The best small tablets of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Many people today opt for smaller tablets, although our flexible and foldable smartphones may eventually earn a larger slice of the market. A small tablet makes a fantastic digital companion. They're great for reading on the beach, watching videos, or entertaining the kids on long car trips. These small devices -- with display sizes ranging from around six to 10 inches -- can be just as powerful as their larger counterparts, offering rapid performance, access to your favorite apps, and vibrant displays. If you're looking to purchase your first tablet, you should consider one of these small, light, and often budget-friendly options. Some of our favorites include the iPad Mini and Amazon's Fire tablet lineup. Get more in-depth ZDNET tech coverage: Add us as a preferred Google source on Chrome and Chromium browsers. Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article. What is the best small tablet right now? My pick for the best small tablet is the iPad Mini (7th gen), thanks to its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and weight of just under one pound. In addition, Apple tablets have long been considered some of the best in the market. ZDNET…