Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016)
Starting at
£45.17£203.87 new
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021)
Starting at
£100.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) and Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021)?
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) comes down to the screen size, screen type and weight. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) starts at £45.17, £54.83 less than the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021). The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
Connector
- The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) has a bigger screen: 10.5 inch vs 10.1 inch.
- Screen type: PLS LCD on the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016), TFT LCD on the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021).
- The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) has a lighter build: 508 g vs 525 g.
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) specs
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) and Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) offer different strengths for users with varying needs. The Galaxy Tab A has a slightly higher pixel density screen and uses a Micro USB connector, which suits users comfortable with these accessories. The Galaxy Tab A8 has a larger screen, stereo speakers, and USB Type-C, which benefits those seeking a more immersive audiovisual experience and modern connectivity. Both have the same RAM but different processors and camera setups, giving you choices based on your usage and preferences.
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) battery life and software updates
Durability here refers to software support and updates, which affect how long your tablet stays compatible with new apps and features.
Operating System Support
This suits users who want a stable system for everyday apps without needing recent features.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) performance
Performance depends on the processor, RAM, and storage options. Both tablets have the same amount of RAM, but their processors and storage capacities differ, affecting how they handle apps and store data.
Processor Difference
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) uses an Exynos 7870 Octa processor, suited for basic tasks and everyday app use. The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) features a Unisoc Tiger T618 processor, which may handle multitasking and more demanding apps differently. Both have 3 GB of RAM, which helps keep multiple apps open for smooth switching.
Storage Choices
The Galaxy Tab A offers storage options of 16GB and 32GB, fitting users with lighter storage needs. The Galaxy Tab A8 comes with 32GB and 64GB options, better for those who store more apps, photos, and files without needing additional cards.
Processor
Processor brand
RAM
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) screen
Screen quality covers size, resolution, pixel density, and panel type. Both tablets share the same resolution but differ in screen size, pixel density, and screen technology, affecting viewing experience.
Screen Size and Type
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) has a 10.1 inch PLS LCD screen with 230 ppp pixel density. This slightly higher pixel density means sharper images on a smaller display. The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) offers a larger 10.5 inch TFT LCD screen with 220 ppp. The bigger screen suits watching videos or browsing with more room, while the smaller screen delivers a crisper picture.
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) camera
Audiovisual features include speakers and cameras, which influence media enjoyment and video calls. The two tablets differ notably in speaker setup and camera configuration.
Speakers
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) has standard speakers, suitable for casual listening. The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) comes with four stereo speakers, providing a richer and more immersive sound experience, which benefits watching videos or listening to music.
Camera Setup
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) has an 8 megapixel camera for photos and video calls. The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) offers an 8 megapixel main camera plus a 5 megapixel additional camera, giving you more flexibility for capturing different types of shots.
Webcam Availability
Both tablets include a webcam, making them suitable for video calls and conferencing. This is useful for users needing to stay connected through video chat.
Speakers
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) size and design
This section covers other practical details such as charging ports, weight, and connectivity. These differences influence convenience and device handling.
Connector Type
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) uses a Micro USB connector, common in older devices and accessories. The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) uses a USB Type-C connector, which is more widely used in modern devices and supports easier, reversible plugging.
Weight and Portability
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) weighs 508 g, making it slightly lighter than the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) which weighs 525 g. This may affect comfort during longer holding or carrying.
Carrier and SIM
Both tablets are unlocked and do not support double SIM. This suits users who want flexible carrier choice without multiple SIM functionality.
Refresh Rate and Connectivity
Neither tablet supports a 120hz refresh rate, meaning the screen refreshes at standard rates suitable for most everyday use without advanced smoothness features.
120hz
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Double sim
Megapixels
Touch
Weight
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) or Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £45.17, £54.83 less than the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021)
Buy the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) if
- you want a bigger screen (10.5 inch vs 10.1 inch)
- you want a lighter build (508 g vs 525 g)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) often highlight its sharp screen and smooth performance for apps and videos. Many mention the 16 GB storage as sufficient for everyday use, and the tablet suits children and older users who prefer straightforward features. Battery life is generally reported as lasting through the day but may need topping up by evening. Overall, buyers appreciate the tablet's condition and ease of use.
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) receives praise for its quality and ease of use. Customers note it pairs well with accessories like keyboards and mice, supporting a variety of tasks. The device is described as looking like new and working well, although some mention that battery life could be better. Many buyers choose it as a gift for family members and enjoy its up-to-date software and larger screen size.
Both devices suit different users: the Galaxy Tab A fits those wanting a reliable, simple tablet with a sharper screen, while the Galaxy Tab A8 meets needs for more storage, recent software, and enhanced audiovisual features.
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) comes down to the screen size, screen type and weight. The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) has a bigger screen: 10.5 inch vs 10.1 inch. Screen type: PLS LCD on the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016), TFT LCD on the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021).
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) is cheaper refurbished, from £45.17 compared with £100 for the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021).
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) adds a bigger screen (10.5 inch vs 10.1 inch) and a lighter build (508 g vs 525 g). Refurbished, it costs £54.83 more (from £100 vs £45.17).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) comes in 16GB and 32GB, and the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) in 32GB and 64GB.
