Choosing a budget-friendly tablet can be tricky. The Lenovo Tab M10 series offers several options, but the Plus (3rd Gen) and HD Gen 2 stand out. This comprehensive comparison will break down their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) is the clear winner, boasting a significantly faster processor, better display, and faster charging. However, the HD Gen 2 remains a viable option for users prioritizing affordability and basic functionality.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 26, 28, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 28, 38, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat13 390/75 Mbps - cellular model only | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, May | 2020, August 31. Released 2020, November |
| 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) | 241.5 x 149.4 x 8.3 mm (9.51 x 5.88 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 465 g (1.03 lb) | 420 g (14.82 oz) |
| | Stylus support | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~220 ppi density) | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~149 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.61 inches, 320.4 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~82.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 400 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 10 |
| 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 |
| | 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, GLONASS - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM Radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG, magnetic connector |
| 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, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 20W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 7700 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Storm Grey, Frost Blue | Iron Gray, Platinum Gray |
| Models | - | TB-X306X |
| Price | About 260 EUR | About 170 EUR |
Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen)
- Faster Processor
- Higher Resolution Display
- 20W Fast Charging
- Modern Chipset
- LTE Option Available
- Potentially Higher Price
- May be overkill for basic users
Lenovo Tab M10 HD Gen 2
- More Affordable
- Decent Battery Life
- Lightweight
- Suitable for Basic Tasks
- Slower Processor
- Lower Resolution Display
- 10W Slow Charging
- Outdated Chipset
Display Comparison
The Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) features a 2K (2000x1200) IPS display, offering sharper visuals and better color accuracy compared to the HD Gen 2's 1280x800 resolution. The Plus model's higher resolution makes a noticeable difference in image clarity and text readability.
Camera Comparison
While neither tablet excels in camera quality, the M10 Plus (3rd Gen) generally offers slightly better image quality due to its more modern chipset and potentially improved camera sensors. Both cameras are primarily for video calls and casual snapshots.
Performance
The M10 Plus (3rd Gen) holds a substantial performance advantage. Its Snapdragon 680 (or Helio G80 in the Wi-Fi model) is significantly faster than the Helio P22T in the HD Gen 2. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user experience on the Plus model.
Battery Life
Both tablets offer decent battery life for their class. However, the M10 Plus (3rd Gen)'s more efficient chipset and 20W fast charging provide a noticeable advantage in terms of charging speed and potentially slightly longer usage time.
Buying Guide
The Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) is ideal for students, casual gamers, and anyone needing a responsive tablet for browsing, streaming, and light productivity. The Lenovo Tab M10 HD Gen 2 is best suited for users who primarily need a tablet for basic tasks like reading ebooks, watching videos, and light web browsing on a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) worth the extra money?
Yes, if you value performance, a better display, and faster charging. The upgrade is significant.
❓ Can the Lenovo Tab M10 HD Gen 2 handle streaming videos?
Yes, it can handle streaming videos, but the lower resolution display may not provide the best viewing experience.
❓ Does the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (3rd Gen) support expandable storage?
Yes, both models support microSD card expansion.
