Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017)
Starting at
£103.06£599.00 new
Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023)
Starting at
£408.25£688.82 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) and Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023)?
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) starts at £103.06, £305.19 less than the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023). The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
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- The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) has a bigger screen: 12.4 inch vs 9.7 inch.
- The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) has an OLED screen.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) specs
The Galaxy Tab S3 and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ differ mainly in screen size, memory, and software support. The Galaxy Tab S3 has a smaller 9.7 inch Super AMOLED screen with higher pixel density, suited to users who prefer a compact and vibrant display. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has a larger 12.4 inch IPS LCD screen which offers more space for videos and multitasking. Performance-wise, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has more RAM and newer processing hardware, ideal for heavy multitasking or larger apps. Buyers who want longer software support and more storage will prefer the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+, while those looking for a smaller, sharper display and good performance for everyday use may find the Galaxy Tab S3 suitable.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) battery life and software updates
Durability here focuses on software updates and operating system support. These factors affect how long your tablet stays secure and compatible with apps.
Operating System Support
The Galaxy Tab S3 supports up to Android 9.0 and cannot update to newer versions.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) performance
Performance differences arise from processor power, memory, and storage options. These influence how smoothly apps run and how much data you can store.
Processor and RAM
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ features an Exynos 1380 processor paired with 12 GB of RAM, which supports handling multiple apps and demanding tasks efficiently. The Galaxy Tab S3 runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 with 4 GB RAM, suitable for everyday use and moderate multitasking. If you regularly use many apps or larger software, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ will feel more responsive.
Storage Capacity
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers storage options of 128 GB and 256 GB, while the Galaxy Tab S3 is available with 32 GB or 128 GB. Our stock includes the 32 GB version of the Galaxy Tab S3 and the 128 GB version of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. Larger storage suits users who save many files, apps, or media locally.
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Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) screen
Screen quality affects your viewing experience, including size, resolution, and display type. These differences cater to preferences for portability versus screen space.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has a 12.4 inch screen with a resolution of 1600 x 2560, offering a spacious display for watching videos or multitasking. The Galaxy Tab S3 has a smaller 9.7 inch screen at 1536 x 2048 resolution, which is more compact and easier to hold for longer periods.
Display Type and Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab S3 uses a Super AMOLED screen with a pixel density of 270 ppi, delivering vibrant colours and sharp images in a smaller format. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ uses an IPS LCD with 250 ppi, which provides accurate colours and wide viewing angles on a larger display. Choose the Galaxy Tab S3 for a more vivid picture in a smaller size or the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ for a roomier screen suited to multitasking.
Display Glass
Both tablets feature glass fronts, offering a similar feel and protection for the screen surface.
Display glass
Pixel density
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) camera
Audiovisual features cover cameras, speakers, and video capabilities, important for video calls, photography and media consumption.
Camera Resolution
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has a 12 MP front camera, which captures more detail for video calls and selfies compared to the Galaxy Tab S3's 5 MP front camera. For rear cameras, the Galaxy Tab S3 offers 13 MP, which is higher resolution than the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+'s 8 MP. This means the Galaxy Tab S3 may capture more detail in photos taken with the rear camera.
Speakers and Video Recording
The Galaxy Tab S3 has four stereo speakers, providing a richer sound experience for media. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has stereo speakers, which still support stereo sound but with fewer speakers. Both tablets can record video in 4K at 30 frames per second, suitable for high-resolution 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 S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) size and design
This section covers other practical features like connectivity, ports, weight, and wireless technology that affect daily use.
Connectivity and Ports
The Galaxy Tab S3 includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack alongside USB Type-C, allowing use of traditional headphones without adapters. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ uses USB Type-C for headphones, which may require USB-C compatible headsets or adapters. Both tablets lack SIM card slots and double SIM options.
Wireless Technology and Bluetooth
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 and Bluetooth 5.3, offering faster wireless speeds and improved connection stability. The Galaxy Tab S3 supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth 4.2, suitable for standard wireless needs.
Weight and Size
The Galaxy Tab S3 weighs 426 g, making it lighter and potentially easier to hold for long periods. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ weighs 627 g, reflecting its larger size and screen, which suits users who prioritise screen space over portability.
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With stylus pencil
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) or Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £103.06, £305.19 less than the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023)
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a lighter build (426 g vs 627 g)
Buy the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (12.4 inch vs 9.7 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy Tab S3 often comment on its good condition and smooth performance for browsing and streaming. Many note that the tablet feels like new, with some minor marks that do not affect use. Several customers mention the absence of the stylus pen despite product images suggesting one, which led them to purchase a replacement separately. Battery life is described as lasting through a full day of typical use, and the device handles multiple apps well. A few users reported issues after extended use but most are satisfied with its value and condition.
For the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+, customers describe the tablet as feeling like new, with smooth performance and fast operation. The larger screen and good battery life support streaming and multitasking without lag. Many buyers appreciate the clean screen condition and solid build. A few reviews mention minor scratches or small marks that do not impact overall use. The 128 GB storage and included stylus pen are valued by users who use the tablet for more intensive tasks or note-taking. While most are happy with the device some had issues receiving the exact model ordered.
Both tablets receive praise for their condition and performance from customers. The Galaxy Tab S3 appeals to those wanting a lighter, more compact device for everyday tasks. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ suits those who need a larger screen, more storage, and stronger multitasking capabilities.
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) FAQs
Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 4 GB. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) has a bigger screen: 12.4 inch vs 9.7 inch.
The Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £103.06 compared with £408.25 for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023).
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) adds more RAM (12 GB vs 4 GB) and a bigger screen (12.4 inch vs 9.7 inch). Refurbished, it costs £305.19 more (from £408.25 vs £103.06).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S3 (9.7", 2017) comes in 32GB, and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (12.4", 2023) in 128GB.
