Tablets are lightweight, portable devices that fast rival laptops in their usefulness. But a recent development in tablets with full-size USB ports has made them even handier.
Maybe you didn’t even know that was possible. Or you might have been wondering, do tablets have USB ports? The good news is that many great tablets now come with USB ports. While it used to be a rare feature, it’s becoming increasingly common.
A tablet with a USB port is very convenient, making it easier to connect to other devices.
For example, you can hook up an external mouse or keyboard. When you combine your tablet with a keyboard and mouse, it’s easier to use it for all sorts of tasks. So, adding a USB port transforms your tablet into a mini-computer. It’s compact but powerful.
It also opens up other options, like connecting your tablet with a computer or an external hard drive. That way, you can easily transfer or backup your data.
Photographers will also find that a tablet is a helpful tool for photoshoots. It’s quick and simple to copy photos to your tablet to clear up space on your camera.
So, as you can see, tablets that have USB ports are fantastic tools. And there’s a good range of USB tablets to choose from nowadays!
If you want to know what tablets have USB ports, read on. I’ve reviewed the best tablets with full-size USB ports available right now.
Plus, I’ll share a few tips on choosing the right tablet with a USB C for your needs. By the time you’ve finished, you’ll know exactly what to look for when buying a new tablet.
So let’s get onto the reviews!
Buying Guide to the Best Tablet with USB Port
Here’s everything you need to know to pick the right tablet with a USB port.
What type of USB Port does it have?
First of all, you should double-check what USB port the tablet has. Not all ports are compatible with every device. Plus, the type of USB port will also affect the speed of charging and transferring data.
Here are the main types:
- USB-A
- USB-B
- USB-B Mini
- USB-B Micro
- USB-C (the most common USB port as of now)
- Lightning (the fastest USB port for Mac & Apple products)
- Thunderbolt (the fastest USB port for Android & other products)
Generally, I would recommend going for at least the USB-C for speed and power. But some tablets still have the older USB-A port – so do your research!
Tablet Size
The tablet size is crucial as it affects your user experience and how portable the device is. So, you need to think about your priorities and how you’ll use your tablet.
For example, do you need a compact, lightweight model for use on the go? In that case, you’ll want to double-check the dimensions and weight. You might want to go for a smaller model to fit your bag so you can take it anywhere.
Or, you may want a tablet for watching movies or editing photos. In that case, a larger screen with high resolution may be more important to you.
Operating System
The operating system is another crucial factor to consider. It will depend on the brand, with the main options being iOS, Windows, and Android.
You may already have a preference, in which case you can take your pick from the devices listed above.
If not, think about whether there are any specific apps you’ll need to use on your tablet. Not all apps are available on every operating system, so you want to double-check that first.
Another deal-breaker could be compatibility with your other devices. For example, if you have an iPhone and Mac, you may prefer an iPad. It will make syncing and connecting your devices more straightforward.
Processor
Don’t forget to check out the processor, too. This feature powers your tablet, so you definitely don’t want to skimp on it.
The general rule is that the more cores, the more powerful your tablet is. So, an octa-core processor will beat a quad-core processor.
Display Quality & Resolution
The display is an essential factor as it will affect your enjoyment and satisfaction.
Premium tablets often have very high-resolution displays with a huge color gamut. As such, images, videos, and games all look outstanding.
But cheaper tablets tend to fall behind when it comes to resolution and image quality. So, it all comes down to your budget and what you can afford.
The factors to look out for include the resolution, color gamut, and refresh rate. A faster refresh rate makes for a better viewing experience – so go for 120 Hz if possible.
Price
Last but not least, the tablet you choose needs to fit into your budget. You’ll make it easier for yourself if you first narrow your budget.
Then, you can look for the best available tablet in that price range. It will make your decision easier and help you to find the best tablet for your needs.
There are some great tablets at every price point. Browse through the reviews above for tablets from budget to premium. Then, you can click through to check out the price of each tablet and take your pick.
The Best Tablets with USB Ports
Apple iPad Pro 12.9
Best Premium iPad
(Image credit: Apple)
The Apple iPad Pro needs no introduction. It’s one of the best tablets in existence, and it even comes with a USB port.
The iPad Pro looks sleek and comes with the quality and style you’d expect of an Apple product. The bezels are tiny, so the screen stretches from edge to edge.
(Image credit: Proactive Creative)
This model has a generously sized 12.9-inch screen with gorgeous visuals. With True Tone and Retina display, images and video look vibrant and crisp. So, it’s perfect for streaming video, photo editing, and more.
The other specs don’t disappoint. You get superb audio quality and excellent cameras, including a 10MP Ultra-Wide camera. Plus, it has impressive, long-lasting battery life.
As for the USB port, it comes with the latest USB 4.0 standard. It’s still compatible with USB-C cables, but it’s even faster.
The A12Z Bionic chip can handle even the most demanding apps. So you’ll have no problem running several programs at once without any lagging or other issues.
(Image credit: Proactive Creative)
The iPad Pro could easily replace your laptop for almost every task. It’s more portable but just as robust, responsive, and easy to use. Add in the Magic Keyboard, and you won’t look back.
You can even combine it with the Apple Pencil for note-taking, drawing, and more. There’s no reason (other than budget) not to go for the iPad.
The iPad Pro doesn’t come cheap, but it’s well worth your investment. But if you’re an Android fan, read on for the best Android tablets with a USB port instead.
A Quick Note on Connecting iPads with USB Devices
Many recent iPad models only have USB-C ports. As a result, you may need to invest in a dock connector to make it compatible with regular USB devices. The dock connector is cheap and easy to use, so you can easily connect any device to your iPad.
But for some specific iPads, you’ll need to buy a Lightning to USB Camera Adapter instead. For example, that includes the iPad Air, iPad Mini, and 4th Generation iPads. Despite the name, this adapter doesn’t just work for cameras. You can use it to connect any kind of USB device to your iPad, making it versatile and giving you more options.
Make sure to double-check your model so you buy the right adapter. You can find out more here.
- Screen Size: 12.9 inches
- Resolution: 2732 x 2048 pixels
- Dimensions & Weight: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm, 682 g
- Processor: Apple M1 Chip – Octa-Core CPU
- OS: iPadOS 15
Pros:
- The iPad Pro has amazing specs and jaw-dropping visuals
- It comes with a great build quality and a powerful processor
- You can connect all sorts of accessories for ease of use
- It has the latest and fastest USB 4.0 port
Cons:
- It’s a little heavier than some tablets
- You may need a USB-C to USB adapter
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AmazonSamsung Galaxy Tab S7 Plus
Best Samsung Tablet
(Image credit: TransOurDream)
There are lots of things that could attract you to the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+. For example, the gorgeous display with incredible high-resolution images. Or the stylish yet slim and lightweight design with thin bezels.
Whatever first grabs your attention, it’s worth taking a closer look at this excellent tablet. First of all, this tablet has a full USB 3.4 port that transfers data and charges your tablet fast.
So, it ticks the box for USB ports. But the Galaxy Tab S7 is also responsive, super-fast, and user-friendly.
(Image credit: Proactive Creative)
It’s 5G-enabled, and this version even comes with an S pen. So, you can use it for graphic design, illustration, and more.
With a 120 Hz refresh rate and incredible resolution, it’s perfect for entertainment. You can take decent shots with the 13MP and 8 MP cameras.
The Galaxy Tab S7+ gives the iPad Pro a run for its money. There’s very little difference between the features and even the hardware of each model.
So, if you’re looking for a stellar Android tablet with a USB port, you won’t go wrong with the Tab S7+.
- Screen Size: 12.4 inches
- Resolution: 1752 x 2500 pixels
- Dimensions & Weight: 285 x 185 x 5.7 mm, 575 g
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+
- OS: Android 10 (but upgradable to Android 11)
Pros:
- A great alternative to the iPad Pro
- It has a beautiful large screen with super-high resolution & a fast refresh rate
- Charges fast through the USB 3.2 port
- You can connect it with other devices
Cons:
- The build quality isn’t as good as Apple iPads
- It’s not a budget product
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AmazonMicrosoft Surface Pro 7
Best Microsoft Tablet
(Image credit: Microsoft)
If you’re looking for a tablet that looks and feels just like a laptop, go for the Microsoft Surface Pro 7.
This tablet packs all the power of a Microsoft laptop with the flexibility of a tablet. You get that large screen size but the ergonomics of a tablet.
The Surface Pro 7 is much faster than the earlier Pro 6. This model comes with a robust 10th Gen Intel Core processor, making it speedy and responsive. As a result, you shouldn’t need to worry about overloading this tablet.
(Image credit: Proactive Creative)
It’s worth noting that the battery life isn’t as long as some other models. Microsoft says it lasts up to 10.5 hours, but it’s more like 5-6 hours in practice.
Bear that in mind if you like to work on the go and don’t want to worry about plugging in. But the good news is that it charges very quickly thanks to the USB-C port.
While this laptop doesn’t have a Thunderbolt port, it does offer both USB-A and USB-C options. Now, it’s more versatile and is compatible with most cords and devices. That includes 4K monitors, headphones, and adaptors.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is ideal if you’re transitioning from a laptop to a tablet. It’s the best of both worlds! This tablet feels solid yet is very lightweight and easy to take anywhere.
- Screen Size: 12.3 inches
- Resolution: 2736 x 1824 pixels
- Dimensions & Weight: 292 x 201 x 8.5 mm, 770 g
- Processor: Intel Core i5 (also available in i3 or i7)
- OS: Windows 10 Home
Pros:
- A fantastic laptop/tablet combo
- It has USB-A and USB-C ports – but no Thunderbolt 3 port
- The screen looks fantastic and has a high resolution
- It’s fairly lightweight and allows you to work in an ergonomic position
Cons:
- The battery life isn’t great and tends to last up to 6 hours
- Accessories are sold separately
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AmazonSamsung Galaxy Tab S6
Best Affordable Samsung Tablet
(Image credit: Samsung)
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you could consider the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6. It offers many of the same features and quality as the Galaxy Tab S7, but it’s much more affordable.
While it’s not as expensive, this tablet is by no means out of date – it was only released in August 2019. The S6 ticks many of the right boxes for a mid-range tablet with a USB port.
For one, it’s super slim and lightweight, making it practical and portable. The smaller 10.5-inch screen makes it easier to carry anywhere, as it will fit in most bags without a hassle. And at the same time, it feels sturdy and durable and has long battery life.
(Image credit: Samsung)
But despite the smaller display, you don’t lose out on any quality. The visuals are still stunning and vivid, and it’s probably the best 10-inch tablet with a USB port. Combine that with the excellent quad speakers, and it’s perfect for entertainment.
One difference between the Galaxy S7+ and the S6 is the refresh rate. The newer model has a 120Hz refresh rate, while this one only offers the standard 60Hz.
But you won’t notice the difference most of the time. It does stand out if you want super-quick responses for drawing and graphic design.
Overall, this tablet is smooth and simple to use with a superb user experience. It’s powerful and fast and can easily handle demanding apps or multitask. Plus, you get that handy USB port for charging or connecting devices.
At this price, it makes an excellent mid-range option!
- Screen Size: 10.5 inches
- Resolution: 1600 x 2560
- Dimensions & Weight: 159.5 x 244.5 x 5.7 mm, 420 g
- Processor: Qualcom Snapdragon 8150
- OS: Android 9
Pros:
- High-quality, durable build, and slim, lightweight design
- It has a long battery life and excellent visuals & audio quality
- The smaller 10.5-inch screen makes it compact and portable
- An excellent mid-range tablet – cheaper than the premium models
Cons:
- It only has a 60Hz refresh rate
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AmazonASUS Transformer Mini
Best Mid-Range Android Tablet
(Image credit: Asus)
Next up is another reasonably priced tablet that’s worth taking a look at! ASUS is fast becoming one of the best computer and tablet suppliers. And the Transformer Mini is another fantastic ASUS product!
What makes the Asus Transformer Mini stand out is that it comes with a keyboard and pen included. That makes it a versatile tablet that can double up as a laptop.
Plus, it’s also a bargain, providing excellent value for your money!
For a mid-range tablet, the specs aren’t bad at all. It comes with 4 GB RAM and 128 GB SSD storage. So while it can’t compare to the premium tablets, it does the job!
What’s more, it has a long battery that should last all day without charging.
(Image credit: Asus)
The Asus Transformer Mini is a great affordable option. You won’t need to spend money on extra accessories like a digital pen.
The USB port is super handy, and the keyboard makes it a suitable replacement for your laptop! You can work in an ergonomic position thanks to the adjustable hinge design. So, you’ll get more done, no matter where you are.
- Screen Size: 10.1 inches
- Resolution: 1280 x 800 pixels
- Dimensions & Weight: 261 x 172 x 10 mm, 620 g
- Processor: Quad-Core 1.44 GHz
- OS: Windows 10 Home
Pros:
- A great cheaper option
- It comes with a digital pen and keyboard included
- All-day long-lasting battery
Cons:
- The storage space is a little limited, and it’s not as fast as some tablets
- The bezels are quite chunky, making the screen look smaller
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AmazonLenovo Tab M10 Plus
Best Budget Android Tablet
(Image credit: Lenovo)
Next up is the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus. If you’re looking for a budget Android tablet with a USB port, this is one of the best!
The Lenovo Tab looks sleek and stylish, with slim bezels and a compact build that feels solid.
The screen is bright with high contrast and wide-angle viewing. At 10.3 inches, it’s perfect for streaming movies but is still easily portable.
This tablet’s storage space is quite small, at just 64 GB. That’s something to be aware of before you buy, as you may need to back up your files to the cloud.
But the octa-core processor is powerful and robust. You’ll have no problem running heavy apps on this tablet or with several programs simultaneously.
It also has a dedicated Kids Mode to keep little ones safe. So, it makes a great choice as a tablet for children and teens.
The Lenovo Tab fits the bill if you’re after a low-cost, compact tablet. It provides everything you need from a budget tablet and has amazing visuals.
- Screen Size: 10.3 inches
- Resolution: 1200 x 1920 pixels
- Dimensions & Weight: 244 x 153 x 8.2 mm, 460 g
- Processor: MediaTek P22 Tab Octa Core
- OS: Android 9
Pros:
- A good budget option that looks and feels great
- Ideal for watching videos due to the high resolution & wide viewing angles
- It has a decent-sized screen and is slim, lightweight, & compact
Cons:
- The cameras aren’t the best
- You don’t get loads of storage
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AmazonNew Microsoft Surface Go 2
Best Budget Microsoft Tablet Keyboard
(Image credit: Microsoft)
If you’re a Microsoft fan, but the Surface Pro is out of your budget, check this one out! The Surface Go 2 is a fantastic little tablet that doubles up as a laptop.
It’s convenient, versatile, and adaptable to your needs. The 10.5-inch touchscreen display has a high resolution and props up for an ergonomic working position.
And when you add the Type Cover (purchased separately), it’s as practical and easy to use as a laptop. You may notice a small difference with the processor power, but that can vary in laptops too.
There are many other reasons to go for the Surface Go 2. These include the built-in WiFi connectivity, long battery life that
(Image credit: Proactive Creative)
While the resolution isn’t as high as some other tablets, it certainly won’t disappoint. Images and videos look amazing, crisp, and clear, and the design is sturdy and reliable.
Overall, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is an excellent option. It won’t break the bank and is one of the best Windows tablets with a USB port.
- Screen Size: 10.5 inch
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Dimensions & Weight: 245 x 175 x 8.3mm, 544 g
- Processor: Intel Pentium Gold Processor 4425Y
- OS: Windows 10 Home
Pros:
- It doubles up as a tablet & laptop when paired with the Type Cover
- It’s lightweight, versatile, and practical
- It has a good display with a high resolution for the screen size
Cons:
- The Surface Go 2 doesn’t have the most powerful processor
- The screen is smaller than some other tablets – but it’s also more portable
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The Wrap Up
There you have my complete guide to tablets with USB ports. By now, you should know why it’s such a useful feature and what to look for in a tablet with a USB port.
Plus, you might even know which tablet you want to buy. If you do, let me know in the comments. You can drop any questions there, too!
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