Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017)
Starting at
£56.00
iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)
Starting at
£921.11£1,098.90 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) and iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)?
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) starts at £56, £865.11 less than the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series). The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
- The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has a bigger screen: 13 inch vs 8.0 inch.
- Screen type: LCD on the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017), Ultra Retina XDR display on the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series).
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) specs
The Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) and the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) differ in many ways that suit different users. The Galaxy Tab Active2 offers a smaller screen and simpler specifications, making it suitable for everyday tasks and those who prefer a device with a headphone jack and touch interface. The iPad Pro features a much larger and higher-resolution Ultra Retina XDR display, significantly more memory and storage, and a powerful M5 processor, ideal for users needing high performance for demanding apps, creative work, or detailed visuals.
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) battery life and software updates
Durability covers software support and operating systems, which affect how long the device stays current and compatible. These tablets differ in software compatibility and operating system type, influencing your experience and app availability.
Software Compatibility
This difference affects how long you can expect software improvements and app compatibility for each device.
Operating Systems
The Galaxy Tab Active2 runs Android, a widely used mobile operating system with access to Google Play apps. The iPad Pro uses iPadOS, designed specifically for Apple tablets with a distinct app ecosystem. Your choice depends on which system you prefer and the apps you use most.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) performance
Performance relates to processing power, memory, and storage, which shape how smoothly your apps run and how much data you can keep on the device. These tablets provide very different levels of capability.
Processor Speed and Power
The iPad Pro features an Apple M5 processor with speeds of 4.6 GHz and 3.0 GHz, designed for demanding tasks and multitasking. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has an Exynos 7870 Octa processor at 1.6000 GHz, suitable for everyday apps and basic use. Users needing power for creative or professional work will find the iPad Pro more capable.
Memory Capacity
With 12 GB of RAM, the iPad Pro keeps many apps open and running smoothly, supporting multitasking and complex applications. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has 3 GB of RAM, which handles everyday tasks comfortably but is better suited to simpler use.
Storage Options
The iPad Pro starts at 256 GB of storage, with options up to 2 TB, providing plenty of space for large files, apps, and media. The Galaxy Tab Active2 offers 16 GB, which fits basic app and file storage needs. Your choice depends on how much content you want to store locally.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) screen
Screen quality affects how clear and comfortable your viewing experience is, especially for videos, reading, and creative work. These devices differ in size, resolution, and display type.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPad Pro has a 13 inch screen with a resolution of 2752 x 2064, offering a large, sharp display ideal for detailed visuals and multitasking. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has an 8.0 inch screen at 800 x 1280 resolution, suited for more compact use and basic video watching.
Display Technology
The iPad Pro uses an Ultra Retina XDR display, which provides vibrant colours and deep contrast. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has an LCD screen, which performs well for everyday use. Users prioritising screen quality and size for media or creative tasks will appreciate the iPad Pro's display.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) camera
Audiovisual features influence how well the device captures and plays back photos, videos, and sound. These differences matter if you use your tablet for photography, video, or multimedia consumption.
Camera Quality
The iPad Pro's rear camera captures 12 megapixels, allowing for more detailed photos compared to the Galaxy Tab Active2's 8 megapixels. This suits users who want sharper images or more versatile photography options.
Video Recording
Recording video on the iPad Pro supports 4K at 60 FPS, offering high-definition and smoother footage. The Galaxy Tab Active2 records at 1080p 30 FPS, suitable for everyday video capture but with lower resolution and frame rate.
Speaker Setup
The iPad Pro includes four speaker audio, providing richer and more immersive sound. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has stereo speakers, delivering clear audio for casual listening. Users valuing enhanced sound for media playback may prefer the iPad Pro.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) size and design
Additional features include connectors, weight, and input methods, which influence convenience and how you use each tablet day to day.
Connectivity and Ports
Both devices use USB Type-C connectors for charging and data. The Galaxy Tab Active2 has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, making it straightforward to use wired headphones. The iPad Pro supports headphones through USB Type-C, which may require an adapter depending on your headphones.
Touch and Face Recognition
The Galaxy Tab Active2 supports touch input, fitting traditional tablet interaction. The iPad Pro includes face recognition for security. These features affect how you interact with each device.
Weight
The Galaxy Tab Active2 weighs 415 g, making it lighter and easier to hold for extended periods. The iPad Pro is heavier at 579 g, reflecting its larger size and screen.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Headphones connectivity
Height
Lidar scanner
Megapixels
Minimum system requirements mac
Minimum system requirements windows
Promotion
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) or iPad Pro (2025, M5 series): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £56, £865.11 less than the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series)
- you want a lighter build (415 g vs 579 g)
Buy the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (13 inch vs 8.0 inch)
What our customers say
Customers using the Galaxy Tab Active2 report that the device can arrive in good condition and works well for basic needs. Some have experienced setup issues related to previous ownership, and others mention challenges with app logins and internet access. Positive feedback highlights the device's condition, inclusion of a stylus pen, and satisfaction with its performance for casual use and gifts.
The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) receives strong praise for its like-new condition, with many customers noting perfect screens, battery health at 100%, and minimal signs of use. Users appreciate its smooth operation, fast app loading, and lasting battery life. The device is described as a great value given its condition and performance, with only minor remarks about missing chargers or small scratches that do not affect functionality.
Choosing between these devices depends on your priorities: the Galaxy Tab Active2 suits those looking for a lighter, smaller tablet with basic functions, while the iPad Pro appeals to users needing a large, high-performance device with excellent screen and camera quality.
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) FAQs
Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) vs iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 3 GB. The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) has a bigger screen: 13 inch vs 8.0 inch.
The Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £56 compared with £921.11 for the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series).
We don't have published update dates for the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017). The iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab Active2 (8.0", 2017) comes in 16GB, and the iPad Pro (2025, M5 series) in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
