Huawei MatePad 11" (2023) vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
The Quick Answer
Both tablets deliver solid value in the budget-to-mid range, but they target different priorities.
The Verdict
Both tablets deliver solid value in the budget-to-mid range, but they target different priorities. The Huawei MatePad 11 excels with its lighter 449g build, sharper 120Hz display refresh, and more powerful Snapdragon 865 processor, making it ideal for users prioritizing performance and portability. Its $399 starting price is particularly attractive for those seeking premium specs without breaking the bank. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ counters with a larger 12.4-inch screen, substantially longer 20-hour battery life from its 10090mAh capacity, microSD expandability up to 1TB, and optional cellular connectivity. At 627g, it's noticeably heavier but offers more screen real estate and practical features for extended use. The Exynos 1380 processor trails the Snapdragon 865 in raw performance, and the 90Hz refresh feels less smooth than Huawei's 120Hz panel. Both tablets support styluses and offer 2560x1600 resolution. Choose the MatePad 11 if you value performance, weight, and price; select the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ if battery endurance, cellular options, and expandable storage matter more. For most users seeking balanced performance and portability at the best value, the Huawei MatePad 11 edges ahead.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Huawei MatePad 11" (2023) if…
- →120Hz QHD+ display provides sharp, smooth visuals
- →M-Pencil support for drawing and note-taking
- →Lightweight at 449 g for comfortable handheld use
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
Huawei MatePad 11" (2023)
Pros
- 120Hz QHD+ display provides sharp, smooth visuals
- M-Pencil support for drawing and note-taking
- Lightweight at 449 g for comfortable handheld use
- Quad speakers with Harman Kardon tuning
- Decent performance from Snapdragon 865
Cons
- No Google Play Store — relies on Huawei AppGallery
- HarmonyOS app ecosystem is limited outside China
- No cellular option
- IPS LCD lacks AMOLED contrast
- After-sales support is limited in many Western markets
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 | Huawei MatePad 11" (2023) | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | HarmonyOS 3.1 | Android 13 (One UI 5.1) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 449 g | 627 g |
| Dimensions | 253.8 x 165.3 x 6.85 mm | 285.4 x 185.4 x 6.5 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 12 hours | Up to 20 hours video playback |
| Capacity | 7250 mAh | 10090 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 11 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT LCD |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1600 | 2560 x 1600 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 90Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 6 GB / 8 GB | 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 | Samsung Exynos 1380 |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.0 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
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