Best Android Tablets 2016: Which One Should You Buy?
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, 2016 was a standout year for Android tablets, marking a period of significant innovation and diversity in the market. As mobile computing needs continued to burgeon, manufacturers were eager to cater to demands for more powerful, versatile, and sleek devices. Android tablets emerged as an enticing option for those seeking a balance between productivity and entertainment. From leading tech giants like Samsung and Google to emerging players like Huawei, 2016 witnessed a multitude of tablets that captivated users with stunning displays, robust performance, and cutting-edge features.
This guide navigates through the standout Android tablets of that year, offering insights into their unique offerings and technological advancements. Whether you were a professional on the go, a student needing a reliable academic companion, or a gamer seeking immersive experiences, 2016 had an Android tablet tailored just for you. Join us as we delve into the best Android tablets of 2016 and explore how they redefined what it meant to stay connected and efficient in an increasingly digital world.
Google Nexus 9: A Blend of Design and Performance
In the diverse universe of tablets, the Google Nexus 9 stands out like a bright star, offering that perfect blend of elegant design and powerful performance. Imagine holding a device that feels not just like an extension of your digital personality but also like a finely tuned instrument for work and play. The Nexus 9 is crafted to enhance your tech experience, seamlessly merging cutting-edge technology with stylistic elegance.
Sleek Design Meets Robust Build
At first glance, the Nexus 9 captivates you with its minimalist design. Crafted with precision, it boasts a sleek aluminum body that feels as luxurious as it looks. The tablet’s dimensions are perfectly balanced, offering a comfortable grip while maintaining an expansive display for unmatched viewing pleasure. With its 8.9-inch screen, images come alive with vibrant colors and crisp clarity, drawing you into an immersive experience whether you're watching your favorite movie or browsing the web.
Performance Beyond Expectations
Underneath its sophisticated exterior, the Nexus 9 is a powerhouse waiting to be unleashed. Driven by the NVIDIA Tegra K1 processor, this tablet ensures that performance keeps pace with your demands, whether multitasking across apps, diving into high-octane gaming, or streaming rich media content. The combination of impressive processing power and the seamless Android OS creates an intuitively fluid experience, rendering lag a forgotten relic of the past.
Pure Google Experience
Running pure Android, the Nexus 9 offers users an unadulterated and optimized Google experience. Not only does this mean faster updates and security features, but it also assures a clutter-free interface, allowing you to navigate with ease and efficiency. The Nexus 9 gives you the freedom to personalize your device with a wide range of apps from the Google Play Store, turning your tablet into an extension of yourself.
Battery Life That Keeps Up
Worry-free usage is what defines the essence of the Nexus 9. With its long-lasting battery life, you can enjoy the use of apps, streaming, and productivity tools without constant interruptions. Whether you are at a café catching up on emails or at home indulging in a marathon movie session, the Nexus 9’s battery keeps you powered up for longer.
The Perfect Balance
The Google Nexus 9 isn’t just a tablet; it’s a statement. It exudes a sense of sophistication while providing a powerhouse of capabilities. For those who see their tablet as more than just a device, the Nexus 9 serves as a loyal companion, enhancing productivity and entertainment.
With the Google Nexus 9, experience the optimum fusion of form and function, where design meets performance, delivering an experience like no other tablet in its class. Whether for work or leisure, make every moment elegant and empowered—and let your digital lifestyle soar to new heights.
Google Pixel C: Sleek and Powerful
In the ever-evolving world of technology, where innovation meets craftsmanship, the Google Pixel C stands out as a shining example of what a premium tablet experience should be. Embodying elegance and performance, this device offers a harmonious blend of style, power, and efficiency, setting new standards in the realm of Android tablets.
Imagine a sleek design where every curve and finish radiates sophistication—this is the essence of the Google Pixel C. Its stunning aluminum chassis not only feels remarkably luxurious in your hands but also exudes durability and strength, making it a reliable companion in both professional and personal settings.
Delve into the arena of processing power, and you'll find the heart of the Pixel C beating with vigor. Equipped with the NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor and Maxwell GPU, this beast delivers exceptional performance, ensuring smooth multitasking and seamless gaming experiences. Whether you're diving into graphics-intensive applications or managing your daily productivity tasks, the Pixel C handles it with finesse, never missing a beat.
The display of the Google Pixel C is nothing short of breathtaking. Boasting a 10.2-inch LTPS LCD with a resolution of 2560 x 1800 pixels, every image and video leaps to life with vibrant colors and exquisite clarity. It's like having a portable cinema in your hands, perfect for streaming your favorite series or showcasing your creative projects with stunning precision.
Adaptability is key in today’s digital world, and the Pixel C shines with its versatile usability. Its magnetically attached keyboard transforms the tablet into a formidable laptop alternative, offering a fluid typing experience that is essential for professionals on the go. The Google Pixel C caters to your every need, from writing emails to crafting detailed reports, with the ease of a true productivity powerhouse.
Battery life is often a concern in powerful devices, but here lies another triumph for the Pixel C. With an impressive battery that provides up to 10 hours of usage, worry less about charging and spend more time enjoying the features that matter most to you.
The Google Pixel C, through its seamless integration with the Android ecosystem, provides access to a plethora of apps, further enhancing its capability and personalization options. Stay connected, creative, and productive with everything you need at your fingertips.
Embrace the power, feel the elegance, and discover the ultimate tablet experience with the Google Pixel C—a sleek and powerful addition to your tech arsenal.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S2: Stunning Display and Build
In the world of tablets, where every swipe and tap is part of your digital symphony, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 stands out like a maestro conducting a visual masterpiece. With its stunning display and premium build, this tablet doesn’t just ask for your attention—it commands it.
A Feast for the Eyes
The front of the Galaxy Tab S2 presents a Super AMOLED display that rivals the finest canvases. With rich and vibrant colors, every shade comes to life, transforming mundane tasks into visual feasts. Whether you're diving into a blockbuster movie or relishing the subtle tones of your favorite digital artwork, the 2048×1536 resolution delivers a crisp and engrossing viewing experience that makes every pixel count.
Ultra-Slim Elegance
Aesthetics and practicality often feel like a balancing act, but the Galaxy Tab S2 pulls it off seamlessly. At just 5.6mm thick, it's strikingly slender, making it easy to cradle in one hand for hours without fatigue. But don’t let its feather-light 389 grams fool you; this tablet is a fortress of style and durability. The metal frame exudes sophistication while maintaining a sturdy backbone that’s ready for whatever life throws your way.
The Power Behind the Beauty
Beneath the breathtaking display lies a powerhouse of performance. The Galaxy Tab S2 is engineered to keep pace with your busiest days, with enough power under the hood to handle multi-tasking with ease. Whether you’re binge-watching, gaming, or reading your favorite e-books, the experience is as smooth as silk.
Tailored for the Modern World
Crafted with the modern user in mind, the Galaxy Tab S2 is more than just a pretty face. It’s a versatile companion that effortlessly transitions from entertainment to productivity. The intuitive interface is enhanced by the latest Android operating system, making navigation as natural as a summer breeze.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 invites you to experience a level of quality that's both stunning and functional. It’s an encapsulation of Samsung’s commitment to innovation, offering users a tablet that’s a delight to use and behold. So, whether you're an on-the-go professional or a homebody basking in entertainment, the Galaxy Tab S2 promises an immersive journey through both work and play. Embrace the blend of beauty and technology in a device that fits seamlessly into your life.
Sony Xperia Z4: Premium Features Highlighted
Step into a realm where sophistication meets cutting-edge technology—the Sony Xperia Z4 is not just a smartphone, but a testament to the art of innovation. Crafted with precision, this luxury device is designed to enhance your daily life, offering a blend of aesthetics, power, and convenience.
Elegantly Crafted Design
The Xperia Z4 stands as a beacon of elegance with its sleek, metallic frame and smooth glass surfaces. Its refined design not only catches the eye but also fits perfectly in your hand, making it as much a style statement as it is an engineering marvel. The slim profile and lightweight structure ensure that it slips effortlessly into your pocket or purse, always ready to accompany you on your adventures.
Dazzling Display
Prepare to be mesmerized by the Xperia Z4's 5.2-inch Full HD display. With TRILUMINOS™ technology, the screen brings images to life with vivid colors and sharp contrasts. Whether you're streaming your favorite series or capturing your memories, every pixel is a testament to Sony's excellence in display technology. The immersive visual experience is complemented by its intuitive interface, making every interaction feel seamless.
Superior Performance
Under the hood, the Xperia Z4 is a powerhouse, fueled by an octa-core Snapdragon processor. Multitasking becomes a breeze as you switch between apps, flick through images or conquer the latest games. With 3GB of RAM, this smartphone keeps up with your dynamic lifestyle, ensuring lag-free experiences as you work and play.
Impressive Camera Capabilities
Armed with a 20.7 MP rear camera, the Xperia Z4 is your gateway to professional photography at your fingertips. Capture stunning landscapes, enchanting portraits, and vibrant nighttime scenes—all in exquisite detail. The blend of Xperia's renowned camera technology and intelligent processing results in photos that are as memorable as the moments you live. The 5.1 MP front camera, enhanced with a wide-angle lens, ensures group selfies capture everyone in the frame, while video calls remain crystal-clear.
Unmatched Durability
Fear neither water nor dust; the Xperia Z4 is constructed to withstand the elements. With its IP65/IP68 certification, this smartphone ensures durability and reliability, no matter where life takes you. From surprising splashes to adventurous hikes through dusty trails, your device stays resilient and functional, mirroring your adventurous spirit.
Enhanced Audio Experience
Sony's dedication to sound quality shines through with the Xperia Z4's high-resolution audio. Whether enjoying a playlist of your favorite artists or diving into the latest podcast, every note and word is delivered with astounding clarity. The phone's speakers offer a surround sound effect, transforming even a moment of solitude into a private concert.
Battery Life That Keeps Up
Worry less about charging and more about living. The Xperia Z4 offers an impressive battery life that can power through your day with ease. Coupled with smart energy-saving technologies, this smartphone optimizes performance to ensure you stay connected longer.
The Sony Xperia Z4 is more than just a device; it is a celebration of premium features designed to complement modern living. It blends superior technology with timeless design, offering you a smartphone experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether it's capturing memories, staying in touch, or exploring new media, the Xperia Z4 promises to deliver excellence at every turn.
Nvidia Shield Tablet K1: Gamers' Delight
In the pantheon of gaming tablets, the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1 truly stands as a beacon for gamers seeking immersive experiences on the go. This powerhouse device captures the essence of gaming innovation, combining sleek aesthetics with raw, unapologetic performance. It's more than just a tablet; it's a portal to virtual realms where the boundaries of reality blur, leaving only endless possibilities.
Unleash the Beast Within
At the heart of the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1 lies the formidable Nvidia Tegra K1 processor. This quad-core beast, boasting a 192-core Kepler GPU, handles graphically intense games with finesse, ensuring that every explosion, every shadow, and every ray of light is rendered in exquisite detail. The Tegra K1 isn't just a processor; it's your co-pilot in the thrilling journey through the most demanding gaming landscapes.
A Display That Dazzles
Engage your senses with the 8-inch Full HD display that transports you to vibrant worlds. The 1920×1200 resolution delivers razor-sharp visuals, making every pixel pop with life. Whether you're navigating through lush fantasy realms or battling it out in post-apocalyptic terrains, the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1 ensures each moment is nothing short of spectacular.
Immersive Audio Experience
The auditory experience on the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1 is nothing short of symphonic excellence. With front-facing stereo speakers and dual bass reflex ports, the soundscape is rich and immersive, pulling you deeper into the action. Feel the rumble of distant thunder or the whisper of alien winds; every sound is delivered with crystal clarity.
Control Like Never Before
Pair your tablet with the Nvidia Shield Controller, and you unlock a new dimension of control. Featuring precision joystick input, responsive buttons, and low-latency performance, the Shield Controller is the ideal companion for any gamer who demands perfection. Whether you're a sharpshooter or a strategy mastermind, the tactile feedback and ergonomic design put you in command.
Versatility Meets Mobility
Beyond gaming, the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1 shines as a versatile tool. Stream your favorite movies and shows in high definition, or use it as a creative canvas for digital art. With a battery life designed for extended use, this tablet keeps up with your lifestyle, wherever it leads.
Future-Proof Entertainment
Stay ahead with automatic updates for the latest Android OS, ensuring your device remains cutting-edge. The Nvidia Shield Tablet K1 evolves with the gaming universe, continuously adapting to new trends and technologies. It's more than a purchase; it's an investment in endless entertainment.
In the ever-evolving landscape of mobile gaming, the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1 stands out as a trailblazer. It invites you to enter worlds where only your imagination is the limit, making it, undoubtedly, a true delight for any gamer.
Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro: The Built-in Projector Marvel
Imagine transforming any wall or ceiling into a cinematic display at the push of a button. Welcome to the world of the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro, where your everyday tablet evolves into a breathtaking home theater, redefining portability and entertainment.
The Ultimate Projection Experience
At the heart of the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro lies its pièce de résistance: the built-in projector. Forget the hassle of untangling wires and wrestling with bulky equipment. With its rotating hinge, this nifty projector can display crisp 70-inch images on any surface, turning impromptu movie nights into stunning widescreen spectacles. Be it a cozy evening with your favorite rom-com or a professional presentation delivered with flair, this tablet enhances every experience, offering unparalleled convenience in a compact form.
A Powerhouse of Performance
But the wonders don’t stop at projection. Powering the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro is an Intel Atom processor, delivering seamless multitasking and efficient performance. Whether you are streaming high-definition content or diving into graphics-intensive games, this device handles all tasks like a pro, ensuring smooth and responsive user interactions.
Immersive Display and Sound
The vivid 10.1-inch Quad HD display steeps you into a world of vibrant colors and stunning clarity, making every image pop and every detail come alive. Complementing the visual feast is a quartet of front-facing JBL speakers fortified by Dolby Atmos technology. Together, they produce an audio experience that thrills, immersing you in deep, resonant sounds—perfect for music lovers and audiophiles alike.
Effortless Design and Longevity
Moreover, Lenovo's Yoga Tab 3 Pro exudes elegance with its sleek, ergonomic design that fits effortlessly into any lifestyle. Its distinctive kickstand offers versatility, allowing for multiple usage modes—hold, tilt, stand, or hang—to suit your every need.
Equipped with an epic battery life that spans up to 18 hours on a single charge, the Yoga Tab 3 Pro keeps the entertainment flowing without constant recharging interruptions. It’s a companion that doesn’t just travel with you—it's built to keep pace, transforming waiting rooms, airports, or backyard gatherings into immersive multimedia experiences.
In summary, the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 Pro is more than just a tablet—it's a dynamic tool that combines the brilliant versatility of a projector with the robust functionality of a high-performance device. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a movie buff, or a professional always on the move, this marvel of innovation stands ready to expand your digital world with unparalleled convenience and style. Dive into this revolution and let every moment be as epic as the possibilities it unlocks.
Amazon Fire and Fire HDX 8.9: Budget-Friendly Options
In the ever-evolving world of technology, finding a device that balances performance with price can feel like searching for a needle in a digital haystack. Enter the Amazon Fire and Fire HDX 8.9, two tablets that dance gracefully on the tightrope between functionality and affordability. This cheap tablet with budget-friendly options deliver formidable features without scorching a hole in your wallet.
Kindle Fire: A Blaze of Simplicity and Efficiency
The Amazon Fire tablet line-up, simply put, is kindling for those who desire an uncomplicated, user-friendly experience. Built with efficiency in mind, the Fire series blazes with features that appeal to both tech enthusiasts and savvy shoppers alike. Whether you're a first-time tablet user or an experienced hand in need of an affordable addition to your tech arsenal, the Amazon Fire promises a harmonious fusion of cost and capability.
Display and Design: Sleek, Sophisticated, and Durable
The Fire HDX 8.9 nudges its way into the spotlight with a high-definition display that feels like it's been sprinkled with stardust. The vibrant 2560 x 1600 resolution is a spectacle that turns everyday activities, from devouring e-books to binge-watching your favorite series, into visual feasts. Coupled with a sleek and lightweight design, carrying around this tablet feels as effortless as a summer breeze.
Performance and Features: A Melody of Functionality
The Fire HDX 8.9 doesn’t just stop at looks; it packs a punch with a quad-core processor that hums along merrily, ensuring smooth multitasking and a fluid user experience. Its impressive battery life allows you to indulge in up to 12 hours of reading, surfing, and streaming without scurrying for a charger. The tablet's seamless integration with Amazon's vast ecosystem, including Kindle books and Prime Video, means endless entertainment options are just a tap away. Not to mention the impressive audio courtesy of Dolby Atmos, which transforms sound into something almost tangible.
Affordability and Value: The Art of Balance
One of the most remarkable attributes of both the Fire and Fire HDX 8.9 is their budget-friendly nature. For those who believe quality tech requires splurging, these tablets are here to shatter that myth like a glass slipper at midnight. Priced to accommodate even the most modest budgets, they stand as evidence that you don't have to compromise quality for cost.
Conclusion: Ignite Your Experience
In summary, the Amazon Fire and Fire HDX 8.9 tablets are a testament to Amazon's commitment to delivering quality devices at accessible prices. These tablets invite you to set your tech aspirations alight, transforming everyday interactions into exceptional experiences without breaking the bank. Whether you're capturing moments with the camera, diving into a best-seller, or streaming the latest blockbuster, the Fire and Fire HDX 8.9 are ready to ignite your digital adventures.
Dell Venue 10 7000: Unique Form Factor
Imagine a tablet that not only delivers top-notch performance but also stands out in a crowded market with a design that's as compelling as its features. Welcome to the world of the Dell Venue 10 7000, a tablet that redefines what it means to be unique with its avant-garde form factor. This isn't just another tablet; it's a statement piece that demands attention and incites curiosity.
The Dell Venue 10 7000 is crafted with a sleek, pioneering design that combines elegance with functionality. Its striking cylindrical hinge, reminiscent of a high-end notebook, offers more than just aesthetic appeal. This innovative form factor allows for a versatile 2-in-1 experience, letting you effortlessly switch between laptop and tablet modes with a twist of its magnetic keyboard. This fluid transition not only enhances productivity but also provides a seamless user experience that's perfect for both work and play.
The moment you hold the Venue 10 7000, you’ll feel the perfect balance of premium materials and sophisticated engineering. The sturdy yet exquisite aluminum frame wraps gracefully around its vibrant 10.5-inch OLED display. With mesmerizing clarity and vivid colors, this tablet turns everything you do—be it watching movies, playing games, or multitasking—into an extraordinary visual delight.
Besides its luxurious appearance, the Venue 10 7000 offers substance with style. Underneath its impressive exterior lies a beast of performance. Equipped with state-of-the-art hardware, including an Intel Atom processor, this device ensures lightning-fast performance and an unparalleled multitasking capability. Whether you're switching between apps or diving into immersive media experiences, the Dell Venue 10 7000 has got you covered.
The Dell Venue 10 7000 isn't merely a tool; it's an experience crafted for those who dare to be different. This device challenges the norm and forges its own path, offering you not only a unique tablet experience but also bringing a touch of innovation to everyday tasks. It's not just about doing more—it's about doing it better, with style. If you seek a device that is as dynamic as your lifestyle, the Dell Venue 10 7000 is your ultimate companion.
Barnes & Noble NOOK 7″: A Niche Offering
In a digital ocean dominated by e-readers like the Kindle and tablets as multifaceted as the iPad, the Barnes & Noble NOOK 7″ emerges as a charming niche jewel, waiting to be discovered by avid readers and tech enthusiasts alike. This petite, unassuming device is more than just an electronic book. It’s a gateway to the literary universe, thoughtfully designed for those who crave the tactile feel of a real page without relinquishing the convenience of a digital library.
Resurrected by Barnes & Noble with a renewed vision, the NOOK 7″ has carved its own little corner in the vast e-reader market. Undoubtedly, its allure lies in its specificity. It speaks directly to bibliophiles who wish to go beyond casual reading and delve into an immersive experience loaded with an array of features previously unseen in this segment.
A Compact Marvel
Enveloped within its sleek 7-inch frame lies a vibrant, full-color display that transforms each reading session into an intimate embrace with your favorite tales. The device’s compact size is ideal for on-the-go readers who refuse to be tethered to the weighty tomes of yesterday. Its feather-light design is effortless to slip into any pocket or purse, transforming parks, coffee shops, and cozy nooks into sanctuaries of the written word.
Powerful Performance with a Heart
Fueled by a robust processor, the NOOK 7″ ensures a seamless performance, efficiently powering a myriad of applications available on the Google Play Store. This extends its utility beyond just reading. Whether catching up on the latest podcast, indulging in streaming, or engaging with interactive applications, the NOOK 7″ is a versatile companion. Yet, it retains its heart and commitment to the literary arts, keeping the user at the center of an expansive digital reading experience.
Intuitive by Design
A symphony of intuitive interface paired with a user-friendly design makes navigation a breeze, even for the technology-averse. Barnes & Noble has ensured that the transition from print to digital – sometimes a daunting leap – is as smooth as the turning of a familiar page. Enhanced with adjustable backlighting, the NOOK 7″ caters to readers at any hour, reducing eye strain while intensifying engagement in beautifully rendered illustrations and texts.
Affordable Entry into Expansive Libraries
For those who equate reading with exploration, the NOOK presents an affordable entryway into expansive digital libraries, including Barnes & Noble's exhaustive catalogue. With countless titles at your fingertips, each chapter becomes a tantalizing promise of new adventures and undiscovered worlds. It’s not just about reading; it's about wandering across limitless terrains of human creativity and knowledge.
The Barnes & Noble NOOK 7″ embodies a rare convergence where classic storytelling meets modern technology. It celebrates those who relish a dedicated reading device infused with versatile capabilities yet seek an intimate, unaffected connection with their favorite tomes. As a niche offering, the NOOK 7″ might not strive to be an all-encompassing tablet, but it doesn’t need to—it dances beautifully around its strengths, satisfying the cravings of a dedicated demographic. In the ever-expanding universe of digital reading, the NOOK 7″ is a well-kept secret revealing itself as a treasure to be cherished.
The vibrant landscape of Android tablets in 2016 it is clear that innovation and versatility rule the day. From the media powerhouse that is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 to the budget-friendly functionality of the ASUS ZenPad, each device delivers its own unique strengths to cater to a broad range of user needs. These top Android tablets do more than just meet expectations; they transform the ways people engage with digital content on the go.
From high-definition displays bringing vibrant visuals to life, to powerful processors that handle multitasking with ease, 2016 is a year where tablet technology has evolved significantly. Devices such as the Google Pixel C showcase the potential for Android tablets to offer laptop-like performance in a portable form, setting benchmarks for convenience and power.
The addition of features like detachable keyboards and stylus support, these tablets provided a dynamic user experience suitable for both productivity and play. As a result, these advancements expand the utility of tablets beyond traditional consumption, allowing users to seamlessly blend work and leisure.
In conclusion, the best Android tablets of 2016 have captured the essence of modern tech ingenuity. They not only serve as a testament to the rapid pace of technological advancement but also as a promise of endless possibilities for digital exploration and creative expression. Whether you were an avid reader seeking an engaging digital companion or a tech enthusiast looking for a powerful gadget, the 2016 lineup has something exceptional to offer.
