15 best tablet deals for Christmas, from Apple to Samsung

For savvy shoppers looking for a great deal on a tablet ahead of Christmas, you're in luck. Multiple retailers, including Amazon, Walmart and Samsung, are offering really generous deals on some of the latest tablets. Whether you'd like to treat yourself or someone on your holiday gift list to a new iPad, Android-based tablet, or even one that runs Windows, now's a great time to find a sweet deal and save some money. And if you get your shopping done today, you can still gift your new tablet by Christmas.

Discover 15 great pre-Christmas deals on tablets

The consumer technology experts at CBS Essentials have curated this roundup of tablets that are currently on sale. But don't wait; we've already noticed that inventory is running low on popular tablet models and configurations.

Google Pixel Tablet with charging speaker dock: $399 (20% off)

Even when it's not on sale, one of our absolute favorite Android-based tablets is the Google Pixel tablet. Like all mobile devices in the Pixel lineup, this one makes full use of Google's Android OS. This includes the latest security features, a ton of customizable options, and an impressive collection of pre-installed apps.

Of course, this tablet also works seamlessly with all of Google's apps and services -- from Google Assistant and Gmail, to the Google Workspace apps, Google Photos and Google Drive. Plus, this is the only tablet on the market that comes with a charging dock with a built-in speaker. When the tablet is charging, it transforms itself into an easily accessible smart speaker and home hub.

This version of the Google Pixel Tablet comes with an 11-inch touchscreen (2,560 x 1,600 pixel resolution) display and 128GB of internal storage (along with the speaker dock). Right now at Amazon, the 256GB version is also on sale for 17% off, which brings its price down to $499 (the usual price of the 128GB version).

For a limited time before Christmas, Amazon has cut the price of this 128GB version of the Google Pixel Tablet to just $399, which is 20% off its usual price. So if you're looking for a versatile Android-based tablet for yourself or someone special, we suggest taking advantage of this really stellar deal.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: $1,620 ($200 off)

Some of the most popular Android-based tablets on the market right now come from Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 lineup. At the moment, Samsung has its top-of-the-line version of the current model (2023) tablet -- which offers the best configuration available -- on sale for $200 off. In the final days leading up to Christmas, you can get your hands on this tablet for just $1,620.

This configuration of the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra comes with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. It's a Wi-Fi only model that offers a beautiful 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x touchscreen display. It runs using the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor.

Beyond just being discounted, Samsung is throwing in a free Book Cover Keyboard Slim cover/keyboard for the tablet (a $200 value). Plus, at the same time you purchase this tablet, you can get up to $190 off a Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, up to $192 off a Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, or $180 off the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro wireless earbuds. These additional discounts and freebees make this one of the best deals we've ever seen on the latest Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra tablet.

Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen): $400 (20% off)

For someone who wants all of the features and functions that an Apple iPad running iOS 17.2 has to offer, but they want it packed into a smaller and lighter device, we suggest the Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen). It offers an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, 64GB of internal storage and supports Wi-Fi 6 for fast internet connectivity.

Thanks to its lightweight and smaller design, it's easier to hold in your hands for extended periods of time. Yet, the iPad Mini comes with the same collection of pre-installed apps as all other iPads. You also get full access to the millions of optional apps available from the App Store. And the iPad Mini supports the Apple Pencil stylus, so when using a compatible app, you can handwrite or draw directly on the screen.

If this sounds like the perfect tablet for you or the person you're shopping for this holiday season, take advantage of the 20% off deal now being offered by Amazon. This brings the price of the iPad Mini down to just $400 -- which is $100 off.

However, if you want even more power out of the tablet, you can upgrade to the Wi-Fi + Cellular version with 256GB of internal storage. This configuration is also on sale for $700, which is 12% it's usual $799 price.

Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023): $90 (36% off)

Not everyone needs a tablet with the latest tech, especially if they'll only be using their mobile device for basic tasks, like streaming video or music, surfing the web, or managing emails. Just in time for Christmas, Amazon has slashed the price of the 2023 version of its Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet by 36%, so you'll pay just $90 for it.

This tablet features a 10-inch touchscreen display, 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. However, you can easily increase its storage capacity by installing a microSD memory card with up to a 1TB capacity. The Amazon Fire HD 10 works with all Amazon apps and services, as well as a vast selection of Android apps you can acquire from the Amazon App Store. However, you also get an impressive selection of preinstalled apps as well.

In addition to this 36% off discount, if you have any older tablet you want to trade in, Amazon will take an additional 20% off the purchase price of this new tablet. At the moment, the version of the Fire HD 10 with 64GB of internal storage is also on sale for $130, which is 28% off its usual price.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+: $600 (33% off)

For someone who wants the power and functionality of a Samsung Galaxy Tab S series tablet, but who does not want to pay top-dollar for the most recent (2023) model, Amazon has cut the price of the Galaxy Tab S8+ by 33%, which means you'll pay just $600 for this tablet that was originally released in 2022.

Out of all the tablets that comprise the Galaxy Tab S8 lineup, the S9+ falls in the middle in terms of processing power. It come with a 12.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen display (2,800 x 1,752 pixel resolution) and includes an S Pen stylus. You also get Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity support, plus 128GB of internal storage.

While other configurations of this tablet, including some with more internal storage and/or Wi-Fi + Cellular connectivity are also on sale, a bunch of the options are already sold out at Amazon. However, this 33% off deal for the S8+ with 128GB of internal storage certainly represents a really good deal. However, you'd better act fast to grab it, before it sells out too.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids: $95 (43% off)

For a parent looking to provide their younger child (under the age of 10) with their own tablet, one of the very best options is the Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet. It comes with a protective case and a one year subscription to Amazon Kids+. This is an online-based service that offers a vast collection of curated, age appropriate games, eBooks, videos, music and other content.

Plus, with all of the tablets in the Amazon Fire HD Kids lineup, this one includes a two year "worry free guarantee." So, if anything happens to the tablet, Amazon will repair or replace it for free.

The Fire HD 8 Kids offers an 8-inch touchscreen display, 32GB of internal storage and a 13-hour battery life. However, simply by inserting an optional microSD memory card (with up to a 1TB capacity), you can greatly expand the storage within this device for very little money. Doing this will allow you to store a library of videos, games and other content that your child can then access even when no Wi-Fi is available.

Now being offered at 43% off it's regular price, you can snag this tablet for your kids for a mere $95. It makes a great "introductory" tablet for a young child and offers a wide range of parental controls.

Samsung 12.4" Galaxy Tab S9+ (2023): $919 (8% off)

If you're seeking a higher-end Android tablet, look no further than the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+. It offers a vivid, 12.4-inch (2,560 x 1,600 pixel resolution) AMOLED touchscreen display. It runs using the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and comes with a Samsung S Pen stylus. You also get 256GB of storage. And yes, it's IP68 rated, meaning it's one of the very few tablets out there that can be exposed to water without getting damaged. This is a key feature that sets the Tab S9+ apart from most other Android-based tablets.

For wireless connectivity, this tablet supports Wi-Fi 6E. You even get four built-in speakers that support Dolby Atmos, so whether you're streaming a movie, participating in a video call, or listening to music, the content will sound rich and immersive, without needing headphones.

Using this tablet's DeX Mode, you'll enjoy a more PC-like experience being able to multitask by opening multiple windows or folders at once and having the ability to drag-and-drop (or copy-and-paste) content between them. This is the current model, Wi-Fi only, 8th generation version of the Galaxy Tab S9+ tablet. 

Right now, you can save 8% when you purchase this tablet at Amazon, so you'll pay just $919 and save $81. Other configurations of this tablet are currently available on Amazon, but they're not on sale. While the S Pen stylus is included, the detachable keyboard is not.

Apple iPad (10th Generation): $399 ($50 off)

The current version of the entry-level iPad (10th Generation) is currently on sale at Amazon for 11% off, which represents a savings of $50. It's the Wi-Fi-only version of the iPad and it's available in your choice of four casing colors -- yellow, blue, pink or silver. The version that's on sale for $399 includes 64GB of internal storage You can upgrade the iPad to 256GB of storage for $549 (which represents 8% off its regular $599 price).

The iPad (10th Generation) features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with 2,360 x 1,640 pixel resolution. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and includes a 12MP camera on both the front and back of the tablet. Battery life is up to 10 hours per charge. The iPad runs using Apple's A14 Bionic processor and comes with the latest version of iPad OS (along with a nice collection of apps) preinstalled.

The Apple Pencil (1st Generation) stylus ($80) and a detachable Magic Keyboard Folio ($179) are available as optional accessories.

Apple 11" iPad Pro: $929 ($70 off)

If your tablet needs require an iPad with a lot of processing power, check out the iPad Pro (4th Generation). It's now on sale at Amazon for $929 (a savings of $70). This tablet boasts a bright and detailed 11-inch Liquid Retina (2,388 x 1,668 pixel resolution) display and comes with 128GB of internal storage. It's the Wi-Fi + Cellular version, so you can activate 5G cellular service (for a monthly fee), or just take advantage of Wi-Fi 6E for internet connectivity.

On the front of the iPad Pro, there's a 12MP camera for selfies. It also allows you to take part in video calls. On the back, you'll find a 12MP main camera and a second 10MP camera. The tablet is powered using Apple's own M2 processor. Battery life is up to 10 hours per charge. It comes with the latest version of iPad OS (along with a nice collection of apps) preinstalled.

Other configurations of the iPad Pro are currently available from Amazon, but this is one of the only versions on sale at the moment. However, if you want to boost this tablet's internal storage to 2TB, that configuration is also on sale for 7% off and is currently stock, so you'll pay just $1,949.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2022): $200 (43% off)

One of the benefits of Android-based tablets (compared to Apple iPads) is that they're often less expensive. And when a tablet like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is on sale for 43% off, it becomes an even better deal. While this is not a high-end tablet in terms of its hardware configuration, it's certainly highly functional.

The Tab S6 Lite utilizes a 10.4-inch LCD touchscreen (2,000 x 1,200 pixel resolution) display. It offers stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support. You get a 5MP front-facing camera (for video calling) and an 8MP rear-facing camera. A Samsung S Pen stylus is included, so when using compatible apps, you can handwrite or draw directly on the screen.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G, this tablet runs Android 12 and comes with a nice collection of preinstalled apps. While the internal storage is extremely minimal (just 64GB), the tablet has an integrated microSD memory card slot, so you can expand storage by inserting an optional microSD memory card with up to 1TB capacity. The tablet weighs in at 1.03 pounds. If you want to boost the internal storage of the tablet to 128GB, Amazon has this configuration on sale for $259 (which is 40% off).

Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (2022): $974 (25% off)

The main reason why people love the Microsoft Surface Pro tablets is because they run Windows 11, so if you're already a Windows PC user, all of your data, documents, files and photos with automatically sync between your computer and tablet via the free Microsoft OneDrive cloud-based service.

This 2022 version of the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is currently on sale at Amazon for 25% off, so you'll save $326 on this configuration. Another great thing about the Surface Pro 9 is that it's designed to be a 2-in-1 device. On its own, it's a full-featured tablet that offers a 13-inch touchscreen display with a 120Hz refresh rate. When you add the optional Surface Pro Signature Keyboard ($132), you get more traditional laptop-like functionality. This Surface Pro 9 also supports the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 stylus ($106), so you can handwrite or draw directly on the screen when using a compatible app.

The configuration that's on sale right now is powered using the SQ3 (Snapdragon S3) processor. It comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. This is the Wi-Fi + 5G version, so you have the option of activating 5G cellular connectivity (for a monthly fee). Otherwise, you can use the Surface Pro 9 with just Wi-Fi for internet connectivity. Battery life is up to 19 hours. Another nice feature is that using the Microsoft Phone Link app, linking your Android-based smartphone to the tablet is easy and convenient. 

Samsung Galaxy Tab A8: $150 (35% off)

For slightly more than what Apple charges just for the Apple Pencil 2 stylus, you can purchase an entire Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 tablet, especially when it's on sale for 35% off on Amazon. 

The 2022 version of the Tab A8 features a 10.5-inch (1,920 x 1,200 pixel resolution) touchscreen display with 32GB of internal storage. However, there is a microSD memory card slot, so you can insert an optional microSD memory card with up to a 1TB capacity.

The processor and screen quality offered by this tablet is entry-level, but it's a great option if you want a low cost tablet for a child. Just make sure you invest in a durable kid-friendly case to protect it from drops and other abuses a young person might inflict on it. For younger users, the Tab A8 can be used with the Samsung Kids service, which offers curated games, e-books and videos that are kid-friendly and age appropriate.

The tablet comes with Android 11 and a versatile selection of apps preinstalled. It runs using an MediaTek Cortex A53 processor.

Lenovo Tab M8 (4th Gen, 2023): $78 ($32 off)

This is not a typo: You can nab this Lenovo Tab M8 tablet for just $78 at Amazon (which is a savings of $32). This is the 2023 version of the tablet. It offers an 8-inch (1,28 x 800 pixel resolution) touchscreen display. This is a low-end tablet in terms of its capabilities, so it can only handle basic tasks, like web surfing, streaming  email management, and other tasks that do not require a lot of processing power or involve a lot of advanced graphics.

You only get 2GB of RAM and a mere 32GB of storage in this tablet. It does, however, have a microSD memory card slot, so you can use an optional microSD memory card to expand the tablet's storage capacity.

The Tab M8 runs Android 12 (Go Edition). Battery life is up to 16 hours per charge. Keep in mind, this tablet does have integrated parental control features, so it's a good Android-based tablet option for a child. The tablet is powered using a MediaTek ARM Cortex processor. It weighs a mere 0.71 pounds.

OnePlus Pad: $430 (10% off)

Our tech experts like the OnePlus brand because it typically offers higher-end technology that's packed into devices that are sold for less than what the competition charges for comparable products. This is the case with the OnePlus Pad, which is on sale right now at Amazon for just $430 (that's 10% off).

This tablet offers an 11.6-inch LCD (2,800 x 2,000 pixel resolution) touchscreen display with a 144Hz refresh rate and unique 7:5 aspect ratio. The display has a maximum brightness of 500 nits and supports Dolby Vision. And the speakers support Dolby Atmos. So, when you stream movies on it, they'll look and sound fantastic, even without headphones. This tablet has a display and processor that also makes it suitable for gaming. 

This version of the OnePlus Pad comes equipped with 8G of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. It runs Android 13.1 using the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 processor. Another selling point of the OnePlus Pad is its thickness (or lack of it). It's just 6.54mm thick and it weighs just 19.47 ounces. 

Boox Tab Mini C: $400 (11% off)

The Boox Tab Mini C is rather unique. It's an Android 11-based tablet, but it features a 7.8-inch, full-color e-ink display. It offers 64GB of internal storage and comes with a stylus, so you can handwrite or draw directly on the screen when using a compatible app.

In full-color mode, the display offers 150 pixels-per-inch (ppi) resolution. In B&W more, the resolution doubles to 300 ppi. Because this is a unique e-ink display that can showcase up to 4,096 colors, it's an ideal note taking device and advanced e-reader (for reading full-color e-books or digital editions of newspapers or magazines). This tablet does not do a good job displaying any type of video or animated graphics, but illustrations and photos typically look fine.

So, while this is technically a full-featured, Android-based tablet, it's more of a souped-up e-reader that can also run Android-based apps that are not too graphic intensive. You can forget about streaming TV shows or movies using this tablet, but it does a wonderful job playing podcasts and audiobooks, or streaming music.

The biggest benefit of the e-ink display is that it uses very little power, so the tablet's battery will lasts for several weeks (not mere hours). The display also does not cause eye strain or fatigue. This Boox device supports 24 digital file formats. When viewing a file, you can use the included stylus to annotate and then share them. If you're looking for a powerful e-reader with a full-color screen that has basic tablet functionality, the Boox Tab C Mini is a viable and rather affordable option. However, if you're seeking a full-featured tablet that you can use to watch movies, edit and view photos or use to play graphic-intensive games, this is not the best tablet choice.

Save on all of your holiday shopping

Regardless of what you're shopping for this holiday season, the CBS Essentials expert shoppers have you covered with roundups of the very best money-saving deals you can take full advantage of right away. Why spend top dollar on holiday gifts when you can potentially save a fortune?

And if you're totally stumped about what to give someone special this holiday season and you want some innovative and fun ideas, we've got you covered with a wide range of holiday gift guides that'll help you find the ideal gift for your husband, dad, mother, wife, children, and even your pets, so be sure to check out our latest holiday guides as well. Don't worry, it's not too late to get that perfect gift for each of the people on your holiday shopping list.