Samsung's Latest Tablet Models

Samsung's newest tablets are the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S10+, released in mid-2024. The Tab S10 Ultra is the larger model with a 14.6-inch display, while the Tab S10+ has a 12.8-inch screen. Both use Samsung's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and come with the S Pen stylus included. If you want the most current Samsung tablet with the latest hardware, these are the models to look at.

Samsung also still sells the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S9+ from 2023, which are often discounted now that the S10 line is out. These are solid tablets if you find them at a lower price, but they use the older Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. For budget shoppers, the Galaxy Tab A9 Ultra and Galaxy Tab A9+ remain available—these cost less but have slower processors and smaller screens.

Key Takeaways

  • The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ are Samsung's newest tablets, released in 2024 with the latest Snapdragon processor and larger screens than previous models.
  • The Tab S10 Ultra has a 14.6-inch display and the Tab S10+ has a 12.8-inch display, both larger than their S9 predecessors.
  • Both new models include the S Pen stylus in the box, making them suitable for drawing, note-taking, and productivity work.
  • Older Tab S9 models are still sold at discounted prices if you want to save money on a recent Samsung tablet.
  • Budget Galaxy Tab A9 models offer lower prices but with slower processors and smaller screens than the premium S10 line.

Screen Size and Display Differences

The Tab S10 Ultra's 14.6-inch screen is noticeably larger than the Tab S10+'s 12.8-inch display. If you plan to use your tablet for watching video, reading, or detailed creative work, the extra screen real estate on the Ultra model makes a difference. The larger tablet is heavier and takes up more space, though—about 1.3 pounds versus 1.1 pounds for the Plus model.

Both Tab S10 models use AMOLED displays with a 120 Hz refresh rate, which means scrolling and animations look smooth. The Tab S9 Ultra and Tab S9+ also have AMOLED screens, so the display quality between the S9 and S10 lines is similar. The Tab A9 models use standard LCD screens instead, which are less vibrant and don't refresh as fast.

Processor and Performance

The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ both run Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which is the fastest mobile chip available. This handles multitasking, gaming, and heavy apps without lag. The Tab S9 models use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which is still fast enough for most tasks but noticeably slower in demanding apps and games.

The Tab A9 line uses the Snapdragon 695, a mid-range processor that handles everyday tasks like browsing and email but struggles with intensive games or video editing. If you plan to use your tablet for creative work or gaming, the Tab S10 models are worth the extra cost. For basic web browsing and reading, the Tab A9 is sufficient.

Storage and Memory Options

The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ come in 256 GB and 512 GB storage options. Both models have 12 GB of RAM, which is plenty for running multiple apps at once. Neither model has a microSD card slot, so you cannot expand storage later—choose the size you need when you buy.

The Tab S9 models also max out at 512 GB with no expansion slot. The Tab A9 tablets come in smaller storage sizes (64 GB or 128 GB) and do have microSD card slots, so you can add storage later if you run out of space. If you store a lot of photos, videos, or apps, the larger storage on the S10 models is worth considering.

Stylus and Productivity Features

Both Tab S10 models include the S Pen stylus in the box, and it magnetically attaches to the tablet's edge for storage and charging. The S Pen works with Samsung Notes, Clip Studio Paint, and other drawing and note-taking apps. If you plan to sketch, annotate documents, or take handwritten notes, this is a major advantage over the Tab A9 models, which do not include a stylus.

The Tab S9 Ultra and Tab S9+ also came with the S Pen included, so if you already own one of those tablets, you have the same stylus experience. The Tab A9 models do not include a stylus, though you can buy a third-party stylus separately—it will not work as smoothly as Samsung's official S Pen.

Price Range and Where to Buy

The Tab S10 Ultra starts around $1,200 for the 256 GB model, and the Tab S10+ starts around $800. Prices vary by retailer and whether you catch a sale. The Tab S9 Ultra and Tab S9+ are often discounted to $900 and $600 respectively now that the S10 line is out. The Tab A9 models start around $250 to $350, making them the most affordable Samsung tablets.

You can buy Samsung tablets directly from Samsung's website, or from major retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart. Prices and availability change frequently, so compare a few retailers before buying. Some carriers like Verizon and AT&T also sell Samsung tablets, sometimes with discounts if you add them to a phone plan.

Battery Life and Charging

The Tab S10 Ultra has a 11,200 mAh battery, while the Tab S10+ has a 10,090 mAh battery. Both tablets last a full day of moderate use on a single charge. Heavy use—like video streaming or gaming—drains the battery faster, usually in 6 to 8 hours. The Tab S9 models have similar battery capacity and runtime.

The Tab S10 models support 45W fast charging, though the charger is sold separately. The Tab A9 models charge more slowly and have smaller batteries, so they need charging more often. If you use your tablet all day away from a power outlet, the larger battery in the Tab S10 Ultra is an advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Tab S10 Ultra has a 14.6-inch screen and the Tab S10+ has a 12.8-inch screen. The Ultra model is larger and heavier, making it better for media and creative work. Both have the same processor and stylus, so the choice comes down to screen size preference and portability.

Should I buy the new Tab S10 or save money with the Tab S9?

The Tab S10 has a larger screen and faster processor than the Tab S9, but the difference is noticeable mainly in gaming and heavy multitasking. If you find a Tab S9 at a significantly lower price, it is still a capable tablet. The Tab S10 is worth buying if you want the latest hardware and plan to keep the tablet for several years.

Can I use a stylus with the Tab A9?

The Tab A9 does not include a stylus, but you can buy a third-party stylus separately. It will not work as smoothly or precisely as Samsung's official S Pen. If stylus support is important to you, the Tab S10 or Tab S9 models are better choices.

Do any Samsung tablets have expandable storage?

The Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S10+, Tab S9 Ultra, and Tab S9+ do not have microSD card slots. The Tab A9 models do have microSD slots, so you can add storage later. If you need more than 256 GB, the Tab A9 with a microSD card is an option, though it has a slower processor.

What is the battery life on the newest Samsung tablets?

The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ last a full day with moderate use. Heavy use like video streaming or gaming drains the battery in 6 to 8 hours. Both models support 45W fast charging, though you need to buy the charger separately.