Best tablets for architects in 2023
A tablet is a valuable addition to your office computer and your phone. Let’s go over the most common uses for tablets, top tablet requirements, and the best tablet options by purpose.
Top architectural uses for tablets
Below is a list of scenarios where you will need a tablet the most as an architect –
On-site work and project inspections
Architects must frequent construction sites and lots to run site analysis and track project implementation.
If you are using project management software like architectural PlanMan you can get the most of your on-site work by running the software on the tablet you have with you. We have developed PlanMan specifically for cross-platform operations and you can launch and use it on any tablet whatsoever, be it iOS, Windows, or Android one.
Meeting with clients and stakeholders
When you explain your ideas or showcase your results, a tablet will help you stay vivid and effective. You can draw on photos and plans for a quick explanation of an idea or a concept – or you can look things up and present data or arguments to anyone who needs convincing.
With PlanMan, you can always pull documents and saved files to double-check anything you need.
A tablet will also help you calculate the number of materials needed, distance using satellite and other data, or get in touch with a co-consultant or an assistant to request additional info.
At the office
A lot of tablets are powerful enough to serve as your main workstation. Combine that with a Bluetooth keyboard, and you can redefine what an office computer is.
At the university
A tablet is invaluable for education – it’s easy to carry around and robust enough to offer decent computer power for your tasks. When commuting, you can listen to podcasts, watch videos, or consume course materials without unpacking a laptop.
What’s especially important for students is that you can get a great tablet on a budget – see our suggestion for a cheap tablet below.
Architectural tablet requirements
RAM
RAM, which stands for Random Access Memory, is used in tablets to access temporary files, apps, and processes. RAM also helps boost the performance of the device by allowing it to multitask and switch between apps quickly. The more RAM your tablet has, the faster and the more powerful it feels.
Battery
Battery life is essential if you are frequently on the go and use energy-consuming apps working with media and excessive bandwidth.
Special tools & peripherals
We’re talking about keywords, pencils, cameras, and other peripheral gadgets. The more compatible your tablet is, the more ideas you will get for your productivity.
Durability
This quality is essential if you are active and visit construction sites often. Tablets are not created equal, and some use better materials than others.
Now let’s review the list of the tablets that stand out in each of the above categories.
The most powerful tablet for architects
https://www.apple.com/ipad-pro/
The iPad Pro is a powerful device that is well-suited for architects. It features an A12Z Bionic chip with an eight-core graphics processor, making it capable of handling complex design applications with ease.
The Liquid Retina XDR display delivers true-to-life detail with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, great for viewing and editing HDR photos – so you can effectively present anything you want to your clients or other stakeholders. There are also advanced display technologies like P3 wide colour, True Tone, and ProMotion – all of that contributes to impressive presentations.
Additionally, the iPad Pro has a variety of accessories available, such as the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, which come in handy to architects.
Overall, the iPad Pro is a powerful and versatile device that can help architects do routine work on the go.
The amount of iPad architecture apps is huge – and will keep your every need covered.
The tablet is the most costly one but the amount of time and energy you will save will easily make it worthwhile.
Longest battery life tablet for architects
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08CB6FTY1
If you prioritize having a tablet with a long-lasting battery, consider getting the Samsung Galaxy S7 tablet.
This tablet is equipped with a powerful 7040 mAh battery that can last for up to 15 hours on a single charge. This is extremely handy for long field trips. Whether you’re out sketching designs, reviewing blueprints, or collaborating with colleagues, the Samsung Galaxy S7 tablet provides the power and performance you need to get the job done.
In addition to its impressive battery life, the Samsung Galaxy S7 tablet also features an 11-inch display that provides a crisp and clear viewing experience, making it easy to review detailed designs and drawings and present them to anyone.
The included S Pen will let you be precise and accurate when using drafting software, allowing architects to create detailed designs with ease.
Moreover, the Samsung Galaxy S7 tablet has an Octa-Core processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage, providing the power and storage capacity needed to handle large files and demanding applications. The sleek and lightweight design of the tablet makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go, ensuring you can stay productive no matter where you are.
The most rugged and durable tablet for architects
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Acer-ET108-11A-80PZ-Octa-Core-Processor-Handstrap/dp/B08G8WYYFW/
As most Amazon reviews agree, Acer Enduro could be the toughest tablet for architects. Many users report it can survive a fall down a flight of stairs without damage. This durability is something that comes in extremely handy if you’re visiting construction sites.
The Acer Enduro’s rugged design is highlighted by its reinforced corners, rubber bumpers, and Gorilla Glass screen, all providing ample protection against accidental drops and impacts. The device also comes with a hand strap, allowing easy and secure handling, even when wearing gloves.
In addition to its durability, the Acer Enduro boasts impressive features that make it a great choice for architects. The tablet is powered by an Octa-Core processor and 4GB of RAM, providing plenty of power for running demanding applications and multitasking. The 10-inch display is bright and clear, making it easy to review blueprints and designs. The device also comes with a stylus, allowing architects to sketch ideas and make notes precisely and accurately.
Overall, the Acer Enduro is the perfect tablet for architects who need a device that can withstand the toughest conditions. Its rugged design and impressive features make it a great investment for anyone in the industry.
Best cheap tablet for architecture students
https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Android-Long-Lasting-Expandable-Exclusive/dp/B09N3YBXCN
There are many brands that fit the description, but Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite stands out as a very good all-around cheap option. The tablet offers a range of features, making it a great investment for architecture students on a budget.
One of the key features of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is its portability. With a 7.5-inch screen and a weight of just 0.65 pounds, the tablet is easy to carry around and use in various settings, whether in class, at the library, or a coffee shop. The tablet also offers expandable storage of up to 1TB with a microSD card, which is useful for storing large design files and other documents without overpaying for stock memory.
The tablet’s battery life is impressive, with up to 13 hours of video playback time on a single charge. This means architecture students can use the tablet throughout the day without worrying about charging it.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is powered by an Octa-Core processor and 3GB of RAM, providing sufficient power for running architectural software and other applications. The tablet also features a 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera, which can be useful for taking photos of design inspiration or video calls with classmates and professors.
No matter what tablet you decide to get, use practice-tested software that has already helped thousands of architects. Sign up for a free PlanMan trial and see how much thought we’ve put into the platform!