Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023)
Starting at
£602.02£954.94 new
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)
Starting at
£316.24£669.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) and iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)?
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) starts at £316.24, £285.78 less than the Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023). The Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
- The Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) has a bigger screen: 12.4 inch vs 10.9 inch.
- The Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) has an OLED screen.
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) specs
The Galaxy Tab S9+ and the iPad Air 5 differ in several key areas that suit different types of users. The Galaxy Tab S9+ has a larger 12.4 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with higher pixel density, making it well suited for watching videos and multitasking on a roomy display. It also offers more RAM at 12 GB and higher storage options up to 512GB, supporting heavier multitasking and larger files. The iPad Air 5 has a smaller 10.9 inch Liquid Retina display and 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly. It supports iPadOS 18, while the Tab runs Android 13. The iPad Air 5 is lighter at 462 g compared to the Tab's 700 g, which might suit those who prioritise portability.
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) battery life and software updates
Durability here covers software support and operating systems, which affect how long each device can stay current and secure.
Operating Systems
The iPad Air 5 uses iPadOS 18, reflecting Apple's software with its own app selection and interface. Your choice depends on which OS you prefer or need for your apps.
Latest Updates
This is important for keeping your device reliable and safe over time.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) performance
Performance depends on processor power, RAM, and storage options. These affect multitasking ability, app speed, and how much data you can keep locally.
Processor Power
The Galaxy Tab S9+ is powered by the Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, while the iPad Air 5 uses Apple's M1 chip. Both are capable processors with strong performance for everyday tasks and demanding apps. Your preference might come down to OS or app compatibility.
RAM Capacity
With 12 GB of RAM, the Galaxy Tab S9+ can keep more apps and browser tabs open for smoother multitasking. The iPad Air 5 has 8 GB of RAM, which handles everyday apps smoothly and is well suited for typical productivity and entertainment.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab S9+ offers larger storage options with 256GB and 512GB models, which suits users needing more space for apps, media, or files. The iPad Air 5 is available in 64GB and 256GB variants, fitting users with lighter storage needs or those who use cloud storage.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) screen
Screen quality affects how content looks and feels to use. Size, resolution, pixel density, and screen type shape your viewing experience and how comfortable the screen is for tasks like reading or drawing.
Screen Size and Type
The Galaxy Tab S9+ has a larger 12.4 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, which provides a vibrant, bright display well suited for watching videos and multitasking on a roomy workspace. The iPad Air 5's 10.9 inch Liquid Retina display offers a sharp and colour-accurate experience in a more compact size, which may suit users who prefer portability.
Resolution and Pixel Density
The Galaxy Tab S9+ has a resolution of 1752 x 2800 pixels with a pixel density of 270 ppi, offering very sharp images on its larger screen. The iPad Air 5 features a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels with a pixel density of 264 ppi, delivering crisp visuals in a smaller display area. Both displays support detailed and clear viewing experiences.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) camera
Front camera
Front camera definition
Main camera
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) size and design
Other differences include weight, size, connectivity, and carrier compatibility, which influence portability and how you use the device day to day.
Weight and Dimensions
The Galaxy Tab S9+ weighs 700 g and measures 285.4 mm tall by 185.4 mm wide with a depth of 5.7 mm. The iPad Air 5 is lighter at 462 g with height 247.6 mm, width 178.5 mm, and depth 6.1 mm. The iPad Air 5's lighter weight makes it easier to hold for long periods or carry around.
Connectivity and Carrier Options
Both devices use USB Type-C for charging and data. The Galaxy Tab S9+ has no SIM port, so it is designed for WiFi use only. The iPad Air 5 is unlocked, allowing it to connect to carriers if you use a cellular model. This may affect how you stay connected on the go.
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+ (12.4", 2023) or iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (12.4 inch vs 10.9 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
Buy the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £316.24, £285.78 less than the Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023)
- you want a lighter build (462 g vs 700 g)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy Tab S9+ praise its excellent condition, often noting it looks like new or even sealed. Many appreciate the large, sharp screen and smooth multitasking with the included stylus, especially for studying, note-taking, and media. Battery life is described as lasting through a day of use, and the device is generally found speedy and reliable. Some mention minor scratches but say they do not affect use, while a few note the lack of SIM card support as a drawback.
Users of the iPad Air 5 highlight its like-new condition and smooth performance from the M1 chip, handling multiple apps well. The Liquid Retina screen is described as sharp and good for video streaming. Several customers mention the lighter weight as a benefit, especially for portability. Battery life is generally solid, though a few find it drains faster than expected. Some buyers recommend pairing it with the Apple Pencil for note-taking and drawing, enjoying the overall smooth and familiar iPadOS experience.
The Galaxy Tab S9+ suits those looking for a larger screen and more RAM for multitasking and media. The iPad Air 5 is a good choice if you want a lighter device with strong performance in a compact size and access to iPadOS apps. Both receive positive feedback for condition and reliability.
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) FAQs
Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) vs iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB. The Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) has a bigger screen: 12.4 inch vs 10.9 inch.
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £316.24 compared with £602.02 for the Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023).
We don't have published update dates for the Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023). The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4", 2023) comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) in 64GB and 256GB.
