Apple iPad Air M2 11" vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
The Verdict
Apple's iPad Air M2 offers superior performance with its M2 chip, delivering faster app launches and smoother multitasking compared to Samsung's Exynos 1380. Samsung counters with a larger 12.4-inch display at 90Hz refresh rate versus the iPad's 11-inch 60Hz panel, making the Galaxy Tab better for content consumption and scrolling. Battery endurance favors Samsung significantly, rated for 20 hours of video playback against Apple's 10 hours of web browsing. Storage flexibility goes to Samsung with microSD expansion, while Apple locks you into 128GB minimums without upgrades. Both support styluses and offer cellular options. At $70 less, Samsung provides better value for media consumption and budget-conscious buyers. However, the iPad Air M2's processing power and tighter software integration make it ideal for professionals and power users willing to invest more. For general tablet use, Samsung's superior screen size and battery life justify the lower price.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPad Air M2 11" if…
- →M2 chip provides powerful performance for creative and productivity tasks
- →Landscape front camera placement is ideal for video calls
- →Apple Pencil Pro support with squeeze and barrel roll gestures
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 M2 11"
Pros
- M2 chip provides powerful performance for creative and productivity tasks
- Landscape front camera placement is ideal for video calls
- Apple Pencil Pro support with squeeze and barrel roll gestures
- Slim and light design at 462 g is easy to carry all day
- Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless connectivity
Cons
- 60Hz display feels dated compared to iPad Pro ProMotion
- 128 GB base storage is restrictive for demanding workflows
- No mini-LED or OLED — LCD panel has limited contrast
- Keyboard and Pencil accessories add significant cost
- Single speaker pair — audio is less immersive than iPad Pro
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 M2 11" | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iPadOS 17 | Android 13 (One UI 5.1) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 462 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 | 28.93 Wh | 10090 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 11 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 | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | Apple M2 (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU) | Samsung Exynos 1380 |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.1 (10 Gbps) | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | 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.
Explore more in tablets, see all Apple products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Apple iPad Air M2 11" or the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+.