Samsung's newest tablets in 2024

Samsung's current flagship tablet is the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, released in mid-2024. It comes with a 14.6-inch display, an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, and Samsung's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The Tab S10 also includes a built-in S Pen stylus and runs One UI on top of Android.

If you want something smaller, Samsung also released the Galaxy Tab S10+ (13.6-inch screen) and Galaxy Tab S10 (11.6-inch screen) at the same time. All three use the same processor and share the same core features — the difference is mainly screen size and battery capacity. The smaller models cost less but have the same display quality and performance.

Samsung also makes the Galaxy Tab S9 FE, a budget option with a 90Hz display and longer battery life than the flagship models. It uses an older processor (Exynos 1280) and lacks the S Pen, but costs significantly less if you need basic tablet functions without premium features.

Key Takeaways

  • The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is Samsung's newest flagship tablet with a 14.6-inch screen, S Pen included, and water resistance rated IP68.
  • Samsung released three sizes of the Tab S10 line at the same time — Ultra, Plus, and standard — all with the same processor and features but different screen sizes and prices.
  • The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is Samsung's budget tablet option and lasts longer on a single charge than the newer Tab S10 models.
  • All current Samsung tablets run One UI on Android and support Samsung's ecosystem of apps and services like Samsung DeX.

Display and screen size differences

The Tab S10 Ultra's 14.6-inch screen is the largest Samsung currently makes for tablets. It uses a 120Hz refresh rate, which means the display updates 120 times per second — noticeable when scrolling through documents or playing games. The screen resolution is 2960 × 1848 pixels, and Samsung rates the brightness at 3000 nits peak, which is bright enough to use outdoors in direct sunlight.

The Tab S10+ has a 13.6-inch screen with the same 120Hz refresh rate and similar brightness. The standard Tab S10 drops to 11.6 inches but keeps the 120Hz refresh rate. If you plan to read, draw, or watch video for long periods, the larger screens reduce eye strain, but they also make the tablet heavier and harder to hold one-handed.

The Tab S9 FE uses a 90Hz display instead of 120Hz, which is still smooth but noticeably less fluid when scrolling quickly. Its 10.9-inch screen sits between the standard Tab S10 and the Tab S10+. The FE model's brightness is lower than the S10 line, so it is harder to use in bright outdoor light.

Processor, RAM, and storage options

The Tab S10 line uses Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, Samsung's fastest mobile chip. It handles multitasking, video editing, and demanding games without lag. RAM comes in 12GB or 16GB depending on the model, and storage starts at 256GB with options up to 1TB on the Ultra.

The Tab S9 FE uses the Exynos 1280 processor, which is older and slower. It handles everyday tasks — email, web browsing, video streaming — without problems, but struggles with heavy multitasking or graphics-intensive apps. RAM is 8GB and storage maxes out at 128GB, so it is not designed for power users or large media libraries.

If you plan to use the tablet for photo or video editing, design work, or running multiple apps at once, the Tab S10 line is the better choice. If you mainly watch video, read, and browse the web, the Tab S9 FE's processor is sufficient and costs less.

S Pen stylus and productivity features

All three Tab S10 models come with Samsung's S Pen stylus included in the box. The pen has 4,096 pressure levels, which means it responds to how hard you press — useful for drawing, note-taking, and handwriting. The S Pen connects to the tablet via Bluetooth and charges wirelessly when you slot it into the tablet's side.

Samsung's Notes app, built into One UI, lets you write directly on the screen, convert handwriting to text, and organize notes by folder. The S Pen also works with third-party apps like Clip Studio Paint and Adobe Fresco for digital art. If you do not plan to draw or take handwritten notes, the S Pen adds little value, but it is included anyway.

The Tab S9 FE does not include an S Pen and does not support one, so if stylus input is important to you, you must buy a Tab S10 model. Samsung also offers Samsung DeX on all current tablets, which lets you connect a keyboard and mouse to use the tablet like a desktop computer — useful if you want to replace a laptop for some tasks.

Battery life and charging

The Tab S10 Ultra has an 11,200 mAh battery and Samsung rates it for up to 14 hours of video playback. Real-world battery life depends on screen brightness and what you are doing — video streaming lasts longer than gaming. The tablet charges via USB-C and supports 45W fast charging, though the charger is sold separately.

The Tab S10+ has a 10,090 mAh battery with similar per-hour ratings. The standard Tab S10 has a 7,045 mAh battery and lasts slightly less long, but still reaches a full day of moderate use. All three Tab S10 models charge at the same 45W speed if you buy the right charger.

The Tab S9 FE has a 10,090 mAh battery and Samsung rates it for up to 13 hours of video playback — comparable to the Tab S10+ despite the older processor. The FE model charges at 15W, which is slower than the Tab S10 line. If battery life is your priority, the Tab S9 FE is competitive and costs less.

Price and where to buy

The Tab S10 Ultra starts at $1,199 for the 256GB model. The Tab S10+ starts at $799, and the standard Tab S10 starts at $599. Prices vary by storage capacity — adding storage can add $100 to $300 to the base price. Samsung sells directly through its website, and the tablets are also available at Best Buy, Amazon, and other major retailers.

The Tab S9 FE starts at $349 for the 128GB model. It is the only current Samsung tablet under $400. If you are shopping for a second tablet or a gift, the FE model is the budget option. Older Tab S9 and Tab S9+ models may still be available at discounted prices from retailers clearing inventory, but Samsung no longer manufactures them.

Price drops happen most often during major sales events like Black Friday or when new models launch. If you are not in a hurry, waiting for a sale can save $100 to $200 on Tab S10 models, though the Tab S9 FE rarely drops in price.

Water resistance and durability

The Tab S10 line has an IP68 rating, which means it can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. This protects against accidental spills and brief dunks in a pool or bathtub, but it is not designed for saltwater or prolonged underwater use. The rating does not cover damage to the S Pen if it gets wet.

The Tab S9 FE has an IP52 rating, which means it resists dust and light water spray but cannot survive submersion. If you plan to use the tablet near water or in wet environments, the Tab S10 line is more durable. For typical indoor use, the difference does not matter.

All current Samsung tablets use Gorilla Glass for the screen, which resists scratches but can crack if dropped. Samsung sells screen protectors and cases separately. The tablets are also covered by Samsung's standard one-year warranty, which covers manufacturing defects but not accidental damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Samsung tablet should I buy if I just want to watch video and browse the web?

The Tab S9 FE is the best choice for basic tasks. It has a good screen, long battery life, and costs $349. You do not need the faster processor or larger screen of the Tab S10 line unless you plan to edit video, play demanding games, or use multiple apps at once.

Does the Tab S10 come with a keyboard or case?

No. The S Pen stylus is included, but keyboards, cases, and screen protectors are sold separately. Samsung makes official Book Cover keyboards and cases, but third-party options are cheaper and often just as good. Budget an extra $50 to $150 if you want a keyboard case.

Can I use the S Pen from an older Samsung tablet on the Tab S10?

No. Samsung's S Pen changes design and compatibility with each tablet generation. The S Pen that comes with the Tab S10 only works with Tab S10 models. Older S Pens are not compatible.

How long do Samsung tablets get software updates?

Samsung provides major Android updates for three years and security updates for four years from the release date. The Tab S10 line released in mid-2024, so you can expect updates through mid-2027 and security patches through mid-2028. The Tab S9 FE gets the same support window from its release date.

Is the Tab S10 good for drawing and digital art?

Yes, if you use the right apps. The S Pen has enough pressure sensitivity for sketching and painting, and apps like Clip Studio Paint and Procreate work well on the Tab S10. The larger screen of the Ultra or Plus model gives you more room to work. The Tab S9 FE does not support a stylus, so it is not suitable for art.