Nokia T21 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 (2022)
The Verdict
Both tablets target the budget segment with similar 10-inch displays and all-day battery claims. Nokia T21 offers slightly better specs with Android 12, faster Unisoc T612 processor, and 4GB RAM standard, though the Galaxy Tab A8 (2022) counters with a marginally larger 10.5-inch screen, superior software upgrade path (Android 14), and longer rated battery life at 13 hours. Storage flexibility favors Samsung with 32GB base option versus Nokia's 64GB minimum. Samsung's heavier build (508g vs 465g) feels more durable, while Nokia remains more portable. Performance differences between T612 and T618 chipsets are negligible for everyday tasks. Galaxy Tab A8 edges ahead due to superior software longevity and slightly better value at $229, making it the better long-term investment despite Nokia's modest hardware advantages.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Nokia T21 if…
- →2K display at $249 is competitive for a branded tablet
- →8200 mAh battery handles a full day of mixed use
- →MicroSD expansion up to 512 GB
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 (2022) if…
- →Affordable price makes it a solid family and kids' tablet
- →10.5" display is spacious for media consumption and web browsing
- →Quad stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos deliver good audio
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Nokia T21
Pros
- 2K display at $249 is competitive for a branded tablet
- 8200 mAh battery handles a full day of mixed use
- MicroSD expansion up to 512 GB
- Cellular connectivity option available
- Aluminum build feels premium at the budget price
Cons
- Unisoc T612 chip is slow — noticeable lag in apps
- Android 12 with limited update commitment
- 60Hz display feels dated
- 4 GB RAM limits app switching and multitasking
Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 (2022)
Pros
- Affordable price makes it a solid family and kids' tablet
- 10.5" display is spacious for media consumption and web browsing
- Quad stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos deliver good audio
- MicroSD expansion for budget storage flexibility
- Decent 7040 mAh battery lasts a full day of light use
Cons
- Unisoc chipset struggles with demanding apps and games
- 1920x1200 TFT display is dull compared to higher-end tablets
- 3 GB RAM base model stutters with multitasking
- 60Hz and no stylus support limit creative use
- Slow charging at 15W
Full Specifications
| Spec | Nokia T21 | Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 12 | Android 11 (One UI 3.1, upgradable to Android 14) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 465 g | 508 g |
| Dimensions | 247.6 x 157.5 x 7.5 mm | 246.8 x 161.9 x 6.9 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours browsing | Up to 13 hours video playback |
| Capacity | 8200 mAh | 7040 mAh |
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | 8 MP | — |
| Front camera | 8 MP | — |
| Display | ||
| Size | 10.4 inches | 10.5 inches |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT LCD |
| Resolution | 2000 x 1200 | 1920 x 1200 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 64 GB, 128 GB | 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 4 GB | 3 GB / 4 GB |
| Chipset | Unisoc T612 | Unisoc Tiger T618 (Octa-core) |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 2.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| 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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