Samsung tablet prices range from around $150 to $900, depending on the model, screen size, and storage capacity
Samsung makes tablets at several price points. The Galaxy Tab A series starts lowest, typically between $150 and $250 for base models with 32GB storage. The Galaxy Tab S series costs more — usually $350 to $900 — because it has better screens, faster processors, and more RAM. Within each series, you pay more for larger screens (10-inch tablets cost more than 8-inch ones) and higher storage (128GB costs more than 64GB).
The actual price you see depends on where you buy, whether there's a sale running, and if you're buying the Wi-Fi-only version or one with cellular. A tablet that costs $400 at one retailer might be $350 at another during a promotion. Storage upgrades typically add $50 to $100 to the base price.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung's cheapest tablets (Galaxy Tab A) start around $150 to $250, while premium models (Galaxy Tab S) range from $350 to $900.
- Price increases with screen size — a 10-inch tablet costs more than an 8-inch model in the same series.
- Storage capacity matters: upgrading from 32GB to 128GB typically adds $50 to $100 to the price.
- Cellular versions cost $100 to $150 more than Wi-Fi-only models because they include a SIM card slot.
Galaxy Tab A: The budget option
The Galaxy Tab A is Samsung's entry-level tablet line. Most Tab A models sell for $150 to $250 depending on screen size and storage. An 8-inch Tab A with 32GB storage usually costs around $150, while a 10-inch version with the same storage runs closer to $200. If you step up to 64GB or 128GB storage, add $50 to $100.
Tab A tablets have smaller, lower-resolution screens than pricier models and older processors, but they handle email, web browsing, video streaming, and basic apps without lag. They're durable enough for everyday use and come with Samsung's standard warranty. The trade-off is that the screen won't be as bright or colorful, and the battery may not last as long as premium models.
Galaxy Tab S: The premium choice
Samsung's Tab S series includes the Tab S9, Tab S10, and newer models, priced from $350 to $900. An 11-inch Tab S9 with 128GB storage costs around $350 to $400, while a 14-inch model with the same storage runs $550 to $650. If you want 256GB or 512GB storage, add another $100 to $200.
Tab S tablets have AMOLED screens (brighter, more colorful, better contrast than LCD), faster processors, more RAM, and longer battery life. They're built for people who edit photos or video, use design apps, or want a premium viewing experience. The higher price reflects better components throughout — not just the screen.
Wi-Fi versus cellular models
Every Samsung tablet comes in a Wi-Fi-only version and usually a Wi-Fi + cellular version. The cellular model costs $100 to $150 more because it includes a SIM card slot and the hardware to connect to mobile networks. You then pay a carrier (like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile) a monthly fee to use data on that tablet, separate from your phone plan.
Most people buy Wi-Fi-only tablets and use them at home or on Wi-Fi networks. Cellular makes sense if you travel often, work in the field, or want internet access anywhere without tethering to your phone. The monthly carrier cost ($10 to $30 depending on the plan) adds up over time, so factor that into your decision.
Storage and what it costs
Samsung tablets typically come in 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB versions. A 32GB model is the cheapest but fills up quickly if you store photos, videos, or large apps. A 64GB tablet adds $30 to $50 to the base price and gives you more breathing room. Jumping to 128GB adds another $50 to $100.
You cannot expand storage with a microSD card on most Samsung tablets, so choose the size you need upfront. If you mostly stream content and store files in the cloud (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox), 64GB is usually enough. If you read movies, edit video, or keep large photo libraries on the device, 128GB or higher is safer.
Where prices vary most
The same tablet model sells for different prices at Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Samsung's own website. Prices also drop when new models launch — older Tab S models become cheaper to clear inventory. Seasonal sales (back-to-school, Black Friday, holiday promotions) can knock $50 to $150 off the regular price.
Refurbished or open-box tablets cost 15 to 30 percent less than new ones. These are returned units that Samsung or retailers have tested and cleaned. They come with a shorter warranty (usually 90 days instead of a year), but they work like new. If you're budget-conscious and don't mind losing some warranty coverage, refurbished is a real option.
Comparing value across models
The cheapest tablet isn't always the best value. A $150 Tab A works fine for casual use, but if you plan to keep the tablet for five years, a $400 Tab S might be smarter because it has a better screen, faster processor, and longer software support. Samsung typically updates Tab S models for longer than Tab A models.
Think about what you'll actually use the tablet for. If it's mostly Netflix and email, a Tab A saves you money. If you edit photos, use design software, or want a premium screen for reading and video, the Tab S is worth the extra cost. Battery life, screen quality, and processing speed all affect how long a tablet feels fast and useful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the cheapest Samsung tablet right now?
The Galaxy Tab A 8-inch with 32GB storage typically costs $150 to $180. Prices vary by retailer and whether there's a current sale. Refurbished Tab A models can be even cheaper, sometimes $100 to $120, though they come with shorter warranties.
Is a Samsung tablet more expensive than an iPad?
It depends on the model. A basic iPad starts around $329, while a Tab A costs $150 to $250. A premium Tab S (around $400 to $650) often costs less than a comparable iPad Pro. Direct price comparison is tricky because the two brands use different processors and software, so performance per dollar varies.
Do Samsung tablets go on sale?
Yes. Prices drop during back-to-school season (July to August), Black Friday (November), and holiday sales (December). New model launches also push older models down in price. Checking multiple retailers and setting price alerts on Amazon or Best Buy helps you catch sales.
Should I buy cellular if I already have a phone?
Only if you need internet on your tablet when you're away from Wi-Fi and don't want to tether to your phone. Most people use Wi-Fi-only tablets and connect to their phone's hotspot when needed. Cellular adds $100 to $150 upfront and $10 to $30 per month, so do the math before committing.
How much more does a larger screen cost?
In the same series, a 10-inch tablet typically costs $50 to $100 more than an 8-inch model with identical storage and specs. A 12-inch or 14-inch Tab S costs $150 to $250 more than an 11-inch version. Larger screens are better for reading and video but harder to carry.