Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
The Verdict
Apple's M3 iPad Air delivers excellent performance and software integration at a significantly lower price point, making it ideal for most users seeking productivity and content consumption. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9+ counters with a larger 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display running at 120Hz, superior refresh rate clarity, and more RAM (12GB vs 8GB). Battery capacity favors Samsung at 10,090mAh with faster 45W charging versus iPad's 7,526mAh. However, iPadOS remains unmatched for tablet optimization, while Android's flexibility appeals to customization enthusiasts. Samsung includes microSD expansion and IP68 water resistance; Apple omits both. Performance-wise, M3 handles demanding tasks admirably despite less RAM, benefiting from Apple's vertical integration. At $600 versus $1,000, the iPad Air represents exceptional value for general users, creatives, and students. Choose Samsung if you prioritize the superior display, larger screen, and expandable storage; choose Apple for the tighter software experience and $400 savings.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch if…
- →M3 chip delivers desktop-class CPU and GPU performance
- →Apple Intelligence AI features supported
- →Thin 6.1 mm chassis with premium aluminum build
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ if…
- →Vibrant 12.4-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED display
- →S Pen included with no extra cost
- →IP68 water and dust resistance
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch
Pros
- M3 chip delivers desktop-class CPU and GPU performance
- Apple Intelligence AI features supported
- Thin 6.1 mm chassis with premium aluminum build
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard
- Available in 1 TB storage configuration
Cons
- No ProMotion — still 60Hz refresh rate
- No OLED or mini-LED display
- Accessories (Pencil, keyboard) add significant cost
- No headphone jack
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
Pros
- Vibrant 12.4-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED display
- S Pen included with no extra cost
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset
- MicroSD expansion up to 1 TB
Cons
- No headphone jack
- Book Cover Keyboard sold separately
- DeX desktop mode not as polished as a full PC
- Pricey at $999 before accessories
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iPadOS 18 | Android 13 with One UI 5.1 (upgradable to Android 14) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 462 g (Wi-Fi) / 469 g (cellular) | 581 g |
| Dimensions | 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1 mm | 285.4 x 185.4 x 5.7 mm |
| IP rating | — | IP68 |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours Wi-Fi browsing | Up to 12 hours video playback, 45W wired charging |
| Capacity | 7526 mAh | 10090 mAh |
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | 12 MP wide, 4K video | 13 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | 12 MP ultrawide with Center Stage | 12 MP ultrawide |
| Display | ||
| Size | 11 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina IPS LCD | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, HDR10+ |
| Resolution | 2360 x 1640 | 2800 x 1752 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB | 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB LPDDR5X |
| Chipset | Apple M3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C (USB 3.2) | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
Related Comparisons
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE
- Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
- Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ vs Apple iPad Air M2 11"
- Apple iPad Air M3 11-inch vs Apple iPad Air M2 11"
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 M3 11-inch or the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+.