Top 5 Budget-Friendly Tablets for Students in 2025

Whether you're in school or college, having a reliable and affordable tablet is more essential than ever. From digital note-taking to online classes, tablets offer portability, functionality, and great value. Here are the top 5 budget tablets for students in 2025, all priced under $250.

1. Xiaomi Pad 6 Lite

Price: $199

• Display: 10.6" IPS LCD, 120Hz
• Processor: Snapdragon 680
• RAM/Storage: 4GB / 128GB
• Battery: 8,000mAh, 18W charging
• Stylus Support: Yes (optional pen)

Pros:

• Great display with 120Hz
• MIUI Pad optimized for study
• Affordable price for students

Cons:

• No keyboard cover included
• Basic performance for gaming

Verdict: A perfect tablet for reading, notes, and light multitasking.

2. Realme Pad 2

Price: $220

• Display: 11.5" LCD, 120Hz
• Processor: MediaTek Helio G99
• RAM/Storage: 6GB / 128GB
• Battery: 8,360mAh, 33W fast charging

Pros:

• Large screen ideal for eBooks
• Fast charging
• Good stereo speakers

Cons:

• No stylus support
• Heavier than other tablets

Verdict: Great for watching lectures and multitasking at home.

3. Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+

Price: $239

• Display: 11" LCD, 90Hz
• Processor: Snapdragon 695
• RAM/Storage: 6GB / 128GB
• Battery: 7,040mAh, 15W charging

Pros:

• Reliable Samsung OneUI
• Solid build quality
• 5G connectivity available

Cons:

• Slow charging
• No stylus included

Verdict: A premium feel at a budget price—great for students loyal to Samsung.

4. Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen)

Price: $179

• Display: 10.6" IPS LCD
• Processor: MediaTek G80
• RAM/Storage: 4GB / 64GB (expandable)
• Battery: 7,700mAh
• Pen support: Yes (Lenovo Precision Pen 2)

Pros:

• Android 12L for tablets
• Pen support
• Good for note-taking

Cons:

• Low base storage
• Average screen brightness

Verdict: An affordable option for students who want pen input.

5. Amazon Fire Max 11

Price: $229

• Display: 11" LCD
• Processor: Octa-core MediaTek MT8188J
• RAM/Storage: 4GB / 64GB
• Battery: Up to 14 hours
• Extras: Stylus and Keyboard support

Pros:

• Affordable productivity bundle
• Alexa and Kindle built-in
• Keyboard and stylus support

Cons:

• Fire OS is limited (no Google Play)
• Best for Amazon ecosystem users

Verdict: Perfect for students who want basic note-taking + Amazon apps.

Conclusion

There’s no need to overspend on a tablet for school in 2025. Whether you're a high school student or in college, the options above offer reliable performance, battery life, and screen quality at student-friendly prices.

Top pick for stylus: Xiaomi Pad 6 Lite
Top pick for video classes: Realme Pad 2
Top pick for brand-conscious users: Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+