Nokia T21 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+
Samsung's Galaxy Tab A9+ edges out Nokia's T21 despite its $30 lower price point. Display quality favors Samsung with its larger 11-inch 90Hz LCD versus Nokia's 10.4-inch 60Hz panel, offering noticeably smoother scrolling and a more immersive viewing experience. Performance-wise, the Snapdragon 695 5G in the Galaxy Tab significantly outpaces Nokia's Unisoc T612, handling multitasking and apps considerably better. Battery capacity slightly favors Nokia at 8200mAh versus 7040mAh, though Samsung's fast charging mitigates this disadvantage. Nokia offers cellular connectivity as standard, while Samsung requires Wi-Fi only—a notable limitation for mobile users. Both provide 4GB RAM base models with 64GB storage and microSD expansion. Software advantage goes to Samsung with Android 13 and One UI 5.1 versus Android 12. For most users seeking better performance and display quality at a compelling price, the Galaxy Tab A9+ is the stronger choice, though those prioritizing cellular access should consider the Nokia T21.
Full Specifications
| Spec | Nokia T21 | Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 12 | Android 13 with One UI 5.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 465 g | 480 g |
| Dimensions | 247.6 x 157.5 x 7.5 mm | 257.1 x 168.7 x 6.9 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours browsing | 15W fast charging |
| Capacity | 8200 mAh | 7040 mAh |
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Front camera | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Display | ||
| Size | 10.4 inches | 11 inches |
| Type | IPS LCD | LCD |
| Resolution | 2000 x 1200 | 1920 x 1200 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 90Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 64 GB, 128 GB | 64 GB, 128 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 4 GB | 4 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | Unisoc T612 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 2.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
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 A9+
Pros
- Affordable price under $220
- Smooth 90Hz 11-inch display
- Quad Dolby Atmos speakers
- MicroSD expansion up to 1 TB
- Long Samsung software support window
Cons
- No S Pen support
- Plastic build feels basic
- Only Wi-Fi 5
- Modest Snapdragon 695 chipset
- Slow 15W charging
Related Comparisons
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