I replaced my iPad Air with a $350 Android tablet for a month - my verdict now
Source: ZDNet
Overview
Even as an affordable Android tablet, the OnePlus Pad Go 2 proves to be a capable entertainment and productivity device without the flagship price tag. It’s one of the best‑value tablets I’ve used recently, and it gets even better when you add the native accessories (OnePlus stylus and folio case).
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As its name suggests, the Pad Go 2 is the successor to last year’s affordable tablet, but it brings several significant upgrades:
- Display: 12.1‑inch screen with a 7:5 aspect ratio – great for multitasking, streaming, and reading.
- Design: Sleek and compact; it won’t weigh down a backpack the way a laptop does.
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The Pad Go 2 feels solid and imposing right out of the box—especially after getting used to an 11‑inch iPad Pro for daily work. Yet it remains light enough for school, travel, or a commuter bag.
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Entertainment & Productivity
The tablet performs exceptionally well for its price range. Battery life easily lasts a full day, making it simple to switch from work to streaming or gaming.
Maria Diaz/ZDNET
I used the Pad Go 2 for two months to write and edit content while paired with a Bluetooth keyboard. Performance was solid, though video‑editing felt a bit sluggish and occasional app crashes occurred (but not frequently).
Benchmark comparison
| Device | Starting price | Single‑Core CPU | Multi‑Core CPU | GPU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCL NXTPAPER Tab 11 | $249 | 721 | 1,944 | 1,306 |
| iPad 11 | $349 | 2,596 | 6,237 | 19,848 |
| OnePlus Pad Go 2 | $399 | 1,005 | 3,082 | 2,356 |
| Google Pixel Tablet | $399 | 1,451 | 3,787 | 4,961 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE | $650 | 1,353 | 3,923 | 6,982 |
The OnePlus Pad Go 2’s scores stack up well against similarly priced tablets, making it one of the best budget‑friendly, everyday‑use options for Android fans.
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If your primary tasks are messaging, email, writing, or content editing, the Pad Go 2 is a near‑perfect on‑the‑go device.
Display quality
- Resolution: 2.8K (2560 × 1600)
- Brightness: Up to 900 nits (still a bit dim in direct sunlight)
Maria Diaz/ZDNET
The colors are vibrant and the panel is bright enough for indoor streaming. Speakers are surprisingly powerful for a tablet at this price point.
Stylus & accessories
The Pad Go 2 supports the OnePlus Pad Go 2 Stylo (sold separately for $80) via USB‑C charging (no wireless charging). The stylus feels similar in weight to the Apple Pencil Pro—heavier than a Samsung S Pen, which gives a nice sense of control for drawing.
Maria Diaz/ZDNET
I tested the Stylo alongside my Bluetooth keyboard and was impressed with its responsiveness and accuracy, even as a user who has tried many different styluses. It works well for note‑taking and sketching, though the lack of wireless charging is a minor inconvenience.
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Bottom line
The OnePlus Pad Go 2 is a reliable, multitasking‑friendly tablet that outperforms many higher‑priced competitors in everyday use. Its display, battery life, and stylus support make it a strong contender for anyone looking for an Android tablet that can handle both work and entertainment without breaking the bank.
ZDNET Buying Advice
Maria Diaz / ZDNET
The OnePlus Pad Go 2 is built for Android users who want a tablet that avoids Samsung’s premium pricing while still delivering performance comparable to higher‑end devices. As a professional, I use it daily for both work and entertainment. It handles most tasks smoothly, but keep in mind its processing limits—don’t expect it to edit long 4K videos without hiccups.
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Who Might Benefit
- College students – Need more versatility and portability than a typical Chromebook.
- Older users – Prefer a lightweight, reliable device for everyday tasks.
- Creative professionals – I used the Pad Go 2 Stylo for illustration and graphic design; it feels close to the iPad Air with Apple Pencil Pro.
Alternative for Apple Users
If you’re an Apple fan looking for a more affordable tablet, consider the base‑model iPad 11‑inch, which is typically at least $50 cheaper.