We want to get a small laptop or tablet, as written in the question, because the ones we have are very out of date. The main thing is that our children can work on it in the event that homeschooling comes up again or that there are video conferences with the class. How would you rather decide?
I think a small laptop or netbook is better. It's just more pleasant when you have to write something or need special programs. Office and the like can also be used there without any problems.
When it comes to using the device for work, I would personally use a laptop. As far as writing is concerned, a laptop is much more comfortable with the keyboard. In addition, the display is usually bigger, which I think is better for the eyes.
Working on a laptop is a bit more comfortable.
You can also connect external devices more easily. For example, working with a mouse is much more pleasant than with the touchpad on a laptop, or if the monitor is too small you can easily connect an external monitor.