Samsung makes tablets at several price points, from around $150 to $1,200 depending on the model and screen size

Samsung's tablet lineup includes the Galaxy Tab A series (budget-friendly, typically $150–$350), the Galaxy Tab S series (mid-range to premium, typically $400–$800), and the Galaxy Tab S Ultra (top-tier, typically $1,100–$1,200). The exact price depends on which generation you're looking at, the screen size you choose, and whether you pick the Wi-Fi-only or cellular version. Cellular models cost $100–$150 more than Wi-Fi versions.

Prices also shift based on where you buy. Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Samsung's own website sometimes run different promotions. If you're buying used or refurbished, you'll pay less—often 20 to 40 percent below the new price—but you lose the manufacturer's warranty unless you buy from an authorized refurbisher.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung's Galaxy Tab A series starts around $150 for the smallest Wi-Fi model and goes up to $350 for larger sizes with cellular.
  • The Galaxy Tab S series ranges from $400 to $800 depending on screen size and whether you choose Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity.
  • The Galaxy Tab S Ultra, Samsung's most expensive tablet, costs between $1,100 and $1,200 for the base storage model.
  • Adding cellular connectivity to any model costs roughly $100–$150 more than the Wi-Fi-only version.
  • Prices vary by retailer and change frequently with sales, so checking multiple stores before buying can save you money.

Galaxy Tab A: Budget tablets under $400

The Galaxy Tab A is Samsung's entry-level tablet line. An 8-inch Tab A typically costs $150–$180 for Wi-Fi only, and $250–$280 with cellular. A 10-inch Tab A runs $200–$250 for Wi-Fi and $300–$350 with cellular. These are older designs compared to the Tab S, with slower processors and lower-resolution screens, but they handle email, web browsing, video streaming, and light document work without strain.

The Tab A line gets refreshed every couple of years, so the exact model number and price depend on when you're shopping. If a retailer is clearing out the previous generation to make room for a new one, you might find steeper discounts. Check the model number on the box or product page to see how recent it is.

Galaxy Tab S: Mid-range tablets from $400 to $800

The Galaxy Tab S series is where most people land if they want a tablet that feels responsive and has a sharper screen. An 11-inch Tab S typically costs $400–$500 for Wi-Fi and $500–$600 with cellular. A 12.4-inch Tab S runs $500–$650 for Wi-Fi and $600–$750 with cellular. These tablets have brighter displays, faster chips, and better speakers than the Tab A, making them more comfortable for reading, drawing, or watching video for long stretches.

Samsung releases new Tab S models roughly every 18 months. When a new generation launches, the previous generation often drops in price by $50–$150. If you don't need the absolute latest features, waiting a few weeks after a new launch can save you money on the older model.

Galaxy Tab S Ultra: Premium tablets at $1,100 and up

The Galaxy Tab S Ultra is Samsung's flagship tablet, designed for people who use tablets as their main device for work or creative projects. The 14.6-inch model starts at $1,100–$1,200 for the base storage (256 GB) with Wi-Fi, and cellular versions run $1,200–$1,300. This tablet has the fastest processor Samsung puts in a tablet, the brightest screen, and the most RAM.

The Tab S Ultra is overkill for casual use—email, browsing, and streaming—but worth the cost if you're editing video, running design software, or using it as a laptop replacement. Storage upgrades (512 GB or 1 TB) add $100–$200 to the price.

Storage and memory upgrades

Most Samsung tablets come in 64 GB, 128 GB, or 256 GB storage options. Upgrading from 64 GB to 128 GB usually costs $50–$100 extra. Jumping to 256 GB or higher adds another $100–$200. If you plan to store a lot of photos, videos, or apps, the larger storage is worth it upfront—adding a microSD card later is cheaper than upgrading the whole tablet, but not all Tab models accept expandable storage. Check the specs before you buy.

RAM (memory) is fixed and not upgradeable. The Tab A has 3–4 GB, the Tab S has 6–8 GB, and the Tab S Ultra has 12–16 GB. More RAM means smoother multitasking, but for most people, 6 GB is enough.

Wi-Fi versus cellular: The $100–$150 difference

A Wi-Fi-only tablet connects to the internet through your home network or public Wi-Fi. A cellular tablet has a built-in modem and can use a phone plan or a separate tablet data plan. The cellular version costs $100–$150 more upfront. If you want cellular, you'll also pay a monthly data fee—typically $10–$30 per month depending on your carrier and how much data you use.

Most people buy Wi-Fi only and use their phone as a hotspot when they need internet on the go. That's free if your phone plan includes hotspot, and it keeps the tablet cheaper. Buy cellular only if you'll regularly use the tablet away from Wi-Fi and don't want to drain your phone's battery.

Where prices vary most

Samsung's official website, Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart all sell Samsung tablets, but prices and promotions differ. Best Buy often has sales around major holidays (Black Friday, back-to-school, Christmas) and sometimes matches competitor prices. Amazon frequently discounts older models when new ones launch. Walmart tends to have lower everyday prices on budget models like the Tab A. Samsung's own site sometimes offers trade-in credits if you're upgrading from an older device.

Refurbished tablets from authorized sellers (Samsung, Best Buy, or Amazon Renewed) cost 20–40 percent less than new but come with a limited warranty. Avoid third-party sellers on marketplaces unless they have very high ratings—you risk getting a device with hidden damage or a dead battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Samsung making an iPad competitor?

Samsung tablets are not made by Apple—they run Android, not iPadOS. If you're comparing a Samsung tablet to an iPad, they're different operating systems with different apps and interfaces. A Samsung Tab S is roughly comparable to an iPad Air in price and performance, while a Tab A competes with a basic iPad.

Do Samsung tablets go on sale often?

Yes. New models typically launch in spring or fall, and older models drop in price when that happens. Black Friday, back-to-school season, and holiday sales also bring discounts of $50–$200 off. If you're not in a rush, waiting for a sale can save you money.

Can I use a Samsung tablet with a phone plan?

Cellular Samsung tablets use the same carriers as phones (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.), but you need a separate data plan for the tablet. Some carriers let you add a tablet to your existing plan for $10–$20 per month. Others require a standalone plan. Check with your carrier before buying a cellular model.

What's the difference between Tab S and Tab S Ultra?

The Tab S Ultra has a larger screen (14.6 inches versus 11–12.4 inches), a faster processor, more RAM, and a brighter display. It costs $400–$600 more. For casual use, a Tab S is plenty. The Ultra is for people who use the tablet as their main work device.

Are older Samsung tablets still worth buying?

Yes, if the price is right. A Tab S from two years ago still handles everyday tasks well and costs $100–$200 less than the current model. The main trade-off is that you get fewer years of software updates. Check how many years of updates Samsung promises for that model before you buy used.