If you are looking to buy the best tablet for annotating PDFs, this guide will help you make a good choice.
In today’s digital age, many people rely on tablets to work, study, and stay organized. One common use for tablets is annotating PDFs, which is becoming increasingly popular in various fields, from education to business.
Annotating PDFs on a tablet is a convenient way to take notes, highlight important information, and collaborate with others. Some tablets have better displays, stylus support, and software compatibility than others.
In this article, we will explore the best tablets for annotating PDFs, considering factors such as screen quality, pen responsiveness, and more, to help you make an informed decision when choosing a tablet for this purpose. Our picks for the best tablets for annotating PDFs offer the best stylus performance and are perfect for highlighting and note-taking on PDFs.
Now, let’s look at the best tablets for reading and annotating PDFs in detail.
Best Tablets for Annotating PDFs at a Glance
| No. | Item | |
| 1 | Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) (Editors’ Choice) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 2 | Microsoft Surface Pro 9 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 3 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus | Check Price on Amazon |
| 4 | Apple iPad Air (2022) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 5 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus (New 2023) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 6 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 7 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (New 2023) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 8 | Apple iPad Mini 6 (2021) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 9 | Apple iPad Air (2020) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 10 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite | Check Price on Amazon |
| 11 | Microsoft Surface Pro 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
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1. Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) (Editors’ Choice) 
Our Editors’ Choice for the best tablet for annotating PDFs is the Apple iPad Pro 2022. The iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) is Apple’s top-of-the-line tablet as of 2023, featuring a powerful M2 chipset that gives it laptop-level performance. While some may argue that the M1 from the previous generation is more than enough for most tablet activities, the M2 ensures that this device is future-proof.
Apart from the M2, the iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) shares many similarities with its predecessor, the iPad Pro 12.9 (2021), such as its large 12.9-inch, 120Hz display that utilizes mini-LED technology for superior picture quality compared to smaller iPads. Despite packing all this tech, the tablet is surprisingly slim and lightweight.
Additionally, it features Face ID, capable cameras, and supports accessories like Apple’s Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil 2, which boasts hover-detection that makes it perfect for drawing.
As expected, the iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) comes with a hefty price tag, nevertheless, for those who want a tablet with unbeatable performance, this is the device to go for.
PROS
- Lightning-fast performance
- Exceptional display
- Slim and sleek build
- M2 chip
- Incredibly durable
- Good audio
CONS
- Pricey
Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) Key Specifications
Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED LCD, 2048 x 2732 pixels
Chipset: Apple M2
OS: iPadOS 16
RAM: 8GB/16GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, hotspot
Size: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm
Weight: 682 g (Wi-Fi), 685 g (5G)
Rear Camera: 12MP, 10MP, TOF 3D LiDAR scanner
Front Camera: 12MP
Battery: 40.88 Wh
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a powerful 2-in-1 tablet and laptop device that offers versatility and performance. Featuring a 13″ display, it serves as both a tablet and a laptop, providing a lightweight and portable computing solution.
Microsoft’s Surface Pro 9 5G marks a strategic shift, applying the Pro brand to an ARM-based system while discontinuing the Pro X line and bidding farewell to the 3.5mm headphone jack.
The device embodies a winning formula, refining the Surface Pro X design for a broader Pro-grade audience. It is a thin, sturdy Windows tablet with an expansive screen, ideal for productivity, creativity, and media consumption.
As a 5G system, the Surface Pro 9 5G ensures seamless connectivity at home and on the go, eliminating the dependence on Wi-Fi connections.
The ARM system introduces neural engine-based features like eye tracking, gaze correction, noise suppression, and enhanced background blurs not found in the Intel model.
PROS
- Impressive performance
- Good cameras
- Sleek design
- Long battery life
CONS
- High starting price
- No audio jack
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Key Specifications
Display: 13-inch-inch PixelSense Flow Display
Chipset: 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U/ 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U processor/ Microsoft SQ 3 processor
OS: Windows 11
RAM: 8GB/16GB/32GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB/ 1TB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E: 802.11ax
Size: 287.02 × 208.28 × 9.4 mm
Weight: 879 g
Rear Camera: 10MP
Front Camera: Windows Hello face authentication camera
Battery: 47.7 Wh
3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus’ predecessor, the Galaxy Tab S7 Plus was (heck, still is!) an excellent tablet. However, the Tab S8 Plus is slightly a cut above it and, of course, the rest (Android tablets, that is) out there.
Its internals are nothing to scoff at – Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, more than enough RAM (8GB or 12GB), 128GB or 256GB of storage, and Android 12 operating system.
Performance is on par with what the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch boasts. The sheer amount of power makes the Tab S8 Plus an appealing upgrade.
Samsung nailed it again with the Galaxy Tab S8 Plus’ display. It does keep the same 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate from the Galaxy Tab S7 Plus, which is not necessarily a bad thing. And it’s bright enough to make reading and watching videos a pure joy.
Just like the 2021 Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch, the Tab S8 Plus’ premium design will blow you away. It sports a flashy metallic finish.
Elsewhere, the AKG speakers with Dolby Atmos tuning on the Tab S8 Plus pump out clear sound. We are pleased with the balanced profile of the sound.
What’s more, using the Galaxy Tab S8’s S Pen is a pure joy. Samsung has reduced the S Pen’s latency making it faster just like a real pen.
There’s also the cameras. The rear holds a pair of 13MP and 6MP ultrawide sensors. Dominating the front is a 12MP ultrawide sensor, perfect for video calls.
Samsung’s class-leading tablet ranks very high for its battery performance. The 10,090 mAh battery tucked inside the Tab S8 Plus offers excellent endurance.
There’s very little to complain about with the Galaxy Tab S8 Plus, except for perhaps the price tag. If you want to save money, then the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus isn’t for you.
If you’ve been an iOS loyalist for years, it’s worth taking a look to see what else is out there.
Overall, this is a great piece of hardware that anyone should be proud to carry around. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus is highly recommended.
PROS
- Immersive Super AMOLED display
- Premium design
- Good cameras
- High-performing processor
- Good S Pen integration
- Large battery capacity
CONS
- Limited upgrade
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus Key Specifications
Display: 12.4-inch, Super AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+ 1752 x 2800 pixels
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
OS: Android 12
RAM: 8GB/12GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
Size: 11.22 x 7.28 x 0.22 inches (285 x 185 x 5.7 mm)
Weight: 1.26 pounds (572 g)
Rear Camera: 13MP, 6MP
Front Camera: 12MP
Battery: 10090 mAh
4. Apple iPad Air (2022) 
The Apple iPad Air is for anyone who needs an iPad Pro-like performance from a portable tablet at a fraction of the price. It is a fit for casual users and creators alike.
Its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina multi-touch display looks fine, especially in its color reproduction. You can use the Air comfortably in either portrait or landscape orientations.
The best part of the 2022 iPad Air, however, is its performance. It is fast thanks to the Apple M1 chipset tucked inside it. This tablet delivers at all times. You can watch videos, play games, and read on the Air 2022 with zero performance lag.
Like the 2021 iPad Mini, storage is a bit restrictive. The base model ships with 64GB of storage. Though, there is a variant with 256GB of storage, and we recommend this. If you need more storage, your best bet is the iPad Pro 2021 which comes in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB.
It’s worth noting, as well, that the 2022 iPad Air ships with the outstanding Apple Pencil 2 which attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly. This makes the Air 2022 an ideal pick for writing, drawing, and taking notes without a hitch.
Audio quality from the Air’s two speakers is just ok, while admittedly lacking bass and the staggering audio performance iPad Pro users enjoy.
Then there’s the cameras. The tablet boasts a 12MP rear camera and 12MP ultra-wide selfie camera. One thing Apple’s added to this 2002 Air is the Centre Stage feature which automatically pans the camera to keep everyone in centre view during a video call.
What else should we include? Well, the responsive Touch ID built into the power button is an A+ in our book. How about the Face ID feature? Well, there isn’t one really.
Again, the 2022 iPad Air is 5G compatible.
Plus, it features a remarkable battery life and debatably one of the best we’ve ever come across. The Air 2022 will stay powered up for an entire workday and more.
Oh, and for the record, the 2022 iPad Air has no headphone jack. Not a deal breaker, but worth bearing in mind.
Overall, this is the best tablet for just about everyone. Its performance and price tag make it easy to pull the trigger on a purchase order. Highly recommended.
PROS
- Super-fast M1 processor
- Colorful display
- Thin and portable
- Good design
- Compatible with Apple Pencil 2
- Good speakers
- 5G connectivity
- Long battery life
CONS
- Storage is restrictive
- Expensive peripherals
Apple iPad Air (2022) Key Specifications
Display: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, 1640 x 2360 pixels
Chipset: Apple M1
OS: iPadOS 15.4
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 64GB/256GB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, hotspot
Size: 9.75 x 7.03 x 0.24 in (247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1 mm)
Weight: 1.02 pounds (462 g)
Rear Camera: 12MP
Front Camera: 12MP
Battery: 28.6 Wh
5. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus is larger than the Tab S9 in size and maintains a premium build quality, appealing to anyone seeking a more substantial device. It strikes a balance between portability and a spacious display.
The Tab S9 Plus features a stunning dynamic AMOLED display, praised for its sharpness and finely detailed images. It offers a superb visual experience with a variable refresh rate of 60-120Hz, adapting to different content types.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy SoC, the Tab S9 Plus delivers impressive performance, nearly matching the Apple iPad Pro. It can handle demanding tasks and multitasking efficiently.
When it comes to storage options, you have the flexibility to choose from storage options up to 512GB, ensuring ample space for apps, media, and files.
PROS
Very fast Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset
Functional interface, and S Pen
Bright and vivid AMOLED display
Loud speakers
Thin and waterproof
Excellent battery life
CONS
Some may consider it pricey
Camera could be better
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus Key Specifications
Display: 12.4-inch, 120Hz dynamic AMOLED
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
OS: Android 13
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256GB / 512GB + microSD
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E / 5G
Size: 285.4 x 185.4 x 5.7 mm
Weight: 581 g
Rear Camera: 13MP, 8MP
Front Camera: 12MP
Battery: 10090 mAh
6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is juiced up with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage.
Performing like a pricier machine without skimping on build quality or features, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab 8 delivers excellent value.
Like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and Tab S8 Plus, one of the main appeals of the Tab S8 is its performance. In fact, the speedy performance of the Galaxy Tab S8 firmly shoves it up the class ladder.
The Tab S8’s 11-inch thin-film transistor display is impressive.
At 11 inches and 1.1 pounds, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a lightweight and easy travel companion. The tablet comes in three colour options – Graphite, Silver or Pink Gold.
An A+ for the Tab S8’s S Pen which feels like a real pen while writing.
The speakers on the Tab S8 are not your typical tin cans. They deliver dramatically superior sound.
We are always happy to see a headphone jack on phones, tablets, and laptops — there’s simply no excuse to leave it off the spec sheet. Sadly, there is no headphone jack on the Galaxy Tab S8.
Samsung packed in a reasonable 8,000 mAh of battery capacity into the Tab S8’s chassis.
The one flaw with this tablet, though, is the absence of an in-screen fingerprint reader. It’s a shame, but not a dealbreaker.
The Galaxy Tab S8 (as well as the Tab S8 Ultra and Tab S8 Plus) still beats the heck out of any Android tablet on the market.
PROS
- Impressive performance
- Beautiful 120Hz display
- Good design
- Excellent S Pen integration
CONS
- No in-screen fingerprint reader
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Key Specifications
Display: 11-inch, TFT 120Hz, HDR10+ 1600 x 2560 pixels
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
OS: Android 12
RAM: 8GB/12GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
Size: 9.99 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches (253.8 x 165.3 x 6.3 mm)
Weight: 1.10 pounds (503 g)
Rear Camera: 13MP, 6MP
Front Camera: 12MP
Battery: 8000 mAh
7. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is a compact and affordable tablet that offers impressive performance and an array of features.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, the Galaxy Tab S9 delivers top-tier performance and responsiveness, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient handling of tasks and apps.
The Galaxy Tab S9 offers options for 8GB or 12GB of RAM, catering to various usage needs. Storage capacities include 128GB and 512GB, providing ample space for your digital content and applications.
Elsewhere, Samsung includes its S Pen stylus, enhancing precision input and productivity capabilities. This feature is particularly useful for creative tasks and note-taking.
The Galaxy Tab S9 boasts an 11″ AMOLED display, a significant upgrade from the previous LCD screen. This results in enhanced visuals, vibrant colors, and an immersive viewing experience.
What’s more, it comes with an IP68 water resistance rating, adding durability and peace of mind for various environments, including potential exposure to water and dust.
Compared to its predecessors, the Galaxy Tab S9 stands out with its adoption of an AMOLED display, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, and the addition of an IP68 rating. These enhancements, along with its compact form factor, make it an attractive option for users seeking a well-rounded and reasonably priced tablet.
PROS
Outstanding performance
Bright and vivid AMOLED display
Functional interface, S Pen stylus
Excellent battery life
CONS
Camera is average
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Key Specifications
Display: 11-inch AMOLED, 120Hz
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
OS: Android 13
RAM: 8GB/12GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB + microSD
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E / 5G
Size: 254.3 x 165.8 x 5.9 mm
Weight: 498 g
Rear Camera: 13MP
Front Camera: 12MP
Battery: 8400 mAh
8. Apple iPad Mini 6 (2021)
The Apple iPad mini 6 (2021) is an outstanding iPad with impressive specs.
Built on Apple’s speedy A15 Bionic processor and featuring 4GB of RAM, along with an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD screen, it has specs that rival other flagships. The A15 Bionic processor that powers the 2021 iPad mini can handle everything you throw at it.
Aside from its super fast processor, the screen stands out, too. Text looks sharp on the screen as do photos and videos.
Storage is a bit restrictive. Available internal storage includes 64GB and 256GB only. If that’s your main concern, you should probably lean toward the 2021 iPad Pro 12.9-inch which comes in 128GB, 256 GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB.
As far as sound goes, what comes out of the tablet speakers is actually decent.
You can write, draw, annotate PDFS, and take notes with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation). The Apple Pencil 2 attaches magnetically to the iPad mini 6.
Apple says the 19.3Wh battery in the iPad mini 6 provides an all-day battery life, however, in truth, the battery will last up to 10 hours on a single charge.
On the negative side, the 2021 iPad mini has no headphone jack. That’s slightly painful.
You’ll be hard-pressed to be disappointed with the iPad mini 6 performance. Overall, this is an exceptional iPad you can take anywhere and one of the best tablets for annotating PDFs.
PROS
- Exceptional display
- Super-fast performance
- Beautiful design
- Light and portable
- Compatible with Apple Pencil 2
- Very good webcam
- Long battery life
- USB-C charging
CONS
- No multiuser support
- No headphone jack
Apple iPad Mini 6 (2021) Key Specifications
Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, 1488 x 2266 pixels
Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic
OS: iPadOS 15
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB/256GB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, hotspot
Size: 7.69 x 5.31 x 0.25 in (195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3 mm)
Weight: 0.65 pounds (293 g)
Rear Camera: 12MP
Front Camera: 12MP
Battery: 19.3 Wh
9. Apple iPad Air (2020)
Another good tablet for annotating PDFs worth mentioning is the Apple iPad Air.
It is lightweight, thin and comes in handy for simple tasks.
The Apple iPad Air can boast the same battery life as Pro iPads. It is also super fast as it utilizes Apple’s A14 processor.
As for storage, the iPad Air has more than enough memory: 64 GB or 256 GB storage space. The choice is yours.
Good price, speed, excellent performance, decent screen, and portability are some of the hallmarks of the iPad Air.
One minor drawback is the touch ID on the power button which takes some getting used to.
We recommend the Apple iPad Air as one of the best tablets for annotating PDFs and it is worth considering.
PROS
- Cutting-edge display
- Very fast performance
- Responsive OS
CONS
- Finger print scanner could be better
Apple iPad Air (2020) Key Specifications
Display: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, 1640 x 2360 pixels
Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic chip
OS: iPadOS 14.1
Storage: 64GB/256GB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, hotspot
Size: 9.75 x 7.03 x 0.24 inches (247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1 mm)
Weight: 1.0 pounds (458 g)
Rear Camera: 12MP
Front Camera: 7MP
Battery: 28.6Wh
10. Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
You should also consider the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite when looking to buy a tablet for annotating PDFs.
It sports a 10.4-inch display, which is large and bright enough for viewing images and gaming without straining your eyes.
Its internals are nothing to scoff at – given its price point, that is. Tucked inside the tablet are the Exynos 9611 chipset, 4GB of RAM, 64GB or 128GB of storage and Android 10 OS.
As far as performance goes, the Samsung S6 Lite can hold its own against the mid-range models. Apps load quickly and run smoothly, but not as snappy as they do on an iPad.
For the physical build, the tablet is thin and light. Weighing in at a scant 1.02 pounds (0.46kg), you won’t have problems slipping the Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite (9.6 x 6.1 x 0.3 inches) into your tote, going to and from work or school.
The tablet comes in three delightful colours – Oxford Gray, Angora Blue and Chiffon Pink – each of which has a unique look and feel.
On another important front, the Tab S6 Lite’s camera gets the job done at the lowest-possible level. There are two cameras, including an 8MP on the back and a 5MP on the front.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is arguably one of the reasonably priced Samsung tablets that ships with a pen. It is worth mentioning, though, that the S Pen isn’t as good a stylus as you’ll find on the Apple iPad Pro. That said, the S Pen does a decent job when it comes to note-taking.
You may consider using the Tabs S6 Lite’s Dark Mode which reduces eye strain.
Next is battery life – it is pretty solid. The Tab S6 Lite will stay powered up for an entire workday.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite isn’t a perfect tablet. Its One UI isn’t as cutting-edge as the iPadOS. Plus, palm rejection could use some improvements.
The minor drawback aside, using the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is a joy. It is a good tablet for annotating PDFs.
PROS
- Beautiful display
- Outstanding battery life
- Good audio
- Robust design
- Ships with S Pen
CONS
- Some apps could use some improvements
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite Key Specifications
Display: 10.4-inch screen, 2000 x 1200 pixels
Chipset: Samsung Exynos 9611
OS: Android 10
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB/128GB
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Size: 9.6 x 6.1 x 0.3 inches (243.8 x 154.9 x 7.6 mm)
Weight: 1.02 pound (462.7 g)
Rear Camera: 8MP
Front Camera: 5MP
Battery: 7040 mAh
Notable Mention
The Microsoft Surface Pro 8 is a good tablet for annotating PDFs without a hitch.
11. Microsoft Surface Pro 8
PROS
- Good display
- Beautiful design
- Works well with external devices
- Excellent Windows 11 integration
- Impressive webcam
CONS
- Stylus and keyboard sold separately
Microsoft Surface Pro 8 Key Specifications
Display: 13-inch display, 2880 x 1920 pixels
CPU: 11th Gen Intel i5-1135G7- Intel i7-1185G7
OS: Windows 11
RAM: 8GB/16GB/32GB
Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Storage: Up to 1TB
Size: 11.3 x 8.2 x 0.37 inches (287 x 208 x 9.3 mm)
Weight: 1.96 pounds
Rear Camera: 10MP
Front Camera: 5MP
Battery: 51.5Wh
| No. | Item | |
| 1 | Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2022) (Editors’ Choice) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 2 | Microsoft Surface Pro 9 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 3 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus | Check Price on Amazon |
| 4 | Apple iPad Air (2022) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 5 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus (New 2023) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 6 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 7 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (New 2023) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 8 | Apple iPad Mini 6 (2021) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 9 | Apple iPad Air (2020) | Check Price on Amazon |
| 10 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite | Check Price on Amazon |
| 11 | Microsoft Surface Pro 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
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Bottom Line
The tablets we’ve reviewed are perfect for annotating PDFs without a problem. These tablets are fast, durable, portable, and ship with good internals. Our picks of the best tablets for annotating PDFs provide the best bang for your buck and are highly recommended.
