Top Picks for the Casual Nomad

Your options 9 top results, ranging in price from ∼ US$329 to US$869, with accessories.

Let's start with a broad search. The following offer the best value for the lowest price regardless of format preference. As a result, you will most likely see stationary computers down here and maybe a few portable options. You have the option to look for a specific kind of device at the bottom of the page.

• 

  Apple iPad 9.7 (early 2018) from US$24024% cheaper than usual
  ~$406 with accessories

  The 2018 version of the iPad is almost identical to its predecessor but features slightly improved performance and now support the Apple Stylus, if desired.

  • the Mobile Gamer
  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	2/5
  Storage	2/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	3/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	1.5/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  by Large Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	1.5/5
  Storage	1.5/5
  Portability	4.5/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  Specs

  Processor: Apple A10

  Graphics: Apple A10 Graphics

  Memory: 2.00 GB

  Storage: 32.00 GB

  Screen Size: 9.7"

  Screen Resolution: 2048×1536

  Dimensions: 24.00 x 16.95 x 0.75 cm

  Weight: 0.470 kg

  detailed info

  from US$239.99

  • US$239.99 from eBay (Refurbished)
    as of 2019-06-26 04:00:38, EDT
  • US$286.55 from Walmart (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:14:14, EDT
  • US$288.07 from Amazon (Refurbished)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:30:50, EDT
  • US$288.82 from The Source (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:10:22, EDT
  • US$326.08 from WestWorld Computers (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 04:00:56, EDT
  • US$326.08 from Apple (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 04:01:05, EDT
  • US$326.83 from Best Buy (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:41:12, EDT
  • US$326.83 from Best Buy (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:49:46, EDT
  • US$326.83 from Best Buy (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:58:00, EDT
  • US$326.83 from London Drugs (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:26:01, EDT
  • US$326.83 from Staples (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:17:09, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Acer 11.6" Convertible Chromebook from US$230;
  ~$390 with accessories

  It might not be the most capable laptop out there, but as a netbook or tablet, it's a great fit for casual use for a minimal investment... Read More about the CB5-132T-C7R5

  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Laptops standards

  Bang for the Buck	2.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4/5
  Power	1/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	4.5/5

  by Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4/5
  Versatility for the Price	4/5
  Power	1.5/5
  Storage	2/5
  Portability	2/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  by Netbooks standards

  Bang for the Buck	4.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	3/5
  Power	4/5
  Storage	3/5
  Portability	3/5
  Autonomy	5/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	3/5
  Versatility for the Price	4/5
  Power	1/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	3/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  by Large Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	1/5
  Storage	1.5/5
  Portability	2/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  1.5/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  1.5/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  Specs

  Processor: Intel Celeron N3160

  Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 400

  Memory: 4.00 GB

  Storage: 32.00 GB

  Screen Size: 11.6"

  Screen Resolution: 1366×768

  Dimensions: 29.39 x 20.40 x 1.93 cm

  Weight: 1.300 kg

  detailed info

  from US$228.02

  • US$228.02 from Best Buy (Open Box)
    as of 2019-06-25 07:01:18, EDT
  • US$249.69 from Visions Electronics (New)
    as of 2019-06-22 11:32:01, EDT
  • US$266.21 from Amazon (New)
    as of 2019-06-23 09:00:52, EDT
  • US$278.18 from Tiger Direct (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 04:30:54, EDT
  • US$281.22 from Staples (New)
    as of 2019-06-22 08:43:14, EDT
  • US$284.21 from Newegg (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 08:47:28, EDT
  • US$304.03 from Best Buy (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 08:57:04, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.1 from US$210;
  ~$359 with accessories

  A good android tablet if you're not looking for something especially powerful, but want a big screen and good battery autonomy.

  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	1.5/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	3.5/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	2.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	4.5/5

  by Large Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	1/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  Specs

  Processor: Samsung Exynos 7870

  Graphics: Samsung Mali T830

  Memory: 2.00 GB

  Storage: 16.00 GB

  Screen Size: 10.1"

  Screen Resolution: 1920×1200

  Dimensions: 25.40 x 15.53 x 0.82 cm

  Weight: 0.530 kg

  detailed info

  from US$204.46

  • US$204.46 from Visions Electronics (New)
    as of 2019-06-21 11:11:23, EDT
  • US$205.21 from London Drugs (New)
    as of 2019-06-24 08:11:06, EDT
  • US$219.98 from Amazon (Used)
    as of 2019-06-21 08:14:51, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Apple 10.5" iPad Pro from US$45011%, Best price yet!
  ~$869 with accessories

  The 2017 iPad pro is an impressively powerful tablet and a great fit for drawing, digital painting, and note taking away from the desk... Read More about the MQDW2CL/A

  • the Mobile Gamer
  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4/5
  Versatility for the Price	1.5/5
  Power	3.5/5
  Storage	2.5/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	2.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	1.5/5
  Power	2.5/5
  Storage	1.5/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  by Large Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	3.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	2/5
  Power	3.5/5
  Storage	2/5
  Portability	4.5/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  Specs

  Processor: Apple A10X

  Graphics: Apple A10X Graphics

  Memory: 4.00 GB

  Storage: 64.00 GB

  Screen Size: 10.5"

  Screen Resolution: 2224×1668

  Dimensions: 25.06 x 17.41 x 0.61 cm

  Weight: 0.470 kg

  detailed info

  from US$440.83

  • US$440.83 from Staples (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 09:11:22, EDT
  • US$456.04 from London Drugs (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 07:51:01, EDT
  • US$567.78 from Amazon (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 11:29:24, EDT
  • US$599.71 from Walmart (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 08:19:52, EDT
  • US$646.03 from Best Buy (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 09:01:25, EDT
  • US$683.32 from WestWorld Computers (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 04:25:02, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Samsung Galaxy Note 8 from US$450;
  ~$645 with accessories

  The Note 8 might not be the most cost-effective smartphone out there, but if you sketch on the go, take handwritten notes or have to work with signatures on a r... Read More about the SM-N950WZKAXAC

  • the Mobile Gamer
  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Smartphones standards

  Bang for the Buck	5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4/5
  Power	3.5/5
  Storage	4.5/5
  Portability	1.5/5
  Autonomy	1/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	2/5
  Versatility for the Price	3/5
  Power	1.5/5
  Storage	1.5/5
  Portability	4.5/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  by Large Smartphones and Phablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	4.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4/5
  Power	3/5
  Storage	4.5/5
  Portability	2.5/5
  Autonomy	1/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  Specs

  Processor: Qualcom Snapdragon 835

  Graphics: Qualcom Adreno 540

  Memory: 6.00 GB

  Storage: 64.00 GB

  Screen Size: 6.3"

  Screen Resolution: 1440×2960

  Dimensions: 16.25 x 7.48 x 0.86 cm

  Weight: 0.200 kg

  detailed info

  from US$448.45

  • US$448.45 from Amazon (New)
    as of 2019-06-17 14:41:21, EDT
  • US$988.07 from Videotron (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 12:10:17, EDT
  • US$988.1 from Samsung (New)
    as of 2019-06-20 12:57:43, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7" from US$4103% cheaper than usual
  ~$620 with accessories

  This tablet has a high-quality HDR display and is ideal for digital painting on the go and movie watching. It also has pretty good potential for productivity... Read More about the SM-T820NZKAXAC

  • the Mobile Gamer
  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	3/5
  Versatility for the Price	3.5/5
  Power	2/5
  Storage	2/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	2.5/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	2/5
  Versatility for the Price	3.5/5
  Power	1.5/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  by Large Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	2.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4/5
  Power	2/5
  Storage	1.5/5
  Portability	5/5
  Autonomy	2.5/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  2/5

  More than the bare minimum but not quite recommended specs.

  Specs

  Processor: Qualcom Snapdragon 820

  Graphics: Qualcom Adreno 530

  Memory: 4.00 GB

  Storage: 32.00 GB

  Screen Size: 9.7"

  Screen Resolution: 1536×2048

  Dimensions: 23.73 x 16.90 x 0.60 cm

  Weight: 0.430 kg

  detailed info

  from US$402.81

  • US$402.81 from Amazon (New)
    as of 2019-06-22 21:51:31, EDT
  • US$402.81 from Best Buy (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 08:50:03, EDT
  • US$402.81 from Best Buy (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 08:54:12, EDT
  • US$418.04 from Walmart (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 07:34:24, EDT
  • US$582.56 from Mike's Computer Shop (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:02:24, EDT
  • US$608.06 from Staples (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 08:35:10, EDT
  • US$626.3 from Tiger Direct (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 07:32:01, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Acer 11" Chromebook from US$190;
  ~$330 with accessories

  Designed to access the web simply and securely, it's an excellent fit as someone's 1st laptop or if your needs away from your desk are basic... Read More about the CB3-132-C6ZD

  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Laptops standards

  Bang for the Buck	1.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	3.5/5

  by Netbooks standards

  Bang for the Buck	4.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	3/5
  Storage	1/5
  Portability	4/5
  Autonomy	2.5/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	2/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0/5
  Portability	3.5/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  1/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  1/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  Specs

  Processor: Intel Celeron N3060

  Graphics: Intel HD Graphics

  Memory: 4.00 GB

  Storage: 16.00 GB

  Screen Size: 11.6"

  Screen Resolution: 1366×768

  Dimensions: 29.40 x 20.40 x 1.85 cm

  Weight: 1.100 kg

  detailed info

  from US$182.41

  • US$182.41 from Staples (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 06:47:56, EDT
  • US$182.41 from The Source (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 06:39:31, EDT
  • US$212.82 from Acer (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 12:14:44, EDT
  • US$220.07 from Newegg (New)
    as of 2019-06-25 06:53:13, EDT
  • US$235.7 from Amazon (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 08:29:01, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Acer 15" Chromebook from US$1904%, Best price yet!
  ~$329 with accessories

  Chromebooks are well-suited to access the web simply and securely, it's an excellent fit as someone's 1st laptop, travel companion or if your needs away from yo... Read More about the CB3-532-C8QW

  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Laptops standards

  Bang for the Buck	1.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	1.5/5
  Autonomy	4.5/5

  by Netbooks standards

  Bang for the Buck	4/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	3/5
  Storage	3/5
  Portability	1/5
  Autonomy	4.5/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	2/5
  Versatility for the Price	5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	1.5/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  1/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  1/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  Specs

  Processor: Intel Celeron N3060

  Graphics: Intel HD Graphics

  Memory: 4.00 GB

  Storage: 32.00 GB

  Screen Size: 15.6"

  Screen Resolution: 1366×768

  Dimensions: 38.30 x 25.60 x 2.41 cm

  Weight: 1.950 kg

  detailed info

  from US$181.65

  • US$181.65 from Newegg (Refurbished)
    as of 2019-06-25 10:55:49, EDT
  • US$243.22 from Staples (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 07:12:04, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×
• 

  Acer Chromebook Spin 11 from US$22025%, Best price yet!
  ~$369 with accessories

  Here's a rugged convertible Chromebook which, unlike some of its competitors can take photos (not selfies) in tablet mode.

  • the Casual Nomad
  • the Media Consumer

  Device Ratings

  by Laptops standards

  Bang for the Buck	1/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0/5
  Portability	3.5/5
  Autonomy	4.5/5

  by Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	1.5/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	1/5
  Storage	0/5
  Portability	1.5/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  by Netbooks standards

  Bang for the Buck	3/5
  Versatility for the Price	3.5/5
  Power	1.5/5
  Storage	0.5/5
  Portability	2.5/5
  Autonomy	4.5/5

  by All Smart Devices standards

  Bang for the Buck	1/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0/5
  Portability	3/5
  Autonomy	4/5

  by Large Tablets standards

  Bang for the Buck	1/5
  Versatility for the Price	4.5/5
  Power	0.5/5
  Storage	0/5
  Portability	2/5
  Autonomy	3/5

  performance in Web & Communication

  5/5

  Exceeds recommended specs, fit for hardcore users.

  performance in Microsoft Word 2019

  1.5/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  performance in Microsoft Excel 2019

  1.5/5

  Meets minimal requirements

  Specs

  Processor: Intel Celeron N3350

  Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 500

  Memory: 4.00 GB

  Screen Size: 11.6"

  Screen Resolution: 1366×768

  Dimensions: 29.60 x 20.60 x 2.09 cm

  Weight: 1.400 kg

  detailed info

  from US$212.06

  • US$212.06 from Newegg (Refurbished)
    as of 2019-06-25 17:58:30, EDT
  • US$228.02 from Best Buy (Refurbished)
    as of 2019-06-25 17:54:44, EDT
  • US$251.58 from Best Buy (Refurbished)
    as of 2019-06-25 17:56:08, EDT
  • US$319.23 from Staples (New)
    as of 2019-06-26 08:12:55, EDT

  pricing accuracy

  Pricing Accuracy

  Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. ×

Narrow down your search

Looking for a specific kind of device?

Looking for a laptop, tablet, smartphone or desktop computer specifically? Here are the product families in which we found options matching your needs: