Here are the top Samsung tablets we’ve evaluated and loved
If you’re not a fan of iPads, Android tablets are your next best option, and Samsung leads the pack in this category.
For years, Samsung has crafted robust and highly functional tablets with impressive software capabilities, all of which have consistently received positive reviews from my team and me.
It’s important to note that not all Android tablets are created equal. Some might look appealing based on their specs, but they often suffer from a user interface that feels more like an enlarged smartphone.
However, Samsung’s Galaxy tablets stand out by effectively overcoming these challenges with superior software support and seamless integration with Galaxy smartphones and other Galaxy devices.
The best option available right now might surprise you, but I suggest opting for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 from the previous generation. This model still performs excellently as a flagship device, boasting a fantastic AMOLED display and robust battery life, all under $1,000.
Even though Samsung has introduced the S10 series, they did not release a standard Galaxy Tab S10, only the pricier Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Plus. If your budget allows, the S10 Plus is an excellent choice for a more luxurious upgrade.
For those seeking a more affordable Samsung tablet, the Galaxy Tab A7 is an excellent pick. Despite its older model status, it remains a solid performer, often available for less than $200 during sales. It’s the perfect budget-friendly option.
Then there’s the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra for anyone seeking the most powerful and sizeable Android tablet available. If you’re considering using your tablet as a laptop replacement, this is the model to get.
Top Samsung Tablets Available Today
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is an excellent slate that’s aimed at folks who want an Android tablet that’s as nice as an iPad Air. You can use it to get work done in a pinch, but in my experience the Galaxy Tab S9 is best enjoyed as a speedy all-purpose device for making work and play a bit more enjoyable.
I think it’s the best Samsung tablet for most folks because it’s not the fanciest or most premium slate you can get, but it feels like it thanks to the gorgeous AMOLED display, a premium-feeling upgrade that used to be reserved for only the most expensive Samsung tablets. But with the S9 it’s standard on the entry-level model, and it’s a great upgrade that makes this affordable tablet really feel like a premium iPad competitor.
Of course, if you look at our reviews and testing data you’ll see the Tab S9 was outperformed by the latest iPad Air in our testing lab. But while this slate isn’t as speedy as the best iPads, our testing reveals it’s plenty fast enough for day-to-day use. And since it lasted 9 hours on a full charge in our battery test, you can count on being able to carry it through a day at work or school without needing to plug in.
While this may not be the biggest Android slate on the block (that honor likely goes to the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra) it’s a great all-around tablet that competes favorably with Apple’s iPad. if you just need a great premium Android tablet the Galaxy Tab S9 is a great buy, and it should last you for years to come.
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The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is starting to show its age at this point, but I think it’s still a great value because if you can find one on sale it’s one of the best deals you can get on an Android tablet. This pint-sized slate was originally priced to undercut the iPad by $100, and now it’s an even better savings thanks to the fact that iPads have gotten more expensive.
And while this slim tablet can’t compete in terms of speed or power in our tests, you shouldn’t be expecting top-tier performance at this price. One of the benefits of its low power is good battery life – over 13 hours on a full charge, according to our testing.
While this tablet is significantly slower and weaker than anything modern you could buy, the trade-off is that it doesn’t cost much, so it’s great for gifting to a young child. Plus, you get the convenience of facial authentication tech and access to the full Google Play Store.
While our reviewer did wish it was a tad brighter and faster, this remains a great utilitarian tablet that offers the real, unadulterated Android experience. It looks great and is easy to carry, too, making this my top recommendation when I’m asked what Samsung tablet to buy on a budget.
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Tobias Nguyen covers mobile technology and social media trends. He combines a background in digital marketing with a passion for emerging tech to provide readers with data-driven insights and practical tech usage tips.
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