The Lenovo Tab M series is known for offering solid Android tablets at competitive prices. But with two generations of the M10 Plus available, choosing the right one can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison breaks down the key differences to help you decide which tablet best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) is the clear winner, boasting a significantly faster processor, improved charging speed, and a more modern chipset. While the original M10 Plus remains a budget-friendly option, the 3rd Gen offers a noticeable upgrade in performance and overall experience.
| 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, 26, 28, 28, 38, 40, 41 | LTE |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat13 390/75 Mbps - 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, May | 2020, March 27. Released 2020, March 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, May | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 251.2 x 158.8 x 7.5 mm (9.89 x 6.25 x 0.30 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 | 465 g (1.03 lb) | 460 g (1.01 lb) |
| | Stylus support | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~220 ppi density) | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~220 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.61 inches, 320.4 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.3 inches, 307.6 cm2 (~82.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 330 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) - LTE model Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) - Wi-Fi only model | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) - LTE model Mediatek MT6769V/CU Helio G80 (12 nm) - Wi-Fi only model | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22T (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 610 - LTE model Mali-G52 MC2 - Wi-Fi only model | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMCP/uMCP | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS - cellular model only | GPS - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM Radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | 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, gyro | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 20W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 7700 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Storm Grey, Frost Blue | Iron Grey |
| Models | - | TB-X606, TB-X606F, TB-X606X, TB-X606V |
| Price | About 260 EUR | About 200 EUR |
Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen)
- Faster Processor (Snapdragon 680/Helio G80)
- 20W Fast Charging
- More Modern Chipset
- Improved Performance
- Slightly Better Battery Life (due to efficiency)
- Potentially Higher Price
- Design is similar to previous models
Lenovo M10 Plus
- More Affordable
- Decent for Basic Tasks
- Lightweight and Portable
- Slow Performance
- 10W Charging (Slow)
- Outdated Chipset
- Limited Multitasking Capabilities
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature a 10.1-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920x1200. While the panels are similar in size and resolution, the 3rd Gen model may offer slightly improved color accuracy and brightness due to advancements in display technology. Viewing angles are generally good on both.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality isn't a primary focus for these tablets. Both feature a rear camera and a front camera suitable for video calls and occasional snapshots. The 3rd Gen might have a slight edge in image processing, but don't expect flagship-level photography.
Performance
This is where the 3rd Gen shines. The Snapdragon 680 (LTE model) or Helio G80 (Wi-Fi model) in the 3rd Gen provides a substantial performance boost over the Helio P22T in the original M10 Plus. Expect smoother app loading, faster multitasking, and a more responsive user experience. The 3rd Gen handles more demanding apps and games with greater ease.
Battery Life
Both tablets have a 5000mAh battery. However, the 3rd Gen's more efficient chipset allows for slightly better battery life under moderate usage. The 20W fast charging on the 3rd Gen is a significant advantage over the original's 10W charging.
Buying Guide
The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) is ideal for users who prioritize performance, smoother multitasking, and faster charging. It's great for streaming, light gaming, and general productivity. The original Lenovo M10 Plus is a good choice for those on a very tight budget who primarily need a tablet for basic tasks like web browsing and media consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) worth the extra money?
Yes, if you value performance and faster charging. The upgrade is significant and provides a much smoother user experience.
❓ Can the original Lenovo M10 Plus handle streaming video?
Yes, it can stream video, but you might experience occasional lag or stuttering, especially with higher resolution content.
❓ What Android version do these tablets run?
The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) typically ships with a newer version of Android. The original M10 Plus may be running an older version, and updates may be limited.
