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Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+

Updated Apr 2026tablets
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+
Samsung
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+
$899
8.1/10
VS
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
Samsung
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
$1,000
8.7/10
Winner

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.

ValueTab S9+
BatteryTab S8+
DisplayTab S9+
SoftwareTab S9+
PerformanceTab S9+

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

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
Value
8.2
8.4
Battery
8.3
8.1
Display
8.2
8.9
Software
7.8
8.5
Performance
8.0
8.8

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

SpecSamsung Galaxy Tab S8+Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
SoftwareAndroid 12 (One UI 4.1, upgradable to One UI 6+)Android 13 with One UI 5.1 (upgradable to Android 14)
Body
Weight567 g (Wi-Fi)581 g
Dimensions285 x 185 x 5.7 mm285.4 x 185.4 x 5.7 mm
IP ratingIP68
Battery
Battery lifeUp to 13 hours video playbackUp to 12 hours video playback, 45W wired charging
Capacity10090 mAh10090 mAh
Display
Size12.4 inches12.4 inches
TypeSuper AMOLEDDynamic AMOLED 2X, HDR10+
Resolution2800 x 17522800 x 1752
Refresh rate120Hz120Hz
Storage
Storage options128 GB, 256 GB256 GB, 512 GB
Expandable storage
Processor
RAM8 GB12 GB LPDDR5X
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (Octa-core, Adreno 730)Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
Connectivity
USBUSB-C 3.2USB-C 3.2 Gen 2
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6EWi-Fi 6E
Cellular
Stylus Support
Cameras
Rear13 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide
Front camera12 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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