Operating system

When purchasing a tablet, your first decision is which operating system to choose and for many the choice of operating system comes down to what you are used to. An Android phone user is likely to prefer an Android tablet, it will have the same applications and the same look and feel, and an iPhone user is more likely to choose an iOS based device. However, if all you want to use your device to do is to read emails and documents, then an entry level, small-screen Android, Apple iOS or Windows devices are capable of web browsing and displaying documents and emails. Additionally both the Android and Apple iOS operating systems also include a wide range of business productivity programs – including Microsoft’s Office although to get the full benefit you will need a subscription to Microsoft’s Office 365 - that can help you with your day to needs. However if you have a desktop application that you need to run on your tablet, then there’s no substitute for a tablet based on the Windows operating system.

However, if you want to create documents, use business applications and work on the tablet at length, you will need to choose an operating system that can handle specialised applications, as well as apps that can run fully optimised on your tablet.

Connectivity

Your tablet will come with Wi-Fi to allow you to connect to the internet while you’re in the office or in range of a Wi-Fi hotspot, many also include Bluetooth, which is useful if you’re going to use your tablet for Voice-over-IP calls and you don’t want trailing cables.

If you need to connect to the internet while you’re on the road, a tablet with the option to connect via a 3G/4G connection to a mobile network will be essential. Note - You will also need a SIM and a mobile contract to connect to the internet.

Memory and processor

The processor included in your tablet will decide how fast you can work: a fast processor means your applications can run as fast as those on your desktop or laptop and will let you switch quickly between open applications.

If you’re just looking to view the web and read email then a basic processor, such as a dual-core ARM Coretex A7 or a dual-core Intel Atom processor, will be fine. However, if you want to use your tablet to run business applications such as Microsoft Word or Excel then you will need to look at something a little more powerful – ideally, a quad-core processor like the QUALCOMM Snapdragon 410 or the Intel Atom Processor Z3735F.

If you’re planning on using your tablet to run business applications that are graphically intensive, such as video and business analytics, then you should look for a top-of-the-range processor such as the Intel Core M range or Core i5, or a A8X rocessor with M8 Motion co-processor, which is found in the Apple iPad Air 2.

If you’re planning on using your tablet to run business applications that are graphically intensive, such as video and business analytics, then you should look for a top-of-the-range processor such as the Intel Core M range or Core i5, or a A8X rocessor with M8 Motion co-processor, which is found in the Apple iPad Air 2.

Most business tablets come with at least 16GB of memory included, which is more than enough for the majority of users who just want to browse, email and take a few pictures and videos. If you need to store documents on your tablet, and use it for video recording and taking lots of photographs, you should ensure that the tablet has expandable storage options. For a heavy business user you should be looking at 128GB of storage on board with the ability to expand to 100s of GB with either a Solid State Drive (SSD) or hard drive.

Most tablets have a slot for a micro SD card, and a USB or mini-USB port for adding extra memory, attaching devices and securely transfering files. Some higher-end devices also have a hard drive that allows you to store office documents.

Battery

Battery life should also be a main consideration when choosing a tablet. If you are likely to be working on the device all day, you need a battery life that matches your work pattern.

Mobility

Tablets are highly portable so ideal if you work from different locations, constantly hop on and off public transport and need to take your work with you. If you need to edit documents and type a lot of emails, it’s worth investing in a Bluetooth keyboard, as this will help you get the job done more quickly.

Screen

If you’re planning to read and work on a variety of business documents, you should choose a larger, high-resolution screen. Ideally, this should be at least 9 inches, with a screen resolution of 1280 x 800 or more.

Protection

Like smartphones, tablets don’t respond well to being dropped so treat them with care. Many devices feature Gorilla Glass screens that are more durable and scratch resistant than regular glass. But you should consider a screen cover when you buy your tablet, to help protect it from falls and knocks. Covers are also available for every model of tablet in a variety of designs and materials – from snap-on protective cases, to wraparound covers that feature front and back protection.