Looking for an affordable Android tablet? The Lenovo Tab M10 series offers compelling options, but choosing between the Gen 3 and the M10 Plus can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will delve into their specs, performance, and features to help you make the right decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Lenovo M10 Plus edges out the Gen 3 thanks to its slightly more powerful processor and generally better overall performance. While both are budget-friendly, the M10 Plus offers a smoother experience for everyday tasks and light gaming. However, the Gen 3 might be a better value if price is the absolute top priority.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | N/A |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | N/A |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | LTE |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September | 2020, March 27. Released 2020, March 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 239.8 x 158.6 x 8.5 mm (9.44 x 6.24 x 0.33 in) | 244.2 x 153.3 x 8.2 mm (9.61 x 6.04 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 460 g (1.01 lb) | 460 g (1.01 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~224 ppi density) | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~220 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~77.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.3 inches, 307.6 cm2 (~82.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 320 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 330 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T610 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22T (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MP2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to Android 12 | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMCP or eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (with Dolby Atmos) | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, LE | 5.0, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS - cellular model only | GPS - cellular model only |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG, magnetic connector | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5100 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Storm Grey | Iron Grey |
| Models | - | TB-X606, TB-X606F, TB-X606X, TB-X606V |
| Price | About 200 EUR | About 200 EUR |
Lenovo Tab M10 Gen 3
- More affordable
- Decent for media consumption
- Lightweight and portable
- Android OS
- Slower performance
- Basic camera
- Slow charging
- Unisoc chipset not as widely supported
Lenovo M10 Plus
- Better performance
- Slightly better display
- More responsive user experience
- Android OS
- Generally better build quality
- Slightly more expensive
- Slow charging
- Camera still not great
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature 10.1-inch displays, but the M10 Plus typically boasts a slightly higher resolution (often 1920x1200 vs. 1920x1200 on the Gen 3, though this can vary by region). Expect slightly better image clarity and sharpness on the M10 Plus. Both use IPS panels, offering decent viewing angles.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both tablets is not a strong point. Expect decent front-facing cameras for video calls, but rear cameras are primarily for occasional snapshots. The M10 Plus *may* have a slightly better rear camera sensor, but the difference is minimal. Don't expect flagship-level photography from either device.
Performance
The M10 Plus's MediaTek Helio P22T chipset provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Gen 3's Unisoc T610. The Helio P22T's higher clock speeds and slightly more efficient architecture result in smoother multitasking and faster app loading times. The Gen 3 is adequate for basic tasks, but can feel sluggish under heavier loads.
Battery Life
Both tablets offer similar battery life, typically around 8-10 hours of mixed usage. The 10W wired charging is slow on both, so be prepared for extended charging times.
Buying Guide
The Lenovo Tab M10 Gen 3 is ideal for users seeking a basic tablet for media consumption, web browsing, and light productivity tasks on a tight budget. The Lenovo M10 Plus is a better choice for those who want a slightly more responsive experience, occasional gaming, and a generally more polished feel, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What Android version do these tablets run?
Both tablets typically ship with Android 10 or 11, with potential for updates depending on Lenovo's support schedule. Check Lenovo's website for the latest software information.
❓ Can I expand the storage on either tablet?
Yes, both tablets feature a microSD card slot for expandable storage, allowing you to add more space for apps, photos, and videos.
