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, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and up to 16GB of RAM. The Tab S10+ is the mid-size option with a 12.4-inch screen and the same processor, while the standard Tab S10 has an 11-inch display and slightly less RAM starting at 12GB.

If you want something smaller and less expensive, Samsung also sells the Galaxy Tab S9 FE, which is still current and widely available. It has an 11-inch screen, a MediaTek processor, and 4GB of RAM. The FE line is designed for basic tasks like reading, video, and light work rather than gaming or heavy multitasking.

For budget buyers, the Galaxy Tab A9 remains in Samsung's lineup. It has an 8.7-inch screen, a MediaTek Helio G99 processor, and 4GB of RAM. It is the entry point if you need a Samsung tablet but do not need the performance of the S-series.

Key Takeaways

  • The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is Samsung's newest high-end tablet with a 14.6-inch screen and top-tier processor, released in mid-2024.
  • The Tab S10+ and standard Tab S10 offer the same processor as the Ultra but in smaller sizes and at lower prices.
  • The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is a good choice if you want a current Samsung tablet for reading, video, and everyday use without paying flagship prices.
  • The Galaxy Tab A9 is the cheapest Samsung tablet option and works for basic tasks but has a slower processor than the S-series.

Processor and performance differences

The Tab S10 line uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which is the same processor in Samsung's flagship phones. This chip handles gaming, video editing, and multitasking without lag. If you plan to use your tablet for work apps, photo editing, or gaming, the Tab S10 series is built for that.

The Tab S9 FE uses a MediaTek Helio G99, which is slower but still adequate for streaming video, email, and web browsing. It will not handle demanding games or heavy creative work as smoothly. The Tab A9 uses the same MediaTek Helio G99, so performance between those two is similar.

For most people who watch video and read on their tablet, the difference between these processors is not noticeable. You only feel the gap when you run multiple apps at once or open large files.

Screen size and display quality

The Tab S10 Ultra has a 14.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate and AMOLED technology, which means blacks are true black and colors are vivid. This is the largest tablet Samsung makes and works well if you want a near-laptop experience for reading or watching.

The Tab S10+ has a 12.4-inch AMOLED screen with the same 120Hz refresh rate. The standard Tab S10 has an 11-inch AMOLED display. All three Tab S10 models have the same display technology; the difference is just size.

The Tab S9 FE and Tab A9 both use LCD screens instead of AMOLED, which means colors are less vibrant and blacks are not as deep. The Tab S9 FE has a 90Hz refresh rate, while the Tab A9 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. For casual watching and reading, LCD is fine. For photo work or color-sensitive tasks, AMOLED is noticeably better.

Battery life and charging

The Tab S10 Ultra has an 11,200 mAh battery and Samsung claims it lasts up to 14 hours of video playback. The Tab S10+ has a 10,090 mAh battery with similar endurance. The standard Tab S10 has an 8,000 mAh battery. Real battery life depends on screen brightness and what apps you run, but all three Tab S10 models should last a full day of moderate use.

The Tab S9 FE has a 6,150 mAh battery and typically lasts 8 to 10 hours. The Tab A9 has a 5,100 mAh battery with similar longevity. Both are smaller tablets with smaller batteries, so they do not last as long as the Tab S10 line.

All current Samsung tablets charge via USB-C. The Tab S10 line supports faster charging than the FE and A9 models, though Samsung does not always include the charger in the box, so check what comes with your purchase.

Price and where to buy

The Tab S10 Ultra starts around $1,200 for the base model with 256GB storage. The Tab S10+ starts around $800, and the standard Tab S10 starts around $600. Prices vary by retailer and storage option.

The Tab S9 FE starts around $350 and is often discounted at major retailers. The Tab A9 starts around $200 to $250. Both are widely available at Best Buy, Amazon, and Samsung's own website.

Samsung frequently runs sales on older models, so if you see a Tab S9 FE or Tab A9 on sale, the discount is usually real. The Tab S10 line is newer and holds its price better in the first few months after release.

Stylus and accessory support

The Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S10+, and Tab S10 all support the S Pen, which is sold separately. The S Pen lets you write, draw, and take notes directly on the screen. It is useful for sketching, document annotation, and note-taking apps like Samsung Notes.

The Tab S9 FE does not support the S Pen. The Tab A9 also does not support it. If stylus support matters to you, you need one of the Tab S10 models.

All Samsung tablets work with Bluetooth keyboards and cases, which are sold by Samsung and third-party makers. The Tab S10 line has more accessory options because it is the flagship, but you can find keyboards and covers for any of these models.

Software and updates

All current Samsung tablets run Android with Samsung's One UI interface on top. The Tab S10 line ships with Android 14 and will receive major updates for several years. Samsung typically guarantees at least three years of major Android updates and four years of security patches on its flagship tablets.

The Tab S9 FE and Tab A9 also run Android 14 but may receive fewer years of updates. Budget tablets usually get two to three years of major updates. Check Samsung's official support page for your specific model to see the update timeline.

All Samsung tablets get monthly security patches as long as they are supported. This matters if you use your tablet for banking or email.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Tab S10+ has a larger 12.4-inch screen compared to the Tab S10's 11-inch screen. Both have the same processor, RAM options, and display technology. The Tab S10+ costs more because of the bigger screen. Choose the Tab S10 if you want to save money; choose the Tab S10+ if you want more screen space for work or reading.

Can I use the S Pen on the Tab S9 FE?

No. The Tab S9 FE does not support the S Pen. Only the Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S10+, and Tab S10 work with Samsung's stylus. If stylus support is important to you, you need one of the Tab S10 models.

Which Samsung tablet is best for watching video?

The Tab S10 Ultra has the largest screen at 14.6 inches and an AMOLED display with vivid colors, making it the best choice for video. The Tab S10+ and Tab S10 are also good for video. The Tab S9 FE and Tab A9 work fine for casual watching but have smaller screens and LCD displays instead of AMOLED.

How long do Samsung tablets get software updates?

The Tab S10 line typically receives three years of major Android updates and four years of security patches. The Tab S9 FE and Tab A9 usually get two to three years of major updates. All models receive monthly security patches during their support window. Check Samsung's support page for your specific model to confirm.

Is the Tab S9 FE still worth buying if the Tab S10 exists?

Yes, if you want to save money. The Tab S9 FE costs around $350 and handles video, reading, and email well. The Tab S10 starts at $600 and has a faster processor and better display. Buy the Tab S9 FE if you do light tasks; buy the Tab S10 if you want better performance or plan to use the S Pen.