In the world of tablets, choose the right one can be hard.
Some tablets excel at certain tasks compared to others. For example, a small, lightweight tablet is much better for travelling when compared to a larger, heavier one. The same concept applies when trying to find the best tablet for kids, certain tablets are much more suitable.
If you’re looking for a tablet that your kids will use on a regular basis, then you’ll want to make sure it’s suitable for little hands and fingers. Luckily there are certain tablets available on the market that are much more appropriate for kids and children. These tablets are generally a lot smaller, lighter and more importantly, more durable.
With so many tablets to choose from on the market, it can be a bit confusing on what to look out for. We know how hard it can be shopping for kids, but with Christmas, just around the corner if you’re looking for a new tablet then there’s no better time to get one. To help you find the perfect tablet for your kids, we’ve put together a helpful guide on how to all the features you should consider before buying one. Here’s what you need to know.
What to Look Out for Before you Choose a Tablet
Size
When searching for a tablet for your children, size is a crucial aspect. If they’re still young and growing, then the chances are they’ll have trouble operating a full-size tablet. The standard size for a tablet is around 9.7 inches, but many tablet manufacturers have since started to make many different size variations.
The problem with a large tablet for young children is that it can be incredibly difficult to hold as well as being relatively heavy. There are plenty of other tablets available on the market which are much smaller and more suited for kids. Mini versions of tablets such as the iPad mini 4 are only 7.9 inches diagonally and are much more suitable for children.
Weight
Now we’ve covered the size, another important factor to consider is the weight. The weight of the tablet will be closely correlated to the size as larger tablets normally have more components inside to power them. This means that if you want a lighter tablet that your kids will have no trouble carrying then you’ll want to make sure the tablet is light.
An average sized 9.7 inch iPad weighs around 444 grams. For an adult that might be light but for kids it’s probably going to feel like a ton of bricks! Compare this to their mini version, the iPad mini 4 which only weighs 304 grams this is around 31% lighter. It might not seem like a big deal but trust us, you’ll kids will notice the difference.
Storage - movies, apps
Depending on what you’re planning on using the tablet for, you’ll want to make sure it has enough storage on it. Tablets nowadays can range from 32 GB in storage all the way up to 256 GB. If you’re planning on downloading a lot of apps and movies for your kids, then you’ll want to make sure you have enough storage. That 32 GB might seem like a lot, but you’ll be surprised at how fast it can disappear.
If you’re not sure at how much storage, you’ll need, then it’s best to get an Android tablet. Android tablets, unlike iPads, allow you to increase the storage manually using SD cards. These cards are available everywhere from local electronics shops to online.
Case
When dealing with kids and expensive technology, it's always important to make sure you’re protected. We suggest investing in a durable case and screen protector to protect the tablet from any inevitable knocks and drops.
iPad Mini 4 - £379 (Link)
One of the newest tablets from Apple, the iPad Mini 4 is the perfect sized tablet for any youngling. At 7.9 inches and 304 grams, the tablet is easy to carry around while packing a powerful punch. Available in a range of storage sizes from 32 GB to 128 GB, the iPad Mini 4 is capable of holding plenty of apps and hours of movies and videos. If you want a small but speedy tablet for your kids then this is the ultimate choice.
iPad Mini 2 - £239 (Link)
Slightly older than the Mini 4, the Mini 2 is still a great tablet if you’re looking for something small and reliable. Released back in 2013 the specifications on the Mini 2 are very similar to the Mini 4 with the same 7.9-inch screen and weighing in at only 341 grams. If you’re looking for a good value tablet that covers all the essentials, then the Mini 2 is an excellent choice.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A - £129.99 (Link)
Slightly smaller than the iPad mini by a whole 0.9 inches, the Samsung Galaxy Tab is a great tablet for children thanks to its range of features. Unlike Apple tablets, with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A it’s possible to increase the storage by putting in a microSD card. This means if you ever happen to run out of space simply swap the card for a larger one to increase your storage capability. If the price of iPads seem a bit high, but you still want a powerful tablet, then the Tab A is for you.
ACER Iconia One - £89.99 (Link)
Similar to the Tab A, this Android tablet is the value master if you’re looking for a cheap and reliable tablet. With an 8 inch screen and expandable storage, the Iconia One is capable of storing plenty of apps and videos while also surfing the web and YouTube. If you don’t want to spend too much on a first tablet, then this is the best choice.
Keep Your Table Safe and Stable No Matter the Surface
If your kids are going to be spending hours playing games and watching movies on their tablet, then you’ll need a tablet stand. Without a tablet stand children are prone to dropping and knocking tablets over. Unless there is a something holding the tablet up for them, it’s only a matter of time before they drop it.
The iBeani is the answer to all your problems. Thanks to its unique design the iBeani is capable of holding any tablet no matter its size on any surface. Whether your kids are sat at home on the couch or the back seat of the car, the iBeani can be used anywhere.
To view our range of colourful iBeanis tablet stands be sure to visit our online store below.