Battle of the Tablets: Samsung vs Apple

Tablets have become an essential part of many people’s tech ecosystem. Whether you use yours for gaming, work, or video editing, they are the perfect blend between a laptop and a mobile phone.

When it comes to top contenders, Apple and Samsung lead the market with the iPad and Galaxy Tab, respectively. But which one is right for you?

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between these two tablet ranges, comparing features, storage, and performance. We’ll also explore which models are best suited for different needs, helping you decide which tablet is the better fit.

And if you’re looking to upgrade, our ‘sell my tablet’ service can help you trade in your old device for cash to put towards your next purchase.

Key Elements of Galaxy Tabs and iPads

Whilst the Galaxy Tab and iPad are similar in their appearance, there are a few key distinguishing differences that separate them. Let’s get into them:

• Performance: When it comes to power and quick performance, the Apple iPad Pro models are made using the M1 and M2 chips, which provide great processing speeds. The iPad and iPad Air still have reliable performance using the A14 and A15 chips. On the other hand, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S8 models are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, which is especially helpful for multitasking.
• Software: The iPad uses Apple’s iOS software, which many people consider a staple within their tech. The Galaxy Tabs are Android devices that use Samsung’s One UI. Whilst this software has more customisation than iOS, it’s tough to compete with a beloved software within the tech community.
• Add-On Devices: In this category, both devices offer impressive add-on devices that can enhance the user experience. The iPad is compatible with the Apple Pencil, which is great for drawing and note-taking. The Galaxy Tab can be used with the S Pen, which some prefer as it doesn’t need charging like the Apple pencil. Both tablets can be paired with some form of wireless keyboard, allowing them to transform into laptop alternatives.
• Storage: iPad storage ranges from 64GB to 1TB on the iPad Pro models, and Galaxy Tabs range from 64GB to 512GB, depending on the model. However, Galaxy Tabs offer microSD card slots, which allows for storage increase after purchasing, which Apple does not offer.

These are just a few key features, and of course, there are more that you may wish to consider, such as display and audio capabilities.

It’s all well and good knowing the key features of each device, but what really matters is ensuring that you have the best tablet for your specific use. We’ve compiled some of the most popular ways to use a tablet, such as the iPad or Galaxy Tab, outlining which one is best for each use:

• Entertainment: This may include things like watching TV and Movies, gaming, or catching up on your favourite YouTube videos. Many users prefer the display of Apple products, including the iPad, with the iPad Pro having a 120Hz refresh rate and sharp retina display. However, if screen size is a big deal to you, then the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra offers a 14.6-inch display, in comparison to the 13-inch maximum of iPads.
• Work Use: Both tablets provide split-screen viewing options, which is great if you need to take notes during a meeting or type up some handwritten notes. As we’ve discussed, both devices work with Bluetooth keyboards, recreating that laptop setup that many prefer when working. For this use, you’ll need to choose a tablet that works well with any other technology you utilise for work. For instance, if you use a Windows laptop during your job, then investing in an iPad might not be the best choice.
• Designing and Drawing: A common reason people look to buy a tablet is because of their capabilities in terms of graphic design and drawing. Instead of drawing on paper and relying on scanning or investing in a pricey digital drawing pad, tablets allow you to draw high-quality images using a digital pencil. Deciding on the perfect tablet for drawing is somewhat dependent on the digital pencils themselves, as the Apple Pencil is regarded as the more precise option between the two brands. Moreover, Apple products can use Procreate; the popular digital art tool that is not available for Android.

Price vs Value

When comparing the Samsung Galaxy Tab and Apple iPad, the overall cost can be a significant factor. The latest iPad Pro starts at just under £1,000, which is the same as the Galaxy Tab S10+. Of course, this price depends on the features, storage, and model that you’re after, with versions such as the iPad Air offering a more cost-effective solution. The higher price point may be worth it if you intend to use your tablet daily for multiple purposes and remember that this cost can be more manageable when using a tablet trade-in service like ours. To learn more about how it works, or for any enquiries, please feel free to contact us.