If you’re in the market for an Android tablet that delivers premium quality and performance, Samsung should be your go-to brand. Year after year, Samsung consistently produces some of the best Android tablets available, making it challenging to choose the perfect one. We’ve tested numerous tablets, and our expert team believes Samsung tablets stand out due to their excellent build quality, powerful performance, and strong resale value, making them a smart investment. To help you navigate the options, we’ve put together a comparison of the best Samsung tablets currently on the market.
For most users, we recommend the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 as the top choice. It’s a flagship tablet that offers a fantastic balance of performance, battery life, and a stunning AMOLED display, all at a price point under $1,000. Even with the newer S10 series available, the Galaxy Tab S9 remains a compelling option. Samsung didn’t release a base Galaxy Tab S10, opting instead for the S10+, which starts at a higher price of $999 – a significant $200 more than the Tab S9. This price difference makes the Tab S9 an even more attractive value proposition when you compare Samsung tablets.
However, if budget is a primary concern, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is an excellent alternative. Despite being an older model, it remains a capable tablet for basic tasks and can often be found for $200 or less. It’s an ideal choice for children or anyone needing a reliable, affordable slate. When considering Samsung Tablets Compare on price, the Tab A7 is hard to beat in the budget category.
For users who demand the ultimate in size and power, Samsung offers the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra. This is the largest and most powerful Android tablet in Samsung’s lineup, designed for those who want to maximize productivity and use their tablet as a laptop replacement. When you compare Samsung tablets for laptop replacement capabilities, the Tab S10 Ultra is a clear frontrunner.
Continue reading for a detailed comparison, including test results and links to our in-depth reviews of the best Android tablets from Samsung. This guide will help you compare Samsung tablets and determine which model best fits your specific needs and preferences.
Quick Comparison: Best Samsung Tablets
Here’s a quick overview to help you compare Samsung tablets and quickly identify the best model for your needs.
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1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9: Best Overall
The Galaxy Tab S9 is the best overall Samsung tablet because of its versatility and premium features. It excels in both work and entertainment, thanks to its vibrant AMOLED screen. If you need a premium Android tablet that performs well across the board, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is an excellent choice. Learn More Below
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2. Samsung Galaxy Tab A7: Best Value
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7, while older, offers incredible value. It’s perfect for basic tasks and is very affordable. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option when you compare Samsung tablets, the Tab A7 is a standout. Learn More Below
[](Best Samsung Tablet for Laptop Replacement)
3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra: Best for Laptop Replacement
The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is designed for users who want a tablet as large and capable as a laptop. Its massive 14.6-inch display and powerful performance make it ideal for productivity on the go. When you compare Samsung tablets for screen size and performance, the Tab S10 Ultra leads the pack. Learn More Below
Detailed Samsung Tablet Comparison: Top Models Reviewed
At Tom’s Guide, our team rigorously tests and reviews products to provide you with trustworthy recommendations. Learn more about our testing process. We delve into each tablet’s performance, display quality, battery life, and features to help you make an informed decision when you compare Samsung tablets.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9: The Best All-Around Samsung Tablet
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1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 – The best all-around Samsung tablet for most users.
Read our expert review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Key Specifications:
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Display: 11-inch (2560 x 1600) Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz
- Storage: 128GB
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Ports: USB-C, microSD
- Dimensions: 10.01 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
Reasons to Buy:
- Stunning AMOLED screen for vibrant visuals.
- Excellent speakers for immersive audio.
- Included S Pen stylus adds great value and functionality.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Performance is not as fast as newer, more expensive iPads.
- Battery life is decent but not exceptional compared to some competitors.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is designed for users who desire an Android tablet that rivals the iPad Air in quality and experience. It’s versatile enough for both productivity and entertainment, making it a top pick when you compare Samsung tablets for overall performance. While it can handle work tasks effectively, the Galaxy Tab S9 truly shines as a fast, all-purpose device that enhances both work and leisure.
The standout feature of the Galaxy Tab S9 is its gorgeous AMOLED display, a premium upgrade that was once exclusive to Samsung’s most expensive tablets. Now standard on the entry-level S9, this display significantly elevates the tablet experience, making it a strong competitor against premium iPads. When you compare Samsung tablets’ display technology, the AMOLED screen on the S9 is a major advantage.
In performance benchmarks, the Tab S9 might not outperform the latest iPad Air, but our tests show it’s more than capable for everyday use. It also offers a solid 9 hours of battery life on a single charge, ensuring it can last through a full workday or school day without needing to be plugged in. While it may not be the largest Samsung tablet (that title belongs to the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra), the Tab S9 stands out as a fantastic all-around tablet that competes well with Apple’s iPad. If you’re seeking a premium Android tablet that will last for years, the Galaxy Tab S9 is an excellent investment.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 review.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7: The Best Value Samsung Tablet
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2. Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 – The best Samsung tablet for budget-conscious buyers.
Read our expert review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7
Key Specifications:
- CPU: Qualcomm SM6115
- Display: 10.4-inch, 2000×1200-pixel
- Storage: 32GB
- Memory: 3GB
- Ports: USB-C, microSD
- Dimensions: 9.7 x 6.2 x 0.3 inches
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional battery life for extended use.
- Convenient facial recognition for easy unlocking.
- USB-C charging for modern connectivity.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Screen brightness could be better, especially in bright environments.
- Performance is adequate for basic tasks but not for demanding applications.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is an older model, but it continues to offer outstanding value, especially if you find it on sale. It’s one of the most affordable Android tablets available, making it a top contender when you compare Samsung tablets on price. Originally priced to undercut the iPad by $100, the Tab A7 is now even more budget-friendly as iPad prices have increased.
While the Tab A7 can’t compete with newer tablets in terms of speed and processing power, it’s important to consider its price point. Its modest performance contributes to its excellent battery life, lasting over 13 hours in our tests. This makes it ideal for users who need a tablet that can last all day without frequent charging. When you compare Samsung tablets for battery performance in the budget category, the Tab A7 excels.
Although it’s slower and less powerful than contemporary tablets, the Galaxy Tab A7 is perfect as a gift for children or for users who need a tablet for basic tasks like browsing, video streaming, and light reading. It includes facial recognition for added convenience and access to the extensive Google Play Store. While our reviewer noted that a brighter screen and faster performance would be improvements, the Tab A7 remains a highly functional tablet that delivers a pure Android experience. Its sleek design and portability further enhance its appeal, making it our top recommendation for a budget-friendly Samsung tablet.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 review.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra: The Best Laptop Replacement Samsung Tablet
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3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra – The ultimate Samsung tablet for those needing a large screen and laptop-like performance.
Read our expert review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
Key Specifications:
- CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 9300+
- Camera Resolution: 12MP FF + Ultrawide (front), 13MP AF + 8MP UW (rear)
- Display: 14.6-inch 3K (2960 x 1848 pixels) Dynamic AMOLED
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB options
- Ports: 1x USB-C, microSD
- Dimensions: 12.85 x 8.21 x 0.21 inches
- Weight: 1.58 pounds
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3
Reasons to Buy:
- Magnificent 14.6-inch AMOLED display for stunning visuals.
- Blazing-fast performance for demanding tasks and multitasking.
- Included S Pen stylus enhances creativity and productivity.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Large size can be unwieldy for tablet use.
- Price is comparable to high-end iPads but with slightly lower performance in some areas.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is the definitive tablet for users who demand the largest possible screen and top-tier performance. If you need a Samsung tablet to replace your laptop, this is the model to consider first when you compare Samsung tablets for productivity.
Like its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, the Tab S10 Ultra features a breathtaking 14.6-inch OLED display, surpassing the screen size of any iPad. With Samsung DeX mode enabled, you can utilize this expansive screen real estate like a Windows desktop, ideal for multitasking. The tablet’s robust 12GB of RAM and MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor ensure smooth performance even under heavy loads. When you compare Samsung tablets for screen size and processing power, the Tab S10 Ultra is unmatched.
However, the Tab S10 Ultra isn’t without its drawbacks. While it supports Bluetooth mice and keyboards, it functions best as a laptop alternative when paired with a detachable keyboard cover, such as the Samsung Book Cover Keyboard, which adds an extra $200 to the already substantial cost. While lighter than most laptops at 1.58 pounds, its size and weight can make it less comfortable to hold and use as a traditional tablet, especially compared to smaller models. Its dimensions might feel cumbersome for extended handheld use.
Despite these considerations, if a massive screen is your priority, the Tab S10 Ultra is the best choice. Although it doesn’t outperform or outlast the iPad Pro M4 in all benchmarks (see our Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra vs iPad Pro M4 comparison), it delivers exceptional performance for an Android tablet and boasts one of the largest and most beautiful displays in its class. Samsung also includes an S Pen stylus, allowing you to start drawing and note-taking immediately.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra review.
Battery Life Comparison of Samsung Tablets
Battery life is a critical factor for many tablet buyers. To help you compare Samsung tablets on battery performance, we’ve compiled our test results in an easy-to-read chart. We’ve also included results from some popular competing tablets, including iPads, to give you a broader perspective on how Samsung tablets stack up against the competition. As you can see, Samsung slates generally perform very well in battery tests.
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Battery Test Results (Web Surfing over Wi-Fi)
| Tablet Model | Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) |
|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 | 9:06 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra | 9:22 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 | 13:13 |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 | 12:52 |
| Lenovo Tab Extreme | 9:28 |
| Apple iPad Air | 10:09 |
| Apple iPad Pro | 10:37 |
While all Samsung tablets listed offer respectable battery life, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is the clear winner if longevity is your top priority. When you compare Samsung tablets specifically for battery life, the Tab A7 stands out.
Choosing the Right Samsung Tablet for You
Selecting the best Samsung tablet depends largely on your intended use. When you compare Samsung tablets, consider what you’ll be using it for most often.
For general use like web browsing, video streaming, and gaming, any tablet on this list will suffice. The key is to determine your preferred size, desired features, and budget. All these Samsung tablets are well-suited for everyday tasks.
If you need a tablet that can potentially replace your laptop, the Galaxy Tab S9 is an excellent starting point. While typing on its optional Book Cover keyboard might feel a bit cramped for some, it offers a good balance of portability and functionality. For a larger screen and more robust laptop replacement capabilities, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is specifically designed for this purpose. Thanks to Samsung DeX mode, it offers a more desktop-like experience than any iPad, making it a superior choice when you compare Samsung tablets for productivity.
For those seeking an affordable tablet that’s still capable for most tasks, the Galaxy Tab A7 is a fantastic option. While its LCD screen may not be as vibrant as AMOLED displays for video watching, and it might feel slightly slower when multitasking, it’s a reliable and lightweight tablet at a great price point. When you compare Samsung tablets on a budget, the Tab A7 is hard to beat.
Before purchasing, be sure to check our Samsung promo codes page for the latest discounts to maximize your savings.
How We Test Samsung Tablets
At Tom’s Guide, we rigorously test every tablet to assess its performance against marketing claims and to compare it with competitors. Our testing methodology ensures we provide you with reliable and data-driven reviews to help you compare Samsung tablets effectively.
Our battery test involves continuous web surfing over Wi-Fi at a set screen brightness to measure battery life on a full charge. We also conduct display tests to evaluate color accuracy (sRGB output) and brightness. Performance benchmarks, including Geekbench, are used to gauge CPU speed and overall performance. These tests allow us to quantitatively compare Samsung tablets and other brands.
For Android tablets, we evaluate pre-installed apps and app store access to ensure a genuine Android experience. Samsung typically provides full access to the Google Play Store and offers useful pre-installed apps, particularly beneficial for users with other Samsung devices. We also examine parental control features for tablets intended for family use.
Beyond lab tests, we use each tablet for several days to weeks in real-world scenarios. We assess design, setup, app performance, and multitasking capabilities. We watch YouTube videos to subjectively evaluate display quality, as technical measurements don’t always capture the full viewing experience. Our detailed reviews combine hands-on experience with hard data, enabling you to thoroughly compare Samsung tablets and make informed buying decisions.
For more details on our testing process, visit our how we test page on Tom’s Guide.
Written by
Written by Alex Wawro
Alex Wawro is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience covering technology, gaming, and entertainment. As a senior editor at Tom’s Guide, he manages Samsung tablet coverage and personally reviews many models each year, bringing extensive expertise to our Samsung tablets compare guide.
