How important is a processor/speed in tablets?

Basically, the better the chipset, the faster the tablet will run, as well as the faster the processor. Higher specs (e.g. moving from dual-core processors to quad-core and 1GHz to 1.5GHz) typically add cost and are often more favourable for adults when researching tablets. Even if your child’s tablet is a bit slower than yours, encouraging children to have a little patience is never such a bad thing!

How much storage will I need?

This all depends on what you want to use the device for. If you want to store a lot of music, video files, apps and or streaming services such as Netflix, you’re going to want at least 32G. The lower the storage, the cheaper the price, but then your options will be limited unless you purchase an external storage card. It’s best to ensure your device gives you this option to transfer files and free up space, rather than needing to purchase another tablet altogether. Sometimes you can just delete old apps your child is no longer using and moving video files off the tablet and onto your desktop, will save a lot of space too.

How Important is the screen resolution?

Generally the higher the quality, the greater the cost. The tablets kids like aren’t dependent on this variable as most are just as happy with a lower resolution as their priorities are more on load times and the variety of apps they can download.

What should I look for in terms of connectivity?

Consider what you can plug directly into the tablet. Some allow you to add memory cards to get more storage space to transfer photos on or off the tablet. Many have USB ports so you can connect a printer or a keyboard/mouse or other hardware and even mini-HDMI sockets to connect up to a TV, so you can watch your video files or streaming services from your tablet, directly on your larger screen TV. Some tablets will also connect wirelessly to various other devices either over wifi or via Bluetooth, so if this is important to you it’s work having a look at what’s available. A few tablets also have access to 3G or 4G networks as well which would allow you to continue being connected to the internet when away from wifi (although it’s more expensive) and does come in handy if you go for long drives or family vacations and plan on taking your devices with you.

Best Kids Tablet Australia: 4 Picks For 2026

Updated October 2026. We may earn a commission from links on this page, at no extra cost to you.

For a kids tablet in Australia, start with your child’s school requirements. The iPad (A16) is our first shortlist option for families who need an iPad. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ is the larger Android alternative, while the Lenovo Tab One is worth comparing for a basic, compact device. The iPad mini (A17 Pro) suits families who specifically want a smaller iPad.

For a seven-to-ten-year-old, the best choice is the device that runs their required apps, fits the family budget and is easy for you to manage. A tablet is optional unless school requires one. A colourful case and an “educational” label do not make a device essential or automatically safe.

Table of Contents

Quick comparison: tablets for Australian kids

Tablet	Who it suits	Verified configuration or feature	Main buying check
iPad (A16)	School-age children needing an iPad	11-inch display; storage starts at 128GB	Check the school’s model rules and budget for a case
Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ Wi-Fi	Families choosing a larger Android tablet	11-inch display; reviewed AU configuration has 128GB storage and 6GB memory	Check Android app compatibility; charger is separate
Lenovo Tab One	A compact device for a short list of everyday apps	AU listing ZAF00091AU: 8.7-inch display, 64GB storage and 4GB memory	Confirm update support and the exact seller
iPad mini (A17 Pro)	Families wanting a smaller Apple tablet	8.3-inch display; supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C)	Check whether a smaller screen meets school requirements

These are researched shortlist choices, based on Australian manufacturer information and local sales listings, rather than hands-on testing. We checked model identity, local availability, useful features and the practical trade-offs for families. We have not measured battery life, drop resistance or game performance. Prices and postcode-level stock can change, so compare the complete purchase at checkout.

Our kids tablet shortlist

1. iPad (A16): the first option to check for an iPad school

The iPad (A16), sold by Apple Australia · Check price on Amazon AU, has an 11-inch display and starts at 128GB of storage. It supports Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the first-generation Apple Pencil; the latter needs the appropriate adaptor. Those details matter if your child’s school asks for drawing or handwriting accessories.

We would shortlist this before buying an older iPad purely because it is discounted. Check the school’s approved list first, then choose storage around the apps, files and downloaded videos your child actually needs. If you already manage Apple devices at home, using the same system may also make setup more familiar.

Trade-off: this is a regular tablet, so allow for a protective case. A stylus or keyboard is an extra purchase, and neither is worth buying before you know it will be used. The larger screen is useful at a desk but takes more room in a bag than a compact tablet.

2. Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+: a larger Android choice

The Samsung Australia Galaxy Tab A11+ Wi-Fi listing · Check price on Amazon AU confirms an 11-inch display, 128GB storage and 6GB memory for model SM-X230NZAAXSA. It also lists a 3.5mm headphone socket and microSD support. Samsung says external storage can hold media, rather than applications.

This is the option we would compare when the school permits Android and the family wants a larger screen. The headphone socket may be convenient if your child already has wired headphones. Samsung’s exact AU product page lists security updates through 30 November 2032, a useful detail when planning beyond the first school term.

Trade-off: Samsung says the travel adaptor is not included. Add a compatible charger and case to the total. Confirm every required school app works on Android before ordering; having similar-looking apps in both stores does not establish that the school supports both systems.

3. Lenovo Tab One: a compact option for basic needs

The Lenovo Tab One listing at BIG W · Check price on Amazon AU identifies the AU model ZAF00091AU with an 8.7-inch HD display, 64GB storage, 4GB memory and a clear case. It is an online delivery listing, rather than an in-store purchase option.

Put it on your comparison list if you want a smaller Android device for a few selected apps, reading and occasional downloaded entertainment. Compare its live price with the other options instead of assuming any one brand is always cheapest. The smaller screen is a meaningful choice in itself: it takes less space, but also gives worksheets and on-screen keyboards less room.

Trade-off: we could not verify a clear, model-specific security update end date from Lenovo’s accessible AU listing. Ask the seller before buying if you want several years of school use. An included clear case is not proof of child-specific drop protection, so check the case design as well as the device.

4. iPad mini (A17 Pro): for a smaller Apple device

The iPad mini sold by Apple Australia · Check price on Amazon AU uses the A17 Pro chip and an 8.3-inch display. Apple lists support for Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), with accessories sold separately. It is a full iPad rather than a toy tablet.

Choose it because you want the smaller format, not because a younger child automatically needs it. Before spending the money, let your child try a similar screen size with the type of work they will do. A compact screen may suit reading or travel, while a full worksheet or two things displayed together can feel crowded.

Trade-off: it is a more specialised choice than simply buying the school’s recommended standard iPad. Confirm the mini is accepted and price the exact storage option, case and accessories together. A small tablet still needs careful handling and the same parental-control setup as a larger one.

What matters when choosing a tablet for a child?

School requirements come before the brand debate

Ask for the current bring-your-own-device document. It should tell you the required operating system, minimum supported model or software version, storage, accessories and any restrictions on cellular connections. If the answer is unclear, check with the school before opening the box. A tablet bought for home entertainment may not be suitable for classroom use.

For seven-to-ten-year-olds, there is no universal winner by age alone. A child using an iPad-only school app has a different need from a child borrowing a family Android tablet to read library books. Buy around the task, then decide the size and extras. For longer written assignments, ask whether a laptop is expected instead.

Choose the apps before choosing the hardware

Make a short list of the apps your child will actually use. Check the official app-store listing, age rating, required software and any subscription. If a program runs in a browser, confirm whether its school features work in a tablet browser. Include accessibility tools your child needs, such as text enlargement or speech features, in that check.

An expensive device cannot fix an unsuitable app. Be wary of games that are free to download but rely on advertising or repeated purchases. Try the family’s existing device first if it can still receive updates and run the apps you need. That may answer the buying question without another purchase.

Storage, updates and repair costs

Storage holds apps and downloaded files; memory helps the device run tasks. They are different specifications. Look at available space after software is installed, then leave room for school files and updates. A microSD slot does not necessarily let you move apps onto a card.

Ask how long the exact model will receive security updates. We found a published date for the Samsung option, but do not promise a fixed support period for the other picks. With a second-hand device, check its current software compatibility, battery condition and ownership lock before paying.

Compare the whole basket: tablet, case, charger if needed, keyboard or stylus if required, delivery and recurring apps. Ask about the Australian warranty process and obtain a repair quote for a broken screen if that would affect your choice. Keep the receipt and model number together. Do not assume accidental damage is included in the standard warranty.

A good case is part of the purchase

Check that the case matches the exact model, leaves charging ports usable and has a stand that works at the kitchen table. A handle can help with carrying, but it should not encourage swinging the tablet around. Let your child practise putting it down securely before taking it to school.

Our guide to choosing an iPad or tablet case explains the practical features to consider. Check current model compatibility separately, as older case recommendations may not fit a new tablet.

Parental controls: set them up before handing it over

The eSafety Commissioner’s parental-controls guide explains ways to manage content, purchases and device use. Controls help, but they need to work alongside conversations and adult involvement. No tablet can guarantee that every app, message or website your child encounters will be appropriate.

For an iPad, use Apple’s current Screen Time instructions to configure your child’s account, app limits and restrictions. For a compatible Android device, Google Family Link can help manage a supervised account. Check device and account eligibility during setup; school accounts may have their own rules.

Install software updates and create the appropriate child account rather than handing over your unrestricted adult login.
Require approval for downloads and purchases. Review privacy permissions, including camera, microphone and location access.
Choose a few suitable apps together. Check the settings inside each game or streaming app, not just the tablet’s settings.
Set a shared charging place and agree when the tablet can be used. Explain what to do if content or a message feels uncomfortable.
Test the restrictions yourself, including purchases and web browsing, before relying on them. Recheck after major updates.

Our digital cybersafety guide for parents and online safety tips offer more conversation starters. Leave room for your child to ask for help without fearing they will automatically lose the device.

What about tablets for toddlers?

Raising Children Network advises no screen time under two years, apart from video-chatting. A dedicated tablet is therefore not a necessary newborn or toddler purchase. For older preschoolers, choose age-appropriate content and share the activity rather than assuming an “educational” label is enough.

If screen use is causing worries about your child’s sleep, wellbeing or everyday routines, talk with your GP or maternal and child health nurse. You do not need to solve a family screen-time problem by upgrading the hardware.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best tablet for 7–10-year-olds in Australia?

Choose the school-approved system first. We would compare iPad (A16) for an iPad requirement and Galaxy Tab A11+ when Android is permitted. For home use, the best fit depends on required apps, screen size, support and the complete cost. Age alone does not decide the model.

Which iPad is best for kids?

The standard iPad (A16) is our starting shortlist option for school-age children needing an iPad. Consider the mini only if its smaller screen solves a particular need and the school accepts it. A more expensive iPad is not automatically necessary for homework.

Are cheap tablets for kids worth buying?

They can be if the exact device runs the apps you need and has acceptable support. Compare current prices, software-update information and the seller’s warranty process. Avoid choosing an unfamiliar device only for the bundled case or number of preloaded games.

Which tablets have the best parental controls?

Both iPad and compatible Android devices offer account-based controls. The better system for your family is the one you can set up and review consistently. Use Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link instructions, then check the controls inside each app. Neither replaces supervision.

Should I buy an imported kids tablet?

Before importing any device, verify Australian warranty handling, the charger, app-store access, subscriptions and regional content availability. We have not verified Australian service eligibility for the imported Fire Kids bundles in the old version of this guide, so they are not shortlisted here.

Best Kids Tablets in Australia: 4 Practical Picks for 2026