For years, Android smartphones have vied for dominance with the iPhone, but when it comes to tablets, Android’s struggle against the iPad has been palpable. Fifteen years ago, the first Galaxy Tab was launched, yet Apple’s iPad still stands as the top choice for most users.
The iPad Pro M4 has introduced an immersive experience with its dual OLED displays, raising the bar significantly. While the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra was the first serious challenger in this space, it comes with its share of drawbacks. Today, the OnePlus Pad 3 offers a compelling alternative, and having used it extensively, I can confidently say it’s one of the best Android tablets available.
A Flagship Experience Without the Flagship Price
The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra was known for impressive features, but its size can be daunting. While alternatives like the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus exist, the OnePlus Pad 3 strikes the perfect balance between functionality and affordably for $699 (about €650). It embodies the “flagship killer” ethos of OnePlus, equipped with top-tier specifications usually found on high-end devices.
With a 13.2-inch display reminiscent of the iPad Pro M4 and a stunning 144Hz refresh rate, the LCD screen offers vibrant visuals. Coupled with Dolby Vision support and a peak brightness of 900 nits, this tablet rivals some of the best smartphones.
Unparalleled Performance with Snapdragon 8 Elite
At the heart of the OnePlus Pad 3 is the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, found in flagship phones like the OnePlus 13 and Galaxy S25 Ultra. With options for either 12GB with 256GB storage or 16GB with 512GB storage, these specs typically belong to premium devices, making the OnePlus Pad 3 a remarkable offering.
This tablet competes with Apple’s M4 chip not just in performance but also in AI capabilities. Importantly, the Snapdragon 8 Elite ensures remarkable battery life even with high-powered performance.
A Battery That Endures and Charges Swiftly
OnePlus devices are known for their exceptional battery performance, and the OnePlus Pad 3 is no exception. Its impressive 12,140 mAh battery outlasts competitors like the iPad Pro and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra. While you can expect almost nine hours of usage from a single charge, the standout feature is its fast-charging capability. The included 80W charger can fully recharge the tablet in just 90 minutes. In comparison, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra takes over two hours, and the iPad Pro M4 requires roughly an hour and 45 minutes.
Remarkable Multitasking Features
One notable advantage Android tablets have over the iPad is multitasking capabilities. The OnePlus Pad 3 features an advanced version of Open Canvas, allowing you to run multiple apps seamlessly. This feature has been a game-changer, providing a fluid multitasking experience rare in other Android devices.
Exceptional Value at a Competitive Price
The OnePlus Pad 3 is hard to fault, offering robust hardware with stylus and keyboard case support, making it a versatile device for various tasks. The biggest challenge it faces is that some Android apps are not yet optimized for the larger displays, a hurdle shared across many devices.
At a starting price of $699 (about €650), including many pre-order offers, it’s challenging to find a tablet with such exceptional value. Accessories like the Pen ($100 or €95), folio case ($50 or €47), and keyboard case ($200 or €190) enhance the experience, making it a strong contender against more costly alternatives.
What makes the OnePlus Pad 3 a choice worth considering? Simply put, it combines performance, design, and value like no other Android tablet on the market. Its features and capabilities empower users for work and play, making it an appealing option in today’s tablet landscape. Want to explore related content? Check out Moyens I/O.