A recent comparison of leading tablets from brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google has revealed significant insights into battery performance. Conducted by ZDNET in their Kentucky lab, the tests evaluated nine popular tablets under various conditions to determine which model excels in battery life.
To assess battery longevity, the testing team examined each tablet’s performance with maximum audio volume and brightness settings, as well as minimum settings. The devices evaluated included the iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, and the Google Pixel Tablet, among others.
Testing Methodology and Results
The tablets were subjected to rigorous testing, with a total of 12 trials for each device. This included playing video at maximum and minimum brightness and audio levels, as well as testing battery life while in Airplane Mode. The VLC media player was the sole application used during testing, ensuring consistent conditions across devices.
The results indicated that the iPad Pro stands out with an impressive battery life of over 16 hours before requiring a recharge, making it a strong contender for users seeking a reliable tablet for heavy use. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra followed closely, lasting almost 11.5 hours, while the Amazon Fire Max 11 achieved just over 8 hours.
Interestingly, the OnePlus Pad 3 emerged as the strongest performer under minimum brightness conditions, boasting an astonishing 40 hours of battery life. This exceptional performance contributed to its recognition as a ZDNET Editor’s Choice Award recipient.
Implications and Recommendations
While the iPad Pro demonstrated superior battery life overall, other iPads, including the base model and the iPad Air, recorded lower performance levels at maximum brightness, with battery life of 5 hours 40 minutes and 5 hours 27 minutes, respectively. These results highlight that battery performance can vary significantly based on settings and usage patterns.
For consumers considering a tablet purchase, the 11th-generation iPad is recommended as the best all-around option, offering a balance of affordability, storage options, and portability. Other notable suggestions from the testing include the OnePlus Pad 3 for entertainment enthusiasts, the Microsoft Surface Pro as an excellent choice for Windows users, and the Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet tailored for younger audiences.
In evaluating whether tablets can replace laptops, it ultimately depends on individual user needs. Tablets excel in creative tasks, such as digital drawing or photo editing, and are suitable for casual activities like streaming. However, for more intensive tasks such as spreadsheet creation or graphic design, a laptop remains the preferred choice.
The differences between operating systems also play a crucial role in user experience. The availability and quality of applications on iPadOS are generally superior to those on Android, as developers have focused more on optimizing apps for Apple’s ecosystem.
As technology continues to evolve, these insights into tablet performance can guide consumers in making informed decisions that suit their specific needs and usage scenarios.
