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Published 7:25 PM EDT Mar 22, 2017
Feb 21, 2019 - Best Tablets. Buying Guide. There isn't much new about Apple's newest entry-level iPad. But it's a better. Laptop replacement? Not until iOS.
Just a reminder: it is possible to find a solid tablet not named iPad.
On Tuesday, Apple unveiled a new iPad model which will replace the iPad Air. It starts at $329, and will feature a 9.7-inch touchscreen, 10 hours of battery life and an A9 processing chip, just a step below the iPad Pro.
Apple has been the dominant force in tablets for years now, boasting a 21% share of the market, according to Strategy Analytics. But there are other tablets out there if you want an Apple alternative.
Here are three options to consider:
Microsoft Surface Pro
Perhaps the closest competitor to the iPad is Microsoft's Surface line, which has been billed as 'the tablet that can replace your laptop.' It boasts a 12.3-inch display, Intel Core processors, and can hold up to 1 TB of storage. Users can take a separate dock to attach to monitors and use it like a desktop computer. It also has a type cover, which protects the screen and doubles as a solid keyboard. The Surface has something iPads don't: Ports, including USB 3.0 and microSD. Users also get up to 9 hours of battery life. The devices start at $699.
Amazon Fire
If you seek an affordable, mobile entertainment device, the Fire line from Amazon is impressive. Screen sizes vary from 7 inches all the way to 10.1 inches. The devices start as low as $49, so you can find a solid tablet depending on what you want. It's best as an entertainment device, so if you're big on streaming or playing games, Fire will fit nicely. Plus, it's great for reading books. Since the tablet is from Amazon, it connects seamlessly to your account and online store, which will also makes it easy to buy things. However, Amazon's app store is nowhere close to featuring the broad selection of apps on Apple's App Store or Google Play. For example, there's no official YouTube app. But many big names, including Netflix and Facebook are available.
Samsung Galaxy Tab
For a purer Android experience, try the Galaxy Tab series from Samsung. The electronics giant just launched the Galaxy Tab S3, which features a 9.7-inch OLED screen, Snapdragon processor, and 32GB of storage with the option to expand via microSD card. One of the better perks is the new Galaxy Tab includes a digital stylus, unlike competitors that require consumers to buy them separately. It might not be a great option for users wanting an all-in-one device with the potential for replacing a laptop, but still makes for a sleek tablet.
Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.
Published 7:25 PM EDT Mar 22, 2017