If you already have a tablet that you carry with you everywhere, you probably use it for quite a few tasks where you previously used a pencil and paper, such as with a calendar.
If you aren’t using the tablet for taking notes, though, you should start. By adding notes to the tablet, you can do things like create a shopping list, take notes in a meeting or in class, or create to-do lists. Because the tablet is with you much of the time, having your notes on it is extremely convenient.
What to know before you buy a tablet for note taking
If you’ll be taking notes on your laptop, decide whether you want to take notes using a stylus pen on the touchscreen or by typing notes on a keyboard.
Choosing a stylus
The stylus is the pen-like tool with which you’ll write notes on the tablet’s screen. Some tablets ship with a stylus included, while you’ll have to purchase the stylus separately with some other tablets.
It’s important to select a stylus that matches your tablet’s model and operating system. A basic stylus for note taking will cost $25 to $50, while a high-end stylus made for artists may cost $100 to $150.
Choosing a keyboard
A tablet rarely ships with a physical keyboard, so you’ll likely have to purchase one separately. You can expect to pay about $20 for a basic keyboard and up to $100 for a high-end keyboard.
You also can tap on the tablet’s screen and use the digital keyboard to take notes. This is not as natural or comfortable as using a separate keyboard, though, so you won’t be able to type as fast.
Tablet for note taking features
Here are a couple of tablet features to consider when using the unit for taking notes.
Screen size
When taking notes on a tablet, the actual size of the screen is not as important as it would be for an artist, who will want the largest screen possible.
Screen size and the physical size and weight of the tablet go hand in hand. If you want to carry a smaller tablet with a smaller screen size for convenience, this should not affect your ability to take notes successfully. Or if you want to carry a larger tablet (around 10 inches) for watching movies, this size will work well for taking notes too.
Cellular or WiFi
For note taking while on the go, you may want a tablet with a cellular and WiFi connection available. If you’re using a cloud-based note-taking app, and if you want to use it when you’re away from WiFi networks, having a cellular connection in the tablet is helpful.
For those who primarily take notes in areas with WiFi coverage, the added expense of a cellular tablet (and an extra cellular account) probably isn’t necessary.
Tablet for note taking cost
Screen size plays a big role in the cost of a tablet. A smaller tablet (around 7 or 8 inches) should cost around $50 to $175. Larger tablets (around 10 inches or larger) should cost $175 to $1,000.
Tablet for note taking FAQ
How do I write on the tablet screen?
A. You need to use a specialized pen, called a stylus, to “write” on the touchscreen of the tablet. Using a traditional ink pen or pencil will not work, and it could scratch the screen.
What does stylus sensitivity or pen sensitivity mean?
A. The sensitivity of the stylus refers to the ability of the tablet and stylus to measure the pressure you’re applying as you write and take notes, adjusting the darkness and thickness of the lines on the screen accordingly.
Which tablet for note taking should I get?
Best of the best tablet for note taking
Microsoft Surface Go 2: available at Amazon
Our take: For those who want the ability to take notes through writing on the tablet’s screen or using a keyboard, this model offers the best of both worlds.
What we like: Has a reasonable price for such a versatile tablet. Includes a large 10.5-inch screen.
What we dislike: Even though its price is reasonable for what it provides, it still may not fit in everyone’s budget.
Best bang for your buck tablet for note taking
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite: available at Amazon
Our take: For those who need a great note-taking tablet on a budget, the S6 Lite is a surprisingly powerful option.
What we like: Includes a high-quality stylus in the package. Offers a longer-than-average battery life.
What we dislike: If you want to use a keyboard, you’ll have to purchase it separately.
Honorable mention tablet for note taking
Apple iPad Air: available at Amazon
Our take: Apple iPads have outstanding screen quality, meaning you’ll be able to take clear notes easily.
What we like: The powerful iPad works well for all kinds of computing needs, including note taking, making it a good investment for those who need a versatile tablet.
What we dislike: It’s really expensive on its own, and you’ll still have to purchase the Apple Pencil stylus and a keyboard separately.
Kyle Schurman is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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