Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017)
Starting at
£103.06£599.00 new
Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)
Starting at
£160.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) and Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)?
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) starts at £103.06, £56.94 less than the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021). The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017), 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 6000 mAh.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) specs
The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) and the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) offer two different tablet experiences. The Tab S3 suits those who prefer a smaller, sharper screen with a Super AMOLED display and higher pixel density, plus stereo speakers with four drivers and a 13MP rear camera for more detailed photos and 4K video recording. It uses a TFT LCD screen and has a slightly lower pixel density but a faster processor with more cores. Both support stylus use but differ in headphone connectivity and Bluetooth versions.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity and software updates. The two tablets differ in battery size and the operating system versions they support, which affects how long they can stay current and how long they last between charges.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Tab S3 has a 6000 mAh battery, which fits its smaller size and suits moderate daily use. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE offers a larger 10090 mAh battery, making it better for longer sessions away from a charger or more intensive use over the day.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) performance
Performance differences include processor power, memory, and storage options. These affect how smoothly the tablets handle everyday tasks, multitasking, and how much content you can store.
Processor and Cores
The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G 5G processor built on a 6 nm process, which provides efficient and capable performance for multitasking and demanding apps. The Galaxy Tab S3 uses a 4-core Snapdragon 820 on a 14 nm process, suitable for everyday use but with fewer cores.
RAM
With 6 GB of RAM, the Galaxy Tab S7 FE keeps more apps and tabs open simultaneously, making it a good choice for multitasking. The Galaxy Tab S3 has 4 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for general browsing and streaming.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab S7 FE offers 64 GB and 128 GB storage options in stock, which provide more room for apps, media, and files. The Galaxy Tab S3 is stocked with 32 GB, a practical choice for lighter storage needs.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) screen
Screen quality affects viewing experience, from size to sharpness and display technology. Each tablet's screen suits different preferences for media, reading, and productivity.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a larger 12.4 inch screen with a resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels, offering more space for watching videos, reading, or working on documents. The Galaxy Tab S3's 9.7 inch screen with 1536 x 2048 resolution fits more compact use and is easier to hold.
Display Type and Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab S3 features a Super AMOLED display with 270 pixels per inch, delivering deeper colours and sharper images, which benefits users who want vibrant visuals in a smaller size. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE uses a TFT LCD with 250 pixels per inch, suitable for larger screen use where size matters more than pixel density.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) camera
Audio and camera features influence multimedia and communication. Differences include camera resolution, video recording, and speaker setup.
Rear and Front Cameras
The Galaxy Tab S3 has a 13 megapixel rear camera, which captures more detailed photos compared to the Galaxy Tab S7 FE's 8 megapixel main camera. Both tablets have 5 megapixel front cameras suitable for video calls.
Video Recording
The Galaxy Tab S3 supports 4K video recording at 30 frames per second, ideal for capturing high-resolution videos. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE records video at 1080p 30 FPS, which suits everyday video needs.
Speakers
The Galaxy Tab S3 includes four stereo speakers, which provide richer and more immersive audio compared to the Galaxy Tab S7 FE's stereo speakers.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) size and design
Other features include connectivity, physical dimensions, and accessories. These details affect how you use the tablets day-to-day.
Headphone Connectivity
The Galaxy Tab S3 has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, allowing direct connection to wired headphones without an adapter. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE does not have a 3.5 mm jack, so wireless or USB-C headphones are needed.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The Galaxy Tab S7 FE supports Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, offering newer wireless standards and potentially better connectivity. The Galaxy Tab S3 supports Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy Tab S7 FE is larger and heavier, measuring 284.8 mm in height, 185 mm in width, and weighing 608 g, making it better suited for use on flat surfaces or bags. The Galaxy Tab S3 is smaller at 237.3 mm by 169 mm and lighter at 426 g, which suits more portable use.
Stylus Support
Both tablets support use with a stylus pencil, allowing notes, drawing, and precise input.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Headphones connectivity
Height
Megapixels
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) or Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £103.06, £56.94 less than the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021)
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (13 megapixels vs 8 megapixels)
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 6000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (12.4 inch vs 9.7 inch)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Tab S3 often mention the tablet looks like new and offers smooth performance for browsing and streaming. Several note the battery life lasts through a full day of use. Some customers highlight that the tablet does not come with a stylus included, which required purchasing one separately. The screen condition is generally good with only minor marks or scratches that do not interfere with use. Overall, the tablet suits users looking for a compact, reliable device for everyday tasks.
Reviews for the Galaxy Tab S7 FE describe it as very slim and in great condition, with a large screen that is ideal for studying or media. Some users report the included S Pen works well, while a few have had issues with it. The tablet is appreciated for its fair price and larger storage options. A few customers mention minor screen imperfections but find the device good for the price. The tablet suits users who want a spacious display and updated software features.
Both tablets attract buyers who value refurbished devices in good condition. The Galaxy Tab S3 appeals to those wanting a smaller form factor with a sharp display, while the Galaxy Tab S7 FE fits users needing a larger screen and more power for multitasking and media.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) FAQs
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 (14 nm) on the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017), 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 S3 (9.7", 2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £103.06 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 6000 mAh.
The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 8 megapixels.
The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) adds more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB), a bigger battery (10090 mAh vs 6000 mAh) and a bigger screen (12.4 inch vs 9.7 inch). Refurbished, it costs £56.94 more (from £160 vs £103.06).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) comes in 32GB, and the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (12.4", 2021) in 64GB and 128GB.
