Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021)
Starting at
£100.00
Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)
Starting at
£408.76£1,060.32 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) and Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)?
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) starts at £100, £308.76 less than the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023). The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Refresh rate
Weight
- The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 3 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has a bigger screen: 11.0 inch vs 10.5 inch.
- The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has an OLED screen.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) specs
The Galaxy Tab A8 and Galaxy Tab S9 are suited to different needs based on their specifications. The Galaxy Tab A8 offers an everyday tablet experience with a 10.5 inch TFT LCD screen, 3 GB of RAM, and storage options up to 64GB. It works well for general tasks and casual use. The Galaxy Tab S9, with a larger 11 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, 12 GB of RAM, and storage starting at 128GB, is designed for users wanting a sharper display, smoother visuals with a 120 Hz refresh rate, and more memory for multitasking.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) battery life and software updates
Durability here focuses on software support and compatibility, which affects how long your device stays current and secure.
Software Updates
The Galaxy Tab A8 supports up to Android 14, while the Galaxy Tab S9 supports up to Android 13. This means the A8 can run a newer version of the operating system if you want the latest features and security patches.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) performance
Performance differences affect how smoothly the tablets run apps and handle multitasking, influenced by their processors, RAM, and storage options.
Processor Power
The Galaxy Tab A8 uses a Unisoc Tiger T618 processor, suitable for everyday activities like browsing and streaming. The Galaxy Tab S9 features a Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which provides stronger performance for demanding apps and multitasking.
Memory Capacity
With 3 GB of RAM, the Galaxy Tab A8 keeps everyday apps running smoothly. The Galaxy Tab S9 has 12 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open at once and supports more complex tasks.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab A8 offers storage options of 32GB and 64GB, suitable for lighter app use and media storage. The Galaxy Tab S9 starts at 128GB and goes up to 256GB, providing ample space for large files, apps, and media collections.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) screen
The screen differences affect how images and videos look, how smooth animations feel, and how much space you have for viewing content.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Tab A8 has a 10.5 inch screen with a resolution of 1200 x 1920 pixels, offering a good viewing area for everyday tasks. The Galaxy Tab S9 has a slightly larger 11 inch screen with a higher resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels, delivering sharper images and more space for detailed content.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy Tab A8 uses a TFT LCD screen, while the Galaxy Tab S9 features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. The AMOLED screen provides more vibrant colours and deeper blacks, which benefits media consumption and visual clarity.
Pixel Density and Refresh Rate
The Galaxy Tab A8 has a pixel density of 220 ppi and a standard 60 Hz refresh rate, suitable for typical video and browsing. The Galaxy Tab S9 offers 280 ppi and a 120 Hz refresh rate, making animations and scrolling feel smoother and sharper.
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) camera
Audio and video features are important for calls, video watching, and content creation. Both tablets share some common features here.
Speakers and Webcam
Both the Galaxy Tab A8 and Galaxy Tab S9 have four stereo speakers, providing balanced sound for videos and calls. Each tablet also includes a webcam for video conferencing and selfies.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) size and design
Other practical features like connectivity, camera quality, and weight can influence your everyday use and portability.
Camera Megapixels
The Galaxy Tab A8 has dual cameras with 8 and 5 megapixels, suitable for general photos and video calls. The Galaxy Tab S9 has a single 13 megapixel camera, which can capture more detail in images.
Weight and Handling
The Galaxy Tab S9 weighs 498 g, slightly lighter than the Galaxy Tab A8 at 508 g. This small difference may be noticeable if you often hold your tablet for long periods.
Other Features
Both tablets have unlocked carrier compatibility and USB Type-C connectors. Neither supports double SIM cards. The Galaxy Tab S9 supports a 120 Hz refresh rate, while the Galaxy Tab A8 does not.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Headphones connectivity
Height
Megapixels
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) or Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £308.76 less than the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)
Buy the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (11.0 inch vs 10.5 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy Tab A8 appreciate its ease of use and quality for everyday tasks. Many mention satisfaction with its performance for general use such as connecting to keyboards and mice and find it good value for the price. Some users note the battery life could be better, but overall the tablet works well and looks good. It is often chosen as a gift or for simple, reliable use.
Reviews for the Galaxy Tab S9 highlight its large, high-quality screen and smooth performance. Customers describe it as feeling like new and well suited for watching videos and multitasking. Some mention minor issues with the included S Pen, though this does not affect the tablet itself. The condition is usually described as excellent, with many commenting on the bright display and ample storage. It is recommended for users who want a sharper screen and more memory.
Both devices serve different types of users: the Galaxy Tab A8 suits those looking for a straightforward and affordable tablet, while the Galaxy Tab S9 fits users who want a sharper, smoother display and stronger performance for heavier multitasking or media use.
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 3 GB. The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has a bigger screen: 11.0 inch vs 10.5 inch.
The Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £408.76 for the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023).
The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) adds more RAM (12 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger screen (11.0 inch vs 10.5 inch) and an OLED screen. Refurbished, it costs £308.76 more (from £408.76 vs £100).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A8 (10.5", 2021) comes in 32GB and 64GB, and the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) in 128GB and 256GB.
