Apple iPad Air 5th Gen (M1) vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
The Verdict
Apple's iPad Air 5th Gen delivers superior processing power with its M1 chip, enabling faster app performance and better future software support through iPadOS 17+. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ counters with a larger 12.4-inch display, higher 90Hz refresh rate, expandable storage, and longer battery life rated for 20 hours of video playback versus iPad's 10 hours. Both feature stylus support and cellular connectivity. Performance-wise, the M1 outpaces Samsung's Exynos 1380 significantly for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming. Samsung offers better value with lower pricing, larger screen real estate, and microSD expansion, making it ideal for media consumption and budget-conscious buyers. Apple targets users prioritizing raw processing power and the iOS ecosystem. For most consumers seeking versatility and longevity, the iPad Air 5 justifies its higher cost, though the Tab S9 FE+ excels for those needing a larger display and expandable storage within a tighter budget.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPad Air 5th Gen (M1) if…
- →M1 chip delivers laptop-class performance at a mid-range price
- →Same sleek design as iPad Pro 11" with flat edges
- →Apple Pencil 2 support with magnetic charging
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 Air 5th Gen (M1)
Pros
- M1 chip delivers laptop-class performance at a mid-range price
- Same sleek design as iPad Pro 11" with flat edges
- Apple Pencil 2 support with magnetic charging
- Center Stage keeps you in frame during video calls
- 5G cellular option for on-the-go productivity
Cons
- 60Hz display feels dated next to 120Hz ProMotion on Pro models
- Only 64 GB and 256 GB options — no 128 GB middle ground
- No Face ID — uses Touch ID in the power button
- No headphone jack or expandable storage
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 Air 5th Gen (M1) | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iPadOS 15 (upgradable to iPadOS 17+) | Android 13 (One UI 5.1) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 461 g (Wi-Fi) | 627 g |
| Dimensions | 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1 mm | 285.4 x 185.4 x 6.5 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours web browsing on Wi-Fi | Up to 20 hours video playback |
| Capacity | 7606 mAh (28.6 Wh) | 10090 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 10.9 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina IPS LCD | 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 | 8 GB | 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | Apple M1 (8-core CPU, 8-core GPU) | Samsung Exynos 1380 |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C | 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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