f you’re on the hunt for a tablet that can actually play games or handle emulation without draining your wallet, you’re not alone. Most guides push you toward expensive options — like the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 or the OneXPlayer X1 Pro — which are undeniably powerful but also come with hefty price tags. What if you’re working with a tight budget? We’re talking under $100 — either new or used — and still capable of handling a decent gaming workload.
This guide follows the same principles we used for our budget phone roundup: verified performance, realistic pricing, and devices that still hold up in 2025. Whether you’re gaming on Android, Windows, or even iOS, here are the tablets that punch above their weight class.
Android Tablets (Under $100)
💡 Pro Tip: Why choose Android?
Android is the most flexible OS for emulation and casual gaming. It supports a wide range of emulators, touch controls, gamepads, and even PC-style launchers. Most apps are free or low-cost, and with some tuning, even older Android tablets can become solid retro gaming machines. Perfect if you want portability, cloud streaming, or a console-like setup on a budget.
If you’re new to Android emulation or gaming, check out our previous article on budget phones — the same setup methods apply here. We walk through controller pairing, emulator installs, and launcher recommendations for turning your tablet into a proper handheld console.
📖 Read the full Android buyer’s guide here.
LG G Pad 5 10.1
- Chipset: Snapdragon 821
- Why It Works: Despite its age, this tablet can handle PSP, GameCube, and even some PS2 games.
- Extra Notes: 16:10 screen, large size, and good thermals. Well-supported in the emulation scene.
- Comparable to: Galaxy S7 or LG V20. Close to a PS Vita in emulation strength but with a bigger screen.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 (60Hz display)
- Storage: Supports microSD card expansion.
- Chipset: Snapdragon 835
- Why It Works: More powerful than the G Pad 5 and supports Samsung DeX for a desktop-like interface.
- Extra Notes: Comes with stylus support, great for multitasking too. Can handle light PS2 and some Wii.
- Comparable to: Pixel 2 XL or OnePlus 5T. On par with a mid-tier Android handheld.
Windows Tablets (Under $100)
💡 Pro Tip: Why choose Windows?
Windows tablets bring the power of a full desktop OS in a portable package. If you want to play classic PC games, run full-featured emulators like PCSX2 or Dolphin, or have access to Steam, a budget Windows tablet is a surprisingly capable option. Ideal for users who want flexibility, multitasking, and aren’t afraid of tweaking settings to optimize performance.
Microsoft Surface Pro 5
- CPU: Intel Core i5-7300U
- GPU: Intel HD 620
- Why It Works: Runs most emulators like Dolphin, PCSX2 (with tweaks), and even Steam games like Hollow Knight, Blur, and BlazBlue Entropy Effect.
- Extra Notes: Still widely available. Tons of community support and accessories.
- Comparable to: Entry-level gaming laptops from 2016–2017. Similar to a GPD Win 2 in emulation strength.
Acer Switch Alpha 12
- CPU: Intel Core i5-6200U
- GPU: Intel HD 520
- Why It Works: Fanless, liquid-cooled, and performs similarly to the Surface Pro 5. Handles Blur and BlazBlue Entropy Effect with lowered settings.
- Extra Notes: Underrated sleeper device.
- Comparable to: Surface Pro 4 or GPD Win Max (first gen).
iOS Tablets (Under $120)
💡 Pro Tip: Why choose iOS?
iPads may be locked down compared to Android or Windows, but they’re incredibly efficient and smooth, even years later. With apps like Delta, DolphiniOS, and PPSSPP available via third-party stores, older iPads can make great low-maintenance emulation machines. A great option if you’re already in the Apple ecosystem or want a reliable gaming and media tablet.
iPad Pro 10.5″ (2017) (120Hz display, HDR support)
- Chipset: A10X Fusion
- Why It Works: Strong chip, 120Hz display, and great compatibility with iOS emulators.
- Extra Notes: Can be found used/refurbished for under $120.
- Comparable to: iPhone 8/X in performance.
Worth the Splurge: Premium Tablets That Deliver
These aren’t ultra-budget picks, but in the broader tech world, they’re still considered budget-friendly for the performance you get. If you’ve got some extra cash and want the smoothest Android gaming or emulation experience possible, these tablets are absolutely worth the investment. Some of these tablets have US variants but are significantly more expensive. Many of them can be found on AliExpress but beware of tariff upcharges if you live in the US. These tablets range from $200 to $300 USD.
Lenovo Xiaoxin Pad Pro 2023 (120Hz display, HDR support)
- Chipset: Snapdragon 870
- Why It Works: High-quality display, great speakers, and top-tier emulation support.
- Extra Notes: Fantastic for heavier emulation — Switch, PS2, and GameCube.
- Comparable to: POCO F4 or OnePlus 9R. Similar to the Ayn Odin 2 or Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
Lenovo Xiaoxin Pad Pro 2025 (144Hz display, HDR support, VRR)
- Storage: Supports microSD card expansion.
- Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 9300
- Why It Works: Handles native Android games like FFVII: Ever Crisis and Solo Leveling: Arise with ease. Split-screen multitasking up to 4 apps.
- Extra Notes: Better for mobile gaming than emulation.
- Comparable to: Vivo X100.
- Helpful Resource: Watch Litratoholik on YouTube for Xiaoxin 2025 tips.
Lenovo Legion Y700 (2023) (144Hz display, HDR support, VRR)
- Storage: Supports microSD card expansion.
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
- Why It Works: Built specifically for gaming with great thermals and a compact 8.8″ display.
- Why This Model: Chosen over the newer version because it includes a microSD slot.
- Comparable to: RedMagic 7S, Galaxy S22+. Emulation performance similar to Ayn Loki Mini Pro.
ALLDOCUBE iPlay60 Mini Turbo
- Chipset: Snapdragon 6 Gen 1
- Why It Works: Compact, well-built, and runs Android gaming and PS2 emulation well.
- Comparable to: Moto G Stylus 5G (2023). Great budget-friendly Legion Y700 alternative.
- At the time of posting, the Alldocube iPlay 60 Mini Turbo is on sale for $169.00
Final Tips
- Many tablets on this list support microSD card expansion. If you’re gaming, go for an A2-rated card for faster read/write speeds and smoother app performance. Research and read reviews — you might find some hidden gems from reputable but lesser-known brands that perform just as well (or better) than the big names.
- For Lenovo tablets like the Xiaoxin Pad Pro or Legion Y700, always buy the Chinese ROM version when possible. These typically come with unlocked bootloaders, better performance tuning, and faster updates. They include English by default — only choose Global ROM if you need other languages.
💡 Pro Tip: If your tablet is over 210mm wide, most telescopic controllers won’t fit. Consider a Bluetooth gamepad instead for a more flexible setup. - If you’re looking for a deep dive into controller options, check out Game Tech Talk on YouTube — he covers everything from telescopic controllers to full setups for tablets and phones.
- Look for listings on eBay, Mercari, Goodwill, or other refurbished marketplaces to get the best deal.
No matter your budget, there’s a tablet out there that can transform into a portable gaming powerhouse — you just have to know where to look. Whether you’re diving into retro emulation, streaming modern titles, or squeezing every frame out of a classic like Valkyrie Profile 2: Silmeria, the right device can turn every spare moment into game time. With a little research, smart shopping, and maybe a dash of trial-and-error, you can build a setup that punches well above its price tag. So game on — and may your battery outlast your next boss fight.
Quick Glossary
VRR: Variable Refresh Rate — reduces screen tearing and stuttering.
HDR: High Dynamic Range — improves contrast and color.
A2-rated SD card: MicroSD cards optimized for faster app performance.
Bootloader: Software that controls startup — unlocking it allows ROM flashing.
Chinese ROM: Region-specific software version — usually better performance and update speed than global.
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