Best Tablet for Photo Editing of 2024, Ideal Choices for Superior Photo Editing Experience

Just a short while back, the notion of using a tablet for photo editing seemed far-fetched. The tablet, epitomized by Apple’s iPad, has only recently reached adolescence. Initially, its editing capabilities were modest at best, lacking the storage and processing power required for serious photo editing.

However, times have changed. Today’s tablets boast capabilities that make finding a suitable one for photo editing a breeze. We’ve curated a selection of top-tier devices that excel in handling everything from minor tweaks to intricate editing tasks.

Gone are the days when only a robust desktop computer could suffice for photo editing. Modern tablets outstrip the processing power of desktops from just a few years ago. Factor in the convenience of portability and the seamless integration of pens or styli, and tablets become an enticing option. Additionally, their high-quality screens further enhance the editing experience.

While a tablet may not replace a desktop as your primary editing tool, it’s an excellent companion for on-the-go editing or client meetings.

Let’s delve deeper into our recommendations, beginning with our top choice.

1. Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch

The latest Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch stands out as the ultimate tablet option available today. Powered by the remarkable M2 Apple Silicon chip, initially introduced in Apple laptops, this iPad is anything but ordinary.

Comparing it to my top-of-the-line iMac from six years ago, the top models of the iPad Pro surpass it in speed, RAM, ROM, and graphics performance. The only areas where the iMac outshines it are screen size and connectivity. This iPad Pro packs all the processing power necessary for seamless photo editing tasks.

For editing, the iPad Pro offers a plethora of options. While the built-in Photos app suffices for casual users, our review caters to those seeking more advanced features.

A myriad of apps are available, with notable mentions being desktop programs like Affinity Photo by Serif, which offers a fully-featured iPad app either for free with the desktop version or at a reasonable one-time purchase price, devoid of subscriptions.

Contrastingly, Adobe, the industry leader, provides iPad versions of Photoshop, Lightroom, and Illustrator, delivering substantial creative capabilities. Feature availability depends on the Adobe License purchased, with our articles on buying Photoshop, Lightroom, and Illustrator aiding in decision-making. Exploring the Adobe Creative Cloud offerings might also prove beneficial.

In essence, the 12.9-inch Apple iPad Pro emerges as the premier choice for photo editing on a tablet. It combines robust computing power with a touchscreen interface and grants access to some of the finest photo editing software available.

2. Microsoft Surface Pro 9

In the FAQ section for the Microsoft Surface Pro 9, Microsoft explicitly affirms, Is the Surface Pro 9 a laptop? with a resounding yes. This underscores a fundamental difference in approach between these tech rivals.

Apple’s iPad has steadfastly remained a tablet computer throughout its evolution. Conversely, the Microsoft Surface Pro appears to lean more towards a touchscreen laptop with an optional keyboard, evident in features like the built-in adjustable kickstand and the utilization of Windows as its operating system.

While Apple maintains a clear distinction between MacOS and iOS, recent iPad iterations, equipped with laptop-grade processors like the M1 and M2 Apple Silicon, blur these lines. Microsoft, on the other hand, straddles both worlds, offering a Surface Pro 9 with an Arm chip and another version with an Intel processor.

In practical use, the Surface Pro has consistently impressed users, occupying a versatile hybrid space between laptop and tablet. The familiarity of the Windows environment adds to its appeal. However, its suitability as a photo editing tablet raises questions.

The Surface Pro is certainly capable of handling photo editing tasks proficiently, with popular software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom running smoothly. However, its lack of a dedicated graphics card may limit performance for more demanding editing tasks.

Alternatively, options like ACDSee’s Photo Studio or Luminar Neo provide solid alternatives for enhancing images. Affinity Photo, although initially lagging behind in providing a Windows version, is now available for the Windows operating system, catering to a wider user base.

For optimal photo editing performance, the Intel i7 chip is recommended over the Arm chip, given its superior processing capabilities. Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 warrants serious consideration as a photo editing tablet, particularly for users familiar with the Windows ecosystem.

3. Lenovo Tabet P11 Pro

Introducing the Lenovo Tablet P11 Pro Gen 2, a game-changer in the realm of tablet photo editing with its embrace of the Android operating system. Positioned as our inaugural budget option in this domain, it offers a compelling alternative at just a fraction of the cost, typically a few hundred dollars rather than the hefty price tags exceeding $1000.

While some initial skepticism arose regarding the use of plastic instead of aluminum in its casing, the Lenovo Tablet P11 Pro Gen 2 proves its mettle, delivering commendable performance within its price range. Despite the shift in materials, the tablet maintains its quality standards, although only time will reveal the durability compared to its aluminum-clad counterparts.

Central to the editing experience is the screen, and here, the Lenovo tablet shines. Boasting an OLED display renowned for its brightness and clarity, coupled with a 120 Hz refresh rate and compatibility with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and DCI-P3, it offers a visually immersive environment conducive to precise editing tasks.

For users inclined towards stylus input, the Lenovo Precision Pen 3 proves to be a reliable companion, offering accurate tracking, pressure sensitivity, and low-latency operation. Moreover, with the option to purchase the tablet with a keyboard and cover, the Pen 3 conveniently resides in a recessed protective slot on the back cover.

Delving into the Android ecosystem, the Lenovo Tablet P11 Pro Gen 2 stays true to the platform’s essence, running a relatively unadulterated version of Android (initially shipped with Android 12, upgradable to Android 14), with minimal alterations from Lenovo. This ensures a cohesive user experience without unnecessary bloatware.

In terms of editing software, Android versions of popular applications like Photoshop, Lightroom, ACDSee, and Google’s Snapseed are readily available on the Google Play Store. While the platform offers a plethora of editing apps, the diversity in quality necessitates careful selection.

Performance-wise, the Lenovo Tablet P11 Pro Gen 2 exceeds expectations, offering sufficient processing power and benefiting from the exceptional dynamic range of OLED displays. For those on a tight budget who favor the Android ecosystem, this tablet presents a compelling option, combining affordability with commendable editing capabilities.

4. Google Pixel Tablet

The Google Pixel Tablet stands out as a distinctive addition to this review. While it functions as a conventional tablet, it also serves as a home hub when attached to an angled stand that doubles as a speaker, akin to placing your tablet on an Amazon Echo.

Despite its multifunctionality, it’s crucial to assess whether this compromises its suitability as a tablet for photo editing. Given that Android is Google’s domain, the Pixel Tablet benefits from seamless collaboration between the manufacturer and software developer, reminiscent of Apple’s approach.

The Pixel Tablet offers the purest Android experience, with plans for an early update to Android 14, ensuring optimal OS performance. Its LCD screen delivers vibrant visuals, albeit with a standard 60 Hz refresh rate, which still provides smooth operation. Processing speed poses no issues.

Regarding photo editing, the Pixel Tablet offers a plethora of editing apps on the Android platform, including industry-leading tools like Photoshop and Lightroom. Powered by the Tensor G2 SoC processor, it capably handles editing tasks with ease.

Despite its unique integration with the speaker stand, the Pixel Tablet’s functionality remains uncompromised. It’s not merely an enhanced Google Nest; rather, it’s a tablet with added Nest capabilities. Consequently, for Android users seeking a tablet tailored for photo editing, the Google Pixel Tablet emerges as an appealing choice.

5. SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9+ Plus

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ stands as a premium offering from one of the world’s foremost leaders in mobile technology. With expectations naturally high, this tablet delivers on its promise of quality in every aspect. Sporting an attractive blasted aluminum finish available in various sophisticated colors, it exudes a sense of solidity and balance in hand, positioning itself just a notch below Apple’s flagship iPad Pro in terms of pricing.

At the heart of the Galaxy Tab S9+ lies its exceptional screen, featuring a Dynamic AMOLED display that showcases deep blacks and vibrant colors, complemented by an HDR10+ rating. Whether you’re editing videos or immersing yourself in gaming, the 120 Hz refresh rate ensures a seamless experience, while smart auto-adjustment enhances contrast and brightness outdoors.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, the Galaxy Tab S9+ offers robust processing capabilities, complemented by Samsung’s signature implementation of the Android OS. While Samsung adds its own flair to the Android experience, catering to millions of users who appreciate its distinctive approach.

Access to the Google Play Store ensures a plethora of photo editing apps, including industry staples like Photoshop and Lightroom. Furthermore, Samsung’s S Pen proves invaluable for creative endeavors, doubling as a versatile tool for note-taking and highlighting. For those seeking a more laptop-like experience, the optional keyboard with backlit keys and a trackpad is a worthy addition.

If you’re accustomed to Samsung’s OS, the Galaxy Tab S9+ will feel like a familiar companion, offering premium performance tailored to your needs. With its combination of power, display quality, and ample capacity, it excels as a tablet for photo editing, deserving serious consideration for its outstanding capabilities.

Conclusion

If you’re agnostic about your tablet’s operating system, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch emerges as the undeniable champion. Its expansive screen size makes it ideal for photo editing tasks.

For seamless cross-device compatibility, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is an excellent choice for Windows users, while the Lenovo Tablet P11 Pro Gen 2 caters to Android aficionados.

If you’re entrenched in the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ offers a stellar option that complements your Galaxy phone seamlessly.