Though Apple has fallen behind the greater Android ecosystem in terms of tablet market share, the iPad is still a wildly popular machine. The latest 4th generation model represents a subtle refinement of the classic formula. Blessed with a 9.7-inch Retina Display with 2048 x 1536 pixel resolution, an Apple A6X CPU, up to 64GB of RAM and the capable iOS 6.0 operating system, it’s an excellent choice if you’re shopping for a new tablet. While the newest iPad is no doubt a fantastic piece of kit, there are quite a few other tablets on the market well worth considering.

Google Nexus 10

Arguably the hottest iPad alternative at the moment, the Google Nexus 10 offers a pure Android experience at a price that’s difficult to beat. It’s got a 10-inch display with 2560 x 1600 pixel resolution, a powerful dual-core A15 processor, 2GB of RAM, up to 32GB of Flash storage and a 5MP rear camera. In essence, it’s a touch-capable netbook without a keyboard. The installed OS is Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, which includes many fantastic features like Google Now, the NFC-based Beam and multi-user support. Starting at a mere £300.00, it’s a nearly unbeatable bargain.

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1

For tablet buyers that want every feature possible crammed into their touchscreen machine, the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 is a fantastic choice. While the 10.1-inch, 1280 x 800 pixel display is less than impressive compared to the Nexus 10, Samsung makes up for it in other ways. Its 1.4GHz quad-core processor, 4G connectivity and bevy of available ports are a start. However, it’s the installed software that’s the real selling point here. In addition to Android 4.0, it boasts an impressive collection of Samsung-specific apps that work flawlessly with the included S Pen digital stylus.

Asus Transformer Pad Infinity

Much like the Galaxy Note 10.1, the Asus Transformer Pad Infinity is marketed at users that value flexibility. The internal hardware consists of a either a dual-core 1.5GHz or 1.6GHz quad-core CPU, 1GB of RAM and up to 64GB of permanent storage. All of that is topped with a 10.1-inch, 1920 × 1200 pixel HD display. The Transformer Pad ships with Android 4.0, though that can be upgraded to Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. The most compelling feature of this tablet is the optional keyboard dock, which allows users to quickly convert it into a notebook.

Microsoft Surface RT

The Microsoft Surface RT is like a stylish version of the Transformer Pad running the Windows RT OS. It’s got a quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor, 2GB of RAM, up to 64GB of storage, a standard USB 2.0 port and a microSDXC slot for expansion. The Touch and Type Cover accessories give buyers the option of transforming their tablet into a slim laptop. More importantly, it delivers a familiar desktop office suite experience with Microsoft Office Home and Student 2013 RT. When you tally up all the positives, the Surface RT is just as appealing as any competing tablet.

Selecting the Appropriate Tablet

The most important factor to consider when choosing a tablet is what you’ll be using it for primarily. If the ultimate media experience is your top priority, the iPad is your best bet. If productivity and file compatibility are your main concerns, the hybrid Microsoft Surface RT or something like it would be a wise choice. If flexibility, customization and software variety are important to you, an Android model is advisable. Rest assured that the models profiled here are all impeccable. Any of the above would make a fine addition to your computing life.

David is a technology writer for CompareISP. He has always been enthusiastic about the latest UK broadband deals and always finds time to write about internet current offers available to share with others looking to compare broadband suppliers at home and on the move.