Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
The Verdict
Samsung's Tab S8 and Tab S9+ represent different price points in the premium tablet market, each with distinct strengths. The Tab S8 pairs an 11-inch 120Hz LCD display with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processing and 8GB RAM, delivering solid performance for $699. Its 8000mAh battery supports up to 15 hours of video playback, though the LCD screen lacks the vibrancy of AMOLED technology. The Tab S9+ justifies its $999.99 premium with a larger 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display featuring 2800 x 1752 resolution, superior color accuracy, and HDR10+ support. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 12GB RAM, and 10090mAh battery with 45W fast charging provide measurably better performance and longevity. The S9+ also adds IP68 water resistance, dual rear cameras (13MP plus 8MP ultrawide), and a 12MP ultrawide selfie camera, making it more versatile for content creation. Both tablets support styluses and offer expandable storage, but the S9+ includes newer Android 14 support versus the S8's path from Android 12. For general consumption and note-taking, the S8 offers compelling value. Creative professionals and those prioritizing display quality should invest in the S9+.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 if…
- →S Pen included with 120Hz display makes note-taking excellent
- →Same Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 power as the pricier S8+ and Ultra
- →Compact 11" size balances portability and screen real estate
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
- S Pen included with 120Hz display makes note-taking excellent
- Same Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 power as the pricier S8+ and Ultra
- Compact 11" size balances portability and screen real estate
- MicroSD expansion up to 1 TB
- Samsung DeX and multi-window for productivity
Cons
- LCD panel — lacks the AMOLED vibrancy of the S8+ and Ultra
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 can run warm during gaming
- $699 is steep for an LCD tablet
- Only 8 GB RAM on all configurations
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 | 503 g (Wi-Fi) | 581 g |
| Dimensions | 253.8 x 165.3 x 6.3 mm | 285.4 x 185.4 x 5.7 mm |
| IP rating | — | IP68 |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 15 hours video playback | Up to 12 hours video playback, 45W wired charging |
| Capacity | 8000 mAh | 10090 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 11 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | LTPS TFT LCD | Dynamic AMOLED 2X, HDR10+ |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1600 | 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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