How to Choose the Best Windows Tablet

Laptops are undoubtedly convenient; you can carry them around in your bag and use them whenever you need. But when it comes to portability and ease of use, tablets often take the lead, especially for students and on-the-go users. Now with so many tablet options out there, you might be wondering, which one’s actually worth your money in 2025? How to choose Windows tablets can be a tough decision, but I’m here to help. I’ll walk you through the best Windows tablets to consider this year and explain why they stand out.

How to Choose the Best Windows Tablet

To make the right choice when selecting a Windows tablet, you need to be clear about your specific needs. Before making a decision, ask yourself a few key questions to help guide your choice:

• What exactly do you need the tablet for?

Choosing the right Windows tablet really starts with understanding what you need from your device. Think about your everyday routine—are you a student who juggles between lectures and study sessions? A professional on the go who needs a portable office? Or maybe a creative soul who sketches and edits on the fly? Your main use case plays a huge role in determining the best fit.

Students will benefit from something lightweight with great battery life and stylus support for note-taking, while professionals might need a device that handles multitasking effortlessly. Creatives, on the other hand, will want a tablet that combines power with a beautiful high-resolution display.

• What performance specs are most suitable for your use case?

Once you’re clear on how you'll be using the tablet, take a good look at the performance specs. A smooth experience depends largely on what's under the hood. At minimum, go for a tablet with an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor (or equivalent) and 4GB of RAM—although 8GB or more is ideal if you’re going to be multitasking, running heavy apps, or working with media files.

Storage is another important point: SSD storage is a must for speed, and 128GB is a comfortable starting point for most people. Don’t forget about battery life—if you're often moving around, you’ll want something that lasts at least 8 to 10 hours on a single charge.

• What display quality and screen size would be best for you?

Screen size is another deciding factor. A compact tablet with a 10 to 12-inch screen is perfect for portability and light tasks, while a larger 12 to 13-inch display gives you more space to work and multitask, making it great for presentations, editing, or simply watching videos.

Resolution matters too—look for Full HD or higher if you care about crisp visuals or detailed design work. A good display can really enhance your overall experience.

• Do you need stylus and keyboard support?

For those who want a complete desktop-like experience, stylus and keyboard support is essential. A tablet that supports a detachable keyboard or has a 2-in-1 form factor gives you the best of both worlds—touch and type. If handwriting, sketching, or annotating is part of your workflow, make sure the device supports an active stylus. This setup is especially helpful for students, designers, and anyone who prefers writing things down by hand.

• Which version of Windows would you like your tablet to run?

It’s also important to check the Windows version that comes pre-installed. Tablets running Windows 11 offer a more modern interface, enhanced multitasking features, and better performance optimizations. However, some budget or older tablets might still run Windows 10—which is still solid if your needs are basic. What matters is that the device supports updates, so you're not stuck with outdated software or missing security patches.

• How important is build quality to you?

Build quality and portability should never be overlooked. If you’re constantly commuting or switching locations, choose something with a durable yet lightweight build. Tablets with a metal finish tend to offer better durability. You should also consider how many ports the tablet has—USB-C for fast charging and data transfer, microSD slots for extra storage, and if you travel a lot, LTE or 5G support can help you stay connected without Wi-Fi.

• What’s your budget?

Of course, your budget will narrow things down. For under $500, you’ll find solid performers like the Microsoft Surface Go or Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3i. If you’re ready to spend a bit more, the Surface Pro 7 or 8 gives you a powerful and flexible experience. And if you're going all in on power and premium features, tablets like the Surface Pro 9 or ASUS ROG Flow Z13 are hard to beat. Just make sure you’re getting the most value for what you’re paying.

Top 5 Best Windows Tablets in 2025

While there is no one definitive answer when it comes to How to choose Windows tablets, we can generalize some of the best options by examining the specs, pricing, and features they offer. When selecting the right tablet, it’s essential to prioritize your needs, such as performance, portability, display quality, and budget. Keeping this in mind throughout my search for the Best Windows tablets in 2025, I’ve narrowed down the list to the following five contenders:

1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel-based) is a high-end detachable 2-in-1 device that blends the power of a laptop with the portability of a tablet. Running on Windows 11, it features a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, making it a solid performer for multitasking, productivity, and even creative workflows.

Unlike the ARM-based version, this Intel model skips 5G and doesn't offer the same battery longevity, but it makes up for it with full app compatibility and superior performance. It’s essentially a refined upgrade of the Surface Pro 8, with the added punch of new-gen chips, though it comes with one minor drawback: no headphone jack.

Price: $999.99 -$1878.98

2. Dell XPS 13 2-in-1

The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 (2022) takes a new approach to the popular XPS line by shifting from a foldable laptop to a sleek, detachable tablet. Powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1230U processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, it delivers smooth performance in a super-light design. It features two high-res cameras and a premium aluminum build, offering both style and function for those who prioritize portability without sacrificing capability.

It runs on Windows 11 OS and comes with a $100 detachable keyboard and kickstand combo. While the battery life and limited ports might not impress power users, it’s still one of the best detachable 2-in-1s available today.

Price: $999 - $1399

3. Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable

The Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable marks the return of Lenovo’s premium detachable series, stepping in as a solid alternative to the Surface Pro 7+ for business users. Equipped with an Intel Core i5-1130G7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a speedy SSD, it delivers reliable performance in a compact, professional design. Running on Windows 10, this 2-in-1 tablet is built for productivity on the go, offering the power of a business laptop in a flexible form.

Its 12-inch display, integrated kickstand, and detachable keyboard give it the familiar Surface-style experience—perfect for those who need a workstation that’s also portable. The keyboard is comfortable enough for extended typing sessions, while the rugged build adds durability to its sleek design.

Price: Starting at $875

4. ASUS ROG Flow Z13

The ASUS ROG Flow Z13 is a powerful gaming, detachable 2-in-1 tablet, equipped with an Intel Core i9-12900H processor, 16GB of RAM, and Windows 11. Starting at $1,799.99, it features a high-refresh-rate screen and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU, making it capable of handling demanding games and tasks. Its detachable keyboard offers flexibility, while the option to connect an XG Mobile external GPU (sold separately) lets you boost performance to an Nvidia RTX 3080.

Though the price may be steep, especially with the additional eGPU, the Z13 stands out for combining gaming power with portability. However, for those prioritizing value and convenience, other gaming laptops like the ROG Zephyrus G14 might offer a better deal.

Price: $1799

5. HP Elite x2 G8

The HP Elite x2 G8 is a powerful 2-in-1 tablet perfect for business users. Starting at $1,499, it comes with an included keyboard, fingerprint reader, and flexible docking options. Its slim design makes it easy to carry, while the comfortable keyboard is ideal for long typing sessions. However, the touchpad can sometimes be unresponsive, and battery life might fall short for all-day use. Still, with Windows 11 and replaceable components, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a portable, business-ready device.

Price: $1499

Windows Tablet Comparison

To help consolidate the information for you, here’s a clear Windows Tablet Comparison to make it easier to choose the Best Windows Tablets 2025. Whether you're prioritizing performance, display quality, or portability, the table below provides a detailed breakdown to guide your decision. You can now easily compare the top options and pick the tablet that best aligns with your needs.

How WPS Enhances Our Windows Tablet Experience

When choosing a Windows tablet, productivity should be at the top of your priority list. Your choice will directly impact not only your daily work but also your academic performance and, in the long run, your career. It's essential to choose a productivity suite that supports your goals, ensuring that you’re equipped with the tools you need to succeed.

That's where WPS Office makes its place. It’s not only affordable, but it also provides seamless compatibility with Windows, macOS, Linux, and more. I’ve personally found it to be a fantastic addition to my workflow. Whether it’s creating detailed documents or collaborating across devices, WPS Office offers AI-powered tools for proofreading, document summarization, and intelligent formatting, making every task faster and more efficient.

Plus, with cloud storage integration, I can easily access and edit my files from anywhere, ensuring that my work never gets disrupted no matter which device I'm on. Regardless of the type of Windows tablet you choose, WPS Office guarantees smooth, hassle-free document management. It truly makes my work more streamlined and convenient, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to get the most out of their device.

FAQs

1. How to change PC to tablet mode?

Here’s how to change your PC to tablet mode in Windows 11:

Step 1: Open the Settings menu.

Step 2: Navigate to System and then select Display.

Step 3: Under Display Orientation, choose either Landscape or Portrait.

Step 4: For a better tablet experience, enable Rotation Lock to prevent automatic screen rotation.

2. How does a tablet differ from a normal computer?

Work Smart with WPS Office

A good tablet with functioning and reliable software is ultimately the key to a productive environment. No matter which tablet you choose to go for, WPS Office’s compatibility across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS ensures that your workflow stays uninterrupted. From AI-powered tools like proofreading and smart formatting to seamless cloud storage integration, WPS Office makes document handling smooth and efficient. I’ve personally found it incredibly helpful for managing academic and professional tasks—especially when switching between devices. It’s a smart, affordable choice that fits beautifully into any productivity setup.