Tablets are commonly used as portable entertainment devices thanks to their large displays and slim form factors. Naturally, they also make for excellent notepads that students and professionals can easily carry. If you've been shopping around for an affordable digital notepad, chances are you've stumbled upon the Apple iPad (9th Generation) and the reMarkable 2 .

Both devices ring in under $400, but you'll have to pay extra for the accommodating styluses to obtain even the most basic note-taking configurations. In this comparison, we'll analyze the key differences between the iPad 9 and reMarkable 2 to help you better understand which one is the best tablet for your needs.

Practicality and use cases

Before jumping into the rabbit hole of performance, it's worth starting this analysis by discussing each tablet's purpose. This isn't really an apples-to-apples comparison, mainly because the iPad is more than just a note-taking device, unlike the reMarkable 2.

As a traditional tablet, the Apple iPad functions like a large smartphone. You can download apps from the App Store, browse the web, post on social media, stream movies, and capture pictures and videos. If you're seeking a tablet for school or work, think of these features as added perks.