Best Tablets For Watching Movies
Finding the perfect tablet for watching movies can turn your viewing experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re streaming the latest blockbusters, binge-watching your favorite series, or enjoying a cinematic classic, the right tablet can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the best tablets that offer stunning displays, immersive sound, and long-lasting battery life, all designed to elevate your movie-watching experience to a new level of comfort and enjoyment.
Top 9 Tablets For Watching Movies and Netflix in 2024
When it comes to watching movies and Netflix, not all tablets are created equal. From crystal-clear displays to rich, immersive audio, the best tablets combine top-notch specs with user-friendly features to provide a truly cinematic experience. Below, we’ve ranked the top tablets that excel in streaming, offering the perfect blend of performance, screen quality, and battery life to keep you entertained wherever you go.
Best Overall
Apple iPad Pro M4 (13-inch)
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iPad OS |
| Screen Size | 13-inch (~86.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 2064 x 2752 pixels (~264 ppi density) |
| Display Type | Ultra Retina Tandem OLED |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Apple M4 |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| RAM | 8GB, 16GB |
| Main Camera | 12 MP, f/1.8, (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, f/2.4 (ultrawide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 10290 mAh, Last up to 10-hours |
| Colors | Silver, Space Black |
| Released | 2024, May |
The Apple iPad Pro M4 (13-inch) is the ultimate tablet for movie enthusiasts, offering a truly immersive viewing experience. Its expansive 13-inch Ultra Retina Tandem OLED display, with a resolution of 2064 x 2752 pixels, delivers stunning clarity and vibrant colors, enhanced by HDR10 and Dolby Vision support. With a peak brightness of 1600 nits and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, every scene comes to life, whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster or streaming your favorite shows on Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime.
Complementing the incredible display, the iPad Pro M4 features a powerful quad-speaker setup that provides rich, stereo sound, making every movie feel like you’re in a theater. The tablet’s impressive 10290 mAh battery ensures long-lasting entertainment, allowing you to binge-watch for hours without worrying about recharging. With the iPad Pro M4, watching movies on the go has never been more captivating or convenient. Overall, it’s one of the best tablets you can buy.
Best Android
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 14.6-inch (~90.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1848 x 2960 pixels (~239 ppi density) |
| Display Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| RAM | 12GB, 16GB |
| Main Camera | 13 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, f/2.4, 120˚ (ultrawide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 11200 mAh, Last up to 11 hours |
| Colors | Beige, Graphite |
| Released | 2023, July |
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is a dream tablet for movie enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled viewing experience with its massive 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. With a stunning resolution of 1848 x 2960 pixels, HDR10+ support, and a 120Hz refresh rate, this tablet delivers crisp, vibrant visuals and smooth motion, making every movie feel like a cinematic masterpiece. The ultra-slim bezels and 90.7% screen-to-body ratio further enhance the immersive experience, allowing you to get lost in your favorite films and shows.
Complementing the breathtaking display, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra features a quad-speaker system tuned by AKG, providing rich, powerful audio that envelops you in sound, whether you’re watching a blockbuster or a quiet drama. The tablet’s 11,200 mAh battery ensures that you can enjoy extended viewing sessions without needing to recharge frequently, while fast 45W charging quickly gets you back to your entertainment. If you’re serious about watching movies and videos on a tablet, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra stands out as a top-tier choice.
Best Budget
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 11-inch (~80.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1200 x 1920 pixels (~206 ppi density) |
| Display Type | TFT LCD |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) |
| Storage | 64GB, 128GB |
| RAM | 4GB, 8GB |
| Main Camera | 8 MP, AF |
| Selfie Camera | 5 MP |
| Battery | Li-Po 7040 mAh, Last up to 13 hours |
| Colors | Graphite, Silver, Navy |
| Released | 2023, October |
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus is a solid choice for those seeking one of the best tablets under $300 for watching movies and videos. Featuring an 11.0-inch TFT LCD display with a 1200 x 1920 resolution, the tablet offers clear and vibrant visuals, enhanced by a smooth 90Hz refresh rate that provides a more fluid viewing experience. While it may not match the sharpness of higher-end models, the display is more than adequate for enjoying Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming services.
The Tab A9 Plus also impresses with its quad-speaker setup, delivering decent stereo sound that enhances the overall viewing experience. Powered by a 7040 mAh battery, this tablet provides long-lasting playback, allowing you to watch your favorite shows and movies without frequent recharges. Although the audio quality and screen resolution might not rival premium tablets, the Galaxy Tab A9 Plus offers excellent value for budget-conscious users looking for a reliable device for entertainment.
Best For Most People
Apple iPad Air M2 (13-inch)
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iPad OS |
| Screen Size | 13-inch (~86.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 2048 x 2732 pixels (~264 ppi density) |
| Display Type | Liquid Retina IPS LCD |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Apple M2 |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Main Camera | 12 MP, f/1.8, (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, f/2.4, 122˚ (ultrawide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 10340 mAh, Last up to 10 hours |
| Colors | Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, Blue |
| Released | 2024, May |
The Apple iPad Air 13-inch M2 is an excellent choice for users who love watching movies and videos on a tablet. Featuring a 13-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2048 x 2732 pixels and 600 nits of brightness, this iPad delivers crisp, vibrant visuals that make every scene come to life. The spacious screen, combined with its 86.1% screen-to-body ratio, ensures an immersive viewing experience perfect for enjoying your favorite shows and movies.
In addition to its stunning display, the iPad Air M2 offers a robust audio experience with its stereo speakers, providing clear and balanced sound that complements the high-quality visuals. Powered by the Apple M2 chipset, the tablet ensures smooth playback and efficient multitasking. The 36.59 Wh battery provides long-lasting performance, allowing you to stream videos for hours without needing to recharge. Overall, the iPad Air 13-inch M2 is a top-tier option for entertainment lovers seeking both screen quality and reliable performance.
Best Battery Life
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 12.4-inch (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1600 x 2560 pixels (~243 ppi density) |
| Display Type | IPS LCD |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB |
| RAM | 6GB, 8GB, 12GB |
| Main Camera | 8 MP, (wide + ultrawide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, (ultrawide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 10090 mAh, Last up to 18 hours |
| Colors | Mint, Silver, Gray, Lavender |
| Released | 2023, October |
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is a fantastic tablet choice for those who love watching movies, YouTube, Twitch, Netflix, and more. With a large 12.4-inch IPS LCD display and a resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels, it offers crisp and vibrant visuals that make every video pop. The 90Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and transitions, enhancing your viewing experience on platforms like YouTube and Twitch.
Equipped with stereo speakers tuned by AKG, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ delivers rich and immersive audio, which is perfect for enjoying the latest movies or streaming videos. Its powerful Exynos 1380 chipset and up to 12GB RAM provide smooth performance, whether you’re multitasking or streaming content in high definition.
With support for 5G connectivity, you can stream your favorite shows and videos without any lag, even on the go. The tablet also features a massive 10,090 mAh battery with 45W fast charging that can last up to 18 hours with the right settings.
Built to last with a glass front and aluminum frame, the Tab S9 FE+ is durable and IP68 water and dust-resistant, making it a reliable companion wherever you watch your favorite content. With options for up to 256GB of internal storage and a microSDXC card slot for expandable storage, there’s plenty of space for offline downloads from apps like Netflix or Disney+.
Best Display
OnePlus Pad 2
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 12.1-inch (~84.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 2120 x 3000 pixels (~304 ppi density) |
| Display Type | IPS LCD |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB |
| RAM | 8GB, 12GB |
| Main Camera | 13 MP, f/2.2, 23mm (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 8 MP, f/2.3, (wide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 9510 mAh, Last up to ~11-12 hours |
| Colors | Nimbus Gray |
| Released | 2024, August |
The OnePlus Pad 2 stands out as the best tablet for movie-watching, thanks to its exceptional display and immersive audio features. With a 12.1-inch IPS LCD screen that supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and 1 billion colors, the Pad 2 delivers a truly cinematic experience with vivid colors, deep contrasts, and sharp details. Its high resolution of 2120 x 3000 pixels (~304 ppi) ensures crisp, clear visuals, while the 144Hz refresh rate provides smooth motion, making it perfect for fast-paced action scenes and fluid playback on platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Twitch. The display’s peak brightness of 900 nits allows for comfortable viewing even in brightly lit environments.
In addition to its outstanding display, the OnePlus Pad 2 excels in audio quality, featuring six stereo speakers with Hi-Res audio support. This setup delivers powerful, well-balanced sound with rich bass and clear dialogue, creating an immersive audio experience ideal for watching movies or streaming content without the need for external speakers. While it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack(as most tablets do), the tablet supports Hi-Res Wireless audio, ensuring high-quality sound for Bluetooth headphones.
The tablet also offers a robust 9,510 mAh battery, providing ample power for extended viewing sessions, with a fast 67W charging capability that reaches 64% in just 30 minutes. While it lacks cellular connectivity, it makes up for this with Wi-Fi 6/7 support for reliable, high-speed internet access. Overall, the OnePlus Pad 2 is a top choice for movie enthusiasts, combining a stunning display, superior audio, and long-lasting battery life into a sleek, lightweight design.
Best Value
Apple iPad (10th gen)
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iPad OS |
| Screen Size | 10.9-inch (~80.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1640 x 2360 pixels (~264 ppi density) |
| Display Type | Liquid Retina IPS LCD |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) |
| Storage | 64GB, 256GB |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Main Camera | 12 MP, f/1.8, (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, f/2.4, 122˚ (ultrawide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 7606 mAh, Last up to 10 hours |
| Colors | Silver, Blue, Pink, Yellow |
| Released | 2022, October |
The Apple iPad 10th Gen is a solid option for movie lovers, offering a great balance of screen size, audio quality, and portability. With its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, the iPad 10th Gen delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, ensuring a pleasant viewing experience for movies and streaming content on platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+. The resolution of 1640 x 2360 pixels (~264 ppi) offers detailed and crisp visuals, while the brightness level of 500 nits provides good visibility across various lighting conditions, though it may not match the deeper contrasts of AMOLED displays.
The iPad 10th Gen also features stereo speakers that provide clear and balanced sound, making it suitable for enjoying dialogue and background scores without requiring external speakers. However, the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack means users will need to rely on Bluetooth or USB-C headphones for a more personalized audio experience. Despite this, the tablet’s lightweight build (477g) and slim profile make it highly portable, allowing users to comfortably watch movies on the go.
With up to 10 hours of battery life, the iPad 10th Gen is ideal for long viewing sessions, supporting multiple movies or episodes without needing a recharge. While it lacks some features found in higher-end tablets, such as HDR support or a quad-speaker setup, the iPad 10th Gen remains a versatile and reliable choice for anyone looking to enjoy their favorite movies and shows in a compact, user-friendly package.
Most Affordable
Lenovo Tab M11
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 11-inch (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1200 x 1920 pixels (~206 ppi density) |
| Display Type | IPS LCD |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz |
| Processor (Chipset) | Mediatek MT6769H Helio G88 (12 nm) |
| Storage | 64GB, 128GB |
| RAM | 4GB, 8GB |
| Main Camera | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 7040 mAh, Last up to 10 hours |
| Colors | Luna grey, Seafoam green |
| Released | 2024, April |
The Lenovo Tab M11 is an excellent choice for movie lovers, especially those looking for a great budget-friendly tablet under $200. It features an 11-inch IPS LCD display with a 1920 x 1200 resolution, which provides clear and vibrant visuals for watching movies, Netflix, YouTube, and more. The 90Hz refresh rate ensures smooth motion, making it ideal for action-packed scenes and fast-paced content, while the brightness level of 400 nits is adequate for most indoor viewing conditions, though it might struggle in very bright environments.
Audio quality is a standout feature of the Lenovo Tab M11, thanks to its quad stereo speaker setup. The four speakers provide a balanced soundstage, delivering crisp dialogue and a richer audio experience compared to many other budget tablets. For those who prefer a more personalized listening experience, the tablet also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing you to connect wired headphones easily.
With a battery capacity of 7040 mAh, the Lenovo Tab M11 can comfortably handle up to 8-10 hours of continuous video playback, making it a great option for extended viewing sessions or binge-watching your favorite shows. While it doesn’t support fast charging beyond 15W, its overall battery life is reliable enough for most movie marathons. The combination of a decent display, good audio quality, and solid battery life makes the Lenovo Tab M11 a top contender for those seeking an affordable tablet for watching movies and videos.
4 Things You Should Pay Attention To
1. Screen Size
When choosing a tablet for watching movies, the screen size is a critical factor. A larger screen, typically ranging from 10 to 13 inches, enhances your viewing experience by providing a more immersive and cinematic feel. A larger display makes it easier to see details, especially in wide-angle shots or during action-packed scenes. However, it’s important to balance screen size with portability; a larger screen offers better visuals, but it may be less convenient to carry around.
2. Audio Quality and Speakers
High-quality audio is essential for enjoying movies to the fullest. Look for tablets that feature stereo speakers, ideally with enhancements like Dolby Atmos, to deliver clear, balanced sound. Tablets with quad-speaker setups generally offer superior audio performance, providing a more immersive experience by delivering rich bass, crisp dialogue, and an overall balanced soundstage. Consider whether the tablet has headphone support, either through a 3.5mm jack or Bluetooth, for a more personalized audio experience.
3. Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for uninterrupted movie marathons. A good tablet should offer at least 8 to 10 hours of continuous video playback, allowing you to watch multiple movies or binge-watch a series without needing to recharge. Check the battery capacity and the tablet’s efficiency in handling power-intensive tasks like streaming high-definition content. Additionally, fast-charging capabilities can be a bonus, reducing downtime between viewing sessions.
4. Display Quality
The display quality encompasses several factors, including resolution, display type, brightness (nits), and refresh rate. A high-resolution display (at least 1920 x 1080 pixels) ensures sharp and detailed visuals, while higher-end tablets with 2K or 4K displays offer even greater clarity. The display type, such as AMOLED or IPS LCD, affects color accuracy and contrast; AMOLED screens typically provide deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. Brightness, measured in nits, should be sufficient (400 nits or more) to allow for comfortable viewing in various lighting conditions. A higher refresh rate (90Hz or more) delivers smoother motion, which is particularly beneficial for action scenes and fast-paced content.
Streaming Apps For Tablets To Try
Looking for the perfect app to enhance your movie-watching experience on your tablet? Here are the best streaming apps to try, offering a range of content from blockbuster movies and hit TV shows to live streams and music.
- Amazon Prime Video: Offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and Amazon Originals, with the option to download content for offline viewing.
- Netflix: The go-to platform for binge-watching with an extensive library of movies, series, documentaries, and exclusive content.
- Hulu: Features a mix of popular TV shows, current episodes, movies, and exclusive Hulu Originals, with options for live TV.
- Twitch: Perfect for gamers and live-stream enthusiasts, offering streams of gaming, esports, music, and creative content.
- Spotify: The leading music and podcast streaming app, with curated playlists, personalized recommendations, and offline listening options.
- Disney+: Home to Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, offering family-friendly content, classics, and new releases.
- Apple TV+: Apple’s streaming service for high-quality original shows, movies, and documentaries across various genres.
- Max (formerly HBO Max): Packed with HBO’s acclaimed series, blockbuster movies, and Max Originals, it offers a great selection for film and TV lovers.
What do you think of Amazon Fire tablets for watching movies and netflix? Are they any good?
Amazon Fire tablets can be a good choice for watching movies and streaming Netflix, especially if you’re looking for an affordable option. They have decent displays for the price, user-friendly interface, and good battery life.