Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 vs. S8 – Are there any real improvements between these tablets?

Over time, Samsung has created its own ecosystem of related technological devices, with an advantage over Apple, and that is that they are much more open to the Google environment. Today we want to focus on two of the brand’s most complete tablets: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 and S8. They are successive models, which makes us think that they will share many similarities. Therefore, we are going to focus on what you are probably wondering: what are the differences?

But wait, before we start, let us clarify one thing. Both the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 and S8 have three models to choose from, the standard, the plus and the ultra. One of the main differences is the size, and, to make the comparison more equal, we are going to focus on the standard versions, which are the simplest. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to know that there are two other models, with some additional functionality, but more expensive.

That said, we already told you that some of the most important differences between the two tablets have to do with the capacity and life of the battery, the set of cameras or the screen technology. The processor and operating system are also updated, as well as the degree of resistance to external agents. Now, there are numerous similarities between them, although what you are probably wondering is if they include the S-Pen.

Well, at this point, the best way to know is to analyze them carefully, and that is what we are going to do next. Is it worth opting for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 or, for the price-quality ratio, should we stick with the S8 ? Let’s find out!

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 vs S8 – Comparison Table

In this table, we show you the most important characteristics of the two Samsung Galaxy tablets that we have chosen in this comparison, so you can decide which one best fits your search:

A similar design, although not as resistant

At first glance they seem practically the same tablet, except that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is sold in gray and beige, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is available in graphite, silver and rose gold. They have very similar dimensions and weight, and both have Samsung’s exclusive S-Pen pen. However, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 has improved when it comes to resistance, because it is the first Samsung tablet with IP68 certification. That is, it has the highest level of resistance to water and dust.

Screen technology changes

One of the differences that we find between the two tablets has to do with the screen technology they have. First of all, both tablets have a screen size of 11 inches and a resolution of 2500 x 1600 pixels. However, the screen of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is equipped with a protective layer that covers the AMOLED panel, unlike the S8, which has a TFT LCD panel.

In practice, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 offers an image with deeper contrast, better color saturation and a wider chromatic range. In fact, it is compatible with HDR10+, something that does not happen in the case of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8.

Processor and operating system upgrade

The S8 tablet integrates the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, while the S9 tablet updates to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, a version that achieves more performance and that Samsung has already introduced in the Galaxy S23 smartphones. On the other hand, there are no differences when it comes to storage capacity; something in which, in addition, both tablets can perform an expansion thanks to a microSD card.

This new processor is based on the Android 13 operating system, a higher version than Android 12 on which the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is based. The result is that the S9 tablet offers better performance, especially if you use design applications that consume more power and require more powerful processors. If you use tablets with more basic functions or without such demanding applications, the truth is that either of the two performs its function well.

Battery life and capacity, under review

We now look at the battery of each tablet, to verify that the S9 has a slightly greater capacity than the S8. While the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has 8000 mAh capacity, in the S9 it rises to 8400 mAh. Now, in practice, the truth is that it does not translate into a substantial difference in terms of autonomy, which is about 15 hours of video playback in both cases. In addition, in both cases you can connect the 45-watt fast charging terminal, although it is sold separately.

What are the tablet cameras like?

We come to one of the aspects that is most important for users, especially for those who regularly work with audiovisual material: cameras. The first thing you should know is that both tablets have a 12 MP front camera that takes really good quality photos for a selfie camera. However, there is a slight difference when it comes to the rear cameras. Both tablets have a 13 MP main rear camera, but the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 also includes a 6 MP wide-angle camera. The truth is that we don’t quite understand why Samsung has given up this second camera on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9.

Connectivity and other smart features

Let’s talk, now, about the different connectivity options between the two Samsung tablets. Neither of them is compatible with NFC, although the truth is that we cannot imagine using a tablet as a means of payment. As for Bluetooth connectivity, the only difference is that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 supports Bluetooth version 5.3, compared to 5.2 on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8. 

Another feature that we want to highlight is that, although both tablets have a fingerprint sensor, they do not have it in the same place. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has the sensor in the power button, located on the side. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 has changed the location of the fingerprint sensor, which is now located below the screen, on the front.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 vs S8: Which tablet has the best value for money?

Now that you know what the most important differences are between the two Samsung tablets, it’s time to decide which of the two we would choose. You already know that the decision always depends on the preferences and search priorities that each person has, but the truth is that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is a very continuous tablet with respect to the S8. There are some improvements, yes, but they are not of great significance. For example, the S9 has more battery capacity, but not enough to clearly notice more autonomy.

Along the same lines, the processor is updated, although it will only be noticeable when using certain applications that require more power, but not in most daily actions. And, as for the screen, the S9 has AMOLED technology, unlike the S8, although they have the same size and the same resolution. Basically, there are improvements, but many of them are more theoretical than noticeable. 

Economically, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 has a somewhat higher price than the S8, but the difference is not excessively wide. Therefore, if you want to take advantage and buy the most advanced tablet so far and that has the most complete features, you should opt for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9. On the other hand, if you already have the S8, it may not be worth changing, but rather wait for future models between which more differences are noticeable.