Galaxy Tab S8 (11.0", 2022) vs Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (14.6", 2022)

Galaxy Tab S8 (11.0", 2022)
Galaxy Tab S8 (11.0", 2022)
Starting at

Refurbished price:$309.00

Versus $655.00 new

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Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (14.6", 2022)
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (14.6", 2022)
Starting at

Refurbished price:$434.00

Versus $1,049.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 (2022) and the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (2022) are two Android tablets from Samsung's flagship S8 series, both released in February 2022. While they share core internal components and the Android operating system with Samsung's One UI, their primary differentiators lie in their physical size and display technology, catering to distinct user preferences and use cases.

Scores

Durability

Both the Galaxy Tab S8 and Tab S8 Ultra, having been released in 2022, benefit from Samsung's commitment to software support for its premium devices. This means they are expected to receive a similar duration of operating system and security updates.

  • Software Longevity: Samsung typically provides four generations of Android operating system updates and five years of security updates for its flagship tablets. This suggests both models will continue to receive significant software support well into the future, extending their practical usability.
  • Physical Durability: Both tablets feature an Armor Aluminum frame, contributing to their overall structural integrity. While the larger size of the Tab S8 Ultra might make it feel more expansive, both are designed to withstand daily handling.
  • Repairability: As with many modern tablets, repairability can be challenging due to integrated designs. However, no significant differences in repair complexity are noted between these two specific models.

Release Year

2022

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Performance

Both the Galaxy Tab S8 and Tab S8 Ultra are equipped with the same generation of processor, ensuring a consistent foundation for performance across the board.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: Users can expect smooth operation for daily tasks, including web browsing, streaming media, and managing multiple applications simultaneously. The tablets handle demanding apps and multitasking smoothly.
  • Multitasking Capabilities: While both offer robust multitasking, the Tab S8 Ultra provides an option for higher RAM configurations (up to 16GB compared to the Tab S8's 12GB maximum), which can offer a slight edge for users engaging in extremely intensive workflows or running a large number of applications concurrently.
  • Storage Options: The Tab S8 Ultra also offers a larger maximum internal storage option at 512GB, whereas the Tab S8 tops out at 256GB. Both support expandable storage via a microSD card, providing flexibility for users with extensive media libraries or large files.
  • Battery Behavior: The Tab S8 Ultra features a larger 11,200 mAh battery, compared to the Tab S8's 8,000 mAh battery. Despite the difference in capacity, real-world battery tests suggest that both tablets can last a full day with typical usage, though the larger screen of the Ultra consumes more power.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Processor

Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1

Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1

Screen quality

The display is one of the most significant distinguishing features between the Galaxy Tab S8 and the Tab S8 Ultra, impacting the visual experience and overall usability.

  • Display Technology: The Galaxy Tab S8 features an 11-inch LCD display, offering clear visuals and good color reproduction. In contrast, the Tab S8 Ultra boasts a 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display, which provides deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors, enhancing the viewing experience, especially for media consumption.
  • Size and Immersion: The Tab S8's 11-inch screen offers a more compact and portable viewing area, suitable for on-the-go use. The Tab S8 Ultra's expansive 14.6-inch display provides a significantly larger canvas, ideal for immersive media viewing, detailed creative work, and multi-window productivity.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both tablets offer high resolutions (2560x1600 for Tab S8, 2960x1848 for Tab S8 Ultra), ensuring sharp text and detailed images. The pixel density remains high on both, contributing to a clear visual experience.
  • Refresh Rate: Both models feature a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and a responsive touch experience.

Resolution

1600 x 2560

1848 x 2960

Screen type

TFT LCD

Super AMOLED

Pixel density

280ppp

240ppp

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both the Galaxy Tab S8 and Tab S8 Ultra are designed to handle everyday photography and video conferencing, with some key differences in their front-facing capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: Both tablets are equipped with a dual rear camera setup, featuring a 13-megapixel wide lens and a 6-megapixel ultra-wide lens. This configuration allows for versatile photography, capturing both standard and wider-angle shots.
  • Front Camera Configuration: The Galaxy Tab S8 includes a single 12-megapixel ultra-wide front camera, suitable for video calls and selfies. The Tab S8 Ultra enhances this with a dual front camera system, comprising two 12-megapixel lenses (one wide and one ultra-wide), which can improve video conferencing with features like auto-framing and offer more flexibility for group selfies.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both tablets are capable of recording high-resolution video, including 4K at 30 frames per second, making them suitable for capturing moments or participating in high-quality video calls.
  • Audio Experience: Both models feature quad stereo speakers tuned by AKG with Dolby Atmos support, providing a rich audio experience for media consumption and video calls.

Miscellaneous

Beyond their core performance and display, several practical features and design elements differentiate the Galaxy Tab S8 and Tab S8 Ultra, influencing their handling and connectivity.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both tablets support modern connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless internet and Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting accessories. 5G-enabled versions are also available for both models, offering high-speed mobile data access.
  • Ports and Sensors: Both devices feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. Neither includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. For security, the Tab S8 has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, while the Tab S8 Ultra integrates an under-display fingerprint sensor.
  • Included S Pen: Both the Galaxy Tab S8 and Tab S8 Ultra come with an S Pen stylus in the box, offering a low-latency writing and drawing experience that enhances productivity and creativity.
  • Dimensions and Portability: The Galaxy Tab S8 is the more compact option, weighing around 503 grams and measuring 253.8 x 165.3 x 6.3 mm. The Tab S8 Ultra is significantly larger and heavier, at approximately 726 grams and 326.4 x 208.6 x 5.5 mm, making it less portable but offering a more expansive workspace.
  • Build Materials: Both tablets utilize an Armor Aluminum construction, providing a durable and premium feel.

Weight

18 oz

25 oz

Screen size (inches)

11.0

14.6

Network

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi

Carrier compatibility

Without SIM Port

Without SIM Port

Connector

USB Type-C

USB Type-C

User feedback for the Galaxy Tab S8 often praises its balanced size, making it a versatile device for both productivity and entertainment on the go. Its portability is a frequently highlighted advantage, allowing users to comfortably hold it for extended periods. Some users note that while its LCD screen is good, it doesn't offer the same visual depth as AMOLED displays.

The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra receives considerable acclaim for its expansive Super AMOLED display, which users find exceptional for media consumption, drawing, and multitasking with multiple windows. Its large screen is often cited as a key factor for those seeking a laptop-like experience. However, its size and weight are also common points of discussion, with some users finding it less convenient for handheld use or travel due to its substantial dimensions.

Users prioritizing a more compact and easily portable tablet for everyday tasks, note-taking, and media consumption will find the Galaxy Tab S8 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who require a large, immersive display for professional creative work, extensive multitasking, or an expansive media viewing experience will likely lean towards the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra. Both devices offer a robust Android tablet experience, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option can be a sustainable choice for acquiring either model.

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