5 Best Tablets With Cellular Service in 2025

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At A Glance: Tablets With Cellular Service

• Apple iPad Air 11-inch with M3 chip
  Our Top Pick
• Apple iPad 11-inch
• Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 5G

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When it comes to tablets, nothing beats having a reliable LTE or 5G connection that keeps you productive and entertained wherever you go. In 2025, Apple and Samsung dominate this category with sleek designs, powerful processors, and features that make them more than just oversized phones. After testing and reviewing the current lineup, here’s the verdict: if you want the most balanced option, the Apple iPad Air M3 is the top choice. But depending on your needs, every tablet on this list has a strong reason to exist.

Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) – The Best All-Around Value

Apple’s 11-inch iPad powered by the A16 chip is the definition of balance. It’s not the cheapest, nor is it the most powerful, but it nails performance, portability, and price all at once.

Why it stands out:

• 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone for vibrant visuals
• A16 chip handles gaming, multitasking, and video editing smoothly
• Solid camera setup with 12MP front and back shooters
• Wi-Fi 6 and 5G ensure fast connections anywhere
• Compatible with Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio for creativity and productivity
• Buy on Amazon

This is the iPad for students, everyday users, and professionals who don’t need the raw power of the M3 chip but still want speed, longevity, and modern features.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 5G – The Affordable Pick

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab A9+ is the budget-friendly 5G tablet that proves you don’t have to spend big to stay connected.

What makes it appealing:

• Large 11-inch screen that works well for streaming, browsing, or office tasks
• Quad speakers with Dolby Atmos give surprisingly immersive sound
• Slim, lightweight design that’s easy to carry
• Upgraded chipset keeps apps running smoothly
• Expandable storage with microSD support
• Buy on Amazon

It’s limited to AT&T’s network, but for the price, it’s one of the best deals for those who need 5G on a budget. Perfect for casual users, kids, or as a backup travel tablet.

Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen) – Compact Yet Mighty

If portability is your priority, the iPad Mini is the champion. It crams serious power into an 8.3-inch body that fits in one hand.

Highlights include:

• A15 Bionic chip for flagship-level performance in a small size
• 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and P3 wide color
• 12MP cameras for high-quality video calls and 4K recording
• Support for Apple Pencil 2 for fast notes and sketches
• Lightweight and ultra-portable design for on-the-go professionals
• Buy on Amazon

It’s pricier than the entry iPad, but travelers, students, and field workers will love its unbeatable mix of size and performance.

Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) – The Best Overall

This is the tablet that does everything right. Apple’s M3 chip brings next-level performance, advanced AI features, and battery efficiency in a package that feels like the perfect middle ground between iPad Pro and base iPad.

Why it’s the winner:

• M3 chip with Apple Intelligence for smarter multitasking and creative work
• Stunning 11-inch Liquid Retina display with ultralow reflectivity
• Wi-Fi 6E and 5G for blazing-fast connectivity
• Storage up to 1TB for professionals and creators
• Works with Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, transforming it into a laptop replacement
• Buy on Amazon

The iPad Air is ideal for digital artists, professionals, and power users who want a premium tablet without splurging on an iPad Pro.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ 5G – The Android Flagship

Samsung’s Tab S10+ is designed for those who want cutting-edge features and don’t mind paying for them. With a massive screen, AI tools, and an included S Pen, it’s one of the most capable tablets you can buy.

What makes it shine:

• 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display that looks stunning indoors or outdoors
• Galaxy AI tools like Note Assist and Circle to Search for smarter productivity
• Rugged build with resistance against dust and splashes
• S Pen included, perfect for artists and students
• Strong battery life and fast 5G speeds (T-Mobile only)
• Buy on Amazon

This is a premium choice for Android lovers who need power, multitasking, and creativity in one sleek package.

Matching Tablets to Your Needs

Choosing the right tablet isn’t just about specs, it’s about lifestyle and use case. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Students and casual users: Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is affordable, good for streaming, studying, and note-taking.
• Everyday professionals: Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) offers great balance for productivity and entertainment without going premium.
• Travelers and field workers: Apple iPad Mini is small, lightweight, and powerful enough for business trips or creative work on the go.
• Digital artists and power users: Apple iPad Air M3 delivers pro-grade features, Apple Pencil Pro support, and storage up to 1TB.
• Android enthusiasts and multitaskers: Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ brings AI-powered tools, a large AMOLED display, and the included S Pen for heavy-duty use.

This way, no matter who you are, there’s a tablet here that matches your needs and lifestyle.

The Small Drawbacks to Consider

While these tablets excel, there are a few limitations worth noting:

• Some models are network-locked (Samsung A9+ to AT&T, Tab S10+ to T-Mobile), which may restrict carrier flexibility.
• Apple accessories like the Pencil and Magic Keyboard are sold separately, adding to overall cost.
• Premium models like the iPad Air M3 and Samsung Tab S10+ sit in the higher price range, making them less ideal for budget-conscious buyers.

Our Take

If you want the best LTE/5G tablet in 2025, the Apple iPad Air M3 takes the crown thanks to its unbeatable blend of performance, display quality, and future-ready connectivity. The iPad Mini is perfect for those who prize portability, while Samsung’s Tab S10+ is a powerhouse for Android enthusiasts. On the other end of the spectrum, the Galaxy Tab A9+ offers a surprisingly capable experience for an affordable price.

No matter your budget or usage style, there’s a tablet here that will keep you connected, productive, and entertained without relying on Wi-Fi.