You are currently viewing Galaxy Tab S9 vs S9 FE – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Galaxy Tab S9 vs S9 FE – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Galaxy Tab S9 & Galaxy Tab S9 FE share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Galaxy Tab S9 rather than the Galaxy Tab S9 FE

Why Do I Recommend The Galaxy Tab S9

  • The Galaxy Tab S9 features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset that delivers significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming performance, compared to the Galaxy Tab S9 FE’s Exynos 1380.
  • Galaxy Tab S9 has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display that produces deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors for an immersive viewing experience, unlike the LCD panel on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE.
  • It supports a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate that ensures ultra-smooth scrolling, responsive stylus input, and fluid animations, compared to the 90Hz limit of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE.
  • The Galaxy Tab S9 features quad AKG-tuned speakers with Dolby Atmos that deliver louder, clearer, and more immersive audio for movies, music, and calls, compared to the dual speakers on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE.
  • Galaxy Tab S9 supports full Samsung DeX mode with both wired and wireless functionality that transforms the tablet into a desktop-like experience for advanced productivity, whereas the Galaxy Tab S9 FE only supports wireless DeX.
  • It includes a 13MP rear camera and a 12MP ultra-wide front camera that enable higher-resolution photos, better video quality, and wide-angle video calls, compared to the 8MP rear and narrower front camera of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE.
  • The Galaxy Tab S9 features an ultra-low latency S Pen that ensures a more natural writing and drawing experience for creatives and note-takers, compared to the latency pen performance on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE.
  • Galaxy Tab S9 has a more premium and durable Armor Aluminum build with a slimmer and lighter design that enhances portability and long-term durability, compared to the regular aluminum body of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE.

Maybe the Galaxy Tab S9 FE price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Galaxy Tab S9. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureGalaxy Tab S9Galaxy Tab S9 FE
Display TypeDynamic AMOLED 2XTFT LCD
Display Refresh Rate120Hz adaptive90Hz
Display HDR SupportHDR10+, Vision BoosterNo HDR10+, No Vision Booster
Display BrightnessHigher brightnessLower brightness
Display ContrastInfiniteLower contrast
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2 for GalaxyExynos 1380
GPUAdreno 740Mali-G68 MP5
RAM Options8GB / 12GB6GB / 8GB
Storage Options128GB / 256GB / 512GB128GB / 256GB
microSD ExpansionYes, up to 1TBYes, up to 1TB
Rear Camera13MP Auto Focus8MP Fixed Focus
Front Camera12MP Ultra-wide12MP Wide
Video RecordingUp to 4K@60fpsUp to 4K@30fps
Speaker SetupQuad speakersDual speakers
S Pen SupportYes, included with low latencyYes, included with higher latency
S Pen ChargingMagnetic attachmentMagnetic attachment
Samsung DeXFull DeXWireless DeX only
IP RatingIP68IP68
Build MaterialArmor AluminumAluminum
Dimensions (mm)254.3 x 165.8 x 5.9 mm254.3 x 165.8 x 6.5 mm
Weight498g (Wi-Fi) / 500g (5G)523g
ColorsGraphite, BeigeMint, Lavender, Gray, Silver
Battery Capacity8,400 mAh8,000 mAh
Charging Speed45W fast charging45W fast charging
Wi-Fi VersionWi-Fi 6EWi-Fi 6
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.3
5G SupportYesYes
OS at LaunchAndroid 13 with One UI 5.1Android 13 with One UI 5.1
Software SupportUp to 4 OS & 5 years security updatesUp to 4 OS & 5 years security updates
PriceCheck Tab S9 PriceCheck Tab S9 FE Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Operating System & One UI: Both tablets run Android 13 with Samsung’s One UI 5.1, giving users a nearly identical interface, app drawer, multitasking view, and customization options.
  • Long-Term Software Support: Samsung commits to 4 years of major Android OS updates and 5 years of security patches for both, ensuring they remain secure and up-to-date for years.
  • S Pen Included: Both devices include an S Pen in the box. While latency differs, both pens allow users to draw, write, annotate, and control certain UI functions.
  • Expandable Storage: Each tablet supports microSD cards up to 1TB, allowing users to store large files, videos, or games without running out of internal storage.
  • 45W Fast Charging: Despite differences in battery size, both devices support 45W Super Fast Charging using compatible chargers (sold separately).
  • 5G Connectivity Option: Both tablets are available in 5G variants, allowing for high-speed mobile data access while on the go.
  • Bluetooth 5.3: With support for Bluetooth 5.3, both tablets offer strong wireless performance, stable connectivity, and power-efficient pairing with accessories like earbuds or keyboards.
  • IP68 Water & Dust Resistance: Both tablets are rated IP68, meaning they can withstand dust ingress and immersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes — a rare feature in tablets.
  • Samsung Knox Security: Each model includes Samsung Knox, a multi-layered security platform that protects against malware, phishing, and unauthorized access.
  • USB Type-C Port: Both use the modern and reversible USB Type-C for charging and data transfer, supporting accessories like hubs, keyboards, and external drives.
  • Wireless Samsung DeX: Each device supports Samsung DeX wirelessly, allowing users to activate a desktop-like environment on a monitor or TV without plugging in.
  • Dolby Atmos Audio: Both feature Dolby Atmos sound enhancements, improving spatial audio and enhancing video and music playback.
  • Face Recognition Login: Each tablet supports front camera-based facial recognition for unlocking the device securely and conveniently.
  • Samsung Ecosystem Sync: They both integrate seamlessly into the Samsung ecosystem — syncing with Galaxy phones, watches, SmartThings devices, and Samsung Flow.
  • Google Services Included: Google apps and services (Play Store, Gmail, YouTube, Google Maps) come pre-installed on both models, ensuring full Android ecosystem access.

Common Features

FeatureGalaxy Tab S9Galaxy Tab S9 FE
Operating SystemAndroid 13 with One UI 5.1Android 13 with One UI 5.1
Software Support4 OS updates, 5 years security4 OS updates, 5 years security
S Pen SupportYes, includedYes, included
microSD ExpansionYes, up to 1TBYes, up to 1TB
Battery Charging Speed45W Super Fast Charging45W Super Fast Charging
5G Variant AvailableYesYes
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.3
IP RatingIP68 Water & Dust ResistanceIP68 Water & Dust Resistance
Samsung Knox SecurityYesYes
USB Type-C PortYesYes
Samsung DeX (Wireless)YesYes
Dolby Atmos SupportYesYes
Face RecognitionYesYes
Samsung Ecosystem SyncYesYes
Google ServicesYesYes
Price Check Tab S9 Price Check Tab S9 FE Price

FAQ

Does the Galaxy Tab S9 FE come with an S Pen like the Galaxy Tab S9?
Yes, both the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Tab S9 include an S Pen in the box, so you don’t need to buy one separately. However, the Tab S9 provides a more responsive pen experience due to its low-latency AMOLED display.

Is the Galaxy Tab S9 FE waterproof like the Galaxy Tab S9?
Yes, both tablets carry an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, which means they can withstand being submerged in fresh water for up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

Can I use Samsung DeX on both Galaxy Tab S9 and Tab S9 FE?
Yes, both tablets support wireless Samsung DeX. However, the Tab S9 also supports wired DeX for a more stable desktop experience with an external monitor.

Do both tablets support expandable storage via microSD cards?
Yes, both models support microSD cards up to 1TB, making it easy to store more photos, videos, apps, and documents.

What’s the major performance difference between Galaxy Tab S9 and S9 FE?
The Galaxy Tab S9 uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, a flagship chipset, while the S9 FE uses the mid-range Exynos 1380. This results in significantly faster performance, especially for gaming and multitasking, on the Tab S9.

Is the battery life the same for both tablets?
Battery capacities are similar (8400 mAh on Tab S9 vs 8000 mAh on Tab S9 FE), but the Tab S9 is more power efficient due to its AMOLED display and Snapdragon chip, giving it slightly better endurance in real use.

Do both tablets support fast charging?
Yes, both tablets support 45W super fast charging, but a compatible charger must be purchased separately, as it’s not included in the box.

Can I use the same accessories with both tablets?
Yes, since both tablets have USB-C ports and similar dimensions, many accessories like keyboards, covers, and USB-C hubs are interchangeable. However, exact fit may vary with form-fitted accessories.

Are both tablets suitable for drawing and digital art?
Yes, both support the S Pen and drawing apps, but the Tab S9 offers a more premium experience with better screen responsiveness, color accuracy, and smoother stylus input.

Do both tablets support 5G connectivity?
Yes, both the Galaxy Tab S9 and S9 FE are available in 5G-capable variants, although availability may vary by region and carrier.

What’s the difference in screen quality between the two?
The Tab S9 uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with HDR10+ and 120Hz refresh rate, delivering deeper contrast and smoother visuals. The S9 FE uses a TFT LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, which is less vibrant and responsive.

Is there a difference in camera quality between them?
Yes, the Tab S9 features a 13MP rear and 12MP ultra-wide front camera, while the S9 FE has an 8MP rear and 12MP standard front camera, resulting in lower photo and video quality on the FE.

Do both tablets get the same software updates?
Yes, Samsung has committed to providing both tablets with 4 years of Android OS updates and 5 years of security updates, ensuring long-term support.

Is the sound quality different on these tablets?
Yes, the Galaxy Tab S9 features a quad-speaker setup tuned by AKG, delivering richer, louder, and more immersive audio. The Tab S9 FE has a dual-speaker system that’s good but not as powerful.

Which one is better for multitasking and productivity?
The Galaxy Tab S9 is better for multitasking due to its faster processor, more RAM options, support for full DeX (wired and wireless), and smoother display performance. The S9 FE handles productivity well but is more limited under heavy multitasking scenarios.