Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017)
Starting at
£56.00
Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)
Starting at
£408.76£1,060.32 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) and Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)?
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) starts at £56, £352.76 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
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 7870 Octa (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017), Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023).
- 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 battery: 8400 mAh vs 4450 mAh.
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) specs
The Galaxy Tab Active2 and Galaxy Tab S9 differ in screen size, performance, and software support. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has an 8.0 inch LCD screen and specs that suit everyday tasks and basic use. The Galaxy Tab S9 offers a larger 11.0 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with higher resolution and refresh rate, ideal for multimedia and multitasking. The S9 supports Android 13 and has a faster processor with more RAM, making it suitable for power users. Storage options also differ, with the Active2 stocked at 16GB and the S9 at 128GB or 256GB. Battery capacity and camera quality also reflect their different roles, with the S9 providing more capacity and detail. Choose the Active2 for straightforward use and the S9 for a richer, more capable tablet experience.
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) price
Colour
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 16GBSold out
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity and software support, which affect how long the devices can run and stay up to date. The two tablets show a difference in battery size and operating system compatibility.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Tab Active2 has a 4450 mAh battery suitable for moderate daily use or work tasks. The Galaxy Tab S9 has a larger 8400 mAh battery, which supports longer usage between charges, especially useful for media consumption or heavy multitasking.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) performance
Performance differences come down to the chipset, processor speed, RAM, and storage options. These define how well each tablet handles multitasking, apps, and storage needs.
Processor Speed and Chipset
The Galaxy Tab Active2 uses an Exynos 7870 Octa processor running at 1.6000 GHz, suitable for everyday apps and basic tasks. The Galaxy Tab S9 features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset with a 3.36 GHz processor, delivering significantly higher performance for gaming, video editing, or demanding applications.
RAM Capacity
With 3 GB of RAM, the Galaxy Tab Active2 can keep common apps running smoothly for simpler workflows. The Galaxy Tab S9 offers 12 GB of RAM, which supports more intensive multitasking and keeping multiple apps active without slowdown.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab Active2 is stocked only with 16GB of storage, enough for basic use and fewer apps. The Galaxy Tab S9 comes with 128GB or 256GB storage options, providing ample space for media files, apps, and documents.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) screen
Screen quality affects how content looks and how comfortable the device is for extended viewing. These tablets differ in size, resolution, pixel density, and screen technology.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Tab Active2 has an 8.0 inch screen with 800 x 1280 resolution, offering a compact and portable display. The Galaxy Tab S9 has an 11.0 inch screen with 1600 x 2560 resolution, providing a roomier viewing area and sharper detail for video, reading, and multitasking.
Screen Type and Pixel Density
The Active2 uses an LCD screen with 190 pixels per inch, suitable for everyday use. The Galaxy Tab S9's Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with 280 pixels per inch delivers richer colours and deeper contrast, ideal for watching videos or editing photos.
Refresh Rate
The Galaxy Tab S9 supports a 120Hz refresh rate, which results in smoother scrolling and animations. The Galaxy Tab Active2 does not have this feature, making the S9 better suited for users sensitive to screen fluidity.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) camera
Audiovisual features include cameras and speakers, which impact video calls, photos, and media playback quality. Both tablets have stereo speakers, but the details vary.
Camera Quality
The Galaxy Tab Active2 has an 8 megapixel main camera and a 5 megapixel front camera, sufficient for casual photos and video calls. The Galaxy Tab S9 offers a 13 megapixel main camera and a 12 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail for clearer images and video chats.
Speakers
The Galaxy Tab Active2 has stereo speakers that deliver balanced sound. The Galaxy Tab S9 features four stereo speakers, which can provide a richer and fuller audio experience for media playback.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) size and design
Additional features include connectivity, dimensions, and accessories that may influence convenience and device handling.
Carrier Compatibility and SIM
The Galaxy Tab Active2 does not have a SIM port, making it suitable for Wi-Fi use only. The Galaxy Tab S9 is unlocked, offering more flexibility for mobile network use with a SIM card.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy Tab Active2 measures 214 mm in height, 127.6 mm in width, and 9.9 mm in depth, weighing 415 g, making it compact and light for portability. The Galaxy Tab S9 measures 254.3 mm by 165.8 mm by 5.9 mm and weighs 498 g, offering a larger footprint and a slimmer profile.
Stylus Support
Both tablets come with a stylus pen, supporting drawing and note-taking for users who prefer pen input.
Connector Type
Both devices use USB Type-C connectors, facilitating modern charging and data transfer.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Headphones connectivity
Height
Megapixels
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) or Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £56, £352.76 less than the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023)
- you want a lighter build (415 g vs 498 g)
Buy the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (8400 mAh vs 4450 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (11.0 inch vs 8.0 inch)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Tab Active2 report a range of experiences. Some find the device in very good condition with the original stylus pen included and working perfectly. Others mention setup issues likely related to previous ownership and older software, which affected app usage and internet connectivity. Positive feedback highlights the tablet's value for straightforward tasks and gifting, with many saying it works well and meets expectations for everyday use.
Users of the Galaxy Tab S9 generally describe the tablet as being in excellent or like-new condition, suitable for replacing previous Samsung tablets. Customers appreciate the large screen for watching TV and find the device fast and responsive with no major problems. A few mention minor issues with the stylus pen or device marks, but these do not prevent good performance. The unlocked model offers flexibility for mobile use, and many highlight the quality and condition as key benefits.
Overall, the Galaxy Tab Active2 suits those looking for a simpler, smaller tablet for basic use, while the Galaxy Tab S9 appeals to users wanting a larger, faster device with more storage and the latest software.
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) FAQs
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 7870 Octa (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017), Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023). The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 3 GB.
The Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £56 compared with £408.76 for the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023).
The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has a bigger battery: 8400 mAh vs 4450 mAh.
The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 8 megapixels.
The Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) adds more RAM (12 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger battery (8400 mAh vs 4450 mAh) and a bigger screen (11.0 inch vs 8.0 inch). Refurbished, it costs £352.76 more (from £408.76 vs £56).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) comes in 16GB, and the Galaxy Tab S9 (11.0", 2023) in 128GB and 256GB.
