Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017)
Starting at
£103.06£599.00 new
Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)
Starting at
£187.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) and Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)?
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) starts at £103.06, £83.94 less than the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019). The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Front camera
- Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017), Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019).
- The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has a bigger battery: 7040 mAh vs 6000 mAh.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) specs
The Galaxy Tab S3 and Galaxy Tab S6 differ across several areas that suit different user needs. The Galaxy Tab S3 offers a smaller 9.7 inch screen and simpler performance with 4 GB of RAM and Snapdragon 820, fitting those who want a capable device for everyday tasks and portability. The Galaxy Tab S6 has a larger 10.5 inch screen, more RAM at 6 GB, and a faster Snapdragon 855 processor, which benefits users needing smoother multitasking and higher performance. Storage options are broader on the S6, with up to 256 GB available compared to 32 GB on the S3 in stock. Both support stylus use but differ in headphone connectivity and battery capacity. Choose the S3 for a compact tablet with a headphone jack, or the S6 for a roomier display and more power.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) price
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity and software support which affect how long a tablet can last through use and updates.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Tab S3 has a 6000 mAh battery which suits users who want a full day of use in a smaller device. The Galaxy Tab S6 offers a larger 7040 mAh battery providing longer usage between charges, ideal for heavier daily use or multimedia consumption.
Operating System Support
Users wanting more recent software improvements will find the S6 more suitable.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) performance
Performance affects how well a tablet handles apps and multitasking. Differences in chipset, processor, RAM, and storage influence everyday responsiveness.
Processor Power
The Galaxy Tab S3 uses a Snapdragon 820 with 4 cores at 2.1500 GHz which is suitable for general use and lighter apps. The Galaxy Tab S6 features a Snapdragon 855 with 8 cores at 2.84 GHz offering faster processing and better handling of demanding tasks or multiple apps running simultaneously.
Memory and Storage
The Galaxy Tab S3 has 4 GB of RAM and comes in either 32 GB or 128 GB storage options with 32 GB stocked here. The Galaxy Tab S6 offers 6 GB RAM and larger storage variants up to 256 GB including 128 GB and 256 GB models stocked. More RAM on the S6 keeps more apps open smoothly and increased storage is helpful for large files or many apps.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) screen
Screen quality influences viewing comfort for video, reading, and work. Both use Super AMOLED but differ in size and resolution.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Tab S3 has a 9.7 inch screen with a 1536 x 2048 resolution and 270 ppi pixel density offering sharp visuals in a compact form. The Galaxy Tab S6 comes with a larger 10.5 inch screen, a higher 1600 x 2560 resolution and 290 ppi pixel density making it better for users who want more screen space and slightly finer detail.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) camera
Audiovisual features shape how well you capture photos, make video calls, and enjoy sound quality.
Camera Quality
Both tablets have a 13 megapixel rear camera capable of 4K video at 30 FPS suitable for detailed photos and videos. The Galaxy Tab S6 has a higher resolution 8 megapixel front camera which captures more detail than the Galaxy Tab S3's 5 megapixel front camera benefiting users who prioritise video calls or selfies.
Speakers and Video
Each tablet includes four stereo speakers delivering balanced sound and both support 4K video recording at 30 frames per second. This makes either a good choice for media consumption with clear audio and sharp video capture.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) size and design
Miscellaneous features include connectivity, design, and accessories that affect comfort and daily use.
Connectivity Options
The Galaxy Tab S3 offers a 3.5 mm headphone jack alongside USB Type-C suitable for users with wired headphones. The Galaxy Tab S6 uses USB Type-C for audio which may require adapters for traditional headphones but simplifies ports. Bluetooth 5.0 on the S6 provides improved wireless connectivity over the S3's Bluetooth 4.2.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy Tab S3 is smaller and slightly heavier measuring 237.3 mm in height and 169 mm in width at 426 g. The Galaxy Tab S6 is taller but narrower and a bit lighter with 244.5 mm height, 159.5 mm width, and 420 g weight. The S3 suits those wanting a more compact device while the S6 gives a larger screen without much extra bulk.
Stylus Support
Both tablets support a stylus pen allowing precise input for drawing or note-taking. Stylus use is a key feature for users who want to write or sketch naturally on their tablet.
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 S3 (9.7", 2017) or Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £103.06, £83.94 less than the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019)
- you want a headphone jack
Buy the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (7040 mAh vs 6000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (10.5 inch vs 9.7 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy Tab S3 looks like new and offers good value with a smooth performance even with multiple apps open. Some note small scratches on the screen that do not affect use. A common theme is that the S-Pen is not included so buyers often purchase a replacement separately. Battery life receives praise for lasting through a full day. The tablet is seen as reliable and well suited for browsing and streaming.
For the Galaxy Tab S6, customers appreciate the device's good condition and performance with some describing it as almost brand new. The included stylus pen is highlighted as a positive although a few mention it was missing. The device handles daily needs well and has a clean software setup. Some report minor wear like scratches or small chips but still find the tablet a good purchase. Battery health and overall function meet expectations.
Both tablets appeal to different users: the Galaxy Tab S3 attracts those who want a reliable, compact tablet with solid battery life, while the Galaxy Tab S6 fits users seeking a larger screen, more power, and included stylus support.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) FAQs
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017), Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019). The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £103.06 compared with £187 for the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019).
The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) has a bigger battery: 7040 mAh vs 6000 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 13 megapixels.
The Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) adds more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB), a bigger battery (7040 mAh vs 6000 mAh) and a bigger screen (10.5 inch vs 9.7 inch). Refurbished, it costs £83.94 more (from £187 vs £103.06).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) comes in 32GB, and the Galaxy Tab S6 (10.5", 2019) in 128GB and 256GB.
