Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023)
Starting at
£368.17£606.86 new
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)
Starting at
£316.24£669.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) and iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)?
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) comes down to the RAM, screen type and weight. Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) starts at £316.24, £51.93 less than the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023). The Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen type
Weight
- The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB.
- Screen type: IPS LCD on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023), Liquid Retina display on the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series).
- The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) has a lighter build: 462 g vs 52400 g.
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) specs
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) and the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) offer similar screen sizes but differ in operating systems, performance, and multimedia features. The iPad Air 5 runs iPadOS 18, powered by the M1 chip with 8 GB RAM and storage options up to 256 GB, making it ideal for users who want smooth multitasking and efficient app use. Both have stereo speakers and 12 MP front cameras, but the iPad Air 5 offers higher rear camera resolution and faster video recording. Choose the Galaxy Tab S9 FE for Android convenience or the iPad Air 5 for powerful performance and a sharper display experience.
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) battery life and software updates
Durability is important for how long your device stays current and secure.
Operating System Support
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE runs Android 13, while the iPad Air 5 supports iPadOS 18. This means the iPad Air 5 is compatible with a more recent OS version, which may provide newer features and security updates for longer. Both devices will receive updates as per their OS paths, so your choice depends on whether you prefer Android or iPadOS environments.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) performance
Performance affects how smoothly your tablet runs apps and multitasks. The two devices differ in processor, RAM, and storage options, which shape their everyday use.
Processor And RAM
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE uses an Exynos 1380 processor with 6 GB RAM. The iPad Air 5 features the Apple M1 chip paired with 8 GB RAM. The M1 chip and extra RAM keep everyday apps running smoothly and help with more demanding tasks, while the Galaxy Tab S9 FE suits users who need reliable performance for everyday Android apps.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE offers 128 GB and 256 GB storage options, giving flexibility for storing apps, media, and files. The iPad Air 5 comes with 64 GB and 256 GB choices, which suits those who need either a smaller or larger storage capacity depending on use. The higher storage options on both devices help if you keep many files or apps.
Chipset
Processor
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) screen
Screen quality influences how you view content, with differences in display type, resolution, and pixel density affecting clarity and colour.
Display Technology
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE has an IPS LCD screen with a glass front, while the iPad Air 5 uses a Liquid Retina display. Liquid Retina displays typically offer smoother colours and better brightness, making the iPad Air 5 suitable for users who value sharp, vibrant visuals.
Resolution And Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE has a resolution of 1440 x 2304 pixels with 250 ppi pixel density. The iPad Air 5's resolution is 2360 x 1640 pixels with 264 ppi. This means the iPad Air 5 offers a slightly sharper image, which benefits reading, video streaming, and detailed visuals on a similar 10.9 inch screen size.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) camera
Audiovisual features affect your experience with photos, video calls, and media playback. Both tablets share some qualities but differ in camera and video recording.
Camera Resolution
Both tablets have a 12 MP front camera suitable for video calls and selfies. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE has an 8 MP rear camera, while the iPad Air 5 offers a 12 MP rear camera. The higher rear camera resolution on the iPad Air 5 lets you capture more detail in photos.
Video Recording
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE supports 4K video recording at 30 FPS, while the iPad Air 5 records 4K video at 60 FPS. The faster frame rate on the iPad Air 5 results in smoother video capture, which is useful for recording motion or action.
Speakers
Both devices have stereo speakers, providing balanced audio for media consumption, video calls, and gaming.
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) size and design
Other features include connectivity, size, and handling, which influence everyday use and convenience.
Bluetooth And Wifi
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE offers Bluetooth 5.3 and supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6. The iPad Air 5 has Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax. Bluetooth 5.3 on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE may provide improved connection stability, while the iPad Air 5's Wi-Fi 6 ensures fast wireless speeds.
Carrier Compatibility
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE does not have a SIM card slot, so it works without mobile network support. The iPad Air 5 is unlocked, meaning it can use a SIM card for cellular connectivity if the model supports it.
Dimensions And Weight
Both tablets are similar in height and depth, with the Galaxy Tab S9 FE measuring 254.3 mm tall and 6.5 mm deep, and the iPad Air 5 at 247.6 mm tall and 6.1 mm deep. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is 165.8 mm wide compared to 178.5 mm for the iPad Air 5. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE weighs 52400 g and the iPad Air 5 weighs 462 g. The lighter weight of the iPad Air 5 could be more comfortable for extended handheld use.
Connectors And Headphone Use
Both tablets use USB Type-C connectors for charging and accessories. Headphones connect via USB Type-C on both devices, meaning wired audio requires compatible headphones or adapters.
120hz
Apple pen compatible
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Generation number
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 S9 FE (10.9", 2023) or iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) if
- you want the newer model (2023)
Buy the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £316.24, £51.93 less than the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023)
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 6 GB)
- you want a lighter build (462 g vs 52400 g)
What our customers say
Customers who have bought the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) appreciate its like-new condition and good performance during exam season and daily use. Many highlight the tablet's picture and sound quality as strong points. Overall, users say the tablet works well, the battery is good, and they are satisfied with the quality and value for money.
Buyers of the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) report it working like a new iPad with fast and smooth performance thanks to the M1 chip and 8 GB RAM. The screen is praised for its sharpness and condition, and users enjoy the combination of the iPad Air with an Apple Pencil for note-taking and drawing. Some mention battery drain as typical for Apple devices but still find the battery lasts all day. The iPad's lightweight design is appreciated for comfortable handling.
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE suits users who prefer Android and want a larger storage option or newer release. The iPad Air 5 appeals to those who want powerful performance, a sharper display, and iPadOS features. Both devices receive positive feedback for their condition and reliability.
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) FAQs
Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) comes down to the RAM, screen type and weight. The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB. Screen type: IPS LCD on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023), Liquid Retina display on the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series).
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £316.24 compared with £368.17 for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023).
We don't have published update dates for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023). The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE (10.9", 2023) comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) in 64GB and 256GB.
