The Best Tablet For Architects
Nowadays, tablets are considered an essential aspect of the modern architect’s business toolkit. This is because they combine the convenience and handy features of a smartphone (portability, ease of taking pictures and quicker access to information) and a PC (writing notes and comments, viewing and editing floorplans).
There are many different tablet brands and models available on the market today. This can make selecting the best tablet for architects a challenge. For this reason, we have created this article, to show you some brands that have a lot of positive review from architects in the real world (based on our research). Moreover, we will provide you with a couple of buying suggestions. We are also going to discuss the most important tablet features to look out for to help you in making the right choice and also for visiting sites like ninjacasino.com.
Let’s dive right in!
The table
Don’t feel like reading the whole article and product reviews? Here are our top 5 picks for architects, designers, and contractors.
| Product | User rating | Average battery life | Screen size (inch) |
|---|---|---|---|
Apple iPad Pro (11”) | 4.3 | 10 hours | 11 |
Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 | 4.3 | 12 hours | 9.7 |
Microsoft Surface Pro | 4.0 | 13.5 hours | 12.3 |
Apple iPad Pro 12.9.” | 4.3 | 10 hours | 12.9 |
Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 | 4.0 | 16 hours | 10.5 |
Note: the battery life of these devices depends on their user’s usage patterns.
How to choose the best tablet for architects
Tablets do not come at a cheap price tag. But having none or buying a wrong device might be even more costly. Not only would you have to deal with the loss of information due to the crashing of the apps or the tablet itself but might also have to deal with other performance issues and insufficient battery juice thus, wasting your precious time and money.
The bottom line is, you need a quality tablet to boost your productivity.
When selecting the best tablet for your work, below are some of the most important tablet features to look out for and factors to consider to help you in making the right choice.
Screen Size
The decision on what screen size is best for you is personal, and it has to do with what you intend to do with the device on the job site. For instance, if you only intend or plan to use the device mostly for taking pictures, then you can rely on a smartphone. But if you want to use the device to work with floor plans, change your designs, and edit (or write) long texts, then you need a device with a bigger screen such as a 10” or 13” screen.
Apart from determining the convenience of typing text, editing and reading of documents, the size of the tablet screen will also determine how easy it is for you to carry your device in your back or suit pocket. Such as Android tablets with a 7.9” screen or the iPad mini with the same screen size; these devices are more convenient for typing, reading, opening, and editing documents than a smartphone.
Operating system
Although the best Operating system (OS) to go for depends on the user’s preferences, the choice you make can affect your productivity. If you already own an Android device or smartphone, it makes sense to stay with Android; you will easily understand how to operate the device, how it works and how it can be synchronized. If you own or already familiar with an iPad, iPhone or Mac, it is advisable for you to stay with iOS.
Shifting abruptly from an OS to the other may have an adverse effect on your productivity since you may have synchronisation issues between your devices. Moreover, in the beginning, you will have to spend time to study and get used to the device and its OS – the time that could be used for other important projects. We give devices with the iOS operating system (Apple devices) a slight preference due to their quality but the latest Android devices are also of good quality. Not only that, they are cheaper than Apple devices and are also available in a variety of choices.
Last, but not least, there are lots of useful apps available for architects, designers, and construction engineers compatible with Android or iOS devices. But for devices with Windows OS, the available selection of apps is still limited.
Connectivity
As an architect, you may need to send a field report, share your designs with your client right from the job site or download the recent version of a blueprint. A device with 4G internet connection might be very useful here. Devices with 4G are costlier than Wi-Fi only devices, but most construction sites are without good Wi-Fi hence, the need to get a device with good internet connectivity.
RAM Memory
The Random Access Memory (RAM) determines the speed and smoothness of your tablet’s performance. 1GB of RAM is okay for most apps, but for heavy use and guaranteed smooth operation, more RAM would be needed. For this reason, we recommend devices with 2GB of RAM or more for architects, designers and construction professionals.
Storage space
Having to continuously delete files before you can receive new ones just because your device memory is full is not a fun thing to do. It can even waste the time that could have been used to handle other important things. Every minute counts and architects all around the world will agree with us that time is money, especially on a job site. To avoid the headaches of having to remove files due to insufficient memory, we recommend a minimum storage space of 32GB to save your documents, videos, pictures, etc. You can go for a device with expandable storage (support for external SD card) if you are looking to save a lot of documents, videos, and pictures. Note that most Android device’s memory can be expanded with an external SD card, but this is impossible with Apple (iOS) devices.
Battery Capacity
How will you feel if you are running a project with a 100% battery full tablet and it suddenly shut down a few minutes after you commenced the exercise due to insufficient battery juice? Frustrated right? The worst part is, you would probably lose the information or files you are working on and end up wasting your precious time. That’s a more reason why you must go for a device with a strong battery life.
Architects can remain on the road or their job site the entire day so, it is best to have a device that can last through the day without recharging its battery. We recommend a device that offers a battery life of at least 9 hours without having to recharge it.
Accessories
Handy and convenient tablet accessories can help to improve your productivity and protect your device. Accessories such as protective case and screen guard can help to protect your tablet against occasional bumps or drops on the floor, dust, and rain. A stylus also comes handy when it comes to sketching or drawing on a white background, pictures or plans. Tablet keyboards are not left out and can help when you need to continue working without having to drag your laptop along.
A car charger is a cheap and handy accessory that can help you prevent low battery misery when you are far away to a job or construction site. So, we recommend a device that supports or come with some useful accessories that can simplify your work and make you more efficient.
Price
The best Tablets for Architects are not cheap, but you do not have to empty your bank or life savings to get one that suits your needs. Set your budget and try to look for a tablet that offers the maximum value and quality that your budget can allow.
Users feedback
It’s one thing for a tablet to have a good specification, it’s another thing for it to have an excellent performance in real life. Apart from the tablet’s specifications, the best way to identify a tablet with awesome performance and ease of use is to consider its users’ reviews and feedback as well.
To provide you with a list of the best tablet for architects, we reviewed several tablet models and brands on Amazon to select 10 high-performing tablets recommended for architects. Then, we narrowed down the search by picking 5 tablets with the best users rating out of the 10 devices we selected earlier to come up with the list of the 5 best tablets for architects in the section below.
The 5 Best Tablets for Architects
The Review
Apple iPad Pro (11-inch, Wi-Fi, 1TB) – Silver (1st Generation)
11-inch edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display with ProMotion, True Tone, and wide color
A12X Bionic chip with Neural Engine
Face ID for secure authentication and Apple Pay
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Price: $752.15
If you own an Apple product and you’re looking for a fast, responsive, beautiful and easy to use tablet to handle your architectural work, then you probably need to get yourself this iPad Pro from Apple. The device comes with 11-inch liquid retina display with a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating and runs on the iOS 12 which is the latest and most advanced mobile OS from Apple.
It also comes 4GB Ram and with a fast and powerful A12X Bionic chip processor, so the device is capable of running any app or program without a hitch. The device is available in different internal memory sizes (64GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1T), so you can select the memory size that suits your needs and store your pictures, documents, music, and floor plans.
It comes with a 12-megapixel camera for taking crystal clear pictures and 4k video recording of your work to share with your clients or post on Facebook and Instagram via its fast Wi-Fi or 4G connectivity. Above all, the device supports convenient accessories such as a keyboard and Apple pencil and comes equipped with 29.37 watt-hour rechargeable Li-Polymer battery that offers up to 10hours of rigorous use.
Pros
- Fast, intuitive and with a sleek and beautiful design
- Compatible with Apple pencil, Bluetooth keyboard, and smart keyboard folio
- Good camera
- Impressive battery life
Cons
- High price point
- Apple pencil is sold separately
Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7-Inch, 32GB Tablet (Black, SM-T820NZKAXAR)
Featuring High Dynamic Range on a Super AMOLED display, the Galaxy Tab S3 delivers cinematic vividness, detail, and deep contrast to a screen that fits in your hands
Our revolutionary S Pen is more precise and pressure-responsive than ever, and never needs to be charged, liberating you to create, translate, and navigate without limits
Powerful Quad speakers, tuned by AKG, calibrate with your movements as you rotate the Galaxy Tab S3, and intuitively reflect what's playing on-screen
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Price: $164.00
If you are looking for the best Android tablet to handle your work, then the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 might be perfect for you. The device features an elegantly designed metal and glass with a 9.7-inch Super AMOLED display that delivers cinematic vividness. It comes with a stylus (S pen) out of the box which gives it a real value over Apple tablet (since you’ll have to buy Apple pencil separately).
The device comes with Android 7.0 (upgradable to 8.0), 4GB Ram, 32GB internal storage, and processor speed clocked at 2.2GHz, this ensures fast, and smooth performance, and efficient running of apps. It also includes a dedicated slot that supports micro SD card up to 512GB, so you do not have to delete old files to collect and store new ones. The 13MP camera that comes with the device help to take clear and sharp pictures of your work and 1080p video recording at 30 FPS.
The device supports keyboard (sold separately) for fast and convenient typing, as well as wireless, and 4G network for fast and reliable connection. Its battery life is impressive; it features a 6000mah rechargeable battery that delivers an average of 12 hours of heavy usage.
Pros
- Comes with an S pen that does not require pairing or charging
- Micro SD slot (expandable memory)
- Split screen apps
- Decent battery life
- Affordable
- Great AMOLED display
Cons
- The keyboard is sold separately
- No place provided on the tab to store the S Pen
Surface Pro (5th Gen) (Intel Core m3, 4GB, 128GB SSD) with Surface Signature Type Cover – Platinum
The latest Microsoft Surface Pro Features a 7th generation Intel Core M Processor, 128 GB of storage, 4 GB RAM, and up to 13.5 hours of video playback
Our fastest Surface Pro ever* thanks to a powerful Intel Core laptop-grade processor
Go all day with up to 13.5 hours of battery life. * 50% more battery life than the previous generation
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Price: $699.00
Are you looking for a laptop or tablet to work anywhere with no hassle? If yes, then the Microsoft Surface Pro might be all you need. The device features a 12.3-inch touchscreen and works perfectly with 3D creation tools, Office, Surface Dial, and Surface Pen and runs smoothly on Windows 10. It delivers a longer battery life (an average of 13 hours of heavy usage) as well as more performance and speed, thanks to its powerful Intel Core processor.
If you have to work in areas with no Wi-Fi, slow, poor or unsecured public Wi-Fi, the Surface Pro has got you covered. The device is available with 4G LTE advanced and it supports a removable SIM card from your service provider. Moreover, it allows you to buy data for the embedded SIM. The processor starts at Core m3 paired with 4GB RAM and goes up to Core i7 with 16GB RAM version.
The storage memory starts at 128GB and goes all the way up to 1T, little wonder why it can open high memory programs faster and run multiple apps at once. So, if you need a fast and amazing device to work all day, try out this Microsoft Surface Pro and thanks us later.
Pros
- Fast and smooth performance
- Exceptional battery life
- Good connectivity (LTE enabled)
- Lots of memory to store files
Cons
- Pricey
- Type cover is sold separately
Apple iPad Pro (32GB, Wi-Fi, Gold) – 12.9″ Display
Retina Display
ATX chip
iOS 9
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Price: $514.38
Apple’s incredible workability, exceptional build quality, and OS make them a mainstay when it comes to selecting a tab for almost any application. The Apple iPad Pro 12.9” is made with professionals in mind, this is noticeable with the “Pro” tag in its name. The tablet offers a 12.9-inch IPS display with is a big improvement over its predecessors.
The device features an A9X chip which is faster than the processor you’ll find in its younger siblings and runs rigorous tasks or programs without heating the chassis or breaking a sweat. The tablet might be somewhat cumbersome due to its size, but if you are looking for a larger display to handle your work or presentations, you will find it very useful.
The tablet is available in 32GB to 256GB, but its cheapest model is Wi-Fi only. The cellular option is recommended for architects who plan on using the device a lot in the field without having to drain their phone’s battery by constantly turning on the hotspot.
Pros
- Compatible with keyboard and Apple pencil
- Large crisp screen
- Multitasking and smooth performance
- Good battery life
Cons
- Stylus not included
- Expensive
Samsung Electronics SM-T830NZKAXAR Galaxy Tab S4 with S Pen, 10.5″, Black
DeX: Transform your tablet into a PC
S Pen included. Imagination unlocked.
With far-field mics, your tablet listens and responds to your voice when your tablet is out of reach.
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Price: $539.99
If you are looking for a faster and responsive Android tablet which is larger than the Samsung Galaxy S3, then you’ll have to look the way of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4. This tablet is the latest release from Samsung and has some improvements over the Tab S3 version. One if this improvement is the larger 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display, improved storage size, and processor speed.
The storage memory starts at 64GB and max out at 256GB and come with a dedicated card slot dedicated slot that supports micro SD card up to 512GB. The Tab S4 comes with a 13MP camera sensor for taking clear and crisp pictures or 2160p video recording at 30 FPS. The tab is available in 6GB and 4GB RAM version and comes with 7300mah Li-polymer battery that offers an average of 16 hours of use on a single charge.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 include an S Pen that never requires charging and support the S4 keyboard (sold separately) that can transform the tab into a PC. Working in an area with poor, unsecured or no public Wi-Fi is no longer an issue, the device supports cellular network with blazing 4G internet connection.
Pros
- Larger screen for Android users
- Excellent battery life
- Multitask without breaking a sweat
- Includes an S Pen out of the box
- Plenty of memory to store files, documents, and floor plans (expandable memory)
- Nice camera
Cons
- Keyboard sold separately
- No fingerprint reader
Final Words
I hope this article has opened your eyes to the reason why you need to invest in a tablet for your architectural work, designs, and construction and guide you in selecting the best. The tablets we reviewed in this article are those we recommend for architect, designers, and contractors who wish to remain on top of their game and complete their work in a timely and efficient manner. These tablets are the ones we found more durable, reliable, with excellent battery life and with a lot of positive feedback from their users.
So, whether you’re a professional architect or an architectural student, you should be careful when selecting the right tablet for your work. You need a tablet with long battery life, fast processor and graphical power to do renderings as well as a good display and internet connectivity to show or share your work with your clients. Do not rush out to purchase the most expensive or cheapest tablet that comes your way as it is a sure way to end up being disappointed.
