Samsung tablet prices range from around $150 to $1,200 depending on the model, screen size, and storage capacity

Samsung makes tablets in three main lines: the Galaxy Tab A (the budget line), the Galaxy Tab S (the mid-range and premium line), and the Galaxy Tab Active (built for outdoor and industrial use). The cheapest models start near $150, while the largest and most feature-rich tablets can exceed $1,000 before you add accessories. The price you see online is rarely the price you pay—retailers discount frequently, and the model you want may not be in stock at the advertised price.

The actual cost depends on three things: which tablet line you choose, the screen size, and how much storage you want. A 10-inch Galaxy Tab A with 32GB of storage costs less than half what a 12.9-inch Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra with 512GB costs. You also need to decide whether to buy Wi-Fi only (cheaper) or Wi-Fi plus cellular (adds $100 to $150). Prices shift constantly, and older models drop in price when new ones launch.

Key Takeaways

  • Galaxy Tab A models start around $150 for the smallest Wi-Fi version and go up to $400 for larger sizes with more storage.
  • Galaxy Tab S models (the better screens and processors) range from $350 to $1,200 depending on size and storage, with the Ultra models being the most expensive.
  • Adding cellular connectivity costs $100 to $150 more than the Wi-Fi-only price for the same tablet.
  • Prices drop $50 to $200 when Samsung releases a new generation, so checking the release date helps you decide whether to wait.
  • Retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart often discount Samsung tablets $30 to $100 below Samsung's official price.

Galaxy Tab A: The Budget Line

The Galaxy Tab A is Samsung's entry-level tablet, designed for people who want a working tablet without spending much. These come in 8-inch, 10-inch, and sometimes 11-inch versions. The 8-inch model is the cheapest—usually $150 to $180 for Wi-Fi only—and fits in a large bag or backpack. The 10-inch version runs $200 to $250 for the base storage, and the 11-inch (when available) sits around $280 to $320.

Storage on Tab A models maxes out at 64GB or 128GB depending on the year. If you want 128GB, add $30 to $50 to the base price. These tablets have older processors and smaller batteries than the Tab S line, so they are slower and need charging more often. They are fine for reading, watching video, light web browsing, and email. They are not built for heavy gaming or video editing.

Galaxy Tab S: The Mid-Range and Premium Line

The Galaxy Tab S line is where Samsung puts better screens, faster processors, and longer battery life. This line splits into three tiers: the standard Tab S, the Tab S Plus, and the Tab S Ultra. The standard Tab S comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes and starts around $350 to $400 for the base model. The Tab S Plus (a newer addition) sits between the standard and Ultra, priced around $500 to $600. The Tab S Ultra is the flagship—the 14.6-inch model costs $1,100 to $1,200 for the base storage.

Storage on Tab S models goes up to 512GB on the Ultra, and each step up (128GB to 256GB, 256GB to 512GB) adds $50 to $100 to the price. The Tab S line uses AMOLED screens (brighter, better color) instead of the LCD screens on Tab A models. They have faster processors, larger batteries, and support for Samsung's S Pen stylus (which costs $40 to $130 extra if not included). If you plan to use the tablet for photo editing, note-taking, or video work, the Tab S line is worth the extra cost.

Wi-Fi Only vs. Wi-Fi Plus Cellular

Every Samsung tablet comes in two versions: Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi plus cellular (LTE or 5G). The Wi-Fi version is cheaper and works anywhere you have a Wi-Fi network. The cellular version has a SIM card slot and works on your phone's data plan or a separate tablet plan from your carrier. Adding cellular costs $100 to $150 more than the Wi-Fi version of the same tablet.

Cellular makes sense if you travel often, work outside an office, or want internet without hunting for Wi-Fi. It does not make sense if you mostly use the tablet at home or in places with reliable Wi-Fi. Your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or others) charges a monthly fee for the data—usually $10 to $30 per month depending on how much data you use. Some carriers let you add the tablet to your existing phone plan; others require a separate line.

Where Prices Vary and How to Find the Best Deal

Samsung's official website lists the manufacturer's suggested price, but retailers rarely charge that amount. Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Target all discount Samsung tablets regularly. The discount is usually $30 to $100 off the official price, though during holiday sales (Black Friday, back-to-school season) discounts can reach $150 to $200. Older models drop faster than new ones—if a new Tab S just launched, the previous generation may drop $100 to $200 within weeks.

Carrier stores (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) sometimes offer deals on cellular models, especially if you bundle them with a phone plan. Refurbished tablets from Samsung or authorized sellers cost 20 to 30 percent less than new ones and usually come with a one-year warranty. Check the return policy before buying—most retailers give 14 to 30 days to return an unopened tablet, but some have shorter windows for open boxes.

Storage and What It Costs

Samsung tablets come in 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB versions. The base model for each line uses the smallest storage option, and each step up adds $30 to $100 depending on the jump. A 32GB tablet is tight if you install many apps and read videos or photos—you will run out of space quickly. A 64GB or 128GB model gives you room to work without constantly deleting things. If you edit video or store large photo libraries, 256GB or 512GB is worth the extra cost.

Samsung tablets do not have expandable storage (no microSD card slot), so you cannot add more space later. Choose the storage size you think you will need, because you cannot upgrade it. If you are unsure, 128GB is a safe middle ground for most people—it costs $30 to $50 more than 64GB but gives you breathing room.

Accessories and Hidden Costs

The tablet price is just the start. A protective case costs $20 to $80 depending on quality and brand. A screen protector adds $10 to $30. If you want the S Pen stylus (included on some Tab S models, sold separately on others), that is $40 to $130. A keyboard case for typing runs $80 to $200. A charger faster than the one in the box costs $30 to $60. None of these are required, but most people buy at least a case and screen protector.

If you plan to use the tablet for work or creative projects, budget for accessories. A basic case and screen protector will run $30 to $50 total. If you want a keyboard and stylus, add another $150 to $300. These costs do not show up in the tablet price, but they are real expenses to plan for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest Samsung tablet right now?

The Galaxy Tab A 8-inch Wi-Fi model is usually the cheapest, starting around $150 to $180. Prices vary by retailer and sales, so checking Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart will show you the current lowest price. Older Tab A models may be discounted further if retailers are clearing stock for new versions.

Is it worth paying more for a Tab S instead of a Tab A?

It depends on what you do with the tablet. If you mainly read, watch video, and browse the web, a Tab A works fine. If you edit photos, use a stylus for notes, or want a brighter screen and longer battery life, the Tab S is worth the extra $150 to $250. The Tab S also gets software updates longer than the Tab A, so it lasts more years before feeling slow.

Do I need cellular, or is Wi-Fi enough?

Wi-Fi is enough if you use the tablet at home, at work, or in places with reliable networks. Cellular makes sense if you travel, work outside, or want internet without finding Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that cellular adds $100 to $150 to the tablet price plus a monthly carrier fee, so calculate whether that cost is worth it for your situation.

Can I find Samsung tablets cheaper used or refurbished?

Yes. Refurbished tablets from Samsung or authorized sellers cost 20 to 30 percent less than new and usually include a one-year warranty. Used tablets from private sellers are cheaper but have no warranty and higher risk. Check the return policy and warranty before buying refurbished—some sellers offer 30-day returns, others do not.

When do Samsung tablet prices drop the most?

Prices drop most when Samsung releases a new generation—the previous model may fall $100 to $200 within weeks. Holiday sales (Black Friday, back-to-school) also bring discounts of $50 to $150. If you are not in a hurry, waiting for a new release or a major sale can save you meaningful money.