Best Tablet for Nursing School

As technology advances, students are increasingly incorporating digital devices into their studies. As a nursing student, you need a portable, versatile device to help you with your studies. With so many tablets on the market, choosing the right one that suits your needs can be challenging. This article will review the best tablet for nursing school, highlighting the features that make them stand out and various essential factors such as battery life, storage capacity, and overall performance. Additionally, we will consider the distinct requirements of nursing students, such as the need to access clinical resources and take notes during lectures and clinical rotations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tablet for Nursing School

When choosing the best tablet for nursing school, there are some factors you should consider to ensure you get a device that meets your needs.

Portability

Nursing students must carry their devices around campus and clinical sites, so portability is essential. A tablet that is lightweight and compact is ideal for nursing students.

Battery Life

Nursing students spend long hours studying, attending classes, and completing clinical, so a tablet with long battery life is essential.

Performance

A tablet that can run applications smoothly and handle multitasking is essential for nursing students.

Storage

A tablet with a storage capacity of at least 64 GB will enable you to store all of your course materials, textbooks, and notes in one convenient place.

Processor

A tablet with a fast processor will provide seamless performance, allowing you to multitask and run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing any lag.

Display

Opt for a tablet with a high-resolution display that will make it easier for you to read and study your materials, minimizing any strain on your eyes.

Warranty

A good warranty is always a wise investment when purchasing any electronic device, including a tablet. Ensure that the tablet you choose has a comprehensive warranty that will cover any potential defects or malfunctions that may occur.

Weight

Also, pay attention to the tablet’s weight. Select a lightweight tablet that will be more comfortable to carry around during long classes and clinical rotations, reducing any unnecessary strain on your arms and shoulders.

Price

Finally, as a student, finding a tablet that fits your budget is important.

Best Tablets for Nursing School

1) Apple iPad Pro

The Apple iPad Pro is the latest powerful, multi-purpose addition to Apple’s iPad Pro tablet lineup. It’s a high-end tablet designed for professionals who need powerful computing capabilities. Its large 12.9-inch display, A12Z Bionic chip, and Apple Pencil support with outstanding color accuracy and seamless performance make it a versatile tool for creative work, productivity, and entertainment. The tablet is also compatible with the Magic Keyboard, which provides a comfortable typing experience and turns the iPad Pro into a laptop replacement.

This Apple iPad also sends music over four speakers and has improved microphones that project a five-studio element. In terms of battery life, the iPad Pro can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, depending on usage. It also features a USB-C port for fast charging and data transfer.

Features:

Portability and Ease of Use: The iPad Pro is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it ideal for nursing students who need to move between classes, clinics, and study sessions. It also features a user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate.
Large and High-quality Display: The iPad Pro features a large, high-resolution display of 2732 x 2048 pixels (12.9-inch model) or 2388 x 1668 pixels (11-inch model) that is perfect for reading textbooks, taking notes, or viewing patient records. The Liquid Retina display provides stunning color accuracy and a smooth user experience.
Powerful Performance: The iPad Pro is powered by the Apple M1 chip, delivering lightning-fast performance and seamless multitasking. This makes it a great device for nursing students who need to work on multiple apps simultaneously or run demanding medical software. This chip is also used in Apple’s Mac lineup, providing desktop-level performance on a tablet.
Apple Pencil Support: The Apple Pencil is a highly responsive stylus that allows nursing students to take notes, annotate documents, and draw diagrams precisely and efficiently. This is especially useful for classes involving a lot of note-taking or clinical rotations where students need to jot down important information quickly.
Long Battery Life: The iPad Pro can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, which is more than enough for a full day of classes or clinics.
Magic Keyboard Compatibility: The iPad Pro is compatible with the Magic Keyboard, which allows for comfortable typing and transforms the tablet into a laptop replacement. Nursing students who write papers, do assignments, or take online tests would benefit.
Face ID: The iPad Pro features Face ID, a facial recognition system that allows users to unlock their devices securely and efficiently.
USB-C Port: The iPad Pro features a USB-C port allowing fast charging and data transfer. It also supports various USB-C accessories, including external displays, storage devices, and more.
Camera: The iPad Pro features a high-quality camera system that includes a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra Wide camera. This makes it a great tool for taking photos, recording videos, and participating in video conferences.

Drawbacks:

Expensive: The iPad Pro is a premium device, and its high price tag may be a barrier for some users.
Limited App Support: Although the iPad Pro runs on the same software as the iPhone, some apps may not be optimized for the tablet’s larger screen size.
Limited Storage: The base model of the iPad Pro comes with 128GB of storage, which may not be enough for some users.
No Headphone Jack: The iPad Pro does not have a headphone jack, which may inconvenience some users.

Overall, the Apple iPad Pro is a powerful and versatile tablet that offers nursing school students a wide range of features and capabilities. It’s an excellent tool for productivity, creativity, and entertainment and is suitable for a wide range of users, from professionals to students to casual users. However, its high price tag and limited app support may be a downside for some users.

2) Microsoft Surface Pro 7

Students in nursing schools should consider the Microsoft Surface Pro 7. The 2-in-1 design enables tablet and laptop use, and its small size and portability make it simple to carry. It is simple to see and read textbooks, study materials, and medical photographs on the device’s 12.3-inch PixelSense display due to its great resolution.

The Surface Pro 7 runs on the 10th generation Intel Core processors, which provide smooth performance for tasks like web browsing, note-taking, and running medical software. Regarding connectivity, the Surface Pro 7 has a USB-C port, a USB-A port, and a headphone jack, allowing students to connect to external devices and accessories. The device also has a detachable keyboard and supports the Surface Pen (sold separately), which makes note-taking and drawing diagrams easier and more efficient.

Furthermore, the Surface Pro 7 comes with Windows 10 Home or Pro pre-installed, giving Windows users a familiar and user-friendly experience. This allows nursing students to easily access their curriculum and medical tools and engage with classmates and teachers.

Features:

2-in-1 Design: The Surface Pro 7 can be used as a tablet and a laptop, making it versatile for different tasks.
PixelSense Display: The device has a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736×1824 pixels, providing clear and sharp images.
Performance: The Surface Pro 7 runs on the 10th generation Intel Core processors, providing smooth performance for everyday tasks.
Design: The device has a slim and sleek profile, with a built-in kickstand that can be adjusted to different angles for a comfortable viewing experience.
Detachable Keyboard: The device comes with a detachable keyboard, making it easy to switch between typing and tablet use.
Surface Pen Support: The Surface Pro 7 supports the Surface Pen (sold separately), making it easy to take notes and draw.
Connectivity: The device has a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port, allowing for easy connectivity with external devices.
Battery Life: The Surface Pro 7 has a decent battery life of around 7-8 hours on a single charge.
Windows 10: The device comes with Windows 10 Home or Pro pre-installed, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface for Windows users.

Drawbacks:

Limited Ports: While the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 has a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port, it lacks an SD card slot. This could be a drawback for users who need to transfer data from cameras or other devices.
Upgradeability: The Surface Pro 7 is not upgradeable, meaning users cannot easily upgrade or replace the device’s internal components like the RAM or storage.
No LTE Option: Unlike other 2-in-1 devices, the Surface Pro 7 does not have an LTE option, which could be a drawback for users working in areas with limited Wi-Fi access.

Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a great option for nursing school students who need a versatile, portable, and powerful device for their studies. Its design, performance, and features make it a practical and efficient tool for taking notes, studying, and completing assignments in nursing school.

3) Google Pixel Slate

The Google Pixel Slate is a high-end tablet that has received rave reviews since its launch. It is designed for people who want a device that is versatile, portable, and powerful. This 12.3-inch tablet with a high-resolution display makes it easy to read and view images.

The Google Pixel Slate runs on Chrome OS, which is Google’s operating system designed for laptops and tablets. It also provides easy access to the whole suite of Google products, such as Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. That is, you can view and edit your documents even if you are in a nursing lab with no Wi-Fi or phone coverage. It is a versatile tablet that can serve as an excellent tool for nursing students. The two cameras allow you to listen to lectures or attend a video chat with your study group while looking amazing.

Features:

Portability: One of the most significant advantages of the Google Pixel Slate is its portability. The Pixel Slate is lightweight, thin, and easy to carry, making it a perfect choice for nursing students.
Long Battery Life: The device can last for up to 12 hours on a single charge, which is ideal for nursing students who spend a lot of time in the classroom or on clinical rotations.
Productivity: The Pixel Slate comes with a detachable keyboard and a stylus pen, which enhances productivity. The keyboard is backlit, making it easy to type in low-light environments. The stylus pen is also great for taking notes, drawing diagrams, and annotating documents.
Google Assistant: The Google Pixel Slate has Google Assistant built-in, which is a virtual assistant that can help with various tasks. Nursing students can use Google Assistant to set reminders, search for information, and even control smart home devices.

Drawbacks:

Price: The Pixel Slate is a high-end device with a price tag to match. The base model starts at $799, and the keyboard and stylus pen are sold separately, which can add to the cost.
App Compatibility: While the Pixel Slate runs on Chrome OS, not all Android apps are compatible with the device. This can be a drawback for nursing students who rely on specific apps to complete their coursework.
Limited Storage: The base model of the Pixel Slate comes with 64GB of storage, which may not be enough for nursing students who need to store large files such as medical textbooks and documents.

The Google Pixel Slate is an excellent tablet for nursing students, with its portability, long battery life, and productivity features. However, the device’s high price tag, limited app compatibility, and storage capacity should also be considered. Overall, the Pixel Slate is a great option for nursing students who prioritize productivity and portability.

4) Samsung Galaxy Tab S6

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is a high-end tablet that is designed to provide a great user experience for those who need a device that can handle a variety of tasks. It has a sleek and modern design, with a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display that has a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. The tablet is lightweight, weighing only 482 grams, and it is thin, with a thickness of just 7.1 mm.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is a powerful device, with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor and 4GB of RAM. It runs on Android 8.1 Oreo, which is fast and efficient. The device has excellent battery life, lasting up to 16 hours on a single charge. It has a fingerprint sensor for secure and easy access. The tablet is available in black and grey colors.

Features:

Display: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 boasts a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display that provides an immersive viewing experience. The display has a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a pixel density of 287 PPI, making it ideal for watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web.
S Pen: It comes with an S Pen, which is a stylus that allows users to take notes, draw, and edit documents with precision. The S Pen has a pressure sensitivity of 4096 levels, providing a natural and intuitive writing experience.
DeX Mode: The DeX mode is a unique feature of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, which allows users to connect the tablet to a monitor and use it as a desktop-like interface. This feature is particularly useful for users who need to work on multiple tasks simultaneously and want a larger screen to view their work.
Audio System: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 has four speakers that are tuned by AKG, providing a rich and immersive audio experience. The device also supports Dolby Atmos, which enhances the audio quality even further, making it ideal for watching movies, playing games, and listening to music.
Battery Life: It has a powerful 7300 mAh battery that provides up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge. This makes it ideal for users who need to use the tablet for long periods, such as students or professionals.
Performance: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor and 4GB of RAM, providing excellent performance for multitasking and running multiple apps simultaneously. The device also has 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 400GB with a microSD card.

Drawbacks:

Keyboard Cover: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Keyboard Cover is sold separately and can be quite expensive. While the cover is a useful accessory for users who need to type frequently, the added cost may be a deterrent for some users.
Limited App Optimization: While the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 runs on Android, some apps may not be optimized for the tablet’s larger screen. This can result in apps that look stretched or distorted on the display, which may impact the user experience.
Camera Quality: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6’s camera is not as impressive as other devices in its category, with a 13-megapixel rear camera and an 8-megapixel front camera. While the cameras are adequate for video conferencing and taking casual photos, they may not be suitable for users who need high-quality photos.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 is a great option for people who want a premium tablet that offers excellent performance and features, especially for nursing school use. It offers excellent performance, versatility, and productivity features. Its sleek design, S Pen, DeX mode, and audio system make it a great option for nursing school use. However, the device’s high price and lack of a headphone jack should also be considered before making a purchase.

5) Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet

If you’re a nursing student in search of a robust and dependable tablet, the ThinkPad X1 Tablet is an excellent option to consider. Boasting a swift Intel Core processor and a maximum capacity of 16 GB RAM, this tablet guarantees seamless performance and swift multitasking capabilities. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet is a 2-in-1 convertible tablet that offers the functionality of both a laptop and a tablet. It is designed for professionals and business users who require portability and versatility.

Features:

Design: The ThinkPad X1 Tablet has a sleek and professional design, featuring a detachable keyboard that allows you to use it as a tablet or a laptop. It has a sturdy build quality and is made from durable materials.
Display: The tablet sports a 13-inch display with a resolution of 2160 x 1440 pixels. The display is bright and offers good color reproduction, making it suitable for both work and multimedia consumption.
Performance: The ThinkPad X1 Tablet is powered by Intel Core processors, providing efficient performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. It comes with various configurations to choose from, offering options for different processing power and storage capacities.
Portability: Weighing around 1.7 pounds (0.77 kg) without the keyboard, the ThinkPad X1 Tablet is highly portable, making it easy to carry around. It is slim and lightweight, which is ideal for users who are frequently on the go.
Connectivity: The tablet offers a range of connectivity options, including USB-C ports, USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, and a microSD card slot. It also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity.
Security: The ThinkPad X1 Tablet includes several security features to protect your data, such as a fingerprint reader for biometric authentication and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for hardware-based encryption.
Battery Life: The tablet is equipped with a long-lasting battery that can provide up to 9-10 hours of usage, depending on the usage intensity. This allows users to work or enjoy multimedia content without constantly worrying about charging.
Operating System: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet typically comes with Windows 10 pre-installed, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface.

Drawbacks:

Limited Connectivity: The ThinkPad X1 Tablet offers a limited number of ports. It includes one USB Type-C port, a microSD card slot, and a combo audio jack. While it supports USB-C docking, users may require dongles or adapters for connecting multiple peripherals simultaneously.
Battery Life: The battery life of the ThinkPad X1 Tablet is decent but not exceptional. With moderate usage, it can provide around 8 to 10 hours of battery life, which may not be sufficient for some users who require extended periods of usage without charging.
Price: As a premium device, the ThinkPad X1 Tablet comes with a higher price tag compared to other tablets and 2-in-1 devices in the market. The additional cost is justified by its build quality, performance, and security features, but it may be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
Keyboard Layout: While the detachable keyboard is convenient, some users may find the key layout slightly cramped. The keys have a shallow travel distance, which could affect typing comfort for users accustomed to traditional laptop keyboards.

Overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet is a feature-rich 2-in-1 device that offers a powerful computing experience in a compact and versatile form factor. Its sleek design, vibrant display, and robust performance make it an attractive option for professionals on the go. However, the limited connectivity options, average battery life, higher price point, and keyboard layout are some drawbacks to consider when evaluating this device.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tablet for nursing school?

The perfect tablet for nursing school will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, some popular options among nursing students include the Apple iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, and Microsoft Surface Pro. These tablets offer a range of features such as portability, note-taking capabilities, and access to medical apps.

Should I consider a tablet with cellular connectivity for nursing school?

It depends on your needs and preferences. If you frequently require internet access on the go or if your nursing program involves clinical rotations in different locations, a tablet with cellular connectivity can be beneficial. However, if you primarily use Wi-Fi networks and have access to reliable internet connections, a Wi-Fi-only tablet should suffice.

What lens should I use for product photography?

The needs of your shoot determine the ideal lens for product photography. Macro lenses, which can capture small details and textures, and fast prime lenses with a wide aperture, which creates a shallow depth of field and a more professional effect, are two popular options.

Is an iPad a good option for nursing school?

Yes, an iPad can be an excellent option for nursing school. iPads offer a user-friendly interface, a wide range of nursing and medical apps, and compatibility with digital note-taking tools. Additionally, they have excellent display quality, long battery life, and a vast selection of educational resources through the App Store.

Laptop vs Tablet For Nursing School: Which Is Best?

The decision between a laptop and a tablet for nursing school depends on how you plan to use the device. If you prioritize versatility, running software applications, and multitasking, a laptop may be the better choice. However, if portability, digital note-taking, and access to nursing-specific apps are more important to you, a tablet could be the preferred option. It’s also worth considering whether you may need both devices for different purposes, as they can complement each other in your nursing studies.