Lenovo's Tab series offers a range of Android tablets catering to different budgets and needs. The original Lenovo Tab and the newer P11 Gen 2 represent distinct points in this lineup. While both aim to provide an accessible tablet experience, a key differentiator lies in their underlying chipsets, impacting performance and efficiency. This comparison dissects these differences to determine which tablet best suits your usage.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Helio G99 chipset, built on a 6nm process, delivers a noticeable performance uplift over the Tab’s Helio G85, translating to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and improved gaming. While the Tab remains a viable option for basic tasks, the P11 Gen 2 offers a more future-proof and responsive experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - cellular model only | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - cellular model only | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE - cellular model only | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, August 14 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, August 18 | Available. Released 2023, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | - |
| Dimensions | 235.7 x 154.5 x 7.5 mm (9.28 x 6.08 x 0.30 in) | 269.1 x 169.4 x 7.4 mm (10.59 x 6.67 x 0.29 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 425 g (14.99 oz) | 520 g (1.15 lb) |
| | - | Stylus support |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~224 ppi density) | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~203 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~81.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 11.5 inches, 376.4 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 12L |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 13 MP, f/2.4, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 720p | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (with Dolby Atmos) | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS - cellular model only | GPS, GLONASS, BDS - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| 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/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity (accessories only) | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Ion 5100 mAh | Li-Po 7700 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Polar Blue, Luna Grey | Storm Grey, Sage |
| Models | ZAEH0019IN, ZAEH0180IN, ZAEJ0054IN | TB350FU |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 350 EUR |
Lenovo Tab
- More affordable price point
- Sufficient for basic tasks
- Acceptable for casual use
- Less powerful processor
- Lower performance in demanding apps
- Less efficient power consumption
Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2
- Significantly improved performance
- More efficient processor (6nm)
- Better multitasking capabilities
- Smoother gaming experience
- Higher price than the Lenovo Tab
- May be overkill for very basic users
Display Comparison
Both tablets likely feature similar LCD panels, but detailed display specs (resolution, brightness, color gamut) are missing. However, the chipset difference indirectly impacts the display experience. The more powerful GPU in the P11 Gen 2 can render graphics more efficiently, leading to smoother animations and potentially better video playback. Bezels are likely comparable given the similar target market. Without specific data, it's difficult to assess color accuracy.
Camera Comparison
Given the target market, camera performance is unlikely to be a primary focus on either device. Detailed camera specs are unavailable, but it's reasonable to assume both tablets feature modest camera setups. The chipset upgrade in the P11 Gen 2 *could* enable slightly better image processing, but the impact will likely be minimal. We anticipate both tablets will struggle in low-light conditions.
Performance
The core of the difference lies in the chipsets. The Lenovo Tab utilizes the Mediatek Helio G85, a 12nm chip with an octa-core CPU configuration (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55). The P11 Gen 2 steps up to the Mediatek Helio G99, fabricated on a more efficient 6nm process, featuring an octa-core CPU (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55). The 6nm process is crucial; it allows for higher transistor density and improved power efficiency, meaning the G99 can sustain higher performance for longer periods without overheating. The Cortex-A76 cores in the G99 also represent an architectural improvement over the A75 cores in the G85, offering better single-core performance. This translates to snappier app launches and a more responsive user interface.
Battery Life
Both tablets feature 15W wired charging. While battery capacity isn't specified, the Helio G99's 6nm process offers a significant advantage in power efficiency. This means the P11 Gen 2 is likely to deliver longer battery life despite potentially having a similar battery capacity to the Tab. The improved efficiency also means less heat generation during charging and usage, contributing to overall longevity.
Buying Guide
Buy the Lenovo Tab if you prioritize extreme affordability and only need a tablet for very basic tasks like web browsing, email, and light video consumption. It’s a suitable option for users on a tight budget who don’t demand high performance. Buy the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 if you value a smoother, more responsive experience, plan to game occasionally, or anticipate using demanding applications. The P11 Gen 2’s more powerful chipset and efficient design justify the price premium for users seeking a more versatile tablet.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 handle demanding games like Genshin Impact?
While the Helio G99 is a capable chipset, Genshin Impact is a particularly demanding game. The P11 Gen 2 can likely run it at lower settings and frame rates. Expect some frame drops during intense scenes. The original Lenovo Tab would struggle significantly with this title.
❓ Does the Mediatek Helio G99 in the P11 Gen 2 get noticeably hotter than the G85 during extended use?
Despite offering higher performance, the Helio G99's 6nm process is more efficient, meaning it generates less heat than the 12nm Helio G85. While it will still warm up during prolonged gaming or video encoding, the P11 Gen 2 is less likely to experience significant thermal throttling.
❓ Is the performance difference between the two tablets noticeable for everyday tasks like browsing and email?
Yes, the performance difference is noticeable even in everyday tasks. The P11 Gen 2’s faster processor and more efficient architecture result in snappier app launches, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive overall user experience. The original Tab may exhibit slight lag or stuttering during multitasking.
