which is helpful for school or office apps.
Why students love it:
– Windows = full desktop apps
– Lightweight but powerful
– Optional keyboard makes typing easy
– Surface Pen is precise and responsive
Best for: College students, teachers, or remote workers needing Office tools like Word, Excel, and Teams.
iPad Mini (6th Gen)
Small, powerful, and super portable — the iPad Mini is great if you prefer something compact. Despite its size, it’s no lightweight in terms of performance.
Why it stands out:
– Supports 2nd Gen Apple Pencil
– Great for quick sketches and handwritten notes
– USB-C charging
– Fits easily in small bags or pockets
Perfect for: On-the-go learners, creators, or kids attending online classes.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best tablet for online classes or note-taking depends on your style, usage, and budget. Whether you’re a fan of Apple’s ecosystem, Android flexibility, or Windows multitasking, there’s a solid option for everyone.
And remember:
– Prioritize stylus support for handwritten notes
– Check display size and battery life
– Make sure it fits with the apps you use most
Buying a tested or like-new tablet can also save you money — just make sure it’s verified and comes with some kind of warranty.