When Do You Really Need to Upgrade Your Tablet?

Person typing on the Apple iPad Air 4th-gen using the Logitech Combo Touch case

Most tablets generally last between nine and twelve years. Software updates, battery longevity, physical damage, and storage requirements should all go into considering whether or not to replace your current tablet.

With smartphones and laptops, most of us might not need a tablet. But it sure is nice to have one. Tablets are more lightweight and portable than a laptop, and they also come with a bigger screen than a smartphone so that we can watch movies and videos on the go. However, like all devices, tablets don’t last forever. So, how do you know when it’s time to upgrade your tablet?

Keep reading to learn when you should consider picking up a new tablet, discover the signs that your tablet is near the end of its life, and find out how to pick a new one that will last for years to come.

Table of Contents

How Long Do Tablets Last?
How Long Do Tablets Receive Software Updates?
What Are the Signs I Need a New Tablet?
How Do I Know Which Tablet to Buy?

How Long Do Tablets Last?

This might seem like a simple question. However, it’s a bit more complex than you might think because how long a tablet can physically last is different from how long it continues to receive software updates.

On the physical side of things, most tablets can generally last 9 to 12 years. Some are even built to last even longer than that. However, there are two main problems with using a tablet that’s this old. The first relates to the age of the battery. As the tablet’s battery ages, it can no longer hold a charge for as long. While you can repair the batteries (and screens) of many tablets, it can be difficult and time-consuming to do so.

The second issue is that the tablet will no longer receive software updates at a certain point, and not receiving updates is the bigger problem related to tablet longevity. As a result, instead of asking how long a tablet will last, it makes more sense to think about how long it will be supported. Simply put, once your tablet stops receiving software updates, your device becomes outdated. This can cause errors, performance issues, and problems with security.

How Long Do Tablets Receive Software Updates?

Now that we know the right question to ask so that we can learn how long a tablet will last, it’s time to answer another important query. How long do different types of tablets receive software updates?

As you can imagine, this question varies depending on the type of tablet. Android tablets from Samsung tend to offer software updates on devices for five years, while a Windows tablet includes an OS that should get updates for a decade. Apple devices also tend to receive updates for quite some time, and the company maintains a list of which iPads are eligible for the latest software updates.

If you have a tablet from another brand, you can check with the manufacturer to find out if your model is still receiving software updates. If your tablet isn’t receiving these vital updates anymore, it’s time to upgrade.

What Are the Signs I Need a New Tablet?

Not receiving software updates on your tablet isn’t the only indication that it’s time to buy a new tablet. There are a few other signs that your tablet might be reaching the end of its useful life.

You have to charge your tablet more frequently than before.
Your tablet is providing slower or worse performance.
The tablet’s touchscreen is no longer responsive.
Your tablet is starting to overheat during charging or use.
There is physical damage to your tablet that goes beyond minor scratches.
You want to use accessories like a keyboard, but your tablet isn’t compatible with them.
You’re running out of storage and can’t add more, which can be an issue with iPads.

Some people are unwilling to deal with even minor scratches or slightly reduced battery life. In contrast, others may only be willing to upgrade once a tablet stops working. You just need to decide where you fall on this continuum.

How Do I Know Which Tablet to Buy?

Rear camera and buttons on the 10th Generation iPad

If all the signs are pointing towards you getting a new tablet, it can be exciting and a little overwhelming. After all, this device will be one that you have for at least a few years and it can be an investment.

You can make the tablet-buying experience a little easier by asking yourself a few questions before you drop real dollars on a new tablet.

How portable should your tablet be? You’ll want to look at smaller tablets (6″ to 10″) if you need something more portable and lightweight. However, you might consider something larger if you want a bigger display for watching movies, TV, and videos.

What do you need to do on your tablet? Tablets have so many functions, but there’s no need to overpay for features you don’t need. For example, basic models are great if you just want to browse the web, while deluxe models with special features can assist graphic designers and other professionals. Additionally, if you just want to read, an eReader like the Kindle is a better choice than a tablet.

Do you also need the functionality of a laptop? If you need a bit more than a tablet can provide but don’t want the full size of a laptop, a 2-in-1 device like the Microsoft Surface can be a good compromise.

What’s your budget? It’s never wise to buy any device without considering your budget first. Some tablets sell for $100 or less. These models are good for simple tasks like casual web browsing. However, tablet prices can go up to $1,000 or more. You should decide how much you want to spend before you get swept away by a pricey model you might not need.

Do you have kids? If you’ve got little ones who will be using your new tablet, you’ll want to consider durable devices with parental controls. You may also want to think about buying your kids their own tablets so that you can keep yours for yourself.

Now that you know what to consider before buying your next tablet, you can check out some models we like that can serve as a starting point.