10 Best Tablets With USB Ports – Buyer’s Guide

Are you in search of the best tablets with USB ports? Many tablets on the market today come with only a charging port, which limits their functionality when it comes to connecting wired USB accessories. If you’ve found this frustrating, there’s good news: more manufacturers are addressing this need by integrating USB ports into their tablet designs.

Recent trends, supported by data from the U.S. Department of Electronic & Information Technology, show a significant rise in demand for tablets with versatile connectivity options. USB ports on tablets provide the flexibility to connect peripherals such as external storage, gaming controllers, and other wired accessories, making these devices far more capable than ever before.

In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the top 10 tablets with USB ports, tailored for users who value functionality and efficiency. Whether you’re a creative professional, a gamer, or someone who multitasks frequently, these tablets are designed to enhance your experience and unlock new possibilities. Read on to discover how having a USB port on your tablet can transform it into a productivity powerhouse.

List of 10 Best Tablets With USB Ports:-

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9– A Premium Tablet with USB-C Excellence

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 features a 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with stunning 2560 x 1600 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals for work and entertainment. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, it handles multitasking effortlessly. Paired with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, it ensures smooth performance for professional apps and media editing.Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is a flagship tablet that not only delivers top-tier performance but also stands out with its USB-C connectivity. The inclusion of a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port enhances its versatility, allowing seamless integration with a wide range of peripherals. During my testing, I found the USB-C port invaluable for connecting external storage devices, monitors, and even charging other gadgets. The port supports data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps, making it ideal for transferring large files, such as high-resolution videos or extensive project files, quickly and efficiently. Also connecting to other devices using the OTG feature, or even using  DP Alt Mode, it’s up to the task.

For creative professionals, the USB-C port opens up possibilities like connecting to an external display via DisplayPort, enabling a dual-screen setup that’s perfect for multitasking or creative workflows. I used the port to mirror the tablet on a larger monitor for video editing, and the experience was seamless. Additionally, the USB-C PD (Power Delivery) feature allows fast charging, both for the tablet and other compatible devices, which I found extremely convenient on the go.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is also compatible with USB hubs, further expanding its functionality by allowing multiple connections simultaneously. Whether it’s plugging in a keyboard, mouse, or external drive, the USB-C port transforms the Tab S9 into a versatile workstation.

The S Pen, included with the tablet, magnetically attaches and charges on the device, making it ideal for note-taking and drawing. The tablet is also IP68 water and dust resistant, adding durability to its premium design.

2. Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation)

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) comes with 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is one of the most stunning screens I’ve ever used, delivering exceptional 2732 x 2048 resolution, 1000 nits brightness, and 120Hz ProMotion technology. Whether I was editing high-resolution videos, drawing detailed sketches, or streaming HDR content, the display’s vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth responsiveness made every task immersive and enjoyable.

Equipped with Apple’s M2 chip, the iPad Pro 12.9 (6th Gen) delivers desktop-grade performance. I tested the 16GB RAM variant with 512GB storage, and it handled everything from heavy multitasking to 4K video editing without breaking a sweat. The M2 chip also powers advanced AI features like Stage Manager, making multitasking and external monitor support seamless.

One of the standout features for me was the USB-C port with Thunderbolt/USB 4 support. This port enables incredibly fast data transfers, external storage connections, and even the use of external 6K displays. I found this particularly useful for connecting external monitors for detailed editing or presentations. The Thunderbolt capability makes this iPad Pro an absolute productivity powerhouse.

Despite its large screen and powerful internals, the iPad Pro 12.9 offers up to 10 hours of battery life. It’s lightweight at 682g, making it easy to carry, whether for work, study, or travel. The premium aluminum chassis adds to its durability and elegance.

3. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 – Best Windows Tablet With USB Ports

Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a standout in the category of best tablets with USB ports, thanks to its versatile connectivity and premium design. Equipped with two USB-C ports, including Thunderbolt 4 support (on Intel models), the Surface Pro 9 offers unmatched flexibility for professionals and power users. These ports make it easy to connect external monitors, transfer large files at lightning-fast speeds, or attach USB hubs for expanded functionality.During my testing, I found the Thunderbolt 4 capability invaluable for tasks like connecting to a 4K monitor or using an external GPU for intensive creative workflows. The USB-C PD (Power Delivery) feature also enables fast charging of the tablet and other compatible devices, ensuring seamless productivity throughout the day. For those who need reliable and robust connectivity, the Surface Pro 9’s USB-C ports are a major highlight.

The 13-inch PixelSense Flow Display offers a 2880 x 1920 resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering sharp visuals and smooth responsiveness. Whether I was editing photos, sketching with the Surface Slim Pen 2, or multitasking across apps, the screen’s clarity and vibrant colors elevated the experience. The slim bezels and lightweight build (just 879g) make it portable and ideal for both work and travel.

The Surface Pro 9 is available in two configurations: 12th Gen Intel Core processors or Microsoft SQ3 ARM-based processors with 5G connectivity. I tested the Intel Core i7 variant with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, and it excelled at handling demanding apps, multitasking, and creative workflows. The Windows 11 OS further enhances the device’s usability with features like Snap Layouts and desktop-like multitasking.

With up to 15 hours of battery life, the Surface Pro 9 provides reliable performance for extended work sessions. Pairing the tablet with the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard transforms it into a full-fledged laptop, offering a comfortable typing experience and a large glass touchpad for precision. The Surface Slim Pen 2, which docks into the keyboard for charging, offers responsive and precise input for note-taking and creative tasks.

4. Apple iPad Air 5th Gen

Apple iPad Air 5th Gen comes with 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, 2360 x 1640 resolution. The screen is bright, sharp, and vibrant, making it ideal for everything from streaming content to editing photos and videos. The True Tone technology adjusts the screen’s color temperature based on ambient light, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience. I found the display’s color accuracy and responsiveness excellent for note-taking with the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil or navigating apps.One of the most notable upgrades in the 5th Gen iPad Air is its USB-C port, which supports 10Gbps data transfer speeds. This addition makes the tablet far more versatile, allowing users to connect external storage devices, cameras, and even external monitors. I used the USB-C port to transfer large files and connect a 4K monitor, and the process was seamless and fast.

The addition of the M1 chip brings a significant boost in performance compared to previous iPad Air models. With 8GB of RAM, the tablet handles multitasking effortlessly, whether you’re editing 4K videos, working on large documents, or gaming. I tested it with apps like Procreate, LumaFusion, and Adobe Lightroom, and it ran them all smoothly without any lag.

The iPad Air runs iPadOS 15, which is optimized for productivity and multitasking. Features like Split View and Stage Manager make it easy to work across multiple apps simultaneously.

The iPad Air 5th Gen offers up to 10 hours of battery life, providing reliable performance for a full day of work or entertainment. The thin bezels and lightweight design (just 461g) make the iPad Air 5th Gen highly portable while maintaining a premium feel with its aluminum chassis. It’s compatible with the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly, and the Magic Keyboard, turning the tablet into a capable laptop alternative.

5. Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2

The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 stands out as a versatile and affordable tablet that excels in USB functionality, making it an ideal choice for users seeking enhanced connectivity. Equipped with a USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, the tablet supports data transfer, charging, and external display connectivity, adding a significant layer of utility to this already capable device.During my testing, the USB-C port performed well for transferring files at reliable speeds, connecting to external storage devices, and even supporting video output to a secondary display via DisplayPort. This makes the Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 a practical solution for users who multitask across devices or need to mirror their work on larger screens. I also found it convenient for attaching USB-C hubs to expand functionality, such as connecting keyboards, mice, or external drives.

The 11.2-inch OLED display with a 2560 x 1536 resolution delivers vivid colors, deep blacks, and sharp details. Supporting HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, the screen provides an immersive experience, whether streaming videos, editing photos, or gaming. The tablet’s thin bezels and lightweight build make it highly portable, while its premium design enhances its overall appeal.

Powered by the MediaTek Kompanio 1300T processor, the Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 handles multitasking, streaming, and casual gaming efficiently. Paired with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage (expandable via microSD), it’s equipped to handle everyday tasks with ease. Running on Android 12, the tablet provides a clean and intuitive interface, and Lenovo’s Productivity Mode mimics a desktop-like experience for better multitasking.

The 8,000mAh battery offers up to 14 hours of mixed usage, ensuring that the tablet lasts through work or entertainment without frequent charging. When combined with Lenovo’s optional keyboard pack, it transforms into a functional workstation. The Lenovo Precision Pen 3, included in some bundles, adds further value, offering precise input for drawing, note-taking, and annotations.

6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ 

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ is a flagship tablet that combines a stunning display, robust performance, and excellent USB-C connectivity. Equipped with a USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, the Tab S7+ offers seamless data transfer, fast charging, and support for external display connections via DisplayPort. This makes it an ideal choice for professionals and creatives who need a tablet that can integrate effortlessly with their existing workflows.

During my use, the USB-C port proved invaluable for transferring large files like 4K videos, connecting external monitors for multitasking, and powering additional peripherals like USB hubs. The fast charging capability ensures minimal downtime, providing enough power to get through a full workday or creative session quickly.

The 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display is the highlight of the Tab S7+. With a 2800 x 1752 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support, the visuals are crisp, vibrant, and fluid. The display is perfect for streaming, gaming, and detailed creative tasks like photo editing or digital art. Its slim bezels and lightweight design (575g) make it easy to handle, despite its large size.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor, the Tab S7+ offers excellent performance, even for demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and multitasking. I tested the 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant, and it handled multiple apps and resource-intensive workflows with ease. Running Android 12 with Samsung’s One UI, the interface is clean and optimized for productivity.

The 10,090mAh battery delivers impressive longevity, providing up to 14 hours of video playback. Despite its large screen, the tablet remains lightweight and portable, making it ideal for both work and travel.

7. Google Pixel Slate 12.3

Google Pixel Slate 12.3 is a premium large-screen tablet designed for professionals and casual users who value a blend of portability and functionality. Its 12.3-inch Molecular Display, with a stunning 3000 x 2000 resolution, delivers exceptional clarity and vibrant colors. The high pixel density ensures sharp text and detailed visuals, making it ideal for reading, creative tasks, and entertainment.

One of the Pixel Slate’s key features is its dual USB-C ports, which enhance its versatility and connectivity. These ports support fast charging, data transfer, and external display connections, making the Pixel Slate a powerful tool for multitasking. I tested the USB-C ports with an external monitor via DisplayPort, and the experience was seamless, allowing me to extend my workspace and enhance productivity. The ports also worked flawlessly with USB-C hubs, enabling connections to multiple peripherals such as external storage, keyboards, and mice.

The 12.3-inch Molecular Display is one of the best features of the Pixel Slate. It offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness, which I found perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. The edge-to-edge glass design and slim bezels contribute to a sleek, modern appearance. At just 731g, it’s lightweight enough to carry anywhere, and the aluminum chassis ensures durability.

The Pixel Slate is available in several configurations, ranging from Intel Celeron to 8th Gen Intel Core i7 processors, with up to 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage. I tested the Core i5 model, and it handled multitasking, light photo editing, and Android apps smoothly. The tablet runs Chrome OS, which offers a desktop-like experience with access to the Google Play Store for Android apps, providing a mix of productivity and entertainment.

The Pixel Slate boasts up to 10 hours of battery life, providing all-day usability for work or play. The device is compatible with the Pixel Slate Keyboard (sold separately), which adds a comfortable typing experience with backlit keys and a built-in trackpad. The Pixelbook Pen further enhances functionality, offering precise input for drawing and note-taking.

8. Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is a budget-friendly tablet that delivers a solid mix of performance, portability, and connectivity, making it a great option for casual users and students. Its 10.4-inch TFT display, with a 2000 x 1200 resolution, provides clear and vibrant visuals, ideal for streaming, reading, and light productivity tasks. While it doesn’t feature high-end display technologies like AMOLED, it offers a comfortable viewing experience for its price.

One of the key advantages of the Galaxy Tab A7 is its inclusion of a USB-C port, which adds convenience for charging and data transfer. The USB-C 2.0 port supports fast charging, allowing the 7,040mAh battery to recharge quickly, which is especially helpful for users on the go. During my testing, the USB-C port worked flawlessly for connecting to external storage devices and peripherals like keyboards via a USB-C hub, adding to the tablet’s versatility.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor, the Galaxy Tab A7 handles day-to-day tasks like web browsing, video playback, and document editing with ease. Paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB or 64GB storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD, it provides ample room for apps, files, and media. While it may struggle with heavy multitasking or demanding games, it performs well for casual use.

The tablet runs Android 10, upgradable to newer versions, with Samsung’s One UI providing a user-friendly interface. The integration of Samsung apps and services adds value, especially for those already in the Samsung ecosystem.

The 7,040mAh battery offers up to 13 hours of video playback, ensuring all-day usability for entertainment or work. The lightweight design at 476g makes it highly portable, and the metal unibody construction adds a premium feel despite its budget-friendly price.

9. Microsoft Surface Book 3

Microsoft Surface Book 3 is a premium 2-in-1 laptop that combines exceptional performance, a stunning display, and versatile functionality. Available in 13.5-inch and 15-inch PixelSense displays, it caters to power users, creatives, and professionals who require a device capable of handling demanding workloads. The standout feature of the Surface Book 3 is its detachable screen, allowing it to seamlessly transition between a traditional laptop and a powerful tablet.

The Surface Book 3 features USB-C ports that enhance its connectivity options. While it lacks Thunderbolt support, the USB-C port supports data transfer, display output, and Power Delivery. I used it to connect external monitors and transfer large files seamlessly. The device also includes two USB-A ports and an SD card reader, making it versatile for users who need multiple connectivity options.

The PixelSense display on the Surface Book 3 offers 3000 x 2000 resolution on the 13.5-inch model and 3240 x 2160 resolution on the 15-inch version. The screens deliver sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and excellent brightness, making them ideal for photo editing, graphic design, and watching high-resolution content. I found the 3:2 aspect ratio particularly useful for productivity, as it provides more vertical screen space for reading and multitasking.

Powered by 10th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 processors and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 (13.5-inch) or GTX 1660 Ti (15-inch) discrete graphics, the Surface Book 3 delivers excellent performance for tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming. I tested the Core i7 model with 32GB RAM and 512GB SSD, and it handled heavy multitasking and rendering with ease. The device is available in configurations with up to 32GB of RAM and 2TB SSD, ensuring it can accommodate even the most demanding workloads.

The dual-battery setup, with one battery in the base and another in the tablet, delivers impressive longevity. In my use, the Surface Book 3 provided up to 17.5 hours of mixed usage in laptop mode, making it suitable for long workdays. The lightweight design, starting at 1.5kg, ensures portability despite its powerful internals.

10. ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3

ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 is a lightweight and affordable 2-in-1 Chromebook designed for students, professionals, and casual users who need portability and flexibility. One of its standout features is the inclusion of a USB-C port, which greatly enhances its connectivity and functionality. The USB-C 2.0 port supports charging, data transfer, and display output, making it a versatile choice for users who need to connect peripherals like external drives, monitors, or hubs.

During my use, the USB-C port proved to be a reliable all-in-one solution. I connected an external display for presentations, transferred files with ease, and quickly recharged the Chromebook, all using the same port. While it only has a single USB-C port, the ability to expand its functionality using USB-C hubs ensures it remains practical for multitasking and productivity.

The ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 features a 10.5-inch FHD display with a 1920 x 1200 resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio, offering a sharp and vibrant viewing experience. The screen is bright enough for indoor and outdoor use, making it great for streaming, web browsing, and light productivity tasks. Its detachable keyboard and built-in kickstand allow for multiple usage modes, including tablet, laptop, and stand modes, providing flexibility for various tasks.

Powered by a MediaTek Kompanio 500 processor, paired with 4GB RAM and 64GB or 128GB eMMC storage, the CM3 handles everyday tasks like web browsing, video playback, and document editing smoothly. While it’s not built for heavy multitasking or demanding applications, it performs well for its price range. Running Chrome OS, it offers fast boot times, automatic updates, and access to a wide range of Android apps via the Google Play Store.

The CM3 boasts an impressive up to 12-hour battery life, making it a reliable companion for all-day use. Weighing just 510g (tablet only) and with a sleek, compact design, it’s easy to carry around for work, school, or travel.

Frequently Asked Questions:-

• Can I use a USB flash drive with my tablet?

Yes, A USB flash drive can be connected to a tablet with a USB OTG cable or OTG adapter. This way lets you connect a conventional USB flash drive to a tablet.

• Can I connect a USB printer to my tablet?

Yes, connecting a USB converter to your tablet or a smart device and then clicking the USB Type-B cable to the printer.

• Can I connect a USB game controller to my tablet?

A USB OTG cable is required if you wish to use a USB controller to play games on Android. This unique device transforms a regular USB connector for your phone or tablet.

• Can I connect a USB external hard drive to my tablet?

Yes, since tablets often come with limited storage space, it is necessary to be able to connect external storage solutions such as a hard drive.

• Can I use a USB hub with my tablet?

Yes, a USB hub is a handy way of adding additional USB ports for multiple uses simultaneously. USB-C has become the main base for connecting and charging devices now.

• Are there any special requirements for using USB devices with my tablet?

You can use the standard USB cable with A-type and B-type plugs on the ends or an OTG(on-the-go) Adapter Cable.

• Can I use a USB-C to USB adapter with my tablet?

You can connect iOS devices and typical USB peripherals to a Mac that supports Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) or USB-C.

• Can I use a USB-C to HDMI adapter with my tablet?

It is simple to connect any Android tablet to a TV. You only need a USB-C to HDMI adapter and an HDMI wire to do the job.

How are Tablets with USB ports more useful?

Here I have provided a comparison chart so you can get a better Idea.

Importance and Use of USB Ports in Tablets:-

USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports have become an integral part of modern tablets, significantly enhancing their functionality and usability. These ports serve multiple purposes, making them a crucial feature for both personal and professional tablet users.

1. Data Transfer and Connectivity:
USB ports on tablets allow for seamless data transfer between the tablet and other devices like computers, external hard drives, flash drives, and smartphones. This feature is vital for backing up data, sharing files, or accessing content from various sources, making tablets versatile tools for work and entertainment.

2. Charging Devices:
USB ports can also be used to charge other devices, such as smartphones, cameras, or Bluetooth headphones. Tablets with USB ports serve as power hubs, ensuring that you can keep your essential gadgets charged while on the go, eliminating the need for multiple chargers.

3. Peripheral Connectivity:
Tablets with USB ports can connect to various peripherals, including keyboards, mice, game controllers, and printers. This expands the tablet’s functionality, making it suitable for productivity tasks, gaming, and document printing.

4. External Storage Expansion:
USB ports enable users to connect external storage devices like hard drives and thumb drives to expand the tablet’s storage capacity. This is especially valuable for individuals who require more storage for large files, videos, or multimedia content.

5. Accessory Compatibility:
Many tablet accessories, such as docking stations, stylus pens, and card readers, connect via USB ports. These accessories enhance the tablet’s capabilities, transforming it into a versatile tool for various tasks.

6. Software Updates and Maintenance:
USB ports are essential for performing software updates, system maintenance, and troubleshooting. They enable users to connect tablets to computers for firmware upgrades or for reinstalling the operating system if needed.

Conclusion

Andrew

Howdy Geeks, I'm Andrew, a young passionate blogger, Tech Freak & a Gadget Lover. I help people in buying them the best tablet devices