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Purchasing a suitable tablet seems like a wise choice if you are a musician looking for a portable device for reading sheet music, recording, or simply listening to music. However, it can be challenging to locate a nice tablet for music-related demands, which is why I’ve prepared this article.
Considerations such as speaker power, compatibility with the Mason mount, and others are necessary. Additionally, if you’re a musician, you might want to look for a portable device that has enough processing power to operate programs like metronomes, amp modelers, and synths.
Tablets with powerful microphones would also make sense if you are committed to practicing. If you’re an ambitious performer who wants to study more through online and offline videos, then having a great battery life and storage space will also be important.
| Image | Product Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Microsoft VDV-00001 | Check Price | |
 | Samsung SM-T870NZKAXAR | Check Price | |
 | Apple MXEY2LL/A | Check Price | |
 | Samsung SM-P610NZAAXAR | Check Price | |
 | Lenovo ZA5T0263US | Check Price |
Whatever your tastes, you’ll only receive a tablet with a poor processor, a substandard display, a primitive in-device audio setup, insufficient RAM, or a tablet that isn’t suitable for making music.
I’ve decided to compile a list of the Best Tablet For Musicians in order to address these shortcomings and provide you the most value for your money. No matter your degree of skill, these gadgets will be able to manage most of your needs.
The top 5 tablets for musicians that I have had the chance to thoroughly evaluate are listed below. In order to compile this list, I evaluated over 30 tablets, each of which served as my musical ally for at least a week or longer. This is crucial to mention.
1. Microsoft VDV-00001
The most recent tablet-PC to enter the market is the Microsoft Surface Pro 7, which emphasizes a professionally oriented operating system. You can expect it to operate the majority of music-making programs like Avid Pro Tools, Magix Acid, DarkWave Studio, and more easily because it is one of the most powerful Windows tablets.
Due to its PC-like features, I believe the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 makes sense to purchase if you are a professional musician. It may very well serve as a supplement to the main laptop you are now using for the majority of your labor-intensive tasks.
Additionally, if you now own a Pro 6, this update sounds like a good idea as the Pro 7 has an extra Type-C port for quicker uploading of music files, samples, and pertinent data.
The Surface Pro 7 appears like a dependable choice to invest in if you are a professional musician that plays gigs or even manages various instruments like synthesizers, organs, and cellos. The ultra-fast RAM, however, is what makes this possible. It can easily handle many tasks and enables you to actively contribute, even in real-time, while performing live synths.
You also have access to distant studio-quality microphones, which are excellent for recording high-fidelity music in addition to these. Additionally, the front-firing stereo speakers’ 1.6W power rating makes them adequate for listening to information and resources; furthermore, Dolby Audio technology enhances upward-firing, lifelike ambience, and overhead acoustics.The majority of musicians avoid using tablets because the screens are frequently far too small to display sheet music. Microsoft fills up this gap by including a 12.3-inch PixelSense display that allows musicians to easily read sheet music. The 3:2 aspect ratio seems similar to the paper music sheets, and the overall resolution of 2736 x 1824 makes sheets easy to view.
The Intel Core i7-1035G4 chipset, with a single-core maximum speed of 3.70GHz, is the heart of the Surface Pro 7. Since the bulk of music-related programs and processes are single-threaded, this functionality is useful for musicians. Additionally, the Windows 10 OS guarantees increased app coverage and a more dynamic interface for artists to use.
Processor speeds are increased by the 8GB of low-power RAM when managing programs like Ableton Live Lite 9 and others. Due to the 128GB ultra-fast SSD in use, storing the music files is also not a problem. The micro-SD card allows for storage expansion, adding at least 256GB to the available capacity.
On this tablet PC, I tried utilizing DAWs like FL Studio and Ableton, and I had no trouble controlling ambient sounds, noise-reduction, sampling, managing stuttering vocals, loading sheets, or pitch-shifting.
Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is among the greatest tablets for musicians to buy, especially considering the capability that makes it act like a laptop. But what sets it apart from other items on the list is its Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for establishing fast internet connections. Last but not least, the Pro 7’s 10.5-hour battery life is a noteworthy characteristic to take into account before making a purchase.
2. Samsung SM-T870NZKAXAR
Musicians prefer tablets with great audio, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 aims to deliver just that. The remarkable 15-hour battery life, more than the cutting-edge spec sheet in general, leaves a lasting impression.
I believe the Tab S7 is a solid option for any musician looking for a stunning screen to read sheet music on. Not to mention the incremental display resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, which is a worthy boost over tablets like the S6 Lite and a good enough reason to invest in this tablet.
First off, the tablet’s built-in microphone is studio-grade and catches music and audio with little background noise. For a realistic acoustic experience, the Dolby Atmos technology is a perfect match for the AKG-tuned quad-speaker setup.
No of their level of expertise, musicians should be obligated to the 11-inch TFT screen. The WQXGA panel provides good diagonal space for displaying music notation during performances, jam sessions, and more.
A Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 CPU is in use, which is capable of handling the majority of complicated production effects like Sidechaining, reverse reverb, and more. Every music app you choose to install will run faster thanks to the octa-core architecture, which also leaves Android 10 OS with the ideal operating interface.
The 128GB storage support works in conjunction with the 6GB RAM, which is a useful tool for music production. If you need to keep a lot of recordings, you can always use the dedicated micro-SD slot, which has a 1TB storage limit.
The hardware configuration can handle the majority of music-related apps, simplified DAWs like Ableton Live, music tools, production resources, and more.
Due of its aesthetic credibility, I would suggest the Tab S7 in Mystic Black if you were to buy a Samsung tablet right now. The tablet weighs 1.10 pounds and has accurate dimensions of 9.99 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches. It includes an aluminum chassis for increased durability.
Although the Tab S7 does not have a 3.5mm connection, the magnetic connector still allows for the use of a respectable pair of earbuds. If necessary, you can also connect an extra microphone to the Type-C connector to further hone your recordings.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 outshines the competition in terms of speaker configuration and auditory presence. Additionally, compared to some of the other possibilities on the list, it is superior dual camera system with 4K capabilities that makes it a better, all-inclusive gadget.
3. Apple MXEY2LL/A
When it comes to portable music production, the Apple iPad Pro continues to top the list. Although the specs sheet is figuratively cutting edge, the tablet’s M1 chipset gives it confidence when it comes to music processing.
Because of the decent-enough screen real estate, the iPad Pro is a good choice if you intend to use the tablet as a tiny MacBook. Additionally, the larger amount of RAM in the iPad Pro makes it a worthwhile purchase over the 2020 model.
One of the few OEMs that supports studio-quality microphones with tablets is Apple. Voice and audio recording are made to work flawlessly with this capability. In addition, there are 4 speakers available, each of which is capable of stereo reproduction and is powerful and clear.
Additionally, a scratch-resistant glass is in use to support you throughout heavy use. Apple’s display features a resolution of 2048 x 2732 pixels.
While the screen is ideal for music composition, its diagonal space and smaller bezels make it suitable for reading sheet music as well.
When it comes to interacting with iSpark, Retro Piano, and other operations, the M1 chipset handles the majority of the labor-intensive tasks. The octa-core processor’s clock speed of 3.2GHz is sufficient for the majority of apps, processes, and post-production operations.
The iPad Pro’s aluminum-clad frame and overall measurements of 11.05 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches make it a tough little piece of hardware. If you like color choices, I would strongly advise you to choose the Silver model because it weighs 1.50 pounds, which is still on the lighter side.
Additionally, the iPad Pro accommodates Wi-Fi 6 compatibility for quick access to online resources. Additionally, there is a Thunderbolt 4 port in case you want to attach the tablet to a digital audio workstation, external monitor, or data hub. Additionally, you have access to a magnetic connector for attaching compatible external microphones and headphones to the same device.
In conclusion, when it comes to music production, the Apple iPad Pro is nothing less than a full-fledged laptop. However, in contrast to the constrained capabilities of other devices on the list, the triple camera configuration at the back with a separate depth scanner makes it competent enough for other professional jobs like music and video recording.
The Apple iPad Air is also a reliable option if price is a concern because it has an A14 CPU, a good 10.9-inch screen, and a lightning-fast Type-C connection. Additionally, the iPad Pro and iPad Air are two of the list’s most responsive tablets and are both compatible with the Apple Pencil.
4. Samsung SM-P610NZAAXAR
A typical mid-range tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite has a great battery and supports quick charging. Due to the strong processor, which easily runs the majority of apps, this is a fantastic device to take into consideration if you are a mid-level music production engineer.
Even after comparing the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite and Tab A7, I determined that the former is a superior choice for artists because it has more RAM and better storage capabilities.
Due to the built-in microphone and capability for high-fidelity audio recording, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite makes a lot of sense as the tablet of choice for musicians, audio engineers, and even performers. The dual-AKG tuned speakers are an excellent purchase. The Dolby Atmos support comes next for a more comprehensive auditory presence and atmosphere.
The 10.4-inch screen of the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite has a resolution of 2000 x 1200 pixels overall. The TFT display assumes a 5:3 aspect ratio, which is the same as the actual paper-based sheet music and is sufficiently bright.
The Exynos 9611 chipset, which is at the heart of this tablet, can manage simple DAW-specific operations and applications like iReal pro, voice tuner, and more. The Android 10 OS, which interacts with the OneUI 3.1 and can be upgraded if necessary, completes the chipset.
The Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, which is covered in aluminum, is 9.63 x 6.07 x 0.28 inches and 1.03 pounds in weight. Additionally, the responsive screen works with styluses and reacts quickly to the Samsung S-pen.
Additionally, a 3.5mm connector and a Type-C port are available for attaching external speakers and microphones as well as data hubs. In terms of connectivity, dual-band Wi-Fi 5 compatibility comes first on the list, followed by support for Bluetooth 5.0.
To summarize, the great cost-to-ownership ratio of Android tablets like this one makes them a wise choice for musicians. Nevertheless, the tablet stands out among some of the other list inclusions because to the enormous 7040 mAh battery.
5. Lenovo ZA5T0263US
One of the most reasonably priced tablets on the list, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is distinguished by a superb microphone setup and a long-lasting battery. For musicians that are more inclined to record their compositions and modulate or manipulate them as they choose, I would propose the same tablet recommendations.
I even put it up against the Smart Tab M10 Plus, but the plain M10 Plus won out because it has 128GB of storage as opposed to the 32GB of the smart tab.
For a more complete acoustic experience, Lenovo also allows for the dual, side-adhering speakers with Dolby Atmos support.
The 10.3-inch IPS screen is unquestionably the best available. The screen’s overall resolution of 1200 x 1920 pixels, however, also contributes to its quality and vividness. The 16:10 aspect ratio is also something to consider if you enjoy reading music notation and sheet music like lead sheets, musical staves, and more.
The Mediatek Helio P22T chipset, which has an octa-core architecture and a maximum clock speed of up to 2.3GHz, is at the heart of the system. While the CPU can manage the majority of tools and programs flawlessly, it also leads to the Android 9.0 Pie OS for increased professional inclusivity.
The M10 Plus is a conventional-looking tablet that is 1.01 pounds in weight and made largely of plastic. However, the measurements are set as 9.61 x 6.04 x 0.32 inches. You have access to a Type-C port for quick data transfers when it comes to the peripherals.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is the tablet of choice for the majority of artists because to its outstanding cost-to-ownership ratio, which sets it apart from some of the other items on the list.
Verdict
You can always select from a list of hand-selected solutions, focused on certain use scenarios, even though I have previously mentioned the best tablets for musicians. These consist of:
- Consider the pricey Microsoft Surface Pro 7 if your tastes revolve on Windows-like interface, blazing-fast speed, and tablet-PC features.
- The Apple iPad Pro is a device to take into account if your steadfastness involves music creation.
- The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is a dependable tablet if you intend to perform directly from various sheet music
- formats and files while enjoying decisive music producing skills.
- If you’re looking for a tablet with a full set of specifications and the best speaker setup at a reasonable price, I’d suggest the Lenovo ZA5T0263US.
You may always take into account various tablets depending on the needs, recording capabilities, money, and other factors in addition to the choices provided.