Tablets are the best way to bring entertainment and travel satisfaction with you on an overland trip. Choosing the best tablet for Overlanding purposes is becoming more popular, and there are plenty of reasons why. Not only can you use tablets to navigate with GPS, but you can also use them for entertainment. The best tablet for Overlanding will be one that has a lot of the features you want.
If you’re Overlanding or traveling in remote areas then a tablet is a great tool for navigation. It’s the adventure of a lifetime and it is one that can be done in all kinds of vehicles, from an old Land Rover to a new Mercedes.
It is easy for overlanders to get stuck when traveling through remote areas. This can be caused by mechanical failure or even bad weather conditions. When this happens it is best to be able to contact someone who can give you advice as to how to proceed.
Overlanding can be a complicated and dangerous endeavor. Most of us will not even come close to the technical difficulty of rock crawling at Moab or the complexity of driving across Africa, but we all have our own challenges. The greatest is navigation.
The most common go-to method is GPS, but a GPS gives you only so much information. Now, people use it as a backup tool and rarely rely on it completely unless they are on terrain that they are familiar with.
There are great tools to help with this process like apps for Android or iPad that mimic traditional map reading, but they are still limited in their usefulness and require power to function. The tablet offers an alternative solution that has some real benefits over paper maps or old-school GPS units.
Best Tablets for Overlanding - Reviewed
The best tablet for Overlanding is a personal choice. There are several different varieties of tablets, but should you go with Apple, Android, or Windows? That depends on your needs and your budget.
Below we reviewed top-notch, waterproofed, and rugged tablets for Overlanding and off-road navigation.
Why Best Tablet for Overlanding?
In general, a tablet offers the following benefits that make it better than a GPS device:
– A large screen allows for easy viewing and legibility of maps.
– The touch screen interface is intuitive and easy to use, even while driving.
– Tablets typically come with more built-in features (e.g., camera, etc.) than a GPS device does.
– A tablet’s built-in battery makes it easy to charge and use in remote locations.
– Many tablets (especially Android) can be easily customized with apps and widgets to suit your personal tastes and preferences.
– Tablets usually have more available memory than a GPS device does, so you can store extra maps and media on them.
– Tablets are relatively inexpensive compared to GPS devices.
– A tablet can be used as an external monitor for your laptop computer, making it easier to work on maps and other documents while driving.
Overall, a tablet offers many advantages over a GPS device for off-road navigation, especially in an overland adventure vehicle. It makes it easy to share maps, photos, and videos with your group; lightweight; compact; has great battery life; and most importantly, is a very versatile tool that can be used for many other things while on the road.
1. Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 for Overlanding
Weight: 345 g | Screen: 8.0 Inches | Dimensions: 210 x 124.4 x 8 mm | Resolution: 800 x 1280 Pixels | Rear camera: 8MP | Front camera: 2MP | Memory: 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | OS: Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 11 | Battery: 5100mAh | Color: Black and Silver
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Beautiful display
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Great performance
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Elegant design
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10+ hours battery life
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Good price tag
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Camera or Bluetooth capabilities still have room
The editor’s choice tablet for Overlanding is here. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is an excellent choice of tablet for Overlanding due to its durability and the toughness of the IP68 rating. It is waterproof, dustproof, and capable of surviving underwater.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is the next generation of tablet computers made by Samsung Electronics that’s specifically designed for use in recreational vehicles (RVs). Its main purpose is to serve as a backup navigation system since it works well with RV and motorhome applications. It has advanced features that you would not normally find in a traditional GPS navigation device including offline maps, optional turn-by-turn directions, live traffic, and photo mapping.
If you are the type of person that would like a small tablet for motor homing or Overlanding, but you also appreciate having a backup navigation device when you are in 4×4 or truck mode, then the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is for you.
Overlanding and travel mishaps happen anywhere and everywhere, so it’s always best to be prepared by having a backup navigation device just in case. Just like when driving on the highway where there’s a possibility of getting lost if your vehicle breaks down, there’s a high chance of getting lost if your primary navigation system becomes damaged while out on the wilderness trail or off-road adventure.
Tablet will introduce a fun and convenient way to enjoy communication. Also, it’s the perfect size to fit in your hand and your lifestyle.
Stunning 8-inch Full HD display that is ideal for entertainment and multitasking. With a powerful 1.6 GHz Octa-Core processor, featuring Super AMOLED technology, consumers can switch between personal and professional tasks seamlessly on a tablet that fits perfectly in their hands and pockets.
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 7 for GPS Navigation
Weight: 771 g | Screen: 12.3 Inches | Dimensions: 92 x 201 x 8.5 mm | Memory: 256GB, 8GB RAM | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | OS: Windows 11 | Resolution: 2736 x 1824 Pixels | Web camera: 5MP | Colors: Platinum, Matte Black
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Ultimate hybrid tablet
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Pretty impressive specs
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Slim and crisp design
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Long battery life
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Balanced kickstand
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A bit heavy in weight
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 tablet is more than a laptop replacement. It’s more than an entertainment device. It’s more than a tablet, even. It’s a dream machine for anyone who wants it all, and the flexibility to use it however you want.
Truly, Microsoft Surface Pro 7 tablet is a do-it-all device that you can use for anything from work to play. And with its compact design, it can go wherever you do—from the boardroom to the Overlanding. Not only that, but its full Windows 10 operating system enables you to use all your favorite Windows applications and programs.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 tablet is another best device for off-road navigation. The tablet has a lot of upgrades from previous models and it is a great portable GPS for your vehicle. It comes with a USB port, GPS, and Wi-Fi capabilities.
It is a great way to go mobile. The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 tablet is one of the best Windows tablets available.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 tablet is perfect for traveling and outdoor activities like Overlanding, hiking, or biking. It comes with an adjustable kickstand that makes it easy to place on uneven surfaces. It also comes with a detachable keyboard that makes it convenient to type notes or messages. This is great for the avid outdoor enthusiast!
The battery life of the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 tablet is about 12 hours, which means you do not have to worry about running out of juice during a long trip.
The tablet is built to withstand the rigors of travel. It’s slim and sleek, but durable design. The USB C ports let you connect to devices and power sources quickly.
While we are in transit, it might be easier just to use a laptop because most of our computer time is spent using Google Maps or Google Earth to find places to go or trails to travel. It’s also easier to type if you aren’t familiar with the touch keyboard on the tablet. It’s also easier to read eBooks on a laptop than on a tablet because there are already.
Terrific for writing, drawing, designing, or just your everyday off-road navigation tasks.
3. Microsoft Surface Go 3 for Overlanding
Weight: 544 g | Size: 10.5 Inches | Dimensions: 245 mm × 175 mm × 8.3 mm | Resolution: 1920 x 1280 | Storage: 8GB, 128 GB | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Snapdragon, eSIM, Nano SIM | OS: Windows 11 | Front Camera: 5MP | Rear Camera: 8MP | Color: Platinum
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Lightweight and slim
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A new generation of Surface
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Windows 10 S operating system
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Backlit keyboard
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Doesn't have a replaceable battery
It runs on Windows S, which is the streamlined version of Windows 10. You can run multiple apps or even stream full HD videos with this tablet.
One of the standout features is that it comes with a Surface Pen stylus that’s perfect for taking notes or drawing pictures. The battery lasts up to 9 hours, so you won’t have to worry about running out of power in the middle of a task.
This premium tablet also offers built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity so you can easily connect to your home network or other wireless hotspots.
Microsoft’s Surface Go is a curious device, positioned as a consumer device but with the guts and pricing of a budget computer. It’s a tablet at heart, with an adjustable kickstand and touchscreen, but without the ability to install apps from the Windows Store (which is why Microsoft calls it an “enterprise” tablet).
Trying to fit such a wide range of functionality into a small frame inevitably leaves something out.
The Surface Go sacrifices power for portability and affordability, which makes it an appealing choice for some students, particularly those who opt for the more expensive LTE model.
The tablet is an ideal device to take with you on all your outdoor adventures. Whether it be camping or hiking, the tablet will have you covered in all ways.
With a huge 10.5 inches screen, it is capable of handling multiple apps at once so that you can take care of all your outdoor needs.
For off-road navigation, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent choice for GPS tracking and route planning. The built-in GPS allows for accurate mapping and tracking.
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
Weight: 498 g | Screen: 11.0 Inches | Dimensions: 253.8 x 165.3 x 6.3 mm | Resolution: 1600 x 2560 | Memory: 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 512GB 8GB RAM | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | OS: Android 10, upgradeable to 11 | Battery: 8000mAH | Colors: Black, Bronze, Silver, Navy
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Extremely slim and lightweight
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Powerful configuration
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Long-Lasting Battery Life
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Super AMOLED display provides vivid colors
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S Pen is responsive and fun to use
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Takes a while to charge
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is one of the best Android tablets on the market, with a 4K display, 10-inch screen, and a sleek design that’s easy to carry around. It’s perfect for reading eBooks or watching movies on the go.
It comes with a redesigned S Pen that has improved latency. The S Pen can control presentations and take notes effortlessly.
The Galaxy Tab S7 is an entertainment powerhouse. It comes with Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, AKG quad speakers, and an immersive AMOLED display. You’ll enjoy cinematic quality videos on this tablet.
With the wide 13MP rear camera and ultra-wide 5MP front camera, you’ll capture all the action in high resolution. The 8MP camera on the front will help you with video calls and selfies too.
It’s also great for gaming. Thanks to its Quad-Core processor and included controller.
This device offers plenty of storage space, so you won’t run out of room for your favorite games, movies, music, and other media files.
In pursuit of Back to the Future-style technology, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is ruggedized to take on the great outdoors while still delivering a refined media experience.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is a rugged tablet, designed with Trail riding and Overlanding in mind.
Dustproof and shockproof durability means it’s ready for the wildest adventures.
The latest generation of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S series is designed with an advanced level of durability and functionality. It is up to withstand daily use in extreme environments like construction sites, factories, farms, and the outdoors.
You can use it on a boat or in the rain and it won’t get destroyed. It’s also compatible with all of Samsung’s Tab S keyboards, which makes typing easier outdoors or on the go.
5. Lenovo Tab M10 Plus
Weight: 460 g | Size: 10.3 Inches | Dimensions: 244.2 x 153.3 x 8.2 mm | Resolution: 1200 x 1920 | Memory: 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | OS: Android 9.0 | Battery: 7000 mAh | Color: Iron Grey
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Great battery life
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Excellent performance
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Attractive screen
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Good speakers
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Basic chipset
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Smaller than some competitors
Lenovo has unveiled the Tab M10 Plus, a 10.3-inch tablet. It features a premium look and feels with a metal back cover and slim, narrow bezels.
It is not just for Overlanding but can also be used for work and play, thanks to its Android operating system and premium components.
The Tab M10 Plus’s back cover is made of metal and it measures 7.9 mm (0.31 in) at its thickest point. It also sports narrow bezels, giving it a premium look and feel, Lenovo said in a statement.
The tablet has an FHD display with a high-definition resolution and support for 10-finger touch input. It also features TDDI technology that improves the quality of videos and photos on the screen.
The device is powered by an octa-core processor clocked at up to 2.3 GHz and backed by 4 GB of RAM.
The storage options include 32 GB or 64 GB of eMMC flash memory expandable via a microSD card slot as well as Dolby Atmos-tuned dual speakers with side-firing drivers for immersive sound effects.
With Dolby Atmos equalizer drivers built into two sides of the tablet’s body, you can hear cinematic sound from any angle — even when holding the tablet in an outdoor venture.
If you’re looking for a tablet that’s still great for all your everyday tasks but also has some extra features for travel and camping, Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is definitely a good option!
Overlanding is a type of overland adventure where the participants use off-road capable 4WD vehicles to travel between locations. It is designed to survive in the most extreme conditions. It’s waterproof and drop-proof, but also offers high-end specs and performance so you can use it as your workhorse at home or on the go.
6. Apple iPad Air A1474
Weight: 469 g | Screen: 9.7 Inches | Dimensions: 240 x 169.5 x 7.5 mm | Resolution: 1536 x 2048 Pixels | Battery: 8600 mAh | Memory: 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 64GB 1GB RAM, 128GB 1GB RAM | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | OS: iOS 7, upgradable iOS 12.4.6 | Color: Space Gray, Silve
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Lightest, thinnest tablet in its class
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Retina display
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10-hour battery life
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Superfast
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TouchID
Apple iPad Air is another best dashboard navigator for overlanders and off-road adventurers.
The iPad is a fully functional tablet with a Retina Display, a powerful A7 chip, 5MP iSight camera, and ultrafast wireless. So you can browse the web, stream HD video, play games and run your favorite apps.
It’s just 6.1 mm thin and weighs less than a pound – so it’s easy to hold in one hand or fit in your bag while Overlanding.
Built for adventure, the Apple iPad Air is your perfect traveling companion. It offers cutting-edge performance and lets you browse your favorite sites, check email, and plan itineraries on the go.
The tablet features a 10-hour battery life, so you can enjoy entertainment without worrying about running out of power. It is sufficient to cover the activities of most overlanders and off-roaders in one day.
You can view this super high definition image from almost any angle without seeing any color shifting or brightness drop off.
It also includes an M8 motion coprocessor that enables advanced fitness tracking capabilities. This means that when you’re enjoying movies or games you will have no trouble keeping up, while still making sure you get accurate data about how many calories you’ve burned during the day.
The iPad Air has a winning feature set for Overlanding and off-roading. The increased processing power allows for smooth navigation even when used with high-detailed maps.
The large screen is perfect for both reading maps and watching Netflix while waiting at the campfire.
It has enough mobility to make the iPad Air a worthy item to pack on a long trip, especially in the replacement of books, laptops, and cameras which adds extra weight and cost.
7. Fire HD 10 Plus tablet
Weight: 468 g | Screen: 10.1 inches | Dimensions: 247 x 166 x 9.2 mm | Resolution: 1920 x 1200 Pixels| Memory: 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 64GB 1GB RAM, 128GB 1GB RAM | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | OS: Android 9.0 (Pie), Fire OS 7 | Front camera: 2MP | Rear camera: 5 MP | Battery: 8600 mAh | Color: Slate
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Stellar screen
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Great sound
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Expandable memory
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Built-In Alexa
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Tiny speakers
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Dated design
If you ever wondered if a Fire HD 10 tablet was capable of providing your Overlanding adventure with the right navigation software and functionality, I can assure you that it is.
the tablet comes shrunk-wrapped with pre-loaded maps which include all the major landmarks. It also has a speed tracker and accurate GPS system, which is super easy to operate.
The Fire HD 10 tablet is the next generation of bestselling Fire tablets.
It is ever – now thinner, lighter, with longer battery life and an improved display. Tiny price. Big Fun. Fast and responsive.
The fast quad-core processor consists of four high-performance 1.5 GHz cores for quick app launches, smooth games and videos, and great overall performance.
Fire HD 10 Plus comes even faster with 2.5x more RAM than fire 7, giving you more room to play multiple high-definition games and watch full HD movies.
And with adaptive front light, the all-new fire HD display illuminates the screen automatically when you’re reading in a dimly lit room, so you can stay immersed in your content even in the dark.
Crisp and vivid 10″ 1080p full HD display fire HD 10 features a 1920 x 1200 resolution with over 2 million pixels (224 PPI) and a bright, vivid picture.
Enjoy widescreen movies, videos, and pictures with wide viewing angles, less glare, and more brightness thanks to a stunning IPS (in-plane-switching) LCD display.
No more worrying about storage space Expand your tablet’s storage by up to 256 GB using a MicroSD card.
The Fire HD 10 Plus gives you a lot of bang for your buck. That’s why it’s one of the best tablet options out there for those of you who need a device to combine GPS navigation, off-road capability, and entertainment purposes.
Buying Guide: Things To Consider When Choosing a Tablet For Off-Road GPS Navigation
When it comes to Overlanding, having a dependable GPS tablet is essential. Not only will it help you navigate unfamiliar terrain, but it can also be used to scout out potential campsites and points of interest. With so many different models and brands on the market, however, choosing the right one can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide, to help make the process a little bit easier.
Below are some of the things you’ll want to keep in mind when shopping for a GPS tablet for off-road use:
Size and weight
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a GPS tablet is its size and weight. You’ll want something that’s not too bulky or heavy, so you can easily take it with you on your travels.
Display size
The display size is also important, especially if you plan to use the tablet for navigation purposes. Make sure to choose one with a screen that’s big enough to see clearly, even in direct sunlight.
Operating system
Another key factor to consider is the operating system. If you’re already familiar with a certain OS, then it might be wise to stick with that same platform when shopping for a GPS tablet. Otherwise, you may want to choose a model that offers a variety of user-friendly options.
Battery life
Battery life is another important consideration, especially if you plan to use the GPS tablet for extended periods of time. Make sure to choose a model that offers a long battery life, so you can stay connected even while off the grid.
Extras
Finally, there are a few extra features to consider when choosing a GPS tablet for Overlanding. For example, some models come with built-in compasses or altimeters, which can be handy in certain situations. Others offer waterproofing or ruggedized designs, making them better suited for extreme conditions. Choose the features that matter most to you and your specific needs.
With these factors in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect GPS tablet for your Overlanding adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions For Off-Road GPS Navigation for Best tablet for Overlanding - FAQs
Q1. What is meant by off-road GPS navigation?
When it comes to using a tablet for Overlanding, the preferred choice is off-road GPS navigation. This is a system that provides guidance and support when venturing away from the beaten path. It can be used for everything from finding your way through a maze of forest trails to plotting a course across a desert.
Q2. What should I look for in a good tablet for off-road GPS navigation?
As with any product, the first thing you need to consider is your needs. Do you need a simple gadget for navigating on-road and do you just want to record your trip or take pictures? Or, do you plan to travel off-road and you need something that can provide navigation, navigate to waypoints, record your trip and take pictures?
As for the built-in GPS receiver, you’ll want something that is both accurate and fast. Many tablets have receivers that are good for on-road use but maybe too slow or not accurate enough for off-road navigation.
Q3. How important is a color screen when choosing a tablet for off-road GPS navigation?
A color screen can be helpful when trying to navigate because it can make map details easier to see. However, the screen resolution itself is not as important as how well it’s calibrated.
Q4. What are the main components of an off-road GPS navigation system?
There are basically four parts to an off-road GPS navigation system:
- The receiver;
- The antenna;
- The map; and,
- Software
The receiver is what is receiving the satellite signals and it has to be set properly. The antenna is what moves the satellite signals from space down to earth and it can play a big role in reception, especially when it comes to the ability to lock on to a signal.
The map is what shows you where you are and can provide guidance on where to go. Different systems use different map sources and some are compatible with more than one type of software. The fourth is the off-road GPS software. This is the brain of the system and tells the receiver and antenna what to do.