The hardware is similar, but the ecosystems and price make the difference
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This article compares theiPad 10th GenerationandSamsung Galaxy Tab S9.
Overall Findings
Price: $349 - $649.
Older, slower processor.
Cameras: 2both 12 megapixel, up to 4k video.
Extensive ecosystem of apps, tools, and services.
Highest security and privacy.
Price: $799 - $919.
Newer, faster processor.
Cameras: 212 and 13 megapixel, up to 4k video.
Limited ecosystem of apps, tools, and services.
Moderate security and privacy.
Beyond that, the Galaxy Tab S9 outperforms the iPad in speed and processing power.
Processors and AI: Samsung Has the Edge
Slower processor.
Apple A14 Bionic chip from 2020.
Dedicated GPU and Neural Engine for AI and machine learning.
AI features built into OS.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip from 2022.
Dedicated GPU and AI Engine for AI and machine learning.
When it comes to processing power and AI and Machine Learning, the Samsung tablet outpaces the iPad.
Both tablets have GPUs for graphics and AI processing, andmachine learningsubsystems.
Screen: Virtually Identical (and Identically Great)
10.9-inch LED Liquid Retina display.
True Tone color,
Apple Pencil (1st gen. and USB-C) support.
Samsung S Pen support.
You won’t find a lot of difference between the tablets' screens.
User-Facing Camera: 12 megapixel, ultrawide lens, 1080p HD video, Retina Flash.
Back Camera: 12 megapixel, wide lens, HDR, 5x digital zoom, 4K video.
User-Facing Camera: 12 megapixel, ultrawide lens, HDR, video up to 4K.
Like with the screens, the cameras on the tablets are very similar.
In most cases, the camera systems on both tablets will be more than enough for the average person.
Networking: Only iPad Has 5G
Wi-Fi 6.
Optional 5G cellular in some countries, but not the U.S. Higher-end S9 models still offer it.
OS & Ecosystem: Apple’s Polish Triumphs
Runs iPadOS and iPad apps.
New OS version support for 4-5 years.
Uses iPad apps from the App Store.
New OS version support for 3-5 years.
Uses Android apps from Google Play.
Comparing hardware specs is essential, but a tablet’s software and services also matter to users.
In this area, Apple’s integration and polish put the iPad ahead.
These powerful, often free services connect your iPad and data to Macs, iPhones, and other devices.
The iPad’s security and longevity are also superior.
Weight: 1.05 pounds.
Size: 10.01 x 6.53 x 0.23 inches.
Weight: 1.1 pounds.
It’s unlikely that the difference0.05 poundsabout the weight of an AA batterywill be noticeable to most people.
While the Galaxy Tab S9 is a bit taller, the iPad is wider and thicker.
Storage: 64GB and 256B, no expansion.
Keyboard case: Apple Magic Keyboard Folio ($249).
Security: Touch ID, highly secure.
Audio: 2 speakers.
Colors: 4 bright colors.
Battery: Unclear, perhaps 8-10 hours.
Storage: 128GB and 256GB, up to 1TB expansion.
Keyboard case: Third party options ($60-$160).
Security: Face and fingerprint scans, moderately secure.
Audio: 4 speakers with Dolby Atmos.
Colors: 2 neutral colors.
TheiPad’s batterylasts longer.
Apple claims its battery lasts up to 10 hours, while Samsung doesn’t provide an estimate.
The iPad 10th Generation is available on Amazon and other retailers.
Even more important, though, is how each tablet works with your other electronics.
If you have other Samsung or Android devices, the Galaxy Tab makes more sense.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is available on Best Buy and other retailers.
