The best…mini-tablets

Kindle Fire HD

Web surfing is slow on Kindles, but this tablet’s 7-inch HD display is “gorgeous,” and you can use it to access Amazon’s impressive library of movies, TV shows, and books.

$199, amazon.com

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Source: PCMag.com

Apple iPad Mini

Apple’s 7.9-inch iPad “wins the beauty contest” among small tab-lets and holds an edge in app compatibility. Besides, its processing speed “makes browsing the Internet a joy.”

From $329, apple.com

Source: Popular Mechanics

Google Nexus 7

If you can do without the iPad’s apps, price makes this “versatile” rival a better choice. It’s easier to hold, displays movies better, and has a longer battery life.

From $199, google.com/nexus

Source: PCMag.com

Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0

The Galaxy offers “the best-looking small tablet screen yet” and pairs that with “a truly useful stylus.” The price is steep, though, unless you need those features.

$400, samsung.com

Source: CNET.com

Acer Iconia W3

This newcomer makes the cut only because it’s the first mini-tablet that runs Microsoft Windows 8. But “you deserve better” at this price. The build quality and screen display disappoint.

$380, amazon.com

Source: Gizmodo.com