This was a hell of a year for tablets—and we're thankful for it, too, as 2012 was underwhelming.
In 2013, across the board we saw hardware refreshes from all the major players, including Apple, Google (via Asus for its Nexus 7), and Amazon. Although Microsoft's Surface Pro 2 didn't stray too far from last year's design, it improved on some of the major shortcomings that plagued its predecessor.
The best tablets of the year emphasized easy access to content, as well as portability and speedy specifications—not to mention high-definition screens on which to view anything at any time. Here are the five tablets we liked the best. If you're looking to buy a new tablet, make it one of these.
Apple iPad Air and iPad mini with Retina display
How do you improve on a tablet that's already hugely successful? You shave off a few ounces until it weighs only one pound.
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