Are you a content creator or a social media influencer struggling to find the best tablet for live streaming? Do you find yourself constantly dealing with lagging video and poor audio quality on your current device?
Editor’s Choice
SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S7+
- Rear & Back Camera: 13MP, 5MP
- RAM: 6 GB
- Battery Life: 12 Hours
If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.Budget Pick
VASTKING KingPad M10
- Rear & Back Camera: 8MP, 13MP
- RAM: 4 GB
- Battery Life: 11 Hours
If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.Overall Best
Apple iPad Air 5th Generation
- Rear & Back Camera: 12MP, 12MP
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery Life: 8 Hours
If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Look no further! I’ve got the inside scoop on the best tablet for live streaming, and I’m here to share all the juicy details with you.
You know the struggle of trying to create a high-quality live stream, only to have your tablet freeze up or lag. It’s frustrating and time-consuming, and it can seriously impact the success of your content. But fear not, my friend! Take away those pain points, and you’ll be streaming like a pro in no time.
So, what makes the most effective streaming tablet stand out from the rest? It all comes down to a few key features.
First and foremost, you want a tablet that can handle high-quality video and audio without breaking a sweat. That means a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, and ample storage space for all your media files.
Minimum & Recommended Tablet Requirements For Live Streaming
1. The tablet used for live streaming should have a minimum of 1.5 GHz processor. This is important because a tablet with a lower processor speed may not be able to handle the demands of streaming, causing lags or even crashes. The processor speed determines how fast the tablet can process data and perform tasks.
2. A minimum of 2 gigabytes (GB) of RAM is used for live streaming. RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and it is a type of computer memory that is used to temporarily store data that the tablet is currently using. Having more RAM means that the tablet can handle more apps or processes at the same time without slowing down.
5 Best Tablets For Live Streaming – Tested & Compared!
1. SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S7+ – Editor’s Pick
Key Features:
- Rear & Back Camera: 13MP, 5MP
- RAM: 6 GB
- Battery Life: 12 Hours
- ROM: 128 GB
- Processor: Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
With the optional keyboard and expanded trackpad, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ can become a PC.
The keyboard is sold separately, but it’s worth the investment if you’re someone who wants to use their tablet as a laptop replacement. The keyboard and trackpad are incredibly responsive, and the Dex mode allows you to have multiple windows open at once, making multitasking a breeze.
It boasts a larger edge-to-edge display than most tablets in the market, with a 12.4-inch screen that provides ample space for viewing content.
The TFT LCD screen is bright and vibrant, providing a crisp and clear picture that’s perfect for streaming videos. You’ll be able to see every detail and experience cinematic viewing, whether you’re streaming with a game or something else.
But wait, there’s more! It also comes with a redesigned S Pen that has improved 9ms pen latency. Notes can be taken and presentations can be controlled easily with this.
The S Pen is a game-changer for anyone who needs to take notes on the go, and it’s especially useful for artists and designers who want to sketch and draw.
Pros
- It offers a standard notification shade, system-wide dark mode, and support for Microsoft products and services.
- The tablet can be used in portrait or landscape orientation and can switch seamlessly between the two.
- The screen has a maximum brightness of 390 nits and up to 480 nits in auto mode, making it easy to use in bright conditions.
- A quad stereo speaker setup tuned by AKG with Dolby Atmos support for impressive audio quality.
Cons
- Holding the tablet with one hand can get tiring after a while, and the tablet is relatively heavy for its size.
2. Apple iPad Air 5th Generation – Overall Best
Key Features:
- Rear & Back Camera: 12MP, 12MP
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery Life: 8 Hours
- ROM: 64GB, 256GB
- Processor: M1 Chip
- Item Weight: 1.02 pounds
The iPad Air (5th Generation) has a beautiful 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display that is ideal for watching videos and live streams.
The display has a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels and supports True Tone technology, which adjusts the color temperature based on the ambient light in the room. You can now stream live from anywhere around the world.
An A14 Bionic chip with a 64-bit architecture, which is the same chip found in the iPhone 12 provides excellent performance for streaming and multitasking. We ran some tests, and it scored an impressive 5651 on the Geekbench 5 benchmark test. This means that it is faster than most laptops and tablets on the market.
Its 12-megapixel rear camera and 7-megapixel front-facing camera are fantastic for video calls, taking photos, and recording videos. Upon testing the rear camera, it produced sharp and detailed images with accurate colors.
The front-facing camera is also great for selfies and video calls, and it has a feature called Center Stage, which keeps you in the center of the frame even if you move around.
In terms of connectivity options, it supports Wi-Fi 6, which provides faster internet speeds and better connectivity. It was incredibly fast, with download speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps.
It is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) and the Magic Keyboard. The Apple Pencil is perfect for taking notes, drawing, and annotating documents, while the Magic Keyboard is also great for typing, and it has a built-in trackpad, which makes navigation a breeze.
Pros
- The storage read speeds are 88% faster than before, and the write speeds are 3.3 times faster.
- It makes common tasks, web browsing, and many different apps, snappier than before.
- 5G connectivity provides faster internet speeds for users.
Cons
- Limited compatibility with previous Apple accessories such as lightning cables, can be frustrating for those who have invested in them.
3. VASTKING KingPad M10 – Budget Pick
Key Features:
- Rear & Back Camera: 8MP, 13MP
- RAM: 4 GB
- Battery Life: 10 Hours
- ROM: 128 GB
- Processor: Octa-core T618
- Item Weight: 2.11 Pounds
Video playback on the VASTKING KingPad M10 is supported at 1080P/60FPS with an eye-protecting 300 nits display.
Adapting to your environment and reducing harmful blue light, the screen constantly produces flawless color.
With a resolution of 1200×2000 and no air gap, you can expect clear images with no bounced light, which is great for watching movies or streaming live video.
It has four stereo speakers that deliver crisp, clear sound. You won’t miss a single word or sound effect, and it makes watching movies and playing games even more immersive.
You’re sure to enjoy everything you do with the tablet’s ultra-thin 10.36″ full-laminated touch screen.
In terms of connectivity, it features 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, making it possible to stay connected anywhere and anytime. Furthermore, you can connect and use your chosen wireless devices easily thanks to Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.
It offers seamless multitasking and fast content streaming thanks to its Octa-Core 2.0GHz 12nm chip. You can keep up with all your feeds thanks to the 60Hz refresh rate.
You can download all your videos, games, e-books, and more for free with the 4GB RAM and 128GB storage that is easily expandable to 2TB by an external TF/SD Card.
The 6000mAh battery can last the whole day for general usage, so you don’t have to worry about running out of juice in the middle of an important video call or streaming session.
A 13MP rear camera and 8MP front camera give you the ability to capture amazing detail in your photos and videos.
Pros
- MicroSD storage is expandable, providing additional storage space for media and apps.
- Large screen with good brightness and color, offering an immersive viewing experience.
- Better low-volume control than some tablets, allowing for better control over audio levels.
- Comes with VastKing Premium Android Tablet Case Stand for KingPad M10, which provides additional protection and a stand for easy viewing.
Cons
- Sometimes have to tap the side of the device after rotation to get the screen to match rotation, which can be a minor inconvenience.
4. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
Key Features:
- Rear & Back Camera: 8MP, 5MP
- RAM: 8 GB
- Battery Life: 9.5 Hours
- ROM: 128 GB
- Processor: 10th Gen Intel Core i5
- Item Weight: 1.7 Pounds
The Surface Pro 7 is faster than its predecessor, the Surface Pro 6, thanks to its 10th Gen Intel Core Processor. The processor can handle more intensive tasks and applications without sluggishness.
Our tests showed that it was able to handle multiple live-streaming applications at once without any lag or buffering.
It comes equipped with Bluetooth Wireless 5.0 technology and Wi-Fi 6: 802.11ax connectivity providing faster and more reliable connections when streaming live. We tested it in a variety of environments and found that it was able to maintain a strong connection, even in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals.
Moreover, it offers both USB-C and USB-A ports, so you can connect to multiple displays, docks, and peripherals simultaneously when live streaming.
We found this particularly useful when connecting to external microphones and cameras for higher-quality audio and video.
It’s slim and lightweight, starting at 1.70 pounds, which makes it incredibly portable and easy to take on the go. We found that it was easy to hold for extended periods when live streaming, without experiencing any hand fatigue.
The battery life of the Surface Pro 7 is impressive, with up to 9.5 hours of all-day battery life. Upon testing, it was able to last through multiple live-streaming sessions without needing to be charged. It also went from empty to full faster than other tablets, reaching about 75% in just over an hour when it needed a boost.
Pros
- The device is versatile and can be used both as a laptop and a drawing display.
- Switching between modes is seamless and the pen is highly responsive.
- The matte black color looks great, although it chips easily.
- It can handle large and complex drawing projects with no lag or delay.
Cons
- The magnet-based charging port is weak and can easily become unplugged, especially when using the device on the couch or in bed.
5. Lenovo Tab P11 Plus (1st Gen)
Key Features:
- Rear & Back Camera: 13MP, 8MP
- RAM: 4 GB
- Battery Life: 13 Hours
- ROM: 128 GB
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G90T, Octa-Core
- Item Weight: 1.08 Pounds
Begin with the display – Lenovo Tab P11 Plus has an 11-inch TDDI IPS display with 2K resolution (2000 x 1200).
The colors are vivid, and the picture quality is crisp and clear. We tested it out with some of the most demanding video content, and the device was up to the task, delivering a truly immersive viewing experience. If you’re into live streaming, this tablet is a winner.
And it gets even better with the audio. It boasts Dolby Atmos over four speakers, which means that you can get lost in the audio of your favorite songs, stories, and shows.
We tried it out with some of the latest music videos, and the sound was just fantastic. This feature alone makes it a must-have for anyone who enjoys streaming music or video content.
But it’s not just about streaming – it is a multitasking powerhouse. Gaming, browsing the web, or working on a project is lag-free with the MediaTek Helio G90T, Octa-Core processor.
The 4GB with 128GB memory is plenty for most people’s needs, and the Android 11 operating system ensures that you’re always up to date with the latest features and security updates.
Stream up to 13 hours of content on a single battery charge with the Tab P11 Plus while away from home. With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, it’s easy to use on the go.
Pros
- The tablet is fast and has snappy performance when switching between screens and apps.
- The screen brightness is adjustable and can be set to be very bright, making it easy to view in direct sunlight.
- It is easy to set up and can be synced with a Google account, as well as paired with a Samsung phone to automatically copy apps from the phone to the tablet.
- The tablet has a solid and sturdy feel and is easy to hold.
Cons
- It comes with bloatware preinstalled, which needs to be manually uninstalled.
Which Apps Are Best For Live Streaming?
1. YouTube Live
Streamers of all levels will enjoy YouTube Live’s user-friendly experience as one of the world’s most popular video-sharing platforms. With or without streaming software, you can stream on desktop or mobile devices. You’re sure to find an audience for your content with such a large user base.
2. Instagram Live
Instagram Live offers real-time video streaming on mobile devices, with integration into Facebook. Live videos appear at the top of your followers’ Stories if they don’t watch them immediately.
3. Twitch
While Twitch is largely known for gaming, it’s also a popular platform for other niches. A robust live chat feature allows viewers and streamers to interact in real-time and offers several ways for creators to monetize their content.
4. Facebook Live
If you already have an audience on Facebook, Facebook Live is a great option. You can stream directly from Facebook using the Live Producer on a desktop, mobile device, or encoder. For content creators, it offers monetization options.
5. TikTok
Now that TikTok‘s popularity has skyrocketed, creators can connect with their viewers live. If you don’t have 1,000 followers yet, you can have your stream shown to users who don’t follow you yet by the suggestion algorithm.
6. Wirecast Go
Streamers can go live from their desktops and laptops using Wirecast, a well-known encoding software. Live broadcasts can be run from your phone using Wirecast Go, their mobile streaming app. Live and pre-recorded shots can be switched between, custom branding can be added, and RTMP and YouTube streaming is supported.
7. Restream
You can stream live from your computer or phone directly from a web browser with Restream, which is cloud-based. Add custom graphics, add guests with a simple link, stream prerecorded videos, and even go live on multiple platforms at the same time.
Related: Best Tablets For Video Recording
How To Set Up A Tablet For Live Streaming?
Setting up a tablet for live streaming involves two possible things: live streaming a video using the camera of the tablet or live streaming a screen recording. Below is a detailed guide.
1. Live Streaming A Screen Recording
Step 1
Go to “Settings” and click on the “Control Center” section.
Step 2
Tap on “Customize Controls” and make sure that the “Screen Record” icon is in the upper section. If not, click on the green plus icon next to it, and it will increase.
Step 3
Open the app that you have downloaded for live streaming, and set everything up, including logging in with your YouTube account.
Step 4
Tap on “Stream Your Games,” enable camera and microphone access, and click on the menu in the upper left corner.
Step 5
Tap on “Screen Capture” and select the platform, which will be YouTube.
Step 6
Tap on “Create Event” and enter the title. Note that you must have at least 1,000 subscribers to go live on a mobile device such as an iPad. If you meet this criterion, the app will start broadcasting to YouTube.
Step 7
Leave the app, and swipe to the control center. Hold down the “Screen Record” icon, and select the app you have downloaded for live streaming, which is Stream Labs.
Step 8
Decide if you want to use the microphone or not, and enable or disable external sound as necessary.
2. Live Streaming Using The Tablet Camera
Step 1
Download the YouTube app and log in.
Step 2
Click on the plus icon in the middle, which is in the bottom portion.
Step 3
Click on “Go Live,” but note that you must have at least 1,000 subscribers to do so.
Step 4
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the set-up and start your live stream.
Note that the above steps may vary slightly depending on the device and the app used, so it’s essential to refer to the app’s instructions for more information.
For live streaming on a tablet, do I need a hardware or software encoder?
The video encoder is an essential component for live streaming, and it can be achieved using either a hardware or software encoder.
A software encoder is an application that runs on a computer or mobile device, while a hardware encoder is a dedicated appliance built from the ground up for live streaming and recording.
You can use both, but the hardware encoder is generally the better option for live streaming due to its higher quality, reliability, and ease of use. Let’s dive into some details for better understanding.
In terms of quality, hardware encoders are superior to software encoders since they are able to produce higher-quality output. Hardware encoders typically have multiple inputs for high-quality video and audio, such as HDMI input and output, back-in, and line-in.
Software encoders, however, are limited to what’s built into the computer they are operating on, unless you add separate capture cards or audio interfaces.
1. Reliability is critical in video production, and hardware encoders are more reliable than software encoders, which can be prone to errors and crashes. Hardware encoders are tailor-made for video production, and you won’t need to worry about the screen freezing on your laptop or losing data.
2. Affordability depends on the project’s needs and constraints, but in general, software encoder setups require a lower initial investment compared to hardware encoders. However, hardware encoders are becoming more cost-effective options for high-end productions that involve multiple cameras or streaming at 1080p or 4K.
3. Ease of use is also a consideration, and hardware encoders can be simpler to use than computer-based setups. For example, the Yellow Box Pro has an 8-inch touch screen as an Android tablet with all production features at your fingertips and is super easy to operate.
You can stream simultaneously into multiple destinations with a simple tap on the button on the screen. The menu on the right bottom of the screen is easy to navigate, and there are many free premium features such as overlays, comments, an audio mixer, a scoreboard, and guests.
Hardcore Encoder Vs Software Encoder
| Factor | Hardware Encoder | Software Encoder |
| Availability | Limited | Widely available |
| Quality | High | Lower |
| Reliability | High | Lower |
| Multi-camera setup | Easier | More complex |
| Affordability | Higher | Lower |
| Ease of use | Easier | Complex |
| Inputs | Multiple (HDMI, etc.) | Limited to the computer |
| Customization | Limited | More Flexible |
Is the iPad Good For Live Streaming?
Yes, the iPad can be a good device for live streaming depending on your needs. iPads have high-quality cameras and microphones, making them suitable for live-streaming events, concerts, and other activities.
Additionally, there are many live streaming apps available for iPads that make it easy to broadcast live video to platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitch. Some popular apps for live streaming on iPad include Streamlabs, Switcher Studio, and Wirecast Go.
However, if you need to do more advanced video production tasks or require multiple camera angles, you may want to consider using a dedicated video production tool instead of an iPad.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Tablet For Live Streaming?
1. Portability
Tablets are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around and stream from anywhere, whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go.
2. Larger screen
Larger screens can make it easier to monitor your stream, read comments, and interact with your audience.
3. Longer battery life
They often have larger batteries than smartphones, which means you can stream for longer periods without needing to recharge.
4. Better performance
Powerful processors and more RAM on tablets can make a streaming smoother experience with less lag or stuttering.
5. Enhanced camera and audio quality
Many tablets have high-quality cameras and microphones, which can improve the overall quality of your stream and help you connect with your audience more effectively.
What Video And Audio Formats Are Supported For Live Streaming?
Basically, video formats are file formats that store compressed audio and video data, sometimes even including subtitles. Some of the most widely used video container formats in the industry include MP4, MOV, WMV, FLV, and AVI.
There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing the best video format for live streaming. Some crucial parameters can significantly affect the choice of format.
1. Live streaming protocols affect the choice of format. Identifying the most suitable live-streaming video format requires familiarity with different live-streaming protocols. One popular protocol is RTMP, which was created by Macromedia and provides low-latency delivery via TCP. AVC and H.264 can both be handled by RTMP, even though Adobe has deprecated Flash.
2. Your live stream viewers will use a variety of devices to view your stream, so it’s essential to consider their devices when making this decision. You should know that iPhones and iPads support only HTTP delivery, for example. You can select the most compatible video format for your live stream by understanding the playback devices of your audience.
3. HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) is released in 2009 by Apple. Since HLS became a standard format, almost every device now supports it. It was originally only supported by iOS. HLS fragments MP4 videos into small segments and uses audio and video codecs such as AAC and AVC.
4. By eliminating the need for plug-in architectures like Flash, WebRTC works natively within a web browser. A peer-to-peer connection is used to stream data, encoding data directly between the two browsers.
Can I Connect External Devices To My Tablet For Live Streaming?
Yes, you may be able to connect external devices to your tablet for live streaming, depending on the capabilities of your tablet and the devices you want to use. Here are the common methods for connecting external devices to a tablet for live streaming:
1. USB
Some tablets have a USB port that can be used to connect external devices, such as cameras or microphones. An adapter may be required to connect your tablet to a USB device.
2. HDMI
If you want to connect a camera or other video source to your tablet for live streaming, HDMI cables are available. You’ll need an HDMI adapter that’s compatible with your tablet.
3. Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Wireless devices can connect to your tablet via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. For example, you might use a wireless microphone or a Bluetooth-enabled camera to capture audio or video for your live stream.
4. Docking station
Certain tablets can be connected to docking stations, which provide additional ports for connecting external devices. This can be a convenient way to connect multiple devices to your tablet for live streaming.
Final Words!
Live streaming is an exciting and engaging way to connect with your audience, but to ensure the best experience, you need the right tools. And when it comes to tablets, not all are created equal. Choosing the wrong tablet can result in poor video quality, lagging, and other issues that can ruin your live-streaming experience.
So, what kind of tablet should you avoid for live streaming? Well, first and foremost, you should avoid tablets with low-quality cameras. Poor camera quality can result in grainy and blurry video, making it difficult for your audience to see what’s going on.
More, tablets with slow processors and low RAM can result in lagging and stuttering, which can be incredibly frustrating for both you and your viewers.
And most importantly, avoid tablets without adequate storage space, as running out of storage mid-stream can result in losing important footage or even the entire stream.
I am the Founder and Senior Editor at TheTablofy. I am an experienced professional in the digital media industry and hold a degree of Bachelor of Science degree in Advance Technology. Meet My Meet