Samsung's Current Tablet Lineup

Samsung's newest tablets are the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S10+, released in 2024. The Ultra is the larger model with a 14.6-inch display, while the Tab S10+ has a 13.1-inch screen. Both use Samsung's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and come with the S Pen stylus included. If you want a smaller, more affordable option, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE (Fan Edition) offers a 12.4-inch display and costs less, though it uses an older processor.

Samsung also still sells the Galaxy Tab S9 series from 2023 at lower prices if you do not need the newest hardware. The choice between models depends on what you plan to do with the tablet — whether you need the screen size, the processing power, or just a basic device for reading and streaming.

Key Takeaways

  • The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ are Samsung's newest tablets, both released in 2024 with larger screens and faster processors than previous models.
  • The Tab S10 Ultra has a 14.6-inch display and is designed for people who want maximum screen space for work or creative tasks.
  • The Tab S10+ offers a middle ground with a 13.1-inch screen and the same processor as the Ultra at a lower price.
  • The Galaxy Tab S10 FE is the budget option with a 12.4-inch screen, best for basic tasks like reading, video, and web browsing.
  • All new Tab S10 models include the S Pen stylus, which is useful for note-taking and drawing but adds to the cost.

Screen Size and Display Quality

The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra's 14.6-inch screen is one of the largest you will find in a tablet. It uses an AMOLED display, which means blacks are darker and colors are more vivid than on LCD screens. The refresh rate is 120Hz, so scrolling and gaming feel smooth. The Tab S10+ has the same display technology but in a smaller 13.1-inch size, which makes it easier to hold and carry.

The Tab S10 FE uses an LCD screen instead of AMOLED, so the picture is not quite as sharp or colorful. The 12.4-inch size is still large enough for most tasks, and the lower cost makes up for the display difference if you are not doing photo editing or watching a lot of video.

Processing Power and Speed

The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ both have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which is the fastest chip Samsung puts in tablets. This handles multitasking, gaming, and heavy apps without lag. You get 12GB of RAM on the base models, which is enough to run many apps at once without slowdown.

The Tab S10 FE uses the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, an older and slower processor. It is still fast enough for everyday use — web browsing, email, video streaming, and light gaming. The difference matters only if you plan to edit video, run complex design software, or play demanding games.

Storage and Battery Life

The Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ come with 256GB or 512GB of storage. Neither model has a microSD card slot, so you cannot expand the storage later. If you store a lot of photos, videos, or apps, the 512GB option is worth the extra cost.

Battery life on the Tab S10 Ultra and Tab S10+ is around 13 to 14 hours of mixed use. The Tab S10 FE lasts about 12 hours. All three models support fast charging, though the charger is not always included in the box — check what comes with your purchase. If you use the tablet for video or gaming, battery life will be shorter.

The S Pen and What It Does

All three new Tab S10 models come with the S Pen stylus included. You can use it to take handwritten notes, draw, or mark up documents. The S Pen connects to the tablet wirelessly and charges when you slide it into the slot on the side of the tablet. There is no separate battery to buy.

If you do not plan to use the stylus, it does not get in your way — you can leave it in the slot and use your fingers to touch the screen normally. The S Pen is most useful if you take notes in meetings, do digital art, or mark up PDFs. If you just watch video and browse the web, you will not miss it.

Price and Where to Buy

The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra starts around $1,200 for the 256GB model. The Tab S10+ starts around $800. The Tab S10 FE starts around $350. Prices vary by retailer and whether there are current sales or trade-in offers. Samsung's official website, Best Buy, and Amazon all carry these models.

If you are not sure about spending that much, the Tab S10 FE is a good way to see if a large tablet fits your life. If you already know you want a tablet and use it often, the Tab S10+ offers the best balance of screen size, speed, and price. The Ultra is for people who want the biggest screen and do not mind paying for it.

Older Models Still Worth Considering

The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and Tab S9+ from 2023 are still sold at lower prices now that the Tab S10 models are out. The main differences are the processor (older but still fast) and some software features. If you find a Tab S9 model on sale, it is still a solid tablet. The screen quality and battery life are nearly the same as the newer models.

The Tab S9 FE is also still available and costs less than the Tab S10 FE. The trade-off is an older processor and slightly older software. For basic tasks, the difference is not noticeable. Check the current price before you buy — sometimes the newer model is only slightly more expensive, which makes it the better choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Ultra has a 14.6-inch screen and costs more. The Tab S10+ has a 13.1-inch screen and costs less. Both have the same processor and battery life. Choose the Ultra if you want maximum screen space; choose the Tab S10+ if you want something easier to hold and carry.

Can I use the S Pen with older Samsung tablets?

The S Pen is designed for the specific tablet model. Older S Pens may not work with the new Tab S10 models, and the new S Pen may not work with older tablets. Check the model number before you buy a replacement stylus.

Does the Tab S10 FE have the same processor as the Ultra?

No. The Tab S10 FE uses the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, which is slower than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Ultra and Tab S10+. The FE is still fast enough for most tasks, but it will not handle heavy gaming or video editing as smoothly.

Is the microSD card slot available on any of the new Tab S10 models?

No. None of the Tab S10 models have a microSD card slot. You must choose your storage size when you buy the tablet. If you need more space later, you will have to use cloud storage or an external drive connected through USB.

How long does the S Pen battery last?

The S Pen does not have a removable battery. It charges wirelessly when you slide it into the slot on the tablet. A full charge lasts several hours of active use. You do not need to replace the battery yourself.