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Question

Kids want a tablet for Xmas, What is the best option?

Dec 14, 2014 6:14AM PST

My kids want a tablet for Christmas and I am really clueless as too what is the best option. My budget is $150-$180 ish. So the Ipad is really not an option. They want it for playing games, mainly minecraft. What is the best option on the market? I don't know how many GB (would a 8GB tablet work or 16GB necessary?) or anything else it would need to play these games. Any insight and help would be welcomed. Thanks!

Discussion is locked

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Clarification Request
Tell more. Minecraft for PC or this version?
Dec 14, 2014 6:26AM PST
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Minecraft for tablet
Dec 14, 2014 12:14PM PST

Yes this version. I think that is the one you can play on tablets.

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Look at the Kindle Fire models.
Dec 14, 2014 2:47PM PST

I own one, my neighbors own them, nice tablets. BE SURE YOUR KID KNOWS THIS MINECRAFT. My kid scoffs at the tablet version.
Bob

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Answer
iPad *is* an option
Dec 21, 2014 11:43PM PST

If you are willing to get a used iPad, you can get them for less than $180.

And for $20 more you can get a new iPad Mini 1st Generation for $199 with a little luck (currently Wal-Mart is $219).

Why better?
*The "walled garden" makes it much safer and controlled environment for youngsters.
*Selection of software is broader with generally better quality than others.
*Hardware includes both front and back camera, while most other 7" tablets might have only 1.
*Bluetooth is also standard.
*Far more accessories to choose and more easily found.


I would not recommend iPad last year, but the selection and price drops is it now a inexpensive option for a tablet.

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Answer
Mincraft for iOS
Dec 22, 2014 7:44AM PST
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Answer
probably too late, but Kindle Fire is great
Dec 26, 2014 2:03AM PST

My kids have Kindle Fires and they're an excellent option. They play Minecraft on them, and Amazon has a lot of games & apps for free or low cost that are great for kids. I've installed a number of fun yet educational games that they like - for free - and it's a kindle, so tons of books.

Kindles also have FreeTime app for kids' use - you select which specific apps they can access, and you can set time limits for access. Works great for us!

Then, the best part, is the price. The 7" kindle is about $99.00. There's also a kid's version that is in a kid-proof case and comes with a replacement warranty - pretty sure it covers drops, falls, etc. That one is still under $150. There's also an 8" and a 10", and you can get with upgraded memory size. Larger memory is a good idea with a lot of games (with room still for books!).
Kindles run a customized version of Android. (I'm not an apple fan, so this is a big plus for me) I really would recommend the Kindle as a really good, safe, affordable option.

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kindle's other pluses
Dec 26, 2014 2:22AM PST

Has camera on front & back that allow parental controls.
Has Bluetooth, with parental control.
Has FreeTime app (walled access) in addition to parent controls.
Did I mention a new one is about $100.?
Lots of free or cheap apps (but READ THE REVIEWS and check permissions, as some are better than others).
Lots of free or cheap books, in addition to large available regular selection.

Main negatives that come to mind:
Accessories are not in every dollar store or dept store around. However, there's a good assortment of affordable options on Amazon from 3rd party sellers.
No internet access while kids are in the FreeTime app. This is both a + & -. No biggie, just set parental control & give temp access outside of FT.
Not bound by Apple & IOS & iTunes... wait that's a big plus for me, but might not be for some.

Hope this helps someone's future purchase decision, as it's likely too late to help original requestor.

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Answer
Nexus of
Jan 5, 2015 11:38PM PST

Try Nexus 7 or a or 1st Gen Kindle Fire.