Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
The Verdict
Both tablets share a 12.4-inch display and similar dimensions, but the Galaxy Tab S9+ pushes ahead with meaningful upgrades. The S9+ features the faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor paired with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM versus the S8+'s 8GB setup, delivering noticeably snappier performance for multitasking and demanding apps. Display quality favors the S9+ with its Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen offering better contrast and color accuracy compared to the S8+'s standard Super AMOLED. Storage maxes out at 512GB on the S9+ rather than 256GB, though both support expandable storage. The S9+ adds IP68 water and dust resistance, a feature absent on the S8+, plus 45W fast charging versus the S8+'s slower charging. Battery capacity remains identical at 10090mAh, though the S8+ claims slightly longer video playback (13 vs 12 hours). The $100 price difference feels justified given the processor jump, RAM upgrade, superior display technology, and durability rating. If you prioritize raw performance and long-term software support, the S9+ is the better investment. The S8+ remains solid for budget-conscious buyers, but the S9+ simply offers more refinement and future-proofing.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ if…
- →12.4" Super AMOLED display with vivid colors and deep blacks
- →S Pen included for notes, drawing, and navigation
- →MicroSD expansion up to 1 TB for massive media libraries
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
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+
Pros
- 12.4" Super AMOLED display with vivid colors and deep blacks
- S Pen included for notes, drawing, and navigation
- MicroSD expansion up to 1 TB for massive media libraries
- In-display fingerprint sensor for seamless unlocking
- Samsung DeX for desktop-mode productivity
Cons
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 throttles under heavy sustained workloads
- Android tablet apps remain inconsistent compared to iPadOS
- $899 starting price competes with laptops
- No headphone jack on this model
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 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 12 (One UI 4.1, upgradable to One UI 6+) | Android 13 with One UI 5.1 (upgradable to Android 14) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 567 g (Wi-Fi) | 581 g |
| Dimensions | 285 x 185 x 5.7 mm | 285.4 x 185.4 x 5.7 mm |
| IP rating | — | IP68 |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 13 hours video playback | Up to 12 hours video playback, 45W wired charging |
| Capacity | 10090 mAh | 10090 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 12.4 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | Super AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, HDR10+ |
| Resolution | 2800 x 1752 | 2800 x 1752 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB LPDDR5X |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (Octa-core, Adreno 730) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.2 | 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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