Lenovo introduced the Tab P12 to its popular tablet lineup a few years ago, so why revisit it now? The brand has quietly released a new model of this large Android tablet, featuring the same specifications but with a fantastic new paper-like matte display that enhances note-taking and doodling.
Lenovo’s Tab P12
We previously praised the original, non-matte version as one of the best laptops for writers and one of the top lightweight laptops. While technically a tablet, it functions exceptionally well as a budget-friendly laptop when paired with its optional detachable keyboard. The new matte display elevates the Lenovo Tab P12 experience for avid stylus users, making it a standout choice for those who don’t need a device for intensive tasks.
Key Specifications of the Lenovo Tab P12 with Matte Display:
- Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 7050
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB
- Display: 12.7-inch 3K (2944 x 1840) touch matte display, 400 nits, 60Hz
- Weight: 610g
- Dimensions: 190.7mm x 293.3mm x 6.9mm (without camera bump)
- Camera: 8MP back and 13MP ultra-wide front
- Battery: 10,200mAh
Design: The Lenovo Tab P12 with Matte Display has a simple, yet functional design. It comes in straightforward packaging with an included stylus and basic instruction manuals. At 6.9mm thick and with curved edges, it offers a sleek, if somewhat uninspired, look that’s great for work or play on the go. The tablet is fairly large, which can make holding it for long periods or while lying down a bit uncomfortable.
In portrait orientation, the power button (which doubles as a fingerprint sensor) and MicroSD tray are on the top. The USB-C charge port is on the bottom, flanked by two of the four Dolby Atmos tuned JBL speakers. The right side houses twin microphones and volume controls, while the left side features a magnetic strip for the stylus. Unlike more recent iPads, there’s no wireless charging. The tablet’s sage green casing is accented by a Lenovo label, with the 8MP camera on the back and a 13MP selfie camera on the front.
My review unit did not include the detachable keyboard, which is available separately for £130.
Performance and Display: The Lenovo Tab P12 isn’t a powerhouse, but at its price point, that’s not expected. It’s an excellent affordable tablet for writing, doodling, browsing, and streaming, thanks to its 12.7-inch IPS LCD touch display and JBL speakers. However, its 60Hz refresh rate is a bit disappointing.
Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, the Lenovo Tab P12 handles low-intensity tasks well but isn’t suited for more demanding activities. It can manage very light gaming and some rendering but is best enjoyed for general use.
The 3K display (1840 x 2944 pixels) is responsive but slightly dimmer than Lenovo’s 400 nit claims. However, the matte cover is excellent for doodling and writing. The included Tab Pen Plus stylus, which offers 4,096 pressure levels, tilt detection, and palm rejection (though occasionally inconsistent), enhances the tablet’s functionality. The stylus also has a button near the nib to trigger the shortcut menu.
The large 10,200mAh battery offers moderate battery life, with nearly 10 hours of streaming and 7-8 hours of optimized gaming. It holds the battery well on standby, making it great for light use over several days. The tablet supports 30W fast charging, reaching full charge in about three hours.
Price and Availability: The Lenovo Tab P12 with Matte Display is available for £450 in sage, while the original non-matte version is £300 in grey. The price difference seems steep without comparing the screens side-by-side. The optional detachable keyboard costs £130.
Should You Buy the Lenovo Tab P12 with Matte Display? If you’re looking for an affordable tablet with a large display and an included stylus, the Lenovo Tab P12 Matte Display is a strong contender. While it doesn’t offer next-generation, iPad-level performance, it’s unlikely to disappoint, especially since Lenovo has refined the software since the original Tab P12.
The Lenovo Tab P12 is perfect for general use, making it ideal for students, office workers, and regular note-takers. It’s not suited for intensive streaming or gaming, but for everyday tasks, it’s a fantastic choice.
