Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Is This Tablet Worth It?

With increasing competition in the tablet market, Samsung has introduced a new addition to its Galaxy Tab S line-up: the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 tablet. 

Launched in March 2022, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 comes with advanced Android 12 Operating Software, which you will be able to upgrade to the latest Android 13 version. The One UI 5 interface of this tablet provides a sleek and user-friendly experience.

The Galaxy Tab S8 tablet is available in three models: the S8, S8+, and S8 Ultra. This versatile tablet is suitable for artists, students, business users, professionals, and anyone who needs a multi-functional device. Its 11-inch display screen is ideal for presentations and eliminates the need for constant zooming in and out to view content.

In this Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 review, I will provide an in-depth analysis of the performance, features, and specifications of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 tablet. My aim is to equip you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether this tablet is the right choice for your needs or not.

Also, this review is based on my personal experience using the tablet, so be rest assured that the review you are reading is from a real user of the product.

Quick Summary of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 11 Inch 128GB

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a tablet in the Samsung Galaxy S8 series, designed for students, business and professional users.
• It comes with an Android 12 operating system, is upgradable to Android 13, and features the One UI 5 interface.
• It has an 11-inch TFT LCD display screen with a screen resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz.
• The tablet comes with an S Pen, a mini external keyboard, and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 touchpad with premium antibacterial polyurethane.
• The tablet has a dual camera setup at the back and a 12MP ultrawide selfie camera.
• It has 8 GB RAM + 128 GB built-in memory and is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core processor and Adreno 730 GPU.
• The tablet has good sound quality with four stereo speakers and a built-in three-microphone setup.
• It has a non-removable Li-Po 8000mAh battery with 45W fast charging.
• The tablet also features Dex mode, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e connectivity. 
• The starting price of the tablet is $699.99.

Unboxing the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 11 Inch 128GB Tablet

The unboxing of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 reveals the following:

• The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
• An S pen
• A quick start guide
• A Type-C to Type-C USB cable
• A SIM card eject tool

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 11 Inch 128GB Review: Design

Tablets are not exactly as lightweight as phones, and with a weight of 503g, the Galaxy Tab S8 is not portable enough to be slid into your pocket. Therefore, to ensure ease of mobility, you will need a tablet bag or pouch. 

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 can be preordered with a black protective cover that can be folded in two, though it has limited adjustment constraints.

A spectacular idea incorporated in the design of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is the introduction of an external keyboard that becomes active whenever the tablet is placed in its space in the protective cover containing the keyboard. 

The Desktop mode, once activated, gives you an absolute switch from Tab mode and interface to desktop mode and interface, which enables you to use your Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 like a personal computer. 

Once deactivated, it returns to the default Tab mode. The keyboard comes in a black pouch with white lettering which makes for good colour balance and legibility.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has a unique identity and external hardware design, as a couple of materials were combined to give it its sleek outlook. 

The major material used in the external hardware design of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is armour aluminium (including the chassis), and a downside to using metal for its design is a possible leakage of current while charging or in use, which makes the protective cover very important.

In addition, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 comes with glass, which is used on the touchpad itself, and premium antibacterial polyurethane has been applied to the touchpad area to enhance its usability. 

Also, the curved edges and note view cover design make it more comfortable to hold even with its weight.  The note view cover design has a pen holder with a very strong grip carved into it to hold the S pen when not in use.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Strap Cover can be rotated 360˚, giving you a one-handed grip on the tablet and enabling you to use the tablet in any desired direction. 

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 series has a Protective Standing Cover, which features an air pocket and an internal shock-resistant structure to firmly protect the device, while its free-stop hinge allows users to freely adjust the standing angle.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab D8 also comes with a selfie (front) camera centrally located in the landscape axis of the tablet. On the rear is a double camera setup located on the top left side of the tablet with a LED flashlight. 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Display

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is proof that Samsung does not get it wrong in terms of display quality. These display features include:

• Type: 11.0inches (350.9cm²) TFT LCD 
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Screen resolution: 1600 x 2560 pixels
• Screen-to-body ratio: 83.6%
• Aspect ratio: 16:10
• Panel type: Corning Gorilla Glass 5
• Pixel density: 274ppi.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Input Devices

The following input devices come with this tablet:

• Keyboard: Mini external keyboard is installed on its protective cover.
• Keyboard Colour: Black
• Touchpad: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 with premium antibacterial polyurethane for easy usability

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Camera Specifications 

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a high-end tablet that boasts a remarkable camera system. With its dual camera setup at the back and a single ultrawide camera at the front, this device is capable of capturing stunning photos and videos. In the following table, we will take a closer look at the specs and features of each camera on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8, as well as the video quality it is capable of producing.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Performance

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 boasts strong performance with its preinstalled Android 12 Operating System, which is upgradable to the Android 13 version of the Android Operating Software. The features of the Android 12 make the user interface more organized and easy to use. 

The Android 12 installed on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is efficient with the Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core processor that processes tasks on your smartphones and tablets with amazing speed, leaving no room for lagging or glitches. 

The Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) chipset runs with an Adreno 730 Graphics Processing Unit, which plays an enhancer in the smooth play of your games and graphic activities.

Apart from the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor doing a good job on speedy execution of tasks, the Samsung home screen wallpaper gives an appealing view that cannot be overlooked, thanks to the 11.0inches TFT LCD featured in its display and the Corning gorilla glass 5 screen. 

Furthermore, with the introduction of the S Pen, the possible challenge of having the processor slowly read keyboard inputs is eliminated. 

You can also open various applications simultaneously and have them running smoothly on this tablet. The Tab S8 has less chance of lagging while you’re performing tasks on it, except when the storage is full.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Sound Quality

The sound quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is decent.

• Loudspeakers: It has four stereo speakers.
• Audio Jack: It does not have a 3.5 mm audio jack
• Microphone: It has a built-in three-microphone setup and intelligent auto-framing technology.

The sound quality of the Tab S8 is tuned by AKG, a foremost sound brand and a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics. 

Specifications

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Battery Life

The battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is one of its most impressive features. Its battery boasts a massive performance with a non-removable Li-Po 8000mAh capacity battery that is equipped with a 45W fast charging rate. With this charging rate, you are guaranteed 100% battery life in 80 minutes (1 hour 20 minutes). 

On a single full charge, you can use the battery for over 13 hours with light usage (browsing, music, and video sessions). With the Qualcomm Processor, the current discharge will be quite reduced as it processes tasks with amazing speed.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Features

Other features of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 include:

• Security: Side-mounted fingerprint
• Sensors: Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, Bluetooth integration
• It also has a Wireless Samsung DeX. This mode switches the Tablet’s interface from a Tab mode to Desktop mode when turned on, enabling you to use it as a laptop.
• The speaker grills (2 each) are located to the right and left of the tablet. 
• SIM: Nano-SIM slot 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Connectivity

• WLAN: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
• Bluetooth: 5.2, A2DP, LE
• Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO
• NFC: Not enabled
• Radio: Not available
• USB: USB Type-C 3.2, magnetic connector

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Software

The preinstalled software on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 are:

• Samsung Dex: enables you to use your tablet like a laptop
• Bixby (now Modes & Routines)
• Android 12 home operating system (upgradable to Android 13)
• Clip Studio Paint app

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Additional Accessories

• Samsung Note view cover
• Screen protector

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Portability

Weighing 503 grams, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is not exactly lightweight. It requires caution when carrying it as damage can easily occur to it. Having a protective cover or a tablet bag makes it more convenient to carry around.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Serviceability

The quick start guide gives you basic instructions on how to operate and maintain your Samsung Galaxy Tab S8. But in the case of advanced technical issues, you can contact Samsung’s service support website, lodge your complaint and follow the instructions.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Pricing

The starting price of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is $699.99. However, this price can vary depending on the buyer’s location and the economic policies of such location.

Buyer’s Guide

The Galaxy Tab S8 has impressive features that make it a good tablet for graphics artists, graphics designers, and a couple of professionals who value the use of tablets. Before you select this tablet, consider the following factors:

• Battery: the non-removable Li-Po 8000mAh b battery capacity is certainly a highlight feature of this tablet. With a single charge, you can enjoy extended use for over 13 hours before the next charge.
• S Pen: The S pen provides an alternate way of interacting with the tablet by clicking and dragging across the screen to produce your desired image, logo, and other presentation files.
• Display: The 11-inch TFT LCD makes the home screen view captivating, and the colour reproduction on this display is very decent.
• Processor: Speed of executing tasks is a good form of time management; the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 offers you speed in executing your tasks.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review: Available Series

The available series of the Samsung Galaxy Tab Series are the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8, Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra.

Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 worth buying?

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a tablet that is worth considering if you are thinking of buying a good-quality tablet that is as powerful as the Apple iPad Pro. Its bright display, solid performance, and decent battery life make it a great option for both work and play. 

With support for Dex mode, the Galaxy Tab S8 tablet can even function as a laptop. You also get an S Pen and depending on where you purchase yours from, you might even get an external keyboard for added versatility. 

The flexibility of the storage specifications, camera quality, and the 11.0-inch TFT LCD screen of the Galaxy Tab S8 are some of the best features that make it great value for money. With all these, you can be sure to experience a premium user experience.

The pricing is also reasonable for what you get in return. All in all, if you are looking for a new tablet that is as powerful as a laptop and serves both as a laptop and a tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 should definitely be on your list.

Alternatives to the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

Listed below are tablets that are in competition with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
• Xiaomi Pad 5
• Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra.

So, let’s wrap this up!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has a lot to offer with its impressive features, including the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, fantastic camera quality (especially the front camera), battery life that lasts all day, the handy Dex mode, the versatile S Pen, and ample storage capacity. 

These all contribute to the tablet’s solid performance.

However, whether or not the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is the right tablet for you is ultimately up to your specific needs and preferences. 

If you’re looking for a device with a great camera, powerful processor, and versatile features, then the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 tablet could be a good choice for you. 

But if you have other specific requirements aside from what I have discussed in this article, then it’s important to consider all your other options before making a decision. 

If you do decide to go for it, I’d recommend you buy yours through a reputable retail website for added warranty assurance.

I hope you find this review helpful, and I wish you all the best. 

FAQs – Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review

Q: What OS is the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 launched with preinstalled Android 12 OS and One UI 5 user interface; therefore, it runs on the latest Android software.

Q: Does Tab S8 come with a pen?

A: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 includes a pen in all its Galaxy Tab S8 series, which means you don’t need to order it separately.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have a SIM card slot?

A: Yes, the SIM card goes in the slot on the opposite side of the tray from the SD card. The slot is keyed, so there is only one way to insert the SIM card.

Q: What type of display does the Galaxy Tab S8 have?

A: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has an 11.0inches (350.9cm2) TFT LCD with a refresh rate of 120Hz, a screen resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels, a screen-to-body ratio of 83.6%, an aspect ratio of 16:10, and panel type of Corning Gorilla Glass 5.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have a headphone jack?

A: No, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 does not have a 3.5 mm audio jack.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have a fingerprint scanner?

A: Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for added security.

Q: What is the battery life of the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has a non-removable Li-Po 8000mAh capacity battery that is equipped with a 45W fast charging rate. With this charging rate, you are guaranteed 100% battery life in 80 minutes (1 hour 20 minutes). On a single full charge, you can use the battery for over 13 hours with light usage (browsing, music, and video sessions).

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have a front camera?

A: Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has a single 12MP ultrawide (f/2.4, 1200) camera at the front.

Q: What is the processor of the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: The processor of the Galaxy Tab S8 is 2.99GHz, 2.4GHz, and 1.7GHz. It’s powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core processor. This processor processes tasks on your tablets with amazing speed, leaving no room for lagging or glitches. It also has an Adreno 730 Graphics Processing Unit.

Q: What are the available storage options for the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 comes with three storage specifications. They are 8 GB RAM + 128 GB built-in memory, 8 GB RAM + 256 GB built-in memory, and 12 GB RAM + 256 GB built-in memory. It also has an expandable storage slot for microSD cards.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have wireless charging?

A: No, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 does not have wireless charging capabilities.

Q: Is there a warranty for the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: Yes, there is a warranty for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8. For more information, you can contact Samsung’s service support website and lodge your complaint.

Q: What are the alternatives to the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: Alternatives to the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 include the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+, Samsung Galaxy Tab S7, Xiaomi Pad 5, Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra.

Q: What is the price of the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: The starting price of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is $699.99. However, this price can vary depending on the buyer’s location and the economic policies of such location.

Q: What are the additional accessories for the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: Additional accessories for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 include a Samsung Note view cover, screen protector, protective standing cover, and a detachable keyboard. These accessories do not come with the tablet; you will have to buy them as an addition if you need them.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have NFC?

A: No, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 does not have NFC enabled.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have a radio?

A: No, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 does not have a radio.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have Bluetooth?

A: Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has Bluetooth 5.2, A2DP, and LE.

Q: Does the Galaxy Tab S8 have GPS?

A: Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO positioning.

Q: What are the features of the Galaxy Tab S8?

A: Features of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 include a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, Bluetooth integration, Samsung Dex mode, Android 12 home operating system (upgradable to Android 13), Clip Studio Paint app, and Wireless Samsung DeX.

Image Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review

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