Compare tablets with SIM card and LTE

A tablet with a mobile modem has a nano-SIM slot, a built-in eSIM or both. LTE (4G) is enough for streaming, video calls and navigation. 5G mainly brings more speed in areas with good coverage, but it isn't a must. Apple calls these models “Wi-Fi + Cellular”; Android makers use “LTE” or “5G”. Note: “5G WiFi” in many listing titles only refers to the 5 GHz Wi-Fi band, not mobile data.

That depends on the device. Many cheap dual-SIM Android tablets support regular phone calls and SMS, whereas iPads only use mobile networks for data. Calls via messengers such as WhatsApp or Signal work over any data connection. If it matters to you, check the spec sheet to see whether “telephony” or “voice” is explicitly supported.

For your plan, there are dedicated data SIMs or multi-SIM cards linked to your phone contract. If you only browse on the go occasionally, a prepaid data pack is a cheap option.

If you rarely browse on the go, you can use your smartphone as a hotspot and save the extra cost of the mobile modem. But if you commute daily or use the tablet for work, your own connection pays off – it's more convenient and spares your phone's battery.

Check the supported frequency bands, especially with imported devices: for good coverage in Germany, the common LTE bands such as bands 3, 7 and 20 should be supported. Dual-SIM tablets let you use two cards at once, for example a data SIM and a travel SIM. With used devices, make sure there's no network SIM lock and the IMEI isn't blocked.

A tip for frequent travellers: with an eSIM-capable tablet you can book a local data pack abroad without having to get a physical card – provided the device and provider support it.