Concepts was Built
for Tablets

There are so many choices to make when it comes to selecting the right hardware, especially with the variety of platforms and products on the market.

The good news is that these days, the latest devices are all excellent and start at affordable prices with impressive performance and value to match.

Here are four things to consider before making a purchase:

Platform: Are you locked into using one particular platform? Are there other apps you need to use that are only compatible with that platform? Concepts is available across Android, Windows and iPadOS, but other apps you use might be limited to a single platform.
Screen Size: How big is big enough? The best selling options range from 8 to 14 inches (20-36 cm) measured diagonally. With a smaller size you have better portability and with the larger sizes you get much more space to spread your wings.
Stylus Support: Does the tablet have built in support for a stylus? Make sure to buy a stylus that is compatible with the tablet you purchase. This can be confusing to understand with so many choices available. Concepts is at its best when used with a stylus.
Storage Space: Make sure you will have enough storage available to last the lifetime of the tablet. Many people hang on to theirs for 5+ years. If you are going to create a lot of documents, or work with large PDF files or images, storage space can be used up quickly. Headline prices are often shown with the lowest storage configurations. so ensure your budget accounts for the extras as you configure your purchase. Cloud storage can also be used to offload documents when you’re not actively working on them (where available).

iPadOS

All iPads benefit from a rich ecosystem of tablet optimized applications available in the App Store and cross-compatibility with many apps across iPhone and macOS.

Apple iPad Pro: stunning visuals, strong performance and long battery life

The Apple iPad Pro is widely regarded as the best tablet device with a stylus. Its large, high-resolution display (up to 13") offers stunning visuals with color-accurate visuals, and includes Apple’s ProMotion technology which allows it to both read data from the stylus more quickly and update the screen more often than a cheaper alternative. The powerful M-series processors ensure smooth and efficient performance. The long battery life allows for extended use without worrying about frequent recharging.

The Apple Pencil Pro,sold separately, is also a standout device. With its precise pressure sensitivity, tilt support, responsiveness and many other features, the Pencil provides an exceptionally natural writing and drawing experience.

Direct Link: Apple Store

Apple iPad Air: affordable precision and control with the Apple Pencil

The Apple iPad Air is a great alternative to the iPad Pro as a more affordable option with similar, if slightly fewer features. The display is limited to 60Hz, but it still provides ample space for multitasking and creative work in multiple sizes.

The Apple Pencil (2nd gen) also works seamlessly with the iPad Air, allowing users to enjoy the same level of precision and control as with the iPad Pro. The iPad Air is a great choice for those looking for a versatile tablet with stylus support without breaking the bank.

Direct Link: Apple Store

Android

The list of apps that are optimized for tablets (and foldables) are expanding in the Play Store. Google’s consistent efforts to encourage developers to build compatible apps are paying off. While the ecosystem is not yet as rich as the App Store there are a growing number of high quality apps that support large screens.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra: amazing display, smooth performance, long battery life and an IP68 rating

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 series is the top-of-the-line Android tablet with stylus support. The S10 Ultra boasts a massive, high-resolution and high-refresh rate display that delivers exceptional clarity and detail. The powerful processor easily handles demanding tasks, ensuring smooth multitasking and a seamless experience. The long battery life allows for extended usage on the go, and the tablet even boasts an IP68 rating, making it suitable outdoors in rain or shine.

The S Pen,included with the Galaxy Tab S10 series, is a versatile stylus that offers precise pressure sensitivity and tilt support. It's perfect for sketching, drawing, note-taking, and annotating documents. If you are looking for a more affordable option in the S10 series, consider the excellent Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+.

Direct Link: Samsung Store

Google Pixel Tablet: budget-friendly, great for general use, offers third party stylus support

The highly affordable Pixel tablet is built by Google, the makers of Android. It has a smaller 11" display compared to the Galaxy Tab S10 series, but it still provides a great experience for general use and productivity. It’s a great choice for those looking for a powerful and portable Android tablet with stylus support at a more budget-friendly price point.

While Google does not sell a stylus for the Pixel Tablet themselves, it is compatible with any stylus that supports the USI 2.0 standard. This one from Penoval is a favorite among our team.

Direct Link: Google Store.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: the ultimate in portability

If you like to live in the future, it's worth giving the Fold 6 a look. This is Samsung's 6th generation foldable phone with two displays; a smaller one on the outside for standard phone operation and a larger tablet-like screen inside that folds out and supports the Samsung S Pen. While some of the early models suffered from issues with the hinge and screen, the latest generation has put those problems behind. While a bit more pricey, this device can replace both your phone and your tablet and still fit in your pocket.

Direct Link: Samsung Store

Windows

The Windows platform has a deep list of enterprise and business software. Many companies depend on apps that are only available in the Windows ecosystem. These applications are often less well optimized for pure tablet uses but the flexibility to move between a traditional mouse + keyboard and tablet + stylus is a requirement for many.

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: excellent display, flexible and battery-friendly

The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 sets the standard for Windows tablets. It features a high-resolution display, a powerful and energy-friendly processor, and can function as both a laptop and a tablet with a separate, detachable keyboard cover. This makes it a versatile device that’s a great choice for professionals, artists, and students.

There are business models with more widely compatible Intel chips (though battery life takes a big hit). Concepts is optimized for both Intel and the more battery friendly ARM64 chips.

The Surface Pen, also sold separately or with the keyboard cover, is a high-quality stylus that offers precise pressure sensitivity, tilt support and haptics that give you feedback as you write or draw.

Direct Link: Microsoft Store

Wacom Tablets

Do you already have a PC and want to take the first step to a stylus-based workflow? Adding a Wacom tabletto your setup might be an approach. These tablets connect to your existing PC and add a stylus and (on the higher-end models) a second display. Take a look at the Wacom Movink. It features a large 13" high-contrast OLED display but is small enough to be slipped into a bag alongside a laptop for portability. Concepts has been optimized for all of Wacom's tablets.

Direct Link: Wacom Store

Conclusion

The ideal tablet for using Concepts ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and the ecosystem of apps that matter to you. No matter which tablet you choose, Concepts' intuitive interface will empower you to explore your creativity and take your ideas to the next level. With the right tools at your fingertips, the possibilities are endless.