iPad Air 2
Get it: For a top-of-the-line tablet
Skip it: If you're not desperate for a tablet upgrade
Just as it did for its phones, Apple applied the “thinner, lighter, faster” method of upgrades to its super-thin iPad Air 2, which is thinner than a standard pencil. The tablet also has a faster processor, Apple's TouchID fingerprint scanner and a super-sharp screen. For all of its sleek beauty, the iPad Air 2 doesn't surpass by leaps and bounds its predecessor, released just last year. If you really want the fingerprint-reader technology — something parents in particular like for limiting screen time — then think about an upgrade. Otherwise, while the iPad Air 2 is a great present to give to anyone looking for a new tablet, it's not a must-have device.
Kindle Fire HD 7
Get it: If you want a durable, high-quality tablet for less
Skip it: If you want a full-fledged tablet
For a tablet devoted to pure consumption, it's hard to beat the Kindle Fire line. It's not exactly great for getting work done, but it does the trick if you just want to sit back, unplug from work and take in some entertainment. Amazon put this one through the wringer to make sure it can stand up to all of life's daily tumbles — it has a kid-friendly version with squishy sides if you need more cushioning — and produced a high-quality tablet for a low price. Of course, that means the tablet is designed to keep you reading, watching and buying things through Amazon — so buyer beware if you'd rather be on a different platform. (Disclosure: Amazon chief executive Jeffrey P. Bezos is the owner of The Washington Post.)
Surface Pro 3
Get it: If you're looking for a tablet that can double as a laptop
Skip it: If you want to use it more for play than work
Microsoft's latest entry in the tablet market, the Surface Pro 3, has smoothed out many of the growing pains that held it back in the past. The original version felt too betwixt and between as it hovered between tablet and laptop; the latest version is definitely a device on which you can do serious work. A kickstand in back lets you angle the device any way you want, so you can work in cramped airline seats or sit back and watch something with ease. The Surface Pro 3 is better for work than play, thanks to the apps that run best on it. But you can't get any real work done without the $130 type cover (or keyboard), sold separately, so figure that into the price.
The Washington Post