Design and Build Quality
One of the first things that catch the eye of potential buyers is the design and build quality of the OnePlus Pad. The tablet boasts a sleek and premium look, with a unified metal body that stretches from the frame to the back. This design choice not only adds to the device's aesthetic appeal but also provides a sturdy build that feels robust in the hand. The OnePlus Pad is just 6.5mm thin and weighs 552 grams, making it both slim and lightweight, considering its 11.6-inch display size.
Drawbacks
- Screen wobble in the corners can be a concern, especially if you plan to use the tablet for drawing or writing.
- Absence of a fingerprint scanner and haptics might be a disappointment for some users.
- Lack of a headphone jack and microSD slot limits the device's versatility.
Display
The display on the OnePlus Pad is one of its standout features. It boasts a 2K resolution and a 90Hz adaptive refresh rate, which provides a smooth and responsive viewing experience. While a 120Hz refresh rate would be ideal, the 90Hz rate is still impressive for a large screen like this. The display also supports a wide color gamut and has great viewing angles, making it suitable for both casual use and more demanding tasks like video editing.
Hardware
Under the hood, the OnePlus Pad is powered by a flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which provides exceptional performance and efficiency. Coupled with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, this setup ensures that the tablet can handle demanding tasks with ease. The device also supports microSD card expansion up to 1TB, providing ample storage options for users who need more space.
Battery Life
One of the significant upgrades in the OnePlus Pad 2 is the battery life. With a 9,510mAh battery, the device claims to charge from flat to full in just 81 minutes using a 67W fast charger. This is a significant improvement over the previous model and ensures that the tablet remains powered throughout the day, even with heavy usage.
Software
The software experience on the OnePlus Pad is another area where it excels. Running on Android 13, the tablet benefits from several tablet-friendly optimizations that make interacting and multitasking on a larger screen easier. The operating system includes more first-party apps designed to take advantage of the larger screen real estate, enhancing the overall user experience.
AI Toolbox Features
- AI Speak: Reads text aloud.
- Recording Summary: Summarizes long articles or audio recordings.
- AI Writer: Assists with writing tasks.
Multitasking
Multitasking is a crucial aspect of any tablet, and the OnePlus Pad excels in this area. The Open Canvas system, borrowed from the OnePlus Open foldable, allows users to run up to three apps simultaneously. Unlike other tablets that shrink apps into small windows, Open Canvas moves inactive windows nearly off-screen, allowing users to focus on one task at a time. This feature is particularly useful for professionals who need to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Accessories
OnePlus has also launched several accessories for the OnePlus Pad, including the OnePlus Stylo and Magnetic Cover Keyboard. These accessories enhance the overall user experience by providing additional functionality and convenience. The Magnetic Cover Keyboard, for instance, offers a seamless typing experience and can be easily attached and detached from the tablet.
Price and Value
One of the most significant advantages of the OnePlus Pad is its price. Priced competitively at around $480, the tablet offers exceptional value for its features and performance. In comparison to other high-end tablets like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, which starts at $700, the OnePlus Pad provides a more affordable option without compromising on quality.
Recommendations
For those in the market for a budget-friendly Android tablet, the OnePlus Pad is an excellent choice. Its 2K display, 90Hz refresh rate, and powerful hardware make it suitable for streaming, browsing, and even more demanding tasks like video editing. The addition of AI Toolbox features and Open Canvas multitasking capabilities further enhances its appeal.
For OnePlus Ecosystem Users
For users who are already invested in the OnePlus ecosystem, the OnePlus Pad offers seamless integration with other OnePlus devices. The promise of three Android OS upgrades and four years of security updates ensures that the tablet remains supported and updated for a long time.
Additional Considerations
Google Pixel Tablet
For those who prefer the Google ecosystem, the Google Pixel Tablet is another excellent option. With its excellent processor and screen, the Pixel Tablet offers an all-around excellent tablet experience ideal for streaming video and browsing the web. The bundled charging dock is particularly useful, turning the Pixel Tablet into a smart-home hub. However, it's worth noting that the Pixel Tablet's stylus support is limited to USI 2.0-compliant styluses, which may not be as versatile as other options.
Amazon Fire HD 8
For those on a tight budget, the Amazon Fire HD 8 is a great cheap tablet option. While it has a smaller, lower-resolution screen compared to the Galaxy Tab S8, it's perfect for reading or watching video content from Amazon's store. However, it may not offer the same level of performance or features as more expensive tablets.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 offers a stunning 11-inch OLED screen that is sharper and brighter than the Pixel Tablet. It's fast, sleek, and feature-packed but comes at a higher price point. This makes it a better option for those willing to invest in a premium Android tablet experience.
By considering these options and understanding what makes each device stand out, users can make an informed decision about which Android tablet best fits their needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option like the OnePlus Pad or a premium experience like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, there's an Android tablet out there that can meet your requirements.
