Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021)
Starting at
£100.00
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017)
Starting at
£103.06£599.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) and Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017)?
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) starts at £100, £3.06 less than the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017). The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
Connector
- The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) has a bigger screen: 10.5 inch vs 9.7 inch.
- The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) has an OLED screen.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) specs
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) and Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) differ in screen size, display technology, performance specs, and software support. The Galaxy Tab S3 has a sharper 9.7-inch Super AMOLED screen with higher pixel density and more RAM, ideal for those who prioritise screen clarity and multitasking with more memory. Both have stereo speakers and webcams. The Galaxy Tab A8 supports SIM cards and has newer storage options, while the Galaxy Tab S3 includes a 3.5mm jack and a higher megapixel camera. Each appeals to different needs depending on screen preference, software, and hardware features.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) battery life and software updates
Durability here focuses on software support and operating system versions, which affect how long the device stays current and secure.
Operating System
Both tablets run Android, but their maximum supported versions differ. The Galaxy Tab A8 provides a more recent Android experience, while the Galaxy Tab S3 remains on an earlier Android version.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) performance
Performance depends on processor, RAM, and storage. These determine how smoothly the tablet handles apps and multitasking, plus how much space you have for files and apps.
Processor Differences
The Galaxy Tab A8 uses a Unisoc Tiger T618 processor, which suits everyday use and general tasks. The Galaxy Tab S3 has a Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 processor, offering a different performance profile that some users may find smoother for certain apps.
Memory and Storage
Galaxy Tab S3 comes with 4 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open at once. Galaxy Tab A8 has 3 GB RAM, fitting for daily tasks. Storage options for Galaxy Tab A8 include 32 GB and 64 GB, giving more choices for space, while Galaxy Tab S3 is stocked with 32 GB only.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) screen
Screen quality covers size, resolution, pixel density, and screen type. These affect how sharp and vibrant visuals appear, as well as how much viewing space you get.
Screen Size and Type
The Galaxy Tab A8 has a larger 10.5-inch TFT LCD screen, which is good for watching videos and browsing with more room. The Galaxy Tab S3 has a 9.7-inch Super AMOLED screen, which offers richer colours and deeper blacks, appealing to users who prefer vivid visuals.
Resolution and Pixel Density
Galaxy Tab S3's screen has a higher resolution of 1536 x 2048 and pixel density of 270 ppp, resulting in sharper images and finer details. Galaxy Tab A8's 1200 x 1920 resolution with 220 ppp suits users who want a larger but less dense display.
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) camera
Audio and video features include speakers and webcams. Both tablets offer similar speaker setups and camera presence, which serve common media and communication needs.
Speakers and Webcam
Both the Galaxy Tab A8 and Galaxy Tab S3 have stereo speakers with four speakers in total, providing balanced sound for media playback. Each tablet also includes a webcam, supporting video calls and online meetings.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) size and design
Other differences include connectivity options, camera megapixels, and physical aspects like weight and carrier compatibility, which influence usability in everyday scenarios.
Connectivity and SIM
The Galaxy Tab A8 is unlocked and supports SIM cards, giving you the option to connect to mobile networks. Galaxy Tab S3 comes without a SIM port but includes both USB Type-C and a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to users with wired headphones.
Camera Details
Galaxy Tab A8 features dual cameras with 8 megapixels rear and 5 megapixels front, suitable for casual photos and video calls. Galaxy Tab S3 has a single 13 megapixel camera, which captures more detail in photos.
Weight and Handling
Weighing 508 grams, Galaxy Tab A8 is heavier and larger, which might be preferred if you value screen size over portability. The Galaxy Tab S3 weighs 426 grams, making it lighter and possibly easier to hold for long periods.
120hz
Bluetooth version
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Double sim
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Sim format
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Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) or Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £3.06 less than the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017)
- you want a bigger screen (10.5 inch vs 9.7 inch)
Buy the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a lighter build (426 g vs 508 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy Tab A8 praise its ease of use, good quality, and value for price. Many highlight its smooth connection with accessories like keyboards and mice. The larger screen and up-to-date system are appreciated. Overall, users find it reliable for daily activities and enjoy its appearance and performance.
Reviews for the Galaxy Tab S3 note that the tablet looks like new and offers smooth performance for browsing and streaming, with users appreciating its ability to handle multiple apps. The battery life is described as impressive, lasting through a full day. Some users mention small marks or scratches that do not affect use. A recurring point is the absence of the stylus, which some expected to be included.
The Galaxy Tab A8 suits those wanting a larger screen and current software, good for everyday use and general multimedia. The Galaxy Tab S3 appeals to users who prefer a sharper, more vivid display and higher RAM for multitasking, especially if a lighter, more portable tablet is preferred.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB. The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) has a bigger screen: 10.5 inch vs 9.7 inch.
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £103.06 for the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017).
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) adds a bigger screen (10.5 inch vs 9.7 inch). Refurbished, it costs £3.06 less (from £100 vs £103.06).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) comes in 32GB and 64GB, and the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) in 32GB.
