The advent of advanced mobile operating systems like Apple's iOS and Google's Android has transformed the world of cellular phones. Apple, being a proprietary organization, manufactures high-end smart phones and tablets for affluent customers. They have limited devices in circulation and therefore cater to a select range of customers. On the other hand, Android is an open source technology, which makes it easier for any handset manufacturer to use it on their devices.

Apart from established handset makers like Samsung, HTC and Motorola, there are several local manufacturers that produce smartphones and tablets based on the Android platform. This makes it easy to find low-cost tablets as well. However, in the quest to find the cheapest Android tablet, we must also ensure that it fits the minimum criteria for a decent tablet PC. Here are some specifications that you should check before you pay for your Android tablet:

a. Screen size: Android tablets come in different sizes. In general, tablets have a diagonal length in the range of 7-inch to 10-inch. A 7 inch android tablet is best for you in case you wish to carry it in your hand most of the time. On the other end, if you intend to keep it in your bag or your coat pocket, you could also opt for a 10 inch tablet.

b. Android version: Google keeps updating its Android software stack time to time, and while the cheapest Android tablets may not have the latest version, it should not run on an outdated version as well. Currently, the latest version available in the market is 4.3, and therefore you should ensure that your tablet PC runs on at least Android 4.0 or 4.1.

c. Processing speed: Tablets are supposed to be used for multi-tasking purposes, which is why they need to have a decent processing speed. Currently, dual-core and quad-core processors are being provided with mid-range tablets, and therefore one should consider them to be the benchmark. Moreover, the device should provide a minimum internal memory of 512 MB so as to handle apps downloaded from the Android Play store.

d. Battery backup: Since tablet PCs are likely to keep running all the time, a good battery backup is a highly desired feature. Even the cheapest Android tablets provide a 2000 mAh Li-ion battery, which is why one should never settle for anything lower.

e. Sensors and Connectors: A good tablet should also provide A-GPS support along with connectors for USB and micro SD devices.