The newest Samsung Galaxy tablets in 2024

Samsung's current lineup includes the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S10+, and Galaxy Tab S10, released in July 2024. These are the most recent flagship models. Samsung also sells the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Galaxy Tab A9 as budget options, though these are older designs. The Tab S10 series represents the newest technology Samsung offers in tablets right now.

The Tab S10 Ultra is the largest and most powerful: a 14.6-inch screen with Samsung's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, 12GB of RAM, and up to 1TB storage. The Tab S10+ is 13.1 inches with the same processor and up to 512GB storage. The standard Tab S10 is 11.6 inches. All three run Android 14 with Samsung's One UI interface and include the S Pen stylus in the box.

If you are shopping for a tablet right now, the Tab S10 series is what Samsung considers current. Older models like the Tab S9 are still sold by retailers but are no longer the newest generation.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung's newest tablets are the Galaxy Tab S10, Tab S10+, and Tab S10 Ultra, all released in July 2024 with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
  • The Tab S10 Ultra has a 14.6-inch screen and is the most powerful; the Tab S10+ is 13.1 inches; the standard Tab S10 is 11.6 inches.
  • All three Tab S10 models include the S Pen stylus and run Android 14 with Samsung's One UI.
  • Older Tab S9 and Tab A9 models are still available but are not the current generation.

What changed from the Tab S9 to the Tab S10

The processor upgrade is the main difference. Tab S10 models use Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, while Tab S9 models used Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. This means faster performance for apps, games, and multitasking. The Tab S10 also has a slightly brighter display and improved speakers compared to the Tab S9.

The design is very similar — same overall shape, same S Pen included, same screen sizes. If you own a Tab S9, the Tab S10 is a faster version of the same tablet, not a complete redesign. The price is also similar: the Tab S10 starts around the same cost as the Tab S9 did at launch.

Screen size and storage options for each model

ModelScreen SizeStorage OptionsRAM
Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra14.6 inches256GB, 512GB, 1TB12GB
Galaxy Tab S10+13.1 inches256GB, 512GB12GB
Galaxy Tab S1011.6 inches128GB, 256GB8GB or 12GB

All three models support microSD cards for additional storage, so you can expand beyond the built-in options. The Tab S10 Ultra is the only one that reaches 1TB. If you need a smaller, lighter tablet, the standard Tab S10 is the most portable option.

Processor and performance specs

All three Tab S10 models use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version, which is Qualcomm's flagship mobile processor. This is the same chip in Samsung's Galaxy S24 phones. It handles demanding apps, video editing, gaming, and heavy multitasking without lag.

The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ both have 12GB of RAM, which is plenty for running multiple apps at once. The standard Tab S10 comes with either 8GB or 12GB depending on which version you buy. For most people, 8GB is sufficient; 12GB is useful if you regularly run many apps simultaneously or use professional software.

Battery life is rated at around 13 to 14 hours of video playback on all three models. Real-world use typically gives you a full day of moderate to heavy use before needing to charge.

Display quality and refresh rate

All Tab S10 models have AMOLED screens, which means deep blacks, bright colors, and excellent contrast. The refresh rate is 120Hz on all three, so scrolling and animations are smooth. The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ have slightly higher brightness than the standard Tab S10, making them better for outdoor use in direct sunlight.

The Tab S10 Ultra's 14.6-inch screen is the sharpest for detail work like photo editing or reading small text. The Tab S10+ is a middle ground. The standard Tab S10's 11.6-inch screen is still excellent but slightly less immersive for media consumption.

S Pen stylus and productivity features

The S Pen comes in the box with all three Tab S10 models. It has 4,096 pressure levels, so it feels responsive for drawing, note-taking, and handwriting. Samsung includes apps like Notes, Clip Studio Paint, and Microsoft Office that work well with the stylus.

The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ are better for stylus work because of their larger screens. If you plan to use the tablet mainly for drawing, design, or detailed note-taking, the larger models give you more working space. The standard Tab S10 is still capable with the stylus but offers less screen real estate.

Budget alternatives if the Tab S10 is too expensive

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is Samsung's budget option. It has a 10.9-inch screen, older processor, and costs significantly less than the Tab S10. It does not include the S Pen in the box, though you can buy one separately. The Tab S9 FE is good for basic tasks like browsing, email, and video watching, but it is slower for demanding apps.

The Galaxy Tab A9 is even cheaper and smaller (8.7 inches). It is meant for light use — reading, casual gaming, streaming. It has a weaker processor and lower-quality screen than the Tab S9 FE. If you need a tablet mainly for media consumption and do not care about stylus support, the Tab A9 is the most affordable Samsung option.

If cost is your main concern, the Tab S9 FE offers better value than the Tab A9 because the screen and performance are noticeably better. The Tab S10 series costs more but lasts longer and handles more demanding tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tab S10 worth buying over the Tab S9?

If you already own a Tab S9, the upgrade is not urgent. The Tab S10 is faster and has a slightly better display, but the Tab S9 still works well. If you are buying a new tablet, the Tab S10 is the current model and will receive software updates longer, so it is the better choice.

Can I use the Tab S10 as a laptop replacement?

The Tab S10 can handle many laptop tasks — writing, email, video calls, photo editing — especially with a keyboard case and mouse. However, it runs Android, not Windows or macOS, so some software you might use on a laptop is not available. It works best as a supplement to a laptop, not a full replacement.

How long will the Tab S10 receive software updates?

Samsung typically supports tablets with major Android updates for about four years and security updates for five years. The Tab S10, released in 2024, should receive updates through 2028 or 2029. This is longer than most Android tablets.

Do I need the 1TB storage on the Tab S10 Ultra?

Most people do not. 256GB or 512GB is enough for apps, photos, videos, and documents. You only need 1TB if you store large video files, professional design projects, or a huge photo library directly on the tablet. For most users, 256GB is sufficient, and you can always use cloud storage or an external drive for overflow.

What is the difference between the Tab S10 and Tab S10+?

The Tab S10+ has a larger 13.1-inch screen compared to the Tab S10's 11.6 inches, and it offers more storage options (up to 512GB versus 256GB). Both have the same processor and RAM. Choose the Tab S10+ if you want a bigger screen for media or stylus work; choose the standard Tab S10 if you prefer something more portable and less expensive.