Why You Can Trust CNET Best tablets under $200 right now
Tablet shopping on a budget? These are some of the best models under $200.
A few of the best tablets can cost over $1,000, if you include high-end accessories like a keyboards and stylus. But not everyone wants or needs all of that.
Here are some of the best tablets that currently cost around $200. Some models on this list have seen price reductions in anticipation of their replacements, offering a bargain to those looking for tablets with solid performance. Others are just good old-fashioned budget tablets for casual use.
Acer Iconia One 10
A big, cheap tablet.
If you need a decent tablet on the cheap with a big screen for watching video, the Acer Iconia One 10 is about as cheap as they get. Its big 10-inch screen is fine for watching video on the go, but far from the sharpest in town. However, for its low price -- right now you can find one for $135 -- you won't find anything better.
Amazon Fire HD 8
If you want a better screen than what the Fire offers, don't hesitate to pick up the Fire HD 8.
Sure, you can buy the Amazon Fire for $50, but if you're not that cheap and want something better, upgrade to the $90 Amazon Fire HD 8. It's got a sharper screen, faster performance, a bigger battery and more base storage, for only $40 more.
Asus ZenPad S 8.0
The ZenPad S 8 is as cool, calm and collected as its name suggests.
A cheap tablet rarely looks as good as the ZenPad S 8.0. Its affordable starting price of $200 is a deal for anyone who wants a small tablet that looks and performs like a winner. It's got a color brilliant screen, user-friendly Android overlay and, did I mention it looks really good for a cheap tablet?
Lenovo Tab 2 A10-70
Dolby-powered speakers make the Lenovo Tab 2 A10-70 prime for movie-watching.
Be honest: Do you just want a tablet for binge-watching your latest Netflix obsession? If you do, an inexpensive option is the Lenovo Tab 2 A10-70 . It has a sharp HD screen, microSD card expansion slot and loud speakers -- for when you definitely don't want to wear your headphones. Though its retail price is $200, it periodically goes on sale for less.
Amazon Fire
You sacrifice a sharp screen if you opt for the super-cheap Amazon Fire tablet.
Are you being as cheap as possible? The Amazon Fire should be on the top of your list. It's a barebones model that only costs $50. Performance-wise, it's fine -- though a little slow -- and its screen is pixelated for today's standards, but it'll do for light reading. There's also a kid's version that comes with a case and unlimited replacement guarantee for two years. Believe be, it's better than other $50 options available.
Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 (8-inch)
The Yoga Tab 3's built-in kickstand makes it easy for typing or watching video.
The Yoga Tab 3 has a distinct design with built-in kickstand for hands-free use and a rounded spine for comfortably holding it in one hand. Combined with its razor-sharp screen, rotatable camera, booming speakers and long-lasting battery, it makes for one of my favorite small tablets.
Lenovo Miix 320
Don't need high-end components? The Miix 320 is an affordable tablet hybrid.
Technically, you can't buy the Lenovo Miix 320 because it hits stores in April, but if you want a cheap Windows 10 tablet, you might want to wait for it. Its performance is comparable to a low-end Chromebook. Starting at $200, it includes a detachable keyboard and touchpad for more of a laptop experience.
If you can spend a little more...
Amazon Fire HD 10
A big tablet for anyone who's a big Amazon Prime fan.
Yes, I know; this is the third Amazon tablet on this list. What can I say? Amazon knows how to price 'em. The biggest of the bunch, the Amazon Fire HD 10 , is one of the most affordable 10-inch tablets you can get, aside from, you know, the others on this list. The normal price is $230, but you can occasionally find it on sale for less.
Apple iPad Mini 2
Grab one before they're gone.
If you want an iPad for cheap, you better jump on the Apple iPad Mini 2 quick. Apple just discontinued it, but you you can find a refurbished one online for $250. Your next best bet is the newest iPad ($300) or finding a deal on the also discontinued Apple iPad Air 2.
Want to know what else is shining in the bright world of tablets? Peruse the best tablets here.
Editors' note: This article was originally published on July 12, 2013, and is updated frequently with newly released products.