Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018)
Starting at
£66.60£339.00 new
Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)
Starting at
£116.50£399.99 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) and Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)?
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) starts at £66.60, £49.90 less than the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021). The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SDM450 Snapdragon 450 (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018), Mediatek MT8768T Helio P22T on the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021).
- The Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) has a bigger battery: 7300 mAh vs 5100 mAh.
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) specs
The Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) and the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) differ mostly in size, performance, and software support. The Galaxy Tab A has a larger 10.5 inch screen with higher resolution and better pixel density, making it suitable for watching videos and reading with more detail visible. It also has a bigger battery and more RAM, which helps it handle apps smoothly throughout the day. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is more compact and lightweight, with a newer maximum Android version and a faster processor speed suited for everyday tasks. It comes with a choice of storage sizes. Each tablet suits different needs depending on whether you prioritise screen size and battery life or a smaller device with more recent software.
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) price
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Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and operating system support affect how long a tablet can last through daily use and receive updates. The two devices show clear differences in these areas.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) has a 7300 mAh battery which suits longer use between charges, making it a good choice for those who need extended browsing or streaming. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) has a 5100 mAh battery, which matches its smaller screen size and lighter weight and will be fine for users who want a more compact device and shorter usage periods between charges.
Operating System Support
The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite supports up to Android 14, offering access to newer features and security updates. The Galaxy Tab A supports up to Android 10, which remains suitable for everyday apps but does not include the latest system enhancements. If staying on a more recent Android version is important, the Tab A7 Lite is the better fit.
Release Year
The Galaxy Tab A was released in 2018 and the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite in 2021.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) performance
Processor, RAM and storage affect how smoothly a tablet runs apps and handles multitasking. Both tablets offer different strengths depending on your usage.
Processor Speed and Cores
The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has an octa-core processor with cores running at 2.3 GHz and 1.8 GHz, which can offer faster performance for tasks like browsing, streaming, and light gaming. The Galaxy Tab A has an 8-core processor running at 1.8 GHz, which supports smooth app use but at a lower clock speed. The Tab A7 Lite suits users who want quicker response times.
RAM Size
The Galaxy Tab A has 3 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open simultaneously and supports smoother multitasking. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has 2 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for everyday use such as reading, browsing, and media consumption but may be best for users with simpler multitasking needs.
Storage Options
Both devices come in a 32 GB version, with the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite also available in 64 GB. More storage suits users who keep many apps, photos, or files on their tablet, while 32 GB covers basic storage needs for both devices.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) screen
Screen size, resolution and pixel density influence how much you see and the clarity of images and text. The two tablets offer different experiences here.
Screen Size and Type
The Galaxy Tab A has a 10.5 inch IPS LCD screen, providing a larger viewing area that is comfortable for watching videos, reading and browsing. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has a smaller 8.7 inch TFT LCD screen, making it easier to hold and carry, ideal for users who want a compact tablet for reading or casual use.
Resolution and Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab A has a resolution of 1200 by 1920 pixels and a pixel density of 216 ppi, resulting in a sharper and clearer image with more detail visible. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has a resolution of 800 by 1340 pixels and 180 ppi pixel density, which suits everyday viewing but with less fine detail. The Tab A is better for users who value screen clarity.
Display glass
Pixel density
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) camera
Camera quality and speaker setup affect video calls, photos and media enjoyment. Both tablets have strengths here.
Camera Definitions
Both tablets have an 8 megapixel rear camera suitable for photos and video recording at 1080p 30 FPS. The Galaxy Tab A has a front camera capable of 1080p video, which is good for clearer video calls. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has a 2 megapixel front camera, which is suited for basic video calls and selfies.
Speakers
The Galaxy Tab A features four stereo speakers, providing fuller sound for media and video. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has stereo speakers as well, which deliver decent sound but with fewer speakers. If richer audio is important, the Galaxy Tab A is the better choice.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) size and design
Other features like connectivity, size and weight can influence how convenient a tablet is for daily use.
Bluetooth Version
The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite uses Bluetooth 5.0, offering improved connection range and stability for accessories like headphones and speakers. The Galaxy Tab A uses Bluetooth 4.2, which is reliable for most devices but with a shorter range.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy Tab A measures 260 mm by 161.1 mm and weighs 500 g, giving a larger device that may feel more substantial in hand. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is smaller at 212.5 mm by 124.7 mm and lighter at 366 g, making it easier to hold for long periods or carry around.
Connectivity and Ports
Both tablets have USB Type-C connectors and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, supporting wired headphones and standard charging or data transfer. Both are unlocked and use Nano SIM cards, allowing flexibility for mobile network use.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Headphones connectivity
Height
Megapixels
Sim format
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) or Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £66.60, £49.90 less than the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)
- you want more RAM (3 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (7300 mAh vs 5100 mAh)
Buy the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) if
- you want a lighter build (366 g vs 500 g)
- you want the newer model (2021)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) appreciate its smooth app performance and long battery life, which comfortably lasts through a day of browsing and streaming. Many mention the large, clear screen as a strong point for reading and video calls. The tablet often looks like new, with minimal scratches noted. Some users highlight the solid feel of the device and the spacious 32 GB storage as suitable for daily needs. A few mention that the speaker volume could be higher and that WiFi can occasionally drop.
Users of the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) enjoy its compact size, which is comfortable for reading e-books and browsing. The tablet boots quickly and runs everyday apps well, with battery life supporting a full day of work or streaming. Some customers find it slower in performance but still adequate for simple tasks. The device generally looks spotless and solid in hand. A few note issues with battery charging or quick drain, but most are happy with the tablet's condition and usability.
The Galaxy Tab A suits those who want a larger screen, longer battery life and more RAM for smoother multitasking. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite fits buyers seeking a smaller, lighter device with newer software and a faster processor speed for everyday use.
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM450 Snapdragon 450 (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018), Mediatek MT8768T Helio P22T on the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021). The Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
The Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) is cheaper refurbished, from £66.60 compared with £116.50 for the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021).
The Galaxy Tab A (10.5", 2018) has a bigger battery: 7300 mAh vs 5100 mAh.
The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) adds a lighter build (366 g vs 500 g). Refurbished, it costs £49.90 more (from £116.50 vs £66.60).
Both come in 32GB refurbished.
