Which Xiaomi tablet is the best deal in 2026? Xiaomi Pad 9 series in comparison
With the Pad 9 series, Xiaomi delivers three strong Android tablets in our tests. All three Pad 9 models feature bright, PWM-free 144 Hz LCDs with a matte Soft Light option and a good range of features, including Wi-Fi 7 or an IR blaster. However, there are clear differences in value for money. Their target audiences also vary considerably given the different sizes.
Xiaomi Pad 9 is a successful entry-level option
The Xiaomi Pad 9 is aimed at budget-conscious buyers or fans of compact tablets. With its 11.2-inch display and weight of 485 grams, the Xiaomi Pad 9 is the most compact and lightest model in the Pad 9 series.
It is ideal for taking handwritten notes at university or school, as well as for casual browsing, reading or streaming. With the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and a battery life of around 19.5 hours in our test, the Pad 9 delivers the weakest results in a direct comparison, but is more than adequate in practice.
Compared with the Pro and Pro Max, one compromise is the lack of a fingerprint sensor. The entry-level model currently starts at $520.
Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro is the all-rounder
With the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro (starts around $610), just under $100 extra gets you a larger 12.5-inch display, but also a noticeably higher weight of 580 grams. You also get the faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, over 22 hours of battery life, six speakers and a fingerprint sensor. This makes the Pro model the best choice for productivity-focused users who want more workspace and convenience while keeping an eye on the price.
Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max is the flagship
As a 13.3-inch flagship with Xiaomi's in-house Xring O3 chip, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max outclasses the competition in graphics performance. Its 120-watt charging, nearly 25 hours of battery life and DisplayPort input for use as a secondary monitor also set the Pro Max apart within the Pad 9 series. Xiaomi's current flagship (prices start at $990) is aimed at creatives and users looking for a true laptop replacement.
The best value among Xiaomi tablets
In our view, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro offers the best value in this year's lineup. The relatively small extra costs over the Pad 9 is worthwhile, as buyers get noticeably more screen space, better cameras and speakers, a fingerprint sensor and over 2.5 hours of additional battery life.
Although the Pro Max is significantly more expensive, it also substantially undercuts rival flagships such as the iPad Pro 13, while offering unrivaled graphics performance and an excellent video input feature.
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Review Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro
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