If you’re a programmer or coder who values portability, you may have considered switching from a bulky laptop to a tablet. While tablets are often associated with light tasks like browsing and media consumption, they’re also powerful enough for coding. With the right specs, a tablet can handle programming needs just as efficiently as a laptop—without the extra weight.
In this post, we’ll take a look at the top five tablets for coding in 2023. Each of these devices offers great performance, ample storage, and other features that make them ideal for programming on the go.
1. Apple iPad Pro – Best for Performance
When it comes to raw power, the Apple iPad Pro is our top choice for programming. With its stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, the iPad Pro delivers an immersive visual experience, whether you’re writing code or testing out an app.
The iPad Pro is powered by Apple’s M2 chip, which is more than capable of handling demanding coding tasks and running multiple apps simultaneously. It also supports the Apple Pencil, perfect for taking notes or sketching out diagrams to accompany your code. At just 1.03 pounds, this tablet offers a lightweight and portable solution for developers.
Specs:
- Screen Size: 12.9 inches
- Storage: 256 GB
- Display Resolution: 2732 x 2048 pixels
- Weight: 1.03 lbs
- Chipset: M2 chip
Pros:
- Excellent performance with the M2 chip
- Vibrant display with high refresh rate
- Lightweight and portable
- Compatible with the Apple Pencil
Cons:
- Higher price tag compared to other tablets
2. Apple iPad Air – Best for Value
For those looking for a more affordable alternative without sacrificing performance, the iPad Air is a fantastic option. Equipped with the same M1 chip found in many of Apple’s top laptops, the iPad Air is powerful enough to handle complex coding tasks and offers smooth performance for most development tools.
Its 10.9-inch display is large enough to code comfortably, and with 256GB of storage, you won’t run into space issues. Plus, its up-to-10-hour battery life ensures you can code throughout the day without needing to recharge.
Specs:
- Screen Size: 10.9 inches
- Storage: 256 GB
- Display Resolution: 2360 x 1640 pixels
- Weight: 1.0 lbs
- Chipset: M1 chip
Pros:
- Affordable compared to the iPad Pro
- Excellent performance with M1 chip
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Limited storage options
3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ – Best Android Tablet
For those who prefer Android over iOS, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is an excellent choice. This tablet features a 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display that offers rich, vibrant visuals, and a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth user experience.
The Galaxy Tab S8+ is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, which ensures strong performance for programming tasks. It also supports expandable storage via a microSD card slot, which is a nice bonus for developers who need extra space.
With its slim design and long-lasting battery life, this tablet is perfect for coding on the go.
Specs:
- Screen Size: 12.4 inches
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB (expandable)
- Display: Super AMOLED, 120Hz
- Weight: 1.28 lbs
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
Pros:
- Beautiful Super AMOLED display
- Long battery life
- Expandable storage
Cons:
- Limited RAM options for heavy multitasking
4. ASUS ROG Flow Z13 – Best for Gaming and Coding
If you’re looking for a tablet that can handle both programming and gaming, the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 might be the one for you. This powerful device features a 13.4-inch touchscreen with a 4K+ resolution, making it perfect for high-definition coding sessions and gaming in your downtime.
The ROG Flow Z13 is equipped with a detachable keyboard, which is a game-changer for coders who prefer to type out their code directly on the tablet. The tablet also has a high-performance GPU, ensuring that even demanding development tools run smoothly.
Specs:
- Screen Size: 13.4 inches
- Storage: 512 GB
- Display Resolution: 1920 x 1200 pixels
- Weight: 2.6 lbs
- Chipset: NVIDIA
Pros:
- Detachable keyboard for coding
- High-performance GPU for multitasking
- Excellent display quality
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier than other tablets
5. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 – Best 2-in-1 Tablet
For those who prefer a Windows environment, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is an excellent choice. It combines the convenience of a tablet with the functionality of a laptop, making it an ideal option for developers who need a full desktop experience on the go.
The Surface Pro 9 boasts a 13-inch screen with a high-resolution display, making it great for viewing your code and running development environments. It also offers a battery life of up to 15 hours, ensuring you can work throughout the day without charging.
Specs:
- Screen Size: 13 inches
- Storage: 256 GB
- Display Resolution: 2880 x 1920 pixels
- Weight: 1.9 lbs
- Chipset: Intel
Pros:
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Long battery life
- Compatible with Windows apps like Visual Studio Code
Cons:
- Heavier than some other tablets
Final Thoughts
Tablets can be a great alternative to traditional laptops for coding, offering a combination of portability and performance. Whether you need something powerful like the iPad Pro or a more budget-friendly option like the iPad Air, there’s a tablet out there to suit your needs. Consider what features are most important to you, whether it’s screen size, battery life, or operating system, and choose accordingly to enhance your programming experience.
By choosing the right tablet, you can take your coding on the go without sacrificing performance.
