Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 vs S8+: Which is Better?

Samsung has done an excellent job with both the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and S8+ by incorporating advanced technology to create impressive features. However, the preferences of users may vary depending on which features appeal to them.

While some users may prefer a tablet with a longer battery life, others may prioritise overall system performance, camera quality, and display quality. 

Both the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and S8+ are standout tablets that offer a range of advanced features, and as a result, it is vital to consider your individual needs when choosing between these devices to ensure that you select the one that best suits your requirements.

Related posts to read: Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Review.

Design and Build Quality Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 boasts an impressive design featuring a durable Corning Gorilla Glass 5 front panel with sleek visible bezels around the edges of the screen, while the frame and back panel are crafted from armour aluminium, lending it a sophisticated look. 

The tablet’s curved edges allow for easy placement into its protective cover, thereby reducing the risk of damage. Also, the chassis is magnetised, which allows for easy attachment to the S Pen.

It is available in two models, the Wi-Fi and 5G, that weighs 503g and 507g, respectively, making them not exactly lightweight. Its size, measuring 253.8 mm x 165.3 mm x 6.3 mm (9.99 in x 6.51 in x 0.25 in), makes it uneasy to carry around and will require a tablet bag for portability. This tablet comes in three striking colours: Graphite, Silver, and Pink Gold.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ has a design that gives it a premium feel when handling it. The front panel is a Corning Gorilla Glass 5 with bezels that are slimmer than that of the Galaxy Tab S8. This automatically increases the display size of this tablet.

The frame and rear panels of the Galaxy Tab S8+ are made of armour aluminium for easy grip during usage. The aluminium panel has a less glossy finish to curb the amount of reflection that comes off the panel.

The Galaxy Tab S8+ is relatively slim, thanks to its sustainable design and size, but it has to be carried in a tablet bag. The frame is magnetic; the magnetic S Pen can be placed on it. The colours available are Graphite, Silver, and Pink Gold.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 measures 285 mm x 185 mm x 5.7 mm (11.22in x 7.28in x 0.22in). Each of its models weighs 567g (Wi-Fi), and 572g (5G) (1.25 lbs), respectively, edging the Galaxy Tab S8. It will also require the use of a tablet bag for ease of mobility.

Display Quality and Size Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Galaxy Tab S8 features an 11-inch LTPS TFT display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a pixel density of 274 PPI. It also has a 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and animations smoother. The tablet’s screen-to-body ratio is 83.6%, and it is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass. The display supports HDR10+ and is capable of displaying a wide range of colours.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ boasts a 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display, which is widely considered sharper than TFT LCDs. Its 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support further enhance its visual appeal.

With thinner bezels, the Galaxy Tab S8+ offers a screen resolution of 1752 x 2800 pixels for a more immersive display. It has a 16:10 screen ratio, a 266ppi pixel density, and an impressive 84.6% screen-to-body ratio spanning 446.1 cm². So whether you’re streaming videos, browsing the web, or working on a project, you are guaranteed an exceptional viewing experience.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The performance of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 primarily revolves around the strength of its processor – the Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) chipset processor, the best there is for Android smartphones. With the Qualcomm processor installed on the Galaxy Tab S8, tasks are executed with prompt speed and accuracy. 

The Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) processor is a high-tech 8-core chipset comprising an octa-core CPU (1×3.00 GHz Cortex-X2 & 3×2.50 GHz Cortex-A710 & 4×1.80 GHz Cortex-A510), and a GPU (Adreno 730). Glitches during gaming, movie, audio sessions, and multitasking are no contest for the processor.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The performance of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is almost as good as that of the Galaxy Tab S8+. It also runs on a Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) – a high-tech 8-core chipset comprising an octa-core CPU (1×3.00 GHz Cortex-X2 & 3×2.50 GHz Cortex-A710 & 4×1.80 GHz Cortex-A510) and a GPU (Adreno 730) which is responsible for the graphics quality of the tablet. 

The quality of the display output is also enhanced by this processor.

Battery Life Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The battery of Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a non-removable Lithium-Polymer battery with an 8000mAh battery capacity. The battery supports a 45W wired fast charging, which gives it a 100% battery life in 80 minutes (1 hour 20 minutes), which is faster than many smartphones.

With a full battery life after a single full charge, you can use the Galaxy Tab S8 for 12 hours and 53 minutes of continuous web surfing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits of brightness.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Galaxy Tab S8+ boasts a non-removable Li-Po battery with a substantial 10090mAh capacity. It also supports 45W wired fast charging, allowing the battery to reach 100% in just 82 minutes (1 hour and 22 minutes). With a full charge and a moderate load of tasks such as browsing, emailing, music streaming, and YouTube surfing, the battery life lasts approximately 9 hours.

Camera Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

At the back of the Galaxy Tab S8 is a dual main camera composition in the top right corner, hidden in a black strip along the back panel. It is a 13 MP (f/2.0, 26 mm, 1/3.4″, 1.0 µm, AF) wide camera and a 6 MP (f/2.2) ultrawide camera, respectively. 

Enhanced with LED flash, HDR, and panorama for great day and night shots, you can also record quality videos with 4K@30/60fps and 1080p@30fps. This can be adjusted in the camera settings.

The front camera is a 12 MP (f/2.4, 120˚)  wide camera. With the HDR feature, you can take great day and night photos and record videos in 4K@30/60fps and 1080p@30fps.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is equipped with a powerful dual-camera setup consisting of a 13 MP (f/2.0, 26 mm, 1/3.4″, 1.0 µm, AF) wide camera and a 6 MP (f/2.2) ultrawide camera. With features such as LED flash, HDR, and panorama, this camera setup delivers exceptional day and night photos and high-quality video recordings in 4K@30/60fps and 1080p@30fps modes.

The front-facing camera is also impressive, boasting a 12 MP (f/2.4, 120˚) wide camera with HDR capabilities. This camera setup is perfect for taking stunning day and night photos and recording high-quality sound videos in 4K@30/60fps and 1080p@30fps resolutions.

Storage and Memory Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 comes with three storage options you can choose from:

• 8 GB RAM + 128 GB internal memory
• 8 GB RAM + 256 GB internal memory
• 12 GB RAM + 256 GB internal memory
• UFS (Universal Flash Storage)

There is also an expandable memory card slot for micro SDXC on each of these options.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ comes with four storage options to choose from:

• 8 GB RAM + 128 GB internal memory
• 8 GB RAM + 256 GB internal memory
• 12 GB RAM + 256 GB internal memory
• 16 GB RAM + 512 GB internal memory
• UFS (Universal Flash Storage)

There is also an expandable memory card slot for micro SDXC on each of these options.

User Experience Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has an average rating of 4.8/5 on BestBuy and 4.7/5 on Amazon.

Users generally have positive experiences with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 tablet, which offers all the latest Android features and convenient syncing with their phones. While it may take some time to adjust to the interface, users are satisfied with their purchase and prefer it over other options, such as the iPad. It is also considered to be a great tool for digital artists.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ has an average rating of 4.8/5 on BestBuy and 4.7/5 on Amazon.

Some users had to return their Samsung tablets due to poor battery performance despite the tablets otherwise performing well. Another user was disappointed with the lack of included charging accessories, making it difficult to charge the tablet. However, some other users commend Samsung tablets and believe they are the best on the market, having owned many over the years.

Price and Value Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has a starting price of $699.99 on BestBuy and $637.87 on Amazon (that’s 9% off). The location of the buyer and the specifications of the tablet determine the final cost.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ has a starting price of $899.99 on BestBuy and $979 on Amazon. The prices will vary depending on the buyer’s location and the specifications of the tablet.

Operating System and User Interface Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 runs on the Android 12 Operating system and is open to an upgrade to Android 13 OS in due time as made available by Samsung to its users. 

It is also supported by the One UI 5 user interface. This makes the operation of the tablet easier – from planning your tasks and shuffling between two or more apps to the accessibility and customisation of apps and icons.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ runs on the Android 12 Operating system and is open to an upgrade to Android 13 OS in due time as made available by Samsung.

The Galaxy Tab S8 is further enhanced by its One UI 5 user interface, which provides an intuitive experience. This includes improved functionality for task planning, multitasking between apps, and customisation of apps and icons. The One UI 5 interface makes operating the tablet user-friendly.

Sound Quality Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The sound (or audio) quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is well-defined, with tonal balance and bass equalisation. This EQ balancing gives clarity to its sound – whether it is an audio recording or an already mixed and mastered music piece. 

The sound is tuned by AKG. With double speaker grills on the right (2) and left (2) sides respectively, and three microphones installed on this tablet, you won’t have to deal with poor audio output.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The sound (or audio) quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is detailed with tonal balance and bass equalisation. The sound is tuned by AKG. With double speaker grills on the right (2) and left (2) sides respectively, and three microphones installed on this tablet, you get only pure Dolby Atmos sound.

Connectivity Options Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

• 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: No
• Radio: No
• USB: USB Type-C 3.2, magnetic connector

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

• 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: No
• Radio: No
• USB: USB Type-C 3.2, magnetic connector

Sensors and Features Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 comes with the following sensors:

• Accelerometer
• Compass
• Fingerprint sensor (Side key)
• Gyro sensor
• Hall sensor
• Light Sensor

The key features of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 are:

• S Pen: The S Pen is designed with magnetic elements to make it easily attachable to the side of the tablet. You can use it to take notes and make sketches on your tablet.
• Samsung DeX: The Samsung DeX mode allows you to operate your tablet like a PC or laptop. This is a large technological improvement on the Galaxy Tab S8.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

On the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+, you have the following sensors:

• Accelerometer
• Compass
• Gyro sensor
• Hall sensor
• Light Sensor
• Optical fingerprint sensor

It also has key features such as:

• S Pen: The S Pen is designed with magnetic elements to make it easily attachable to the side of the tablet. You can use it to take notes and make sketches on your tablet.
• Samsung DeX: The Samsung DeX mode allows you to operate your tablet like a PC or laptop. This is a large technological improvement on the Galaxy Tab S8.

Gaming Performance Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8’s powerful display and processor make it an excellent choice for game lovers. It offers fast loading times and smooth gameplay with no glitches. However, for heavy gaming sessions, the battery life of the Tab S8 may not be sufficient to last for 6–8 hours.

Playing games like FIFA Mobile and Dead Trigger 2 for long hours can cause the tablet to overheat and wear down the battery. As such, it is recommended to take breaks and allow the device to cool down to prevent any damage.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is equipped with the powerful Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon chipset and Adreno 730 GPU, making it a great choice for gaming. The tablet offers fast loading times and smooth gameplay with no glitches or lagging, providing an immersive gaming experience for users.

However, when it comes to prolonged gaming sessions, the battery life of the Tab S8+ may not be able to last for 6 – 8 hours. Users should be mindful of this and take breaks to allow the device to cool down and recharge.

Productivity and Multitasking Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

On the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8, you can achieve a good level of productivity by doing the following:

• Use your S Pen to take notes and convert them to texts rather than typing.
• Sketch, erase, and make adjustments to your sketches using the S Pen.
• Open multiple windows on your tablets and reduce the window sizes while you multitask – all on one screen.
• The One-handed mode helps you keep one hand on the tablet and the other on something else.
• The Protective cover + external keyboard enable PC-like functions and make typing easier and faster.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

On the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+, you can increase your productivity by utilising these features:

• Open multiple windows on your tablets and reduce the window sizes while you multitask – all on one screen.
• With the One-handed mode, you can keep one hand on the tablet and the other on something else.
• The Protective cover + external keyboard enables PC-like functions and makes typing easier and faster.
• Use your S Pen to take notes and convert them to texts rather than typing.
• Sketch, erase, and make adjustments to your sketches using the S Pen.

Stylus Support Comparison

One of the standout features of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is its Stylus support, which makes it compatible with the S Pen. The S Pen is designed with magnetic elements that make it easy to attach to the tablet, ensuring that it is always within reach when needed.

Similarly, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ also supports the use of the S Pen as an input accessory. With the S Pen, users can easily jot down notes, make sketches, and navigate through the tablet’s interface with ease. The addition of the S pen increases the overall functionality and versatility of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Tab S8+.

Durability and Water Resistance Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

Unfortunately, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 may not be the most durable device on the market. While the design and hardware are impressive, they are not sufficient to prevent damage to the tablet’s external parts. With time, the screen and body may become scratched, causing the device to lose its color and beauty.

It is important to note that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is not water-resistant, which means that it is not protected against water damage. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid exposing the tablet to water to prevent any potential damage. And as such, to ensure that your Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 stays in good condition, it is advised that you handle it with care and invest in protective cases or covers to prevent scratches and other forms of damage.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

Just like the Galaxy Tab S8, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is not immune to external damages like dents, cracks, and scratches; over time, the screen of the tablet may suffer from scratches that could affect the viewing experience. To prevent such damages, it is advisable to invest in a protective cover or case for the tablet.

It is also important to note that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is not water-resistant. In case the tablet comes in contact with water, it is best to immediately power it off and dry it thoroughly to prevent any potential damage.

Third-Party App Support Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 has been programmed not to auto-install third-party apps except when the user allows permission. It only accepts apps from licensed stores like the Play Store and Galaxy Store. Once the device cannot trace the source of the app, it will not install it. To allow permission to install third-party apps, go to Settings > Install unknown apps > Allow permission.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ has been programmed to refuse installation of third-party apps that are not from the Play Store or Galaxy Store. It only accepts apps from licensed stores like the Play Store and Galaxy Store. 

If the device cannot trace the source of the app, it will not install it. To allow permission to install third-party apps, go to Settings > Install unknown apps > Allow permission.

Warranty Comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 comes with a one-year limited warranty. When you purchase a Tab S8, you get Samsung Care+ packages, which offer repairs in the event of cracked screens and damage caused by drops and liquid spills. 

The warranty covers not just your device; it also covers your batteries and other accessories. It is also important to know that there are terms and conditions to the warranty.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ comes with a one-year limited warranty. You can get Samsung Care+ packages for extended coverage when you buy a Samsung Galaxy Tab S8. Protection with Samsung Care+ offers repairs in the event of cracked screens and damage caused by drops and liquid spills. 

Apart from your device, it also covers your batteries and other accessories. It is also important to know that there are terms and conditions to the warranty.

Final Thoughts

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Tab S8+ share many similarities that make them a great family of tablets. Both devices offer impressive features such as high-quality displays, sleek designs, and exceptional sound quality powered by AKG. And photography lovers will love their cameras as they produce stunning images, making them ideal for capturing memorable moments.

Before making a purchase, it is important to carefully consider these features to ensure that they meet your expectations. With their remarkable features, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Tab S8+ are sure to provide an exceptional user experience that will exceed your expectations.

Recommendation

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ surpasses its predecessor, the Galaxy Tab S8, as it comes packed with some advanced features. The Tab S8+ brags of a larger display and battery, making it the perfect option for media consumption and gaming, while the Galaxy Tab S8 is a more budget-friendly and compact alternative. 

Based on these features, I would highly recommend the Galaxy Tab S8+ if you are on the lookout for a tablet that can handle high-intensive tasks such as gaming and media consumption.

Image Gallery – Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 vs S8+: Which is Better?

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Useful Links:

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References:

• About the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Tablet (Link).
• About the Samsung Galaxy (Link).