Apple iPad Pro 12.9" (2022, M2) vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
The Verdict
Both tablets excel in different areas, making this a nuanced comparison. Apple's iPad Pro 12.9" (2022) delivers superior performance via the M2 chip, outstanding XDR mini-LED display with exceptional brightness (1000+ nits), and seamless iPadOS 16 integration with Stage Manager multitasking. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9+ counters with a vibrant Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, faster 45W charging, expandable storage, IP68 dust/water resistance, and competitive Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance. The iPad excels for creative professionals using Apple Pencil 2 with hover detection and ProRes video recording. Galaxy Tab S9+ suits users preferring Android flexibility, better durability rating, and practical expandable storage without the premium. At $100 less, Samsung offers superior value for general users, while the iPad justifies its price for professionals demanding unmatched performance and ecosystem integration.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPad Pro 12.9" (2022, M2) if…
- →Mini-LED display with 2596 dimming zones delivers stunning HDR contrast
- →M2 chip handles desktop-class apps and heavy creative workflows
- →Thunderbolt port enables pro external displays and fast storage
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 Pro 12.9" (2022, M2)
Pros
- Mini-LED display with 2596 dimming zones delivers stunning HDR contrast
- M2 chip handles desktop-class apps and heavy creative workflows
- Thunderbolt port enables pro external displays and fast storage
- 120Hz ProMotion for ultra-smooth scrolling and Apple Pencil tracking
- LiDAR scanner for AR and precision photography
Cons
- Extremely expensive starting at $1,099 before accessories
- iPadOS still limits true desktop multitasking despite Stage Manager
- Heavy at 682 g — noticeable during extended handheld use
- Base model only 128 GB with no expandable storage
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 Pro 12.9" (2022, M2) | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iPadOS 16 (upgradable to iPadOS 17+) | Android 13 with One UI 5.1 (upgradable to Android 14) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 682 g (Wi-Fi) | 581 g |
| Dimensions | 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm | 285.4 x 185.4 x 5.7 mm |
| IP rating | — | IP68 |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours web browsing on Wi-Fi | Up to 12 hours video playback, 45W wired charging |
| Capacity | 10758 mAh (40.88 Wh) | 10090 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 12.9 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, HDR10+ |
| Resolution | 2732 x 2048 | 2800 x 1752 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz ProMotion | 120Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB | 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 8 GB (16 GB on 1 TB/2 TB) | 12 GB LPDDR5X |
| Chipset | Apple M2 (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | Thunderbolt / USB 4 | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | — | 13 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | — | 12 MP ultrawide |
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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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