Best Tablets with Stylus For Note-Taking
Did you know you can go paperless? There’s no more need for notebooks and pencils; you can buy a tablet computer with stylus support and have all your notes organized in one device and share them on your smartphone and laptop.
List of The Best Tablets with Pens For Note-Taking
Tablets with stylus support have become essential tools for those who want to take notes, sketch, or annotate documents on the go. Whether you’re jotting down ideas in a meeting or drawing up plans for your next project. Right now, Samsung is the only tablet brand that gives a free Stylus pen with their tablets; for the rest of them – you need to buy the pencil separately. Here’s a list of the top choices if you want to take notes on your tablet.
Note: The ratings are from 1-10 specifically in the category for best tablets with stylus for note-taking. In other categories, these tablets might have a different rating.
Best Overall
- OLED display
- Apple Pencil Compatibility
- Powerful Apple M4 chip
- Wide range of note-taking apps
- Premium pricing
- Accessories Sold Separately
- Limited improvements over previous models
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iPad OS |
| Screen Size | 11-inch (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1668 x 2420 pixels (~264 ppi density) |
| 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 8160 mAh, Last up to 10-hours |
| Colors | Silver, Space Black |
| Released | 2024, May |
The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) is a top-tier tablet for anyone seeking a powerful device for note-taking. Its Ultra Retina OLED display offers exceptional clarity with a 1668 x 2420 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 1600 nits, ensuring a vivid and fluid experience whether jotting down notes, sketching, or viewing content in bright environments. The iPad Pro’s compatibility with both the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil 2, featuring magnetic attachment and Bluetooth integration, makes it ideal for precise note-taking and digital art. The tactile response and low latency of the Apple Pencil provide a natural writing experience, with note-taking apps like Notability, GoodNotes, and Apple Notes cater to various user needs.
Running on the powerful Apple M4 chip with up to 16GB of RAM, the iPad Pro 11-inch handles multitasking and heavy applications effortlessly, which is perfect for students, professionals, or creatives who need to get things done on the go. The nano-texture display glass option available on the 1TB and 2TB models reduces glare, making it comfortable to use in different lighting conditions. With its slim, lightweight design and long battery life, the iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) is a versatile and portable choice for those prioritizing productivity and creativity.
We also recommend getting a screen protector with an iPad, so when you take notes, sketch, or draw on your device, it imitates a paperlike feeling.
Best Android
- Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
- S Pen Included in Price
- High-performance
- Compact Size
- Premium Price Point
- Little Improvements in Comparison To Previous Model
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 12.4-inch (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1752 x 2800 pixels (~266 ppi density) |
| Processor (Chipset) | Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB |
| RAM | 12GB |
| Main Camera | 13 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, f/2.4, 120˚ (ultrawide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 10090 mAh, Last up to 11-hours |
| Colors | Beige, Graphite |
| Released | 2023, July |
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus is an excellent choice for note-taking, blending portability with a spacious 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. It’s one of the best tablets with an OLED display. We opted for this model over the larger Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra because its 14.6-inch screen, while stunning, is less convenient for note-taking on the go. The Tab S9 Plus offers a more compact and lightweight design, making it easier to carry around while still providing ample screen real estate. Its vibrant display, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support, ensures a crisp and smooth experience when writing, drawing, or multitasking. Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip and 12GB of RAM, it provides fast performance for running multiple apps like Samsung Notes, OneNote, and Evernote seamlessly.
The S9 Plus comes with an S Pen that offers a very low latency of 2.8ms, creating a natural writing experience with precise control. Popular accessories that complement this tablet include the Book Cover Keyboard for enhanced productivity and the Galaxy Buds for wireless audio. Additionally, the tablet’s IP68 dust and water resistance make it durable and suitable for varied environments. Overall, it is a versatile device for professionals. It’s also one of the most powerful Android tablets.
Most Popular
- High-resolution
- Powerful M2 Chip
- Lightweight and durable aluminum build
- Vast Selection of Note-Taking Apps
- No Face ID
- No OLED Display
- No Expandable Storage Options
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iPad OS |
| Screen Size | 11-inch (~80.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1640 x 2360 pixels (~264 ppi density) |
| 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 7606 mAh, Last up to 10-hours |
| Colors | Space Gray, Starlight, Purple, Blue |
| Released | 2024, May |
iPad Air is definitely not as powerful as the iPad Pro, but it is more affordable, and most people don’t require as much processing power as the iPad Pro offers, which makes the iPad Air the most popular choice. Featuring a responsive 11-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 1640 x 2360 pixels, this tablet offers a crisp and clear writing experience when paired with the Apple Pencil Pro or Apple Pencil 2. It’s powered by the Apple M2 chip, it effortlessly handles popular note-taking apps like GoodNotes, Notability, and Evernote, providing a seamless and lag-free experience. With a lightweight design (462 g) and robust aluminum build, the iPad Air 11-inch M2 is both portable and durable, making it ideal for taking notes. You can call the iPad Air the notebook killer.
Compared to other tablets, the iPad Air 11-inch M2 stands out with its superior performance, high-quality display, and extensive ecosystem of apps optimized for stylus use. While it lacks expandable storage and a headphone jack, its powerful hardware, excellent battery life, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem make it a leading option for anyone focused on digital handwriting and productivity.
The most recommended screen protector for iPad Air is Paperlike; if you plan to take notes on it, it will make your tablet feel like you are drawing on paper instead of a glass screen. iPad Air is one of the best tablets for students, it’s viral for this audience due to it’s performance and price point. vcb c. c
Best Value
- S Pen included
- Good Display
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Fast Charging
- Stylus storage location might be less convenient for some users.
- Not as fast as S9+
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 11-inch (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1600 x 2560 pixels (~274 ppi density) |
| Processor (Chipset) | Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB |
| RAM | 8GB, 12GB |
| Main Camera | 13 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) |
| Selfie Camera | 12 MP, f/2.4, 120˚ (ultrawide) |
| Battery | Li-Po 8400 mAh, Last up to 14 hours |
| Colors | Beige, Graphite |
| Released | 2023, July |
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is an excellent choice for note-takers, offering the best value for money with its high-end specs and included S Pen stylus, unlike many competing tablets where the stylus is sold separately. The 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ ensures a smooth note-taking experience, making it perfect for both professional and creative use. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and running Android 13 with One UI 6, this tablet offers top-tier performance, easily handling apps like Samsung Notes, OneNote, and GoodNotes. With IP68 dust and water resistance, it’s durable enough for daily use in various environments. However, if you plan to use it in a brought environment, it’s recommended to buy a rugged case with it.
What truly sets the Galaxy Tab S9 apart from other brands is the inclusion of the S Pen in the box. With ultra-low latency (2.8ms) and Bluetooth integration, the stylus provides a responsive and seamless writing experience, ideal for students, professionals, or digital artists. The 8400mAh battery and 45W fast charging ensure that you can keep working without frequent interruptions. Overall, if you don’t need high-end apps and a considerable display, this is the perfect fit; if you want a bit bigger screen, we would recommend the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus, which you can find below.
Longest Battery Life
- Affordable Price with Stylus Included
- A Lot of Note-Taking Apps To Choose From
- Larger Display
- Long Battery Life with 45W Fast Charging
- IPS LCD display is not as vibrant as AMOLED
- Limited Processing Power in Comparison to S9
- Heavier and Bulkier Compared to The Galaxy Tab S9
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 12.4-inch (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1600 x 2560 pixels (~243 ppi density) |
| 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 Plus is a more affordable version of the Galaxy Tab S9, offering a larger 12.4-inch IPS LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, compared to the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display of the Tab S9. While it lacks some of the high-end features of the regular Tab S9, such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, it still provides a solid performance with its Exynos 1380 processor and up to 12GB of RAM, making it capable of handling tasks like note-taking, multitasking, and light creative work. The tablet also includes an S Pen stylus, making it perfect for tasks like handwriting notes, annotating PDFs, and sketching, just like its more premium counterpart.
One key difference is the display technology, as the Tab S9 FE Plus uses an IPS LCD instead of the AMOLED found in the Tab S9/S9+/S9 Ultra, which means slightly less vibrant colors and contrast. However, it maintains essential features like IP68 water and dust resistance and a large 10,090mAh battery with 45W fast charging, making it ideal for extended work sessions. The larger screen size and value-oriented price make it a great option for students or professionals looking for a solid note-taking experience without the premium cost.
Most Affordable iPad
- Affordable price point compared to iPad Pro and Air
- Apple Pencil Support
- Sleek, Lightweight Design for Easy Portability
- Multiple Note-Taking Apps
- Multiple Colors
- No Face ID
- No OLED Display, No ProMotion Display (limited to 60Hz).
- Non-Laminated Display
- No M-series Chip
- No Stylus Included in The Package
| 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 in the budget category. It’s the cheapest iPad you can buy. It supports the Apple Pencil 1st generation and the Apple Pencil USB-C, so you’ve got flexibility there. With its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS display and 500 nits of brightness, it gives you a bright, clear display for note-taking, sketching, or productivity tasks. It’s powered by the A14 Bionic chip(processor), it can run popular note apps like GoodNotes, Notability, Evernote, and Apple Notes smoothly, making it a great pick for anyone who wishes to take handwritten notes on the tablet. While it may not have the stunning display or performance of the iPad Pro, it still offers solid value with its comfortable size, lightweight design, and more affordable price.
The iPad 10th Gen does miss out on some of the high-end features found in the iPad Pro and iPad Air, like the 120Hz ProMotion display and support for the Apple Pencil 2nd generation, which gives you lower latency and magnetic charging. Plus, unlike the Pro and Air models, the iPad 10th Gen has a non-laminated display, so there’s a slight gap between the glass and the screen. It’s also powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which isn’t as fast as the M2 in the Pro or the M1 in the Air, making it less ideal for power users. If you compare it to the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series, the iPad’s IPS LCD screen doesn’t deliver the same punchy colors as Samsung’s AMOLED displays, and Apple doesn’t include the stylus in the box like Samsung does. But if you’re after a reliable and affordable tablet for note-taking and general productivity, the iPad 10th Gen still offers a great balance between performance and value.
Budget Pick
- Stylus Support
- Affordable Price
- Expandable Storage
- No Stylus Included in The Package
- Less Powerful Performance
- Lower Resolution Display
- Basic Build Quality
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android OS |
| Screen Size | 11-inch (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 1200 x 1920 pixels (~206 ppi density) |
| 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 |
Let’s take a look at a more affordable device: The Lenovo Tab M11(also known as K11 in some markets) offers a solid choice for those who want a simple tablet on which you can take notes without breaking the bank. With its 11-inch IPS LCD display, the M11 provides a bright and clear display for jotting down ideas, sketching, or annotating documents. The tablet supports stylus input, making it a practical option for students and professionals who need a reliable and budget-friendly device for note-taking. Its Android 13 operating system and decent performance from the MediaTek Helio G88 chipset ensure smooth multitasking and app usage. You can get the Lenovo Tab M11 for under $200.
When compared to premium devices like the iPad Air or the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, the Lenovo Tab M11 stands out as a more budget-friendly alternative. While it may not have the high-end features or the sleek design of these models, it still delivers good value with its decent performance and practical features. Whether you’re taking class notes, creating to-do lists, or sketching on the go, the Lenovo Tab M11 provides a balanced experience that won’t break the bank.
Overall, it’s a decent tablet if you compare it to premium tablets like Galaxy Tab S9, iPad Pro, and even iPad 10th gen. will be weaker in almost every field, but if you are on a tight budget, it’s the best tablet under $200 you can get for note-taking.
4 Tablet Apps For Note-Taking Recommendation
The tablet won’t be enough. You also need a note-taking app to take notes and be organized. Here are 4 recommended note-taking apps for Android OS, iPad OS and Windows OS tablets.
- Notability is known for its easy-to-use interface and versatile note-taking options. It allows you to combine handwriting, typing, and audio recordings seamlessly. Perfect for students who need to record lectures while taking notes, or for professionals who want a streamlined way to organize their thoughts.
- GoodNotes offers a robust handwriting experience, with precise stylus support that feels natural. It’s ideal for those who prefer handwritten notes and love the ability to organize their notebooks in a way that feels like a physical planner. Plus, its powerful search function even recognizes handwritten text!
- Microsoft OneNote is a powerhouse for both personal and professional note-taking. Integrated with the Microsoft Office ecosystem, it’s perfect for those who need to collaborate or work across multiple devices. With the ability to combine notes, drawings, and files, it’s a flexible option for all types of users.
- Evernote shines in organizing and syncing notes across devices. It’s a great app for anyone who likes to keep things structured, offering features like to-do lists, web clippings, and voice notes. It’s especially helpful for professionals juggling multiple tasks and projects.
5 Tablets We Reviewed But Don’t Recommend For Note-Taking
While many tablets offer stylus support and impressive features, not every device is ideal for note-taking. In this section, we’ll highlight 5 tablets we’ve reviewed that, despite their strengths, fall short in the note-taking department. Whether due to size, age, or cost, these models may not provide the best experience for those who prioritize smooth and efficient note-taking.
- The iPad Mini 6, while powerful, has a screen size of just 8.3 inches(it’s ranked as one of the best 8-inch tablets still in 2024, while it was released in 2021, that says a lot), which might be too small for those who do extensive note-taking. The compact display can make it challenging to write comfortably, view notes in detail, or multitask with split-screen apps. For users who prioritize a larger displays for their notes and drawings, the iPad Mini 6 might feel restrictive despite its impressive performance and portability.
- The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra features a massive 14.6-inch screen, which, while excellent for media consumption and multitasking, can be unwieldy for note-taking. Its large size may not be as comfortable to hold and use in one hand, and it might be less practical to carry around. The tablet’s sheer size can detract from its usability as a note-taking device, especially for those who prefer a more portable option.
- The Apple iPad Pro 13-inch is undeniably one of the best-tablets right now, but its size and high price point make it less practical for note-taking. The large screen can be cumbersome for casual or frequent use, and the cost is significantly higher than smaller iPad models or other tablets with stylus support. For users who are focused on note-taking rather than extensive graphic work or professional tasks, the 13-inch model may not offer the best value for money.
- While the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 was a great tablet when it launched, it’s now overshadowed by the newer Galaxy Tab S9 series. The Tab S8 is getting a bit dated in terms of software support and hardware specifications. The price difference between the Tab S8 and the S9 isn’t substantial, and the latter offers more up-to-date features and longer software support. For those investing in a tablet for note-taking, the Tab S9 provides a better long-term value.
- The Remarkable 2 is designed specifically for note-taking, but it lacks the versatility of other tablets on this list. Its functionality is limited mainly to note-taking and reading PDFs, with minimal support for apps or multitasking. Given its high price, the Remarkable 2 may not offer sufficient value compared to more feature-rich tablets that support a wide range of tasks and applications. For users seeking a more comprehensive device for note-taking and beyond, other options may provide better functionality and value.
FAQ’s
The Samsung S9 series and S8 series, like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 and Tab S9 FE Plus, both come with an S Pen included, while most iPads (such as the iPad Pro and Air) require purchasing the Apple Pencil separately.
Yes, many third-party styluses are compatible with various tablets, but for the best performance, it’s recommended to use the official stylus designed for the specific tablet, like the Apple Pencil for iPads or the S Pen for Samsung devices.
Yes, laminated displays reduce the gap between the stylus and the screen, providing a more natural, pen-on-paper feel. iPad Pro and iPad Air models have laminated displays, while the iPad 10th Gen does not.
Tablets with screens around 10 to 12 inches, such as the iPad Pro (11-inch) or the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (11-inch), offer enough space for comfortable note-taking while still being portable. If you feel like it’s not big enough for your needs, try looking at the best large-screen tablets; they are just as good, just not as compact.
No, not all tablets or styluses support pressure sensitivity. The Apple Pencil and Samsung S Pen both offer pressure sensitivity, which allows for more natural writing and drawing experiences.
Yes, budget tablets like the Apple iPad 10th Gen or Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus can still offer a great note-taking experience, though they may lack some premium features like laminated displays or high-end processors.
