For years, the tablet market was dominated by Apple and Samsung, with premium price tags justifying cutting-edge features. But the landscape is shifting: entry-level devices like the Tabwee T90 now offer capabilities once reserved for high-end models, blurring the lines between budget and premium. At a current price of $120 (down from $230), this Android 16-powered tablet isn't just a bargain—it's a statement about how far affordable tech has come.

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The Tabwee T90, featuring a sleek design and Android 16 integration.

Under the Hood: Specs That Surprise

Powered by a Unisoc T615 octa-core processor clocked at 1.8GHz and a Mali G57 GPU, the T90 boasts specs that defy its price point:
- Display: 11-inch IPS screen with 1,920 x 1,200 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
- Memory & Storage: 8GB physical RAM (expandable to 24GB via virtual RAM) and 128GB storage, plus microSD support.
- Battery: 8,000mAh capacity, delivering 5-6 hours of browsing or multi-day music playback.
- Cameras: 5MP front-facing and 16MP rear (despite a misleading triple-lens aesthetic).
- Design: Remarkably thin at 0.34 inches and lightweight at 17.8oz.

The inclusion of Gemini AI is a standout, enabling advanced on-device tasks like smart assistance and contextual processing—features typically seen in pricier models.

Real-World Performance: More Than Just Numbers

In testing, the T90 handled daily workflows with ease. Streaming video, multitasking across a dozen browser tabs, and light gaming showed no significant lag, especially after enabling the 16GB virtual RAM boost. As the reviewer notes:

'Entry-level in 2025 is a lot different from five years ago. The days of treacle-slow interfaces are gone—this handles everything thrown at it.'

Bundled accessories—a stylus, keyboard, mouse, and protective folio—add exceptional value, though the keyboard is best for light typing. Cameras proved adequate for video calls and casual photos, while the ergonomic design ensured comfort during extended use.

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The tablet's slim profile highlights its portability.

The Catch: Sunlight Struggles

Where the T90 falters is display brightness. Its 350-nit panel suffices indoors but washes out in direct sunlight, paling next to the iPad's 500 nits or iPad Pro's 1,600-nit peak. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is a limitation; for home or office use, it's a minor trade-off.

Why This Matters for Tech

At $120, the Tabwee T90 isn't just a cheap alternative—it's a harbinger of democratized technology. It proves that Android 16 and AI capabilities are no longer gated by cost, empowering developers and everyday users to access modern tools without overspending. As budget hardware continues to close the gap with premium brands, the real winners are consumers who gain unprecedented value.

Source: ZDNET | Review by Adrian Kingsley-Hughes