Apple iPad (10th generation) vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
The Verdict
Apple's 10th-gen iPad excels with the powerful A14 Bionic processor, delivering superior app performance and longevity, while its Liquid Retina display offers vibrant colors despite the 60Hz refresh rate. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ counters with a larger 12.4-inch screen, higher 90Hz refresh rate, expandable storage via microSD, and double the battery life at 20 hours for video playback. Starting at $449 versus $529, Apple provides a more capable processor and tighter software ecosystem, making it ideal for creative work and gaming. Samsung wins on raw screen real estate, battery endurance, and storage flexibility, better suited for media consumption and productivity. For most users prioritizing performance and longevity, the iPad 10 represents better value; however, those needing larger displays and extended battery life should consider the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPad (10th generation) if…
- →Affordable entry point into the iPad lineup
- →Modern all-screen design with Touch ID in the power button
- →Landscape front camera great for FaceTime
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ if…
- →Large 12.4-inch display is great for multitasking and media
- →S Pen included in the box at no extra cost
- →IP68 water and dust resistance — rare for mid-range tablets
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPad (10th generation)
Pros
- Affordable entry point into the iPad lineup
- Modern all-screen design with Touch ID in the power button
- Landscape front camera great for FaceTime
- Solid A14 Bionic performance for everyday use
- Long iPadOS software support
Cons
- Only supports 1st gen Apple Pencil with awkward USB-C adapter
- 60Hz display feels dated
- Just 64GB on the base model
- USB-C limited to slow USB 2.0 speeds
- No laminated display or anti-reflective coating
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
Pros
- Large 12.4-inch display is great for multitasking and media
- S Pen included in the box at no extra cost
- IP68 water and dust resistance — rare for mid-range tablets
- MicroSD card expansion up to 1 TB for extra storage
- 10090 mAh battery provides excellent endurance
Cons
- TFT LCD panel has weaker colors and contrast than AMOLED
- Exynos 1380 is a mid-range chip — struggles with heavy tasks
- 90Hz refresh rate is behind the 120Hz on Galaxy Tab S9
- No AMOLED display at this price point is disappointing
- 627 g is heavy for extended handheld use
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPad (10th generation) | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iPadOS 16 | Android 13 (One UI 5.1) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 477 g (Wi-Fi) | 627 g |
| Dimensions | 248.6 x 179.5 x 7.0 mm | 285.4 x 185.4 x 6.5 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours web on Wi-Fi | Up to 20 hours video playback |
| Capacity | — | 10090 mAh |
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | 12 MP wide | — |
| Front camera | 12 MP ultrawide (landscape) | — |
| Display | ||
| Size | 10.9 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina LED-backlit IPS | TFT LCD |
| Resolution | 2360 x 1640 | 2560 x 1600 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 90Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 64 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 4 GB | 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | Apple A14 Bionic | Samsung Exynos 1380 |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C (USB 2.0) | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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