Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023)
Starting at
£117.65£219.00 new
Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020)
Starting at
£95.57£200.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) and Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020)?
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) starts at £95.57, £22.08 less than the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023). The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), Exynos 9810 on the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020).
- Battery: 5100 mAh on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), 5050 mAh on the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020).
- The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) has a bigger screen: 8.7 inch vs 8.0 inch.
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) specs
The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) and Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) differ in screen size, display sharpness, camera quality, and software support. The Galaxy Tab A9 offers a larger 8.7 inch screen with a lower pixel density, suited for those wanting more screen space for everyday tasks. The Galaxy Tab Active3 has a sharper screen with higher resolution and pixel density, making it better for users prioritising screen clarity. Its cameras capture more detail and can record 4K video. It is heavier and thicker, targeting users who value a rugged design and durability. Both have similar memory and storage options, so performance suits everyday use and moderate multitasking.
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) price
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system updates, and physical design. These affect how long the device lasts on a charge, software features, and how it feels in hand.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Tab A9 has a 5100 mAh battery while the Galaxy Tab Active3 has a slightly smaller 5050 mAh battery. Both offer similar battery life suitable for daily use, so you can expect comparable endurance when browsing, streaming, or working.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) performance
Performance includes the processor, memory, and storage options. These determine how well the device handles apps, games, and multitasking.
Processor and Speed
The Galaxy Tab A9 uses a MediaTek Helio G99 chipset with 8 cores running at 2.2 GHz and 2.0 GHz. The Galaxy Tab Active3 has a Samsung Exynos 9810 with 8 cores at 2.7 GHz and 1.7 GHz. Both have 8-core processors but differ in speed distribution, suiting everyday tasks and moderate use.
Memory and Storage
Both tablets come with 4 GB of RAM, which supports smooth operation of everyday apps. The Galaxy Tab A9 offers 64 GB and 128 GB storage options in stock, providing more room for apps and media, while the Galaxy Tab Active3 is stocked with 64 GB.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) screen
Screen quality affects how clear and detailed images and text appear. Size and resolution play a key role in viewing comfort and sharpness.
Screen Size and Type
The Galaxy Tab A9 has a larger 8.7 inch TFT LCD screen, offering more viewing space for videos or reading. The Galaxy Tab Active3 has a smaller 8.0 inch PLS LCD screen, which is more compact and easier to hold with one hand.
Resolution and Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab Active3 has a higher resolution of 1200 x 1920 and a pixel density of 290 ppi, resulting in a sharper and more detailed display. The Galaxy Tab A9's resolution is 800 x 1340 with 180 ppi, which provides a less sharp but still clear image, suitable for casual viewing.
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) camera
Audiovisual features include cameras, video recording, and speakers. These affect video calls, photography, and media playback quality.
Camera Resolution
The Galaxy Tab Active3 has higher resolution cameras with a 13 megapixel rear camera and a 5 megapixel front camera capable of 1080p video. The Galaxy Tab A9 has an 8 megapixel rear camera and a 2 megapixel front camera. This means the Active3 captures more detailed photos and sharper video calls.
Video Recording
The Galaxy Tab Active3 supports 4K video recording at 30 FPS, ideal for capturing high-definition videos. The Galaxy Tab A9 records video at 1080p 30 FPS, suitable for everyday video but with lower resolution.
Speakers
Both tablets feature stereo speakers, providing balanced sound for media consumption and calls.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) size and design
Other features include connectivity, dimensions, and physical design. These influence how the device fits your lifestyle and accessories.
Connectivity and Ports
The Galaxy Tab A9 supports Bluetooth 5.3 and is unlocked for use with a Nano SIM, allowing mobile data on compatible networks. The Galaxy Tab Active3 has Bluetooth 5.0 but does not have a SIM port, so it relies on Wi-Fi. Both use USB Type-C connectors and include a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy Tab A9 is slimmer and lighter, measuring 8 mm in depth and weighing 333 g, making it easier to carry and hold for longer sessions. The Galaxy Tab Active3 is thicker at 9.9 mm and weighs 426 g, which may feel more substantial in hand.
Wi-Fi Technology
The Galaxy Tab Active3 supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which can offer faster and more reliable wireless connections where Wi-Fi 6 routers are available. The Galaxy Tab A9 uses Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
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 A9 (8.7", 2023) or Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) if
- you want a bigger screen (8.7 inch vs 8.0 inch)
- you want a lighter build (333 g vs 426 g)
Buy the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £95.57, £22.08 less than the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (13 megapixels vs 8 megapixels)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (5 megapixels vs 2 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) looks like new and comes with plenty of memory, making it good for gaming and everyday use. They find it easy to set up and appreciate its size and value. Some mention regional setup issues affecting app availability but overall they praise its condition, performance, and brand reliability. It suits those who want a neat, versatile tablet for study, gaming, and general use.
The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) receives mixed feedback on condition but many customers find it looks nearly new and easy to use. It is noted for being heavier and possibly designed for more industrial or rugged use. Some users report excellent screen and performance for videos and browsing. It suits buyers who prioritise a solid device for media and durable handling, accepting a smaller screen and weight.
Overall, the Galaxy Tab A9 fits users seeking a lighter, larger-screen tablet with current software, while the Galaxy Tab Active3 appeals to those wanting a compact, sharper screen with higher-resolution cameras and Wi-Fi 6.
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), Exynos 9810 on the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020). Battery: 5100 mAh on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), 5050 mAh on the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020).
The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) is cheaper refurbished, from £95.57 compared with £117.65 for the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023).
The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) has 5100 mAh and the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) has 5050 mAh.
The Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 8 megapixels.
The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) adds a bigger screen (8.7 inch vs 8.0 inch) and a lighter build (333 g vs 426 g). Refurbished, it costs £22.08 more (from £117.65 vs £95.57).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) comes in 64GB and 128GB, and the Galaxy Tab Active3 (8.0", 2020) in 64GB.
