Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021)
Starting at
£100.00
Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)
Starting at
£187.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) and Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)?
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) comes down to the RAM, screen type and weight. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) starts at £100, £87 less than the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019). The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen type
Weight
- The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has an OLED screen.
- The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has a lighter build: 420 g vs 508 g.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) specs
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) and Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) offer different strengths depending on what you value most. The Galaxy Tab S6 delivers sharper screen quality with a higher resolution and Super AMOLED display, plus more memory and storage, making it better for multitasking and media-heavy use. The Galaxy Tab A8 runs newer Android software and has simpler hardware suited to everyday tasks and lighter app use. If you want a more detailed screen and stronger performance, the S6 suits you. If you prefer a more recent operating system and straightforward use, the A8 is a solid choice.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) battery life and software updates
Durability here focuses on software support and device age. The Galaxy Tab A8 supports a newer Android version, which is useful for keeping apps current and security up to date. Both devices have firmly established release years that help set expectations for their software lifespan.
Operating System Support
The Galaxy Tab A8 supports Android 14, while the Galaxy Tab S6 supports Android 12. This means the A8 will receive system updates for longer, which may appeal if you want to keep the software up to date for longer use.
Release Year
The Galaxy Tab A8 was released in 2021 and the Galaxy Tab S6 in 2019. These release years set a context for how long each model has been available.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) performance
Performance differences relate mainly to processing power, memory, and storage options. The Galaxy Tab S6 is equipped with a faster processor and more RAM, making it suitable for demanding apps and multitasking. Storage options also vary, affecting how much content you can keep on the device.
Processor and RAM
The Galaxy Tab S6 has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor and 6 GB of RAM, which supports smoother multitasking and faster app loading. The Galaxy Tab A8 uses a Unisoc Tiger T618 processor and 3 GB of RAM, suitable for everyday tasks and lighter app use.
Storage Capacity
The Galaxy Tab A8 comes with 32GB or 64GB storage options, which suits users who keep moderate amounts of files and apps. The Galaxy Tab S6 offers 128GB or 256GB options, fitting those who need more space for media, apps, and documents.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) screen
Screen quality differs in resolution, pixel density, and panel type. Both have the same screen size, so the choice depends on how sharp and vibrant you want your display to be.
Resolution and Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab S6 has a higher resolution of 1600 x 2560 and 290 pixels per inch, delivering a sharper and more detailed image. The Galaxy Tab A8 has 1200 x 1920 resolution and 220 pixels per inch, which is clear but less sharp.
Screen Type
The Galaxy Tab S6 features a Super AMOLED screen, known for vibrant colours and deeper blacks, ideal for media consumption. The Galaxy Tab A8 uses a TFT LCD screen, which offers good brightness and colour but with less contrast.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) camera
Both tablets provide similar audiovisual features, with the same number of speakers and webcam availability. Differences in camera megapixels may affect photo and video detail.
Speakers and Webcam
Both the Galaxy Tab A8 and Galaxy Tab S6 have four stereo speakers and a webcam, supporting clear audio and video for calls and media.
Camera Megapixels
The Galaxy Tab S6 has a 13-megapixel camera, offering more detail for photos and videos. The Galaxy Tab A8 features an 8-megapixel main camera and a 5-megapixel front camera, suitable for everyday snapshots and video calls.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) size and design
Other features include weight, connectivity, and refresh rate. These affect portability and general use rather than core performance or screen quality.
Weight
The Galaxy Tab S6 weighs 420 grams, making it lighter and easier to hold for extended periods. The Galaxy Tab A8 weighs 508 grams, which is slightly heavier but still manageable.
Connectivity and Features
Both tablets use USB-C connectors and are unlocked for carrier flexibility. Neither supports 120Hz refresh rates or dual SIM. Both support touch input.
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 A8 (10.5", 2021) or Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £87 less than the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)
- you want the newer model (2021)
Buy the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a lighter build (420 g vs 508 g)
What our customers say
Customers generally find the Galaxy Tab A8 to be a reliable everyday device that looks nearly new and runs smoothly for typical apps. Many praise its screen clarity and solid build, noting the 32GB storage suits basic needs. Some mention the battery life is adequate but not exceptional, and setup can take a bit longer. Overall, users appreciate the A8 for its ease of use and recent software.
Feedback for the Galaxy Tab S6 highlights its sharp screen and fast performance, making it suitable for multitasking and media. Customers report good battery life and smooth app operation. Some mention the absence of the stylus pen and occasional setup delays, but most are pleased with its speed and screen quality.
The Galaxy Tab A8 suits those wanting a straightforward tablet with newer software for everyday tasks. The Galaxy Tab S6 fits users who prioritise screen sharpness and performance for heavier use or media consumption.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) comes down to the RAM, screen type and weight. The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB. The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has an OLED screen.
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £187 for the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019).
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) is newer, but the main specs we compare are the same. Refurbished, it costs £87 less (from £100 vs £187).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) comes in 32GB and 64GB, and the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) in 128GB and 256GB.
