Apple iPad Air 2 vs. Google Nexus 9 and Samsung Galaxy Tab S

In addition to the iPad Mini 3 , Apple took the wraps off its new iPad Air 2 tablet today during a press event held at its Cupertino, Calif. headquarters. Though many of its specs haven't changed from its predecessor (it's equipped with the same 9.7-inch or 246.38mm display), its 0.24-inch (6.1mm) profile and proprietary 64-bit A8X chip processor make it Apple's thinnest and fastest tablet to date.

The device's launch also comes on the heels of Google's latest tablet debut, the Nexus 9 . Announced yesterday, the device serves as an attractive Android alternative to the Air 2. Running the most recent Android 5.0 software, the Nexus sports a slightly smaller 8.9-inch (226.06mm) display. However, with its $399 starting price, it's less expensive than the Air 2. (In the UK and AU, the Nexus' pricing has yet to be revealed, though converted, it comes out to about £250 and AU$455, respectively).

But the Nexus 9 isn't the only competitor the Air 2 should worry about. Not surprisingly, Apple's ever-present rival Samsung has a high-end tablet as well. Known as the Galaxy Tab S , the device has an ultra-sharp screen, an attractive sleek design, and plenty of software and media features to keep users entertained. Plus, with its $500 (£400, AU$590) starting price, it costs about about the same as Apple's tablet, but adds on a slightly bigger 10.5-inch (267.2mm) screen and expandable storage.

For more on how these devices stack up spec-by-spec, check out our comparison chart below. And be sure to take a look out our list of the best tablets of this year.