Reuters/Regis Duvignau

Companies like Apple, Samsung, and Sony have come up with some of the best tablets for 2016.

The tablet has become a ubiquitous part of people's lives as its what majority of people use to check their mail, browse the web, and even watch movies and TV shows. For some, this portable wonder has already replaced the computer.

Apple's introduction of the iPad Air started the tablet revolution, and while the market might not be as robust as it was several years ago, there are still healthy innovations being done to the device.

If you're in the market for a tablet, here are five of the best ones the year has to offer, (so far):

iPad Pro 9.7

Apple still reigns supreme when it comes to tablets, and the iPad Pro 9.7 is a culmination of the best features that the 12.9-inch model has but packed in a smaller body. To make things even sweeter, Apple has added some amazing upgrades, like 4 powerful speakers, 12-megapixel rear and 5-megapixel front camera, and a 1536 x 2048 screen resolution, making it the perfect gadget for both work and play. Plus, numerous Apple aficionados will be happy to know that the model now comes in pink. One has to shell out around $550 for the iPad Pro 9.7 though, plus more for the admittedly pricey accessories.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 8

Samsung has long been nipping at the heels of its rival, and the Galaxy Tab S2 is further proof that the Korean company is ready to take the crown from Apple. The Galaxy Tab S2 amazes with its superb 1536 x 2048 screen resolution and lightweight build. Its sleek design, improved interface, and rare expandable memory, on top of its 3 GB RAM and 32 GB/64 GB storage, make it a great investment. It's also a steal at $299.99.

Google Pixel C

Google has come out with a winner with the Pixel C. One can't help but fall in love with its innovative design, outstanding display, and power. If the 2560 x 1800 resolution doesn't impress you, the magnetic keyboard (which is sold separately) will. It also boasts of an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 2 MB front camera for the budding photographer in you. It comes with a $514 price tag.

Microsoft Surface Pro 4

There's an ongoing debate on whether the tablet can replace the laptop. While there's no definitive answer to that yet, the Surface Pro 4 does make a convincing argument for tablets, with its larger screen, sharp 2736 x 1824 resolution, improved storage capacit,y and battery life. What's more, this powerful tablet runs on a full version of the Windows 10, making it ideal for professionals and students. It's a bit pricey at $899 but undoubtedly worth it.

Sony Xperia Z4

One of Sony's best kept secrets, the Xperia Z4 is a compact and portable tablet that boasts of high-end specs and a waterproof body. Sony has imbued the Xperia Z4 with a 1200 x 1920 screen resolution, 2.5 GHz quadcore CPU, 3 GB of RAM, an 8.1-megapixel rear camera and a 2.2-megapixel front camera. All for just $450.