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Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)

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Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023)

Starting at

£117.65£219.00 new
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Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)

Starting at

£160.00
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(264 reviews)
(62 reviews)

What's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) and Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)?

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) starts at £117.65, £42.35 less than the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021). The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) is the newer model, released in 2023.

Refurbished from

£117.65£160

Chipset

Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm)Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm)

RAM

4 GB6 GB

Battery

5100 mAh10090 mAh

Screen size

8.7 inch12.4 inch

Front camera

2 megapixels5 megapixels
  • Chipset: Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021).
  • The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
  • The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) has a bigger battery: 10090 mAh vs 5100 mAh.

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) specs

The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) and the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) offer distinct experiences suited to different users. The Galaxy Tab A9 is a compact, lighter device with 4 GB RAM and a smaller battery, ideal for everyday tasks and portability. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE provides a much larger, higher-resolution screen with 6 GB RAM and a longer battery life, fitting for those who want more space for media or multitasking.

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) price

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) battery life and software updates

Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and physical design features that affect how long and well the tablets can be used over time.

Battery Capacity

The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a larger 10090 mAh battery, which suits users needing longer usage between charges, such as for extended media viewing or work sessions. The Galaxy Tab A9's 5100 mAh battery is smaller, fitting users who prefer a lighter device and typically use it for shorter periods.

Battery

5100 mAh10090 mAh

Maximum operating system supported

Android 14Android 14

Year of release

20232021

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) performance

Performance relates to the processor and memory, influencing how smoothly the tablets run apps and handle multitasking. Storage options stocked are the same for both devices.

Processor and Chipset

The Galaxy Tab A9 uses a MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, while the Galaxy Tab S7 FE is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G 5G. Both have 8-core processors but come from different brands, which may affect performance in various apps or games depending on optimisation.

Memory and Storage

The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has 6 GB of RAM, suitable for users who want to keep more apps open and benefit from smoother multitasking. The Galaxy Tab A9 comes with 4 GB RAM, which suits everyday use and lighter multitasking. Both devices offer storage options of 64 GB or 128 GB, providing flexibility for storing apps, media, and documents.

Chipset

Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm)Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm)

Processor

Mediatek Helio G99Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G

Processor brand

MediaTekQualcomm

Processor core

8 core8 core

Processor speed ghz

2.2 GHz, 2.0 GHzN/A

RAM

4 GB6 GB

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) screen

Screen quality is important for viewing comfort and detail. Both tablets use TFT LCD screens but differ in size, resolution, and pixel density.

Screen Size and Resolution

The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a much larger 12.4 inch screen with a resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels. This allows more room for watching videos, reading, or multitasking. The Galaxy Tab A9's 8.7 inch screen with 800 x 1340 resolution is more compact and easier to hold with one hand, suitable for users prioritising portability.

Pixel Density and Refresh Rate

The Galaxy Tab S7 FE offers a higher pixel density of 250 ppi, meaning sharper and more detailed images compared to the Galaxy Tab A9's 180 ppi. Both screens refresh at 60 Hz, providing smooth enough visuals for everyday use, though neither offers higher refresh rates.

Brightness

N/A522 nits max brightness

Display glass

N/AGlass front

Pixel density

180ppp250ppp

Refresh rate

60 Hz60 Hz

Resolution

800 x 13401600 x 2560

Screen size

8.7 inch12.4 inch

Screen type

TFT LCDTFT LCD

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) camera

Audiovisual features include cameras and speakers, impacting video calls, photos, and media playback.

Camera Quality

The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a 5 megapixel front camera, offering more detail for video calls than the Galaxy Tab A9's 2 megapixel front camera. Both have an 8 megapixel main camera, suitable for casual photography.

Speakers and Webcam

Both tablets feature stereo speakers and include webcams, providing balanced sound and video capabilities for calls or media consumption. This makes either device a solid choice for online meetings or streaming.

Front camera

2 megapixels5 megapixels

Front camera definition

2 megapixels5 MP

Main camera

8 megapixels8 megapixels

Rear camera definition

8 megapixels8 MP

Speakers

Stereo speakersStereo speakers

Video recording

1080p 30 FPS1080p 30 FPS

Webcam

YesYes

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) size and design

Other differences include physical size, weight, and connectivity options that affect portability and everyday handling.

Size and Weight

The Galaxy Tab A9 is smaller and lighter, measuring 211 mm in height, 124.7 mm in width, 8 mm in depth, and weighing 333 g. This makes it easier to carry and use one-handed. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE is larger with a 284.8 mm height, 185 mm width, and 6.3 mm depth, weighing 608 g, fitting users who prefer a spacious screen despite the added bulk.

Carrier Compatibility

The Galaxy Tab A9 is unlocked, allowing use with different networks if it supports mobile data. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE does not have a SIM port, so it is suited for use with Wi-Fi only.

Charging and Buttons

Both devices use USB Type-C connectors for charging and data transfer. Neither supports a 120 Hz refresh rate, so screen smoothness is standard for their display types.

120hz

NoNo

Bluetooth version

Bluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.2

Carrier compatibility

UnlockedWithout SIM Port

Connector

USB-CUSB-C

Depth

8 mm6.3 mm

Double sim

NoNo

Headphones connectivity

3.5 mm headphone jackNo 3.5mm jack

Height

211 mm284.8 mm

Megapixels

88

Sim format

Nano SIMNano SIM

Weight

333 g608 g

Width

124.7 mm185 mm

Wifi technology

Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/acWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6

With stylus pencil

N/AYes

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) or Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021): which should you buy?

Buy the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) if

  • you want to spend less: it starts at £117.65, £42.35 less than the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)
  • you want a lighter build (333 g vs 608 g)

Buy the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) if

  • you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
  • you want a bigger battery (10090 mAh vs 5100 mAh)
  • you want a bigger screen (12.4 inch vs 8.7 inch)

What our customers say

Customers appreciate the Galaxy Tab A9 for its manageable size and memory, which suits everyday use and gaming. Many highlight it as good value and easy to set up, with several noting it looks and feels like new. The tablet's compatibility with the Play Store appeals to users wanting access to a broad range of apps. Some users experienced region locking issues, which affected app downloads, but overall the feedback is positive about the device's condition and performance.

The Galaxy Tab S7 FE receives praise for its large and slim design and excellent screen quality. Customers enjoy using it for study, media, and remote gaming. Many say the tablet looks like new, even when sold as fair condition, and appreciate the included S Pen. Some users faced issues with accessories or order accuracy, but most find it suitable for tasks that benefit from its larger screen and higher RAM.

The Galaxy Tab A9 suits those who want a compact, easy-to-use tablet with solid everyday performance. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE fits users who prioritise a spacious display and multitasking ability, especially for media and study.

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) FAQs

Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023), Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021). The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.

The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) is cheaper refurbished, from £117.65 compared with £160 for the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021).

The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) has a bigger battery: 10090 mAh vs 5100 mAh.

Both have the same main camera: 8 megapixels.

The Galaxy Tab A9 (8.7", 2023) adds a lighter build (333 g vs 608 g). Refurbished, it costs £42.35 less (from £117.65 vs £160).

Both come in 64GB and 128GB refurbished.

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