HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 S 2025 Review: A Matte Display Masterpiece at an Affordable Price

HUAWEI is making waves in the budget tablet market with its latest offering, the MatePad 11.5 S 2025. Priced at just £319, this tablet punches well above its weight class, particularly when it comes to its stunning display and drawing capabilities. But is it the right choice for you? Let’s dive into the details.

Design and Display: A Matte Marvel

The MatePad 11.5 S keeps things simple with its design. At 6.1mm thick and weighing just 515g, it’s slightly thicker and lighter than its sibling, the MatePad 12 X (2025). The aluminum build feels solid, though it doesn’t scream luxury. HUAWEI hasn’t advertised any water or dust resistance, and the durability of the glass remains a mystery. Still, the design is more than satisfactory for its price range.

Where the MatePad 11.5 S truly shines is its display. The 2,800 × 1,840, 144Hz IPS panel is a revelation for a tablet in this price bracket. The matte finish is a game-changer, reducing glare and reflections to almost zero. Whether you’re working under harsh indoor lighting or using the tablet outdoors, the display remains crystal clear. The nano-level etching process adds a tactile, analog feel when using the M-Pencil Pro, making it a joy for artists and note-takers alike. This is a feature that should be standard across all tablets.

Battery and Performance: A Mixed Bag

The MatePad 11.5 S is powered by the Kirin 9000WE CPU, paired with 8GB of RAM. This combination handles multitasking and even 4K drawing in GoPaint with ease. The quad-speaker setup is another highlight, delivering impressive bass and volume. However, the mids and highs could use some refinement, as they occasionally sound muddy.

On the battery front, the 8,700mAh capacity is decent but struggles to keep up with the demands of the high-refresh-rate display. Streaming 480p YouTube through the browser, I managed about five hours of use. While this is serviceable, it’s not enough for all-day productivity.

Keyboard and Stylus: Premium Accessories at a Price

HUAWEI’s keyboard and M-Pencil Pro accessories are worth considering, but they come at a cost. The keyboard, priced at £100, is a standout. It magnetically attaches to the tablet, charges wirelessly, and doubles as a kickstand when detached. The M-Pencil Pro, with its 16,384 levels of pressure sensitivity and advanced features, is a dream for artists. However, at £129, it’s a significant investment. For most users, more affordable stylus alternatives will suffice.

Software: The Elephant in the Room

HUAWEI’s Harmony OS is the biggest hurdle for Western users. The lack of Google and Microsoft app support is a dealbreaker for many. While HUAWEI Notes and GoPaint are excellent alternatives, they can’t fully replace the ecosystem most users rely on. The promise of Harmony OS Next, a Google-free Android alternative, remains unfulfilled in global markets, leaving users with limited app choices.

Should You Buy the MatePad 11.5 S 2025?

At £319, the MatePad 11.5 S offers incredible value for its display and drawing capabilities. It’s perfect for students, commuters, and office workers who don’t need access to Google or Microsoft apps. However, if you rely on these services, this tablet isn’t for you.

The MatePad 11.5 S is a testament to HUAWEI’s ability to deliver premium features at an affordable price. Its matte display alone is worth the investment, but the software limitations are a significant drawback. If you can adapt to Harmony OS and prioritize drawing and note-taking, this tablet is a steal. Otherwise, you might want to look elsewhere.

Tags: HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 S, budget tablet, matte display, drawing tablet, Harmony OS, Kirin 9000WE, M-Pencil Pro, affordable tech, tablet review, outdoor display, anti-glare screen, HUAWEI Notes, GoPaint, tablet keyboard, 144Hz display, 2025 tablet, tech bargain, HUAWEI ecosystem.

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