The tablet landscape is shifting dramatically. Where Apple's iPad once dominated the premium and budget-conscious segments alike, a new wave of aggressively priced Android contenders is emerging. Enter the Tabwee T90 – a device claiming to be the world's first Android 16 tablet with Gemini AI capabilities, currently retailing for a startling $120 on Amazon (down from $230). After extensive testing, it's clear this isn't just another cheap slate; it's a signpost for where entry-level hardware stands in late 2025.

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The Tabwee T90 sports a surprisingly slim profile and a multi-lens aesthetic, though only one rear camera is functional. (Credit: ZDNET)

Under the Hood: Surprising Capability
Powered by the Unisoc T615 octa-core processor (1.8GHz) and Mali G57 GPU, the T90 features an 11-inch 120Hz display (1920x1200 resolution), 8GB of physical RAM (expandable to 24GB via virtual RAM leveraging its 128GB storage), and an 8,000mAh battery. While benchmark scores place it firmly in the entry-level category, real-world performance tells a different story. Gone are the days of sluggish, frustrating budget tablets. The T90 handles multitasking – juggling video playback, numerous browser tabs, and Gemini AI-assisted tasks – with commendable ease. Activating the maximum 16GB virtual RAM setting proved crucial, eliminating minor initial stutters and significantly improving app launch times.

The AI Angle and Daily Usability
Running Android 16, the T90 integrates Google's Gemini AI. While the review doesn't delve into groundbreaking AI-specific features, its presence signifies the trickle-down of advanced capabilities to the budget tier. The tablet excels in ergonomics, weighing just 505g (17.8 oz) with a thin 8.7mm profile, making it comfortable for extended handheld use. The bundled stylus, keyboard, mouse, and protective folio cover add significant value, though the keyboard is best suited for light typing sessions. The 5MP front and 16MP rear cameras are adequate for video calls and casual snaps, aligning with typical tablet usage patterns.

The Catch: Sunlight Struggles
The primary compromise surfaces with the display's brightness. The 350-nit panel performs acceptably indoors but washes out noticeably in direct sunlight. This stands in stark contrast to Apple's offerings (500 nits standard on iPad, up to 1600 nits HDR on Pro models), limiting the T90's appeal for frequent outdoor use.

Value Proposition: Redefining Budget
At its regular $230 price, the Tabwee T90 is a competent entry-level contender. However, at its current $120 price point (thanks to a substantial Amazon coupon), it becomes an exceptional value proposition. This price disruption forces a reevaluation of what users can expect from sub-$200 tablets. It delivers smooth performance for media consumption, web browsing, light productivity with the included accessories, and the novelty of Android 16 with Gemini AI – capabilities unheard of at this price just a few years ago.

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Boosting the virtual RAM to 16GB significantly smoothed out performance, a recommended tweak for optimal use. (Credit: ZDNET)

The Tabwee T90 isn't about dethroning premium tablets; it's about demonstrating how far the affordable segment has evolved. It offers a genuinely capable, AI-equipped Android experience at a price that makes it a near-impulse buy for a secondary tablet, a kitchen companion, a workshop aid, or even a primary device for light users. While its screen brightness remains a limitation for some, its overall package at $120 makes the iPad's dominance in the budget space feel increasingly precarious. The era of genuinely powerful, ultra-cheap tablets has emphatically arrived.