Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019)
Starting at
£90.24£339.99 new
Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020)
Starting at
£95.57£200.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) and Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020)?
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) comes down to the RAM, screen type and weight. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) starts at £90.24, £5.33 less than the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020). The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) is the newer model, released in 2020.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen type
Weight
Connector
- The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
- Screen type: TFT LCD on the Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019), PLS LCD on the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020).
- The Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) has a lighter build: 345 g vs 426 g.
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) specs
The Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) and the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) are both 8-inch tablets with different strengths. The Tab Active3 offers a higher resolution screen with more pixels per inch, more RAM, and a more powerful processor, making it better for multitasking and detailed viewing. It also has a larger storage option and a higher megapixel camera. The Tab A is lighter and uses a Micro USB connector, while the Active3 is heavier, uses USB Type-C, and does not have a SIM port. Both run Android but support different maximum OS versions. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise screen quality, performance, and storage or prefer a lighter device with simpler features for everyday use.
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) price
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) battery life and software updates
Durability matters for long-term use and software support. These two tablets have differences in their operating system versions and release years, which affect what updates they can run.
Operating System Versions
The Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) supports up to Android 11, while the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) supports up to Android 12. Both devices are on Android but the Active3 can run a more recent version, which might offer newer features and security improvements for users who want a more current OS.
Update Compatibility
This means both will remain on Android 11 or 12 respectively without further major updates.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) performance
Performance influences how smoothly you can run apps and multitask. These tablets differ in processor, memory, and storage size, key factors for daily responsiveness and capacity.
Processor
The Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) uses a Qualcomm SDM429 Snapdragon 429 processor suited for everyday tasks like browsing and streaming. The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) features an Exynos 9810 processor, which provides more power and better handles demanding apps or multitasking.
Memory Capacity
The Galaxy Tab A has 2 GB of RAM, ideal for basic app use and light multitasking. The Galaxy Tab Active3 doubles this with 4 GB of RAM, allowing you to keep more apps open simultaneously and experience smoother performance during more intensive use.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab A comes with 32GB of storage, which is suitable for users with moderate app and media needs. The Galaxy Tab Active3 offers 64GB of storage, providing more space for apps, files, and media without needing immediate expansion.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) screen
Screen quality affects how sharp and pleasant media and text appear. Both tablets have an 8-inch display but differ in resolution, pixel density, and screen type.
Resolution and Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) has a resolution of 800 x 1280 with a pixel density of 190ppi, offering clear visuals suitable for everyday use. The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) comes with a higher resolution of 1200 x 1920 and a pixel density of 290ppi, resulting in a sharper and more detailed display, which benefits reading, video watching, and detailed images.
Screen Type
The Galaxy Tab A uses a TFT LCD screen, which delivers decent colour and brightness for most tasks. The Galaxy Tab Active3 uses a PLS LCD screen, a technology that generally provides wider viewing angles and better colour reproduction, enhancing the viewing experience.
Pixel density
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) camera
Sound and camera features influence entertainment and communication. Both tablets include webcams and different speaker setups that suit various uses.
Speakers
The Galaxy Tab A features dual speakers that provide stereo sound for videos and calls. The Galaxy Tab Active3 specifies stereo speakers, ensuring balanced audio output that can enhance media and video call experiences.
Webcam Availability
Both tablets come with a webcam, suitable for video calls and online meetings. This makes either device a practical choice if you need basic video communication functionality.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) size and design
Additional features like connectors, camera quality, weight, and network compatibility also shape your experience depending on your needs.
Connector Type
The Galaxy Tab A uses a Micro USB connector, common for charging and data transfer on many devices. The Galaxy Tab Active3 uses a USB Type-C connector, which supports faster and more convenient connections for charging and accessories.
Camera Megapixels
The Galaxy Tab A has an 8-megapixel camera, suitable for casual photos and video calls. The Galaxy Tab Active3 offers a 13-megapixel camera, which captures more detail, making it better for users who want higher quality pictures.
Weight
The Galaxy Tab A weighs 345 grams, making it lighter and easier to hold for extended periods. The Galaxy Tab Active3 is heavier at 426 grams, which might feel more substantial in hand and could suit users looking for a more solid device.
Carrier Compatibility
The Galaxy Tab A is unlocked. The Galaxy Tab Active3 does not have a SIM port, so it is designed for use without a cellular connection.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Generation number
Headphones connectivity
Height
Megapixels
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) or Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £90.24, £5.33 less than the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020)
- you want a lighter build (345 g vs 426 g)
Buy the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want the newer model (2020)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) appreciate its condition when it looks spotless or almost brand new. They find it decent for browsing, streaming, and everyday apps with smooth performance. Battery life varies, with some users noting it lasts all day under heavy use, while others find it runs down quicker by evening. The device is described as light enough to carry comfortably, and it suits users who want a straightforward tablet for sketching, notes, or basic media consumption. Some customers are very pleased with the overall product condition and performance.
Reviews for the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) show a mix of experiences with condition and usability. Many users find the device looks like new or perfect, appreciating its improved screen and performance for videos, browsing, and reading PDFs. Some mention the tablet is heavier, reflecting a design perhaps aimed at industrial or rugged use. There are reports of occasional screen issues such as dead pixels, and some frustration with available cases. Overall, customers value the device's higher specifications and condition when it meets expectations.
The Galaxy Tab A is a good fit if you want a lighter, simpler tablet for everyday tasks and moderate use. The Galaxy Tab Active3 suits users who prefer a sharper screen, more storage, and stronger performance, even if that means a heavier device without cellular connectivity.
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) comes down to the RAM, screen type and weight. The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB. Screen type: TFT LCD on the Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019), PLS LCD on the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020).
The Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) is cheaper refurbished, from £90.24 compared with £95.57 for the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020).
The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) adds more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB). Refurbished, it costs £5.33 more (from £95.57 vs £90.24).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A (8.0", 2019) comes in 32GB, and the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) in 64GB.
