Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra vs S9+ vs S9: The Ultimate Tablet Showdown and What’s Next

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 series represents the pinnacle of Android tablets as of 2025, offering three premium models – the Galaxy Tab S9 (11-inch), Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4-inch), and Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra (14.6-inch) – to cater to different needs. Launched in mid-2023 samsung.com theverge.com, these tablets share a high-end DNA (including powerful processors and vivid AMOLED screens) but differ in size, camera setups, memory options, and price. Samsung even rolled out more affordable Fan Edition versions in late 2023 (Galaxy Tab S9 FE and S9 FE+) for budget-conscious buyers androidauthority.com, but this comparison will focus on the flagship S9 trio. We’ll dive into their design, displays, performance, software, battery life, camera systems, S Pen features, connectivity, pricing, and availability. We’ll also discuss which model best fits various user profiles – from creatives and professionals to students and casual users – and highlight recent updates plus credible rumors about Samsung’s upcoming tablets (including the Galaxy Tab S10 series).

At a glance, here’s how the core specs of the Galaxy Tab S9 series compare:

Table: Key specifications of the Galaxy Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra. All three share Samsung’s premium Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with 120Hz refresh, the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, and include an S Pen stylus in the box. Differences lie in screen size, camera count, RAM/storage configurations, battery capacity, and of course physical size/weight and pricing samsung.com samsung.com samsung.com.

In the sections below, we break down each aspect in detail and highlight how these tablets perform in real-world use, with insights from expert reviewers. We’ll also explore which model is best suited for various users and peek at upcoming Samsung tablets like the Galaxy Tab S10 series.

Design & Build Quality

All Galaxy Tab S9 models share a sleek and minimalist design, with an aluminum unibody construction that’s impressively thin and lightweight for their respective sizes (just 5.5–5.9mm thick) en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org. The build quality is top-notch, exuding a premium feel comparable to the iPad Pro line. Despite the large footprints, especially of the 14.6-inch S9 Ultra, Samsung engineered these tablets to be robust. Notably, the S9 series is the first Galaxy Tab generation to feature IP68 water and dust resistance on all models samsung.com. This means each tablet (and even the included S Pen) is rated to survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes samsung.com – a rarity among tablets and a boon for durability. In practical terms, you won’t need to worry about a splash or using the tablet in humid environments.

Aesthetically, the trio looks similar: a slim bezel around the display (thinnest on the Ultra, which maximizes screen-to-body ratio), a magnetic strip on the back for the S Pen, and a clean rear design with a protruding camera module (single lens on the Tab S9, dual lenses on S9+ and Ultra). Color options are subdued – Samsung offers a sophisticated Beige (tan/gold hue) or a classic Graphite (dark gray/black) for the S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra en.wikipedia.org. These neutral colors suit professional settings and don’t show fingerprints easily.

Ergonomics: The 11″ Tab S9 is the smallest and lightest at ~500g, making it comfortable to hold one-handed or curl up with for e-books and web browsing samsung.com. By contrast, the Tab S9 Ultra’s massive size (326.4 × 208.6 mm) and ~732g weight can make it unwieldy to hold for long periods samsung.com. Its nearly laptop-sized footprint is best used propped up on a desk or lap. The Tab S9+ sits in the middle at ~586g, offering more screen real estate than the base model without the Ultra’s dramatic dimensions samsung.com. Still, even the S9+ may feel hefty for handheld use over extended sessions – physics can’t be defied. The super-slim profile of these tablets somewhat offsets their weight, and the balanced weight distribution means they feel evenly supported. However, using the Ultra in portrait orientation is awkward due to its extreme length; the Verge notes it’s “painfully awkward” to hold the largest model in portrait, whereas the base S9 is perfectly comfortable in any orientation theverge.com theverge.com.

Build features: All three tablets have quad speakers (more on that later) and a USB-C 3.2 port with DisplayPort support, allowing you to output video to monitors or use Samsung’s DeX mode externally. There’s no 3.5mm headphone jack (common for high-end tablets now). Each model has a Pogo pin connector for attaching Samsung’s keyboard covers (sold separately). The power and volume buttons reside on the frame, and each has an optical fingerprint scanner embedded under the display for quick unlocking samsung.com (the FE models, by contrast, had side sensors). In sum, Samsung didn’t skimp on premium design or build – the Galaxy Tab S9 series feels like a refined evolution of the Tab S8, with added toughness (IP68 rating) and meticulous engineering.

Display Quality

One of the headline upgrades in the Tab S9 series is that Samsung went all-OLED across the lineup theverge.com theverge.com. In prior years, you had to buy the Plus or Ultra to get an AMOLED screen, while the base model used LCD. Now, every Tab S9 model sports a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a fast 120Hz refresh rate samsung.com samsung.com. The result is stunning visuals on each tablet – vibrant colors, deep inky blacks, and smooth animations – although there are differences in size, resolution, and pixel density:

• Galaxy Tab S9 (11″) – 2560×1600 resolution (16:10 aspect ratio) at ~274 ppi en.wikipedia.org. This smaller panel actually has the highest pixel density of the trio, so it looks extremely crisp. It’s fantastic for reading text (sharp fonts) and provides an immersive movie-watching experience considering its size. Reviewers were thrilled that the base S9 “finally” got an OLED; The Verge notes that “the Tab S9 now comes with the same 120Hz OLED screen as its siblings”, and combined with its quad speakers, it “provides a great movie-watching experience” theverge.com. The compact size also makes for the brightest perceived image (since the same brightness spread over a smaller area appears very punchy). Samsung claims up to 500 nits typical brightness and higher in adaptive outdoor mode – and indeed the Tab S9’s display is easily viewable even under bright light. One downside mentioned is the 16:10 aspect ratio, which on an 11-inch screen makes the display a bit narrow in portrait and a bit short in landscape for web browsing theverge.com. This aspect ratio is consistent across all S9 models; it’s great for video (minimal black bars for 16:9 content) but means less vertical space for reading or web pages compared to something like the iPad’s 4:3 screen.
• Galaxy Tab S9+ (12.4″) – 2800×1752 resolution, also 16:10, at ~266 ppi en.wikipedia.org. The Tab S9+ offers a noticeably larger canvas, which benefits multitasking and entertainment. Its screen is beautiful, with the same rich colors and contrast expected from Samsung’s AMOLED tech. The slightly lower pixel density is virtually indistinguishable in normal use – everything still looks pin-sharp. This size hits a “sweet spot” for many users: large enough for serious work or split-screen apps, yet more portable than the Ultra. It’s an ideal size for watching movies or drawing with the S Pen while still fitting in many bags. Like its siblings, it supports HDR content and gets very bright. Peak brightness is improved over the previous generation; the Tab S9 series can output higher peak nits than the Tab S8’s screens samsung.com, meaning better visibility outdoors and more impactful HDR highlights. Samsung also touts eye-comfort features and reduced blue light on these displays.
• Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra (14.6″) – 2960×1848 resolution at ~239 ppi en.wikipedia.org. This colossal display is the star of the show for the Ultra. At nearly 15 inches, it’s larger than many laptop screens, and it wows with its immersion. Text and graphics still look very good, though if you inspect closely the pixel density is a bit lower – a necessary trade-off for the huge size, but reviewers generally didn’t find this to be an issue during normal viewing. The Ultra’s panel is superb for side-by-side multitasking (you can comfortably run three app windows) and for creative work like drawing or photo editing with a sprawling canvas. Colors are calibrated to be vivid yet accurate, and you can tweak display profiles (Natural or Vivid mode) in settings. TechRadar calls the Tab S9 Ultra’s screen “gorgeous”, praising its expansive real estate and saying it “holds its own against the iPad Pro” in visual quality techradar.com. The only drawbacks: the sheer size means one-handed use is impractical, and some content (like phone apps) might look hilariously large. Also, a notch – yes, the Ultra has a small screen notch for its dual front cameras. It’s fairly subtle and easy to ignore when viewing content (Samsung often hides it with a black status bar in full screen apps). The notch is a minor blemish on an otherwise breathtaking canvas.

Across all models, the 120Hz refresh rate makes interactions fluid – scrolling, animations, and writing with the S Pen all feel very responsive. These panels also support HDR10+ for enhanced dynamic range in supported videos. Samsung’s decision to unify the display tech means even the cheapest Tab S9 delivers a flagship viewing experience. As one reviewer put it, “Movies, TV shows, and games all look and sound great on them. If all you plan to do with a tablet is watch movies, you can’t do much better than these” theverge.com.

However, it’s worth noting that Apple’s app ecosystem still has more titles optimized for large tablet screens. Some Android apps might not fully utilize the big 14.6″ display or the 12.4″, resulting in wasted space or blown-up phone UIs. Samsung mitigates this with DeX mode and its own multi-window features (more on that later), but it’s an aspect to consider for app-centric users. Also, the wide aspect ratio (16:10) can make the device feel very wide in landscape; The Verge found web browsing could feel cramped vertically on the S9 due to the shorter height theverge.com – the flip side is when holding in portrait, the screen is tall and narrow, which can actually be comfortable for scrolling feeds or reading e-books like a paperback. It boils down to preference: 16:10 is excellent for media and pretty good for productivity, but not as squarish as an iPad’s 4:3 for pure reading/browsing tasks.

In summary, Samsung’s displays on the Tab S9 series are best-in-class for Android tablets – vibrant, high refresh, and now standardized across sizes. Whether you prioritize pixel density (Tab S9), a balanced large display (Tab S9+), or a maxed-out canvas (Tab S9 Ultra), you won’t be disappointed by the screen quality.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, all three Tab S9 models run on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy – a special, slightly higher-clocked variant of Qualcomm’s flagship chip co-developed with Samsung samsung.com en.wikipedia.org. This is the same chip that powered the Galaxy S23 series of phones, meaning top-tier performance is a given. In everyday use, the Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra feel equally fast: apps launch instantly, the UI is snappy, and multitasking is handled with ease. Even intensive tasks like 3D gaming or 4K video editing are within these tablets’ capabilities. Benchmarks put the S9 series at the very high end for 2023/2024 Android devices, and they hold up well in 2025 for all but the most extreme future applications.

That said, there are some differences in memory (RAM) that can affect heavy multitasking:

• The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra can be configured with up to 16GB of RAM (in the 1TB storage model) samsung.com. Most Ultra units (256GB or 512GB storage) come with 12GB RAM, but the top-end spec gives 16GB, which is laptop-level and excellent for keeping many apps/tabs open or for creative workloads (e.g., large layered drawings or editing large photos). The Ultra is truly geared for power users who might push RAM usage.
• The Galaxy Tab S9+ comes with 12GB RAM standard on both its 256GB and 512GB variants samsung.com. This is plenty for smooth performance and multitasking – 12GB is already more than most tablets offer (for context, even the latest iPad Pro 12.9” has 8GB or 16GB depending on storage). With 12GB, the S9+ can comfortably run multiple apps side by side and maintain background processes without reloading.
• The Galaxy Tab S9 (base) has either 8GB or 12GB of RAM depending on configuration samsung.com. The entry model (128GB storage) typically has 8GB RAM, while the higher storage option (256GB) bumps it to 12GB. In use, 8GB is still sufficient for the majority of tasks – you can stream video, browse with several tabs, and do some light gaming simultaneously. But if you’re a heavy multi-window user or plan on keeping the tablet for many years, the 12GB version might be more future-proof. Reviewers noted that if you’re “nitpicky,” the regular Tab S9 having 8GB in the base model is one of the only spec compromises notebookcheck.net. Nonetheless, even 8GB on Android 13/14 runs very well thanks to Samsung’s optimizations.

For storage, Samsung generously includes expandable memory via microSD card on all models – up to an additional 1TB card supported samsung.com samsung.com. Internal storage options range from 128GB (S9 only) up to 1TB (Ultra only) samsung.com. The use of UFS 4.0 storage means very fast read/write speeds, which helps in loading large files and apps quickly. Unless you opt for the base 128GB S9, most configurations have ample storage for lots of apps, offline videos, and documents. And with microSD, you can cheaply add storage for media libraries, which is a big advantage over some competitors (iPad Pro has no expansion, for example).

Thermals: The S9 series has efficient vapor chamber cooling, and in reviews these tablets stay cool under typical loads. When pushing the GPU with high-end 3D games, they can get warm, but not alarmingly so. The large surface area of the Ultra actually helps dissipate heat when used flat on a table. Sustained performance is excellent – no major throttling in benchmarks, meaning you get consistent speed even during longer workloads like gaming or video exporting.

Graphics and Gaming: The Adreno GPU in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is very powerful. All the latest Android games run at high settings and frame rates on these tablets, and the 120Hz screen can be fully utilized in games that support high FPS. Samsung even promotes features like ray tracing support on this chip samsung.com (though in reality few Android games use it). The big screens (especially 12.4″ and 14.6″) make gaming more immersive than on a phone – you can see more detail and use on-screen controls without fingers obscuring the view as much. The Tab S9+ and Ultra give a particularly great gaming experience, with their larger batteries for longer sessions and louder speakers. That said, the base Tab S9’s portability is a plus if you like to game on the go or use it like a Nintendo Switch substitute with a controller.

Overall, in terms of raw performance, there’s no weak link in the Tab S9 trio. They are arguably overpowered for current Android tablet apps, which is a good thing – it means they’re very “future-proof.” Samsung also promises lengthy software support (up to 4 major Android version updates, which would take the Tab S9 series from Android 13 up through Android 17, given they’ve already seen updates to Android 14/One UI 6 and are slated for more en.wikipedia.org). This ensures the hardware’s capabilities will be leveraged by new features over time.

One area to consider: the upcoming generation. By late 2024, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Tab S10 series with even more powerful internals. The Tab S10 Ultra/Plus boast roughly 18% faster CPU and 28% faster GPU performancethanks to a newer chipset, according to Samsung news.samsung.com. They even incorporate advanced AI co-processors (NPUs) for on-device AI features. However, unless you are doing extremely heavy tasks, the Tab S9’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is still a beast and will handle productivity and play effortlessly. The difference might be noticeable in high-end gaming or AI-driven applications down the road, but for most users the S9 series has performance to spare.

In summary, performance is a strong suit of the Galaxy Tab S9 family – fast, consistent, and capable of pro-level workloads. Whether you’re a student juggling research and notes, a professional editing documents and hopping on video calls, or a creative person drawing and editing media, these tablets keep up without breaking a sweat.

Software and Features (One UI, Multitasking & DeX)

All three tablets run Android with Samsung’s One UI overlay (One UI 5.1.1 at launch on Android 13, upgradable through One UI 6 and beyond en.wikipedia.org). Samsung has tailored the software to take advantage of large screens and stylus input, making the Tab S9 series highly productive out of the box. Key software features and experiences include:

• Desktop-Class Multitasking: Samsung’s interface supports easy split-screen and multi-window use. With a simple swipe or using the taskbar, you can run up to three apps in split view and even have floating resizable windows. On the Tab S9 Ultra’s huge screen, multitasking is particularly fruitful – you might, for instance, have a browser and Word document side by side with room to spare for a YouTube video in a floating window. The persistent taskbar(similar to the iPad’s dock or a PC taskbar) makes launching and switching apps fast. The Verge notes you “can multitask with Samsung’s extensive split-screen options on the Tab S9” and even run a desktop-like DeX mode, though on the smallest model the screen size makes too many windows feel cramped theverge.com. On the larger S9+ and Ultra, this is less of an issue – they truly shine as productivity machines when multitasking.
• Samsung DeX (Desktop Experience): DeX is a feature that allows the tablet to operate in a PC-like environment with a taskbar, windowed apps, and right-click context menus. You can use it directly on the tablet or output to a monitor/TV via the USB-C (with a single cable or HDMI adapter) for a full desktop setup. The Tab S9 series, with their beefy hardware, handle DeX very smoothly. In fact, many reviewers found that DeX has improved significantly over the years. The Verge’s tester was surprised at “just how much you can get done with this tablet”in DeX mode, noting that Samsung has addressed previous limitations and now “I can use DeX to do the majority of my work without any problems” theverge.com. They even favorably compared it to Apple’s Stage Manager, saying “Compared to Apple’s Stage Manager on iPad, DeX feels unchained”, with support for as many windows as you want, robust keyboard/trackpad controls, and the ability to extend to a larger display for dual-screen productivity theverge.com theverge.com. This essentially means the Tab S9 Ultra (especially when paired with Samsung’s keyboard case) can legitimately replace a laptop for many users. TechRadar similarly praised Samsung for “doing productivity on Android so long it makes other tablet makers look amateurish,” highlighting that multitasking on the Tab S9 Ultra is a breeze techradar.com.
• One UI and S Pen Software: One UI on tablets includes Samsung Notes, a full-featured note-taking app pre-installed. It’s excellent for handwritten notes with the S Pen, drawing, and even audio-synced note recording. Notes can sync across Samsung devices and even with Microsoft OneNote theverge.com. There’s also integration of the S Pen with many apps (like Air Commands, which let you create a note or screenshot markup from anywhere). Samsung’s software also supports handwriting-to-text input across the system – you can write in any text field and it will convert to typed text, which is great for filling forms or quick notes. With One UI 5.1.1+ on the Tab S9, there are handy perks like the taskbar, intuitive multi-finger gestures for multitasking (e.g., swipe in from sides to launch split view), and support for multi-user accounts and a Windows-like “Second Screen” feature (using the tablet as a wireless second monitor for a PC).
• GoodNotes and other apps: In a push to improve the Android tablet app ecosystem, Samsung partnered with popular developers. Notably, the Tab S9 series comes with GoodNotes available free for one year theverge.com – GoodNotes is a highly regarded note-taking/journaling app that was long exclusive to iPad. Its arrival on Samsung tablets (with a free trial year) is a big win for students and note-takers, providing a polished alternative to Samsung Notes. The series also got LumaFusion, a pro-grade video editing app, to provide iPad-like video editing capabilities samsung.com. These additions signal Samsung’s commitment to bolstering software offerings for creators. Additionally, apps like Clip Studio Paint come optimized for Galaxy tablets, and Samsung’s own PENUP app is fun for drawing/coloring community engagement. The Android app landscape for tablets, while improving, still isn’t as rich as iPadOS; some apps are just blown-up phone apps. But with these partnerships and the ability to run web versions or even Linux apps (in DeX via hacks), Tab S9 owners have plenty of tools at their disposal.
• Continuity and Ecosystem: If you have other Samsung devices (Galaxy phones, Buds, etc.), the Tab S9 series integrates well. You can seamlessly copy text or images between your Galaxy phone and tablet, use your phone’s mobile hotspot instantly on the tablet, or have your Galaxy Buds auto-switch between devices theverge.com. Samsung has clearly been inspired by Apple’s ecosystem approach – for instance, the Buds can detect the active device and switch like AirPods do between iPhone and iPad. This is great for users already in the Samsung Galaxy family, making the tablet a natural extension of your phone workflow.
• Security: All Tab S9 models have Samsung Knox security features for enterprise-grade encryption. They have the aforementioned fingerprint scanner and 2D face recognition (using the front camera) for quick unlock. One UI also provides a secure folder feature to keep sensitive files/apps locked away. Samsung’s track record on updates has been solid – monthly security patches and long OS upgrade support (4 years major OS, 5 years security) mean the Tab S9 series will remain secure and up-to-date through at least 2027 en.wikipedia.org.

Overall, the software experience on the Galaxy Tab S9 series is feature-rich and geared towards productivity and creativity. It’s arguably the best software experience on any Android tablet, thanks to Samsung’s years of iteration. As TechRadar’s review implies, Samsung’s head start in tablet software makes even Google (with its newer Pixel Tablet) look a bit behind in comparison techradar.com. There are still occasional quirks – e.g., some apps like Instagram don’t make full use of the big screen (common on Android tablets) – but Samsung’s multi-window modes often let you work around these limitations by running apps in phone-sized windows if needed. If you are coming from an iPad, you might miss some iPadOS-exclusive apps, but you’ll gain flexibility (file system access, easier external display support, etc.) with the Tab S9’s Android environment.

S Pen Experience and Features

One of Samsung’s biggest advantages in the tablet space is the included S Pen stylus. Every Galaxy Tab S9 series tablet comes with an S Pen in the box (no extra purchase necessary, unlike Apple’s Pencil) theverge.com. The S Pen is a corepart of the experience, especially for creatives, students, and note-takers. Here’s what to know about the S Pen on the Tab S9 series:

• Design and Storage: The S Pen is a sleek black stylus (or color-matched if you have the Beige tablet) that magnetically attaches to the back of the tablet for charging and storage theverge.com. On the S9 and S9+, it snaps onto a designated indented area beside the camera. On the larger S9 Ultra, it magnetically sticks in a groove on the back as well. The connection is quite strong, but for added security many Samsung book covers include a flap to hold the pen. One quibble: the Ultra’s official keyboard cover’s design reportedly didn’t cover the pen, so some found it a bit exposed. But generally, the magnetic attachment is convenient and keeps the pen always charged.
• Latency and Feel: Samsung has continually improved S Pen latency. Writing on the Tab S9’s screen feels extremely natural – the latency is as low as ~2.8 milliseconds, on par with or better than the Apple Pencil’s imperceptible lag. The Dynamic AMOLED screen’s 120Hz refresh and fast touch sampling make the ink flow with virtually no delay from your pen stroke. The pen supports over 4,000 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt detection for shading, which is great for artists. The tip glides smoothly on the glass; some artists add a matte screen protector for a paper-like resistance, but even without it, the experience is superb for drawing or handwriting. Reviewers consistently praise the S Pen as one of the best stylus implementations – The Verge’s reviewer called it “my favorite stylus” for note-taking theverge.com, and many artists appreciate the accuracy and responsiveness it offers.
• New in S9 Series: The S Pen for Tab S9 is now IP68 water resistant just like the tablet theverge.com, so it won’t be damaged by moisture. This might seem minor, but it’s reassurance if you’re using the pen with wet hands or outdoors. Functionally, the S Pen is similar to the previous generation, supporting Bluetooth Air Actions (the pen has a tiny battery and Bluetooth, allowing it to act as a remote control). You can click the button on the pen to advance slides in a presentation, play/pause music or video, or snap photos remotely – very handy for group selfies or drawing on a canvas from a slight distance. The Air Actions also include gestures: e.g., hold the button and wave the pen to change volume or switch camera modes. These are a bit of a niche use, but they’re there if you want them.
• Note-Taking & Productivity: For students or professionals, the S Pen turns the Tab S9 into a notepad and sketchbook. Samsung Notes is excellent for handwriting notes – it can convert your handwriting to text on the fly (with pretty good accuracy, even for cursive). You can draw diagrams, annotate PDFs (marking up documents is a breeze with the pen), and even sync voice recordings to your notes (so later you can tap a word and hear what was being said at that moment in a lecture). The inclusion of GoodNotes for a year free theverge.com is a boon: GoodNotes is beloved in the iPad community for its natural writing feel and organization, and its arrival on Galaxy tablets means S9 users have one more top-tier app to leverage. Whether you use Samsung Notes, GoodNotes, or another app like OneNote, the writing experience is consistently great. Many law and med students, for example, use Tab S series tablets for all their digital note-taking because of how reliable and paper-like the S Pen feels (and no worry of losing the pen since it’s attached and replaceable if needed).
• Creative Work: Artists and designers will enjoy apps like Clip Studio, Autodesk Sketchbook, Infinite Painter, and others that are optimized for S Pen. The pressure sensitivity and tilt let you do detailed line work and shading. The large canvas of the S9 Ultra is especially appealing for drawing – it’s nearly the size of a sheet of A4 paper. Samsung even has an optional S Pen Creator Edition (sold separately) which is a slightly thicker stylus designed for prolonged drawing sessions, with a textured grip and interchangeable pen tips for different friction (this accessory works with the Tab S9 series and others) samsung.com androidpolice.com. However, the standard S Pen included will suffice for the vast majority of users. One UI also supports a neat Air Command menu: hover the pen near the screen and click the button, and a circular menu pops up with shortcuts like screen write (capture screenshot and annotate), new note, translate (hover text translation), and more. You can customize these shortcuts to your liking.
• Remote and Camera Uses: The S Pen’s ability to act as a remote shutter is great for photography with the tablet (though admittedly, you won’t be snapping photos with a tablet as often as with a phone). It can also trigger recordings or be used to start/stop video remotely – useful if the tablet is on a stand across the room on a video call or if you’re presenting and want to switch slides (in PowerPoint or Samsung’s own presentation app) with a click.

In essence, the S Pen transforms the Galaxy Tab S9 series into more than just consumption devices. They become notebooks, canvas boards, presentation clickers, and more. Samsung has nearly a decade of S Pen refinement under its belt (since the early Galaxy Note phones and tablets), and it shows: the experience is polished and reliable. The fact that it’s included (and charges wirelessly on the device) is a major value-add over competitor tablets where a stylus is a ~$100 extra. If you’re an artist or someone who loves to jot notes by hand, the S9 series will likely delight you. And even if you don’t initially think you need a stylus, many users grow to love the precision it offers for fine touch control (e.g., selecting text, or tapping tiny desktop-mode buttons) and the new ways of working it enables (whiteboarding ideas, signing documents, etc.).

Camera and Multimedia

Let’s face it: cameras are not the primary reason anyone buys a tablet, but Samsung still packed some capable shooters in the Tab S9 lineup – especially on the Ultra. The camera setups differ among the models:

• Galaxy Tab S9 (base): Single 13MP rear camera (f/2.0) and a 12MP front camera (ultra-wide angle) samsung.com. The rear 13MP is a decent sensor that can handle document scanning, the occasional photo, or augmented reality apps. It has autofocus and an LED flash. Image quality is similar to a mid-range phone; in good lighting you’ll get sharp, colorful shots, but in low light it struggles compared to flagships. The front 12MP is an ultra-wide lens – great for video calls, as it can capture a wide field of view to get you and others in frame. It’s also handy for Samsung’s auto-framing feature (the camera can crop and zoom to keep you centered on video calls). This front camera is centered on the long side (landscape orientation), which is ideal for conferencing (no “off to the side” awkward eye contact as seen on iPads). For an entry model, the Tab S9’s cameras are perfectly serviceable and on par with or better than the iPad Air’s.
• Galaxy Tab S9+: Dual rear cameras: 13MP main + 8MP ultra-wide, and a 12MP front camera samsung.com. Essentially, the S9+ adds an 8MP ultra-wide lens on the back compared to the base model. This lets you capture wide landscape shots or fit more content in photos – again, not a common tablet need, but it’s there. Samsung actually upgraded this from a 6MP ultra-wide in the previous gen to 8MP now samsung.com, improving clarity a bit. The front camera is the same 12MP ultra-wide as the base model, so video calls look equally good. The S9+’s rear cameras can also record up to 4K video. While you probably won’t be doing serious photography with a 12.4″ slab, having a decent camera for things like scanning whiteboards, taking reference photos, or AR apps is useful. For example, professionals might use the tablet to annotate photos from a site visit, etc., and the cameras suffice for that.
• Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: This one gets the works – four cameras total. A dual-camera setup on the back (13MP main + 8MP ultra-wide, same as S9+), and dual front-facing cameras: 12MP wide + 12MP ultra-wide samsung.com samsung.com. The dual front cams are unique to the Ultra model. One is a standard wide-angle good for a single person, and the other is an ultra-wide that’s perfect for group video calls or if you want to capture more background. Samsung uses these in tandem to enable features like auto-framing (it can switch between the two or zoom out when a second person joins you on a call). The front cameras are located in a small notch atop the display; this position (landscape top) is ideal for conferencing, and the quality is quite high – 12MP Dual Pixel sensors that handle varying lighting well. If capturing content or live streaming is part of your workflow, the Ultra offers the best front camera system on any tablet. On the rear, the 13MP and 8MP perform similarly to the S9+. Samsung mentions the Ultra’s camera setup explicitly as “the best camera specs across the series” samsung.com, suitable for capturing and even editing images on that large screen. While it won’t beat a phone camera due to sensor size, it’s more than enough for tablet use cases. Some creators even use the Tab S9 Ultra to shoot overhead videos or demos (thanks to the big screen viewfinder and S Pen as remote).

Camera software: All models support Samsung’s suite of camera modes – Pro mode (on rear 13MP), Portrait mode (with background blur), Night mode, Hyperlapse, etc. They also have AR features, like AR Doodle which lets you draw in 3D space with the S Pen using the camera. Video calls are enhanced by software like auto framing (tracks your face and zooms appropriately) and background effects (blur or replace background) which the tablet’s processor handles. The dual front cameras on Ultra make auto-framing more versatile as mentioned.

For biometrics, the front cameras can be used for face unlock, though it’s a standard 2D facial recognition (less secure than fingerprint, but convenient).

Audio (Speakers): All Galaxy Tab S9 models have an excellent quad-speaker system tuned by AKG with Dolby Atmos support samsung.com samsung.com. This is a strong point for media consumption. Four speakers (two on each side in landscape) produce loud, rich sound with decent stereo separation. The Tab S9 Ultra and S9+ in particular have slightly larger speaker chambers, yielding impressive output – you can watch movies without external speakers and get immersive sound. Dialogue is clear and there’s a hint of bass (as much as can be expected from slim tablets). The Verge lauded the S9’s speakers as “great” theverge.com, and indeed many reviews mention that these tablets sound better than most competitors, including certain iPad models. Samsung also includes some software EQ and Dolby Atmos settings to enhance the sound for movies, music, or voice. If you pair the device with Dolby Atmos content, the surround effect is noticeable. For those into media, the combination of a gorgeous OLED screen and four loud speakers makes the Tab S9 series one of the best choices for watching Netflix, YouTube, or video calls.

Use in Photography/Video workflows: The Tab S9 Ultra’s huge screen can double as an excellent preview monitor if you connect a camera (or use wireless monitor apps). Photographers might offload images to the tablet (there’s RAW support and apps like Lightroom available) and do quick edits with the S Pen. The color-accurate OLED helps for that purpose. Videographers can use the tablet for editing as well (LumaFusion is optimized for Snapdragon, providing a near desktop-like video editing experience with multiple tracks and effects). The large storage options and microSD support also mean you can store a lot of footage.

In conclusion, while cameras aren’t the main draw of a tablet, Samsung ensured the Tab S9 series has competent camera hardware to cover all the typical needs – scanning, video calling, occasional photos – and the Ultra goes above and beyond with its dual front lenses, making it arguably the best tablet for video conferencing. Coupled with the superior speakers and screen, the S9 models are multimedia powerhouses for both consumption and a bit of content creation. As one expert review noted, if capturing high-quality images is important to you, the Tab S9 Ultra is the best tablet for the job samsung.com samsung.com – though it still can’t fully replace a dedicated camera or phone for photography, it’s a class-leader in the tablet world.

Battery Life & Charging

With great power and big screens comes the need for big batteries. Samsung equipped each Tab S9 model with a battery proportional to its size: 8,400 mAh on the Tab S9, 10,090 mAh on the S9+, and a whopping 11,200 mAh on the S9 Ultra samsung.com samsung.com samsung.com. What do these mean in daily use?

Battery life on all three is solid, easily handling a full day of typical tablet tasks, but your mileage will vary with usage patterns. The smaller Tab S9, with its lower power draw (smaller screen), can achieve the longest runtime of the trio for basic use – Samsung quoted up to 15 hours of video playback on the 11″ model under ideal conditions tomsguide.com. Real-world use at mixed workloads (web, video, apps) will be lower. For example, in one test the Tab S9 Ultra (14.6″) lasted about 9.5 hours of continuous web browsing at 60Hz refresh tomsguide.com. At 120Hz and heavier interactive use, expect that to be a bit shorter (perhaps ~8 hours). The Tab S9 and S9+ should last a bit longer in similar tests – users report around 10–12 hours of screen-on time on the base S9 with moderate use reddit.com, and the S9+ typically in the 9–11 hour range. Essentially, all can last through a full work or school day of intermittent use, or binge a couple of movies in a row without charging. Standby drain is minimal thanks to One UI optimizations and Android’s Doze mode – meaning if you leave the tablet idle for days, it loses very little battery.

It’s worth noting that if you push the tablets in DeX desktop mode or heavy multitasking, the battery will drain faster, especially on the Ultra. The Verge found the Ultra’s battery life “middling” when used intensively in desktop mode theverge.com – the big screen and constant high usage can tax it. For example, juggling multiple apps and brightness up could reduce battery life to around 6-7 hours. Still, that’s respectable for such a large, bright display.

For lighter tasks like e-reading or note-taking (screen on but low usage), these tablets can go much longer. And video playback is quite efficient on AMOLED (black scenes use almost no power) – so if you primarily watch locally stored videos, you’ll get some of the best longevity.

Charging: All Tab S9 models support 45W fast charging via USB-C with Power Delivery theverge.com. This can refill the tablets relatively quickly given their size: about 80-90 minutes to go from 0 to 100% with a 45W charger for the Tab S9 and S9+, and roughly ~1hr 30min to 1hr 45min for the Ultra (as per user tests and Samsung’s specs). Importantly, Samsung does not include a charger in the box theverge.com – you only get a USB-C cable. So you’ll need a compatible 45W PD charger to achieve those speeds (Samsung sells one, and many third-party GaN chargers support 45W PD). If you use a typical phone charger (15W or so), these large batteries will charge much more slowly (and “take forever” as one reviewer lamented theverge.com). To get the most out of the fast-charging, invest in a proper adapter.

There’s no wireless charging (tablets generally don’t offer that), but you can charge via battery packs at decent speeds if the pack supports 45W USB PD output – handy for travel.

One neat feature: because of USB-C with DisplayPort, you can use “reverse” charging or power the tablet while using it with peripherals. For instance, if you connect the tablet to a monitor via a USB-C hub, with power delivery, the hub can charge the tablet while it drives an external display. Or you could even top up a phone or accessory from the tablet (slowly) using a USB-C cable in a pinch, since the tablet supports reverse charging.

Overall, the Tab S9 series strikes a good balance – each model’s battery is sized to comfortably support its screen for many hours. The Ultra, while having the biggest battery, also can consume more power (biggest screen, likely to be used more intensively), so it ends up with similar endurance to the smaller ones under heavy use. But under light use, the Ultra can truly last a long time (e.g., just note-taking or reading documents, you might go multiple days on a charge).

Power management: Samsung’s software offers various battery modes, like Power Saving (limits CPU speed, lowers brightness, etc.) to extend life if needed, and Adaptive Battery which learns your usage patterns. There’s also “protect battery” feature to limit charge to 85% for longevity if you mostly keep it plugged in (useful if the tablet is used like a desktop replacement often).

In summary, battery life is more than sufficient for day-to-day usage on the S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra, and charging is fairly quick with the right adapter. None of these tablets are likely to leave you hunting for an outlet midday unless you’re really pushing the limits (in which case, a power bank or plugging in during use is an option). They may not quite match Apple’s M1/M2 iPads in absolute efficiency (Apple’s chips are extremely power-efficient), but the difference isn’t huge and the trade-offs are more than acceptable given the features and performance on offer.

Connectivity and Accessories

The Galaxy Tab S9 series offers all the modern connectivity you’d expect:

• Wi-Fi: All models come with Wi-Fi 6E support (802.11ax on 2.4/5/6 GHz) samsung.com. Wi-Fi 6E means if you have a compatible router, the tablet can use the 6 GHz band for faster, uncongested connections – useful for high-speed data transfers or low-latency streaming. Even on regular Wi-Fi 5 or 6 networks, the tablets perform great, with strong reception thanks to multiple antennas. As of 2025, Wi-Fi 6E is still cutting-edge (Wi-Fi 7 is just emerging, which the Tab S10 series might introduce, but for now 6E is more than sufficient). In practical use, you can stream 4K video, do video calls, and download large files without hiccups.
• Cellular (5G) Option: Samsung offers each of the Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra in both Wi-Fi only and 5G cellularvariants samsung.com samsung.com samsung.com. The 5G models have a SIM slot (or eSIM) and support a broad range of 5G and LTE bands notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net, meaning you can get online anywhere with a cellular data plan. This is great for professionals on the move or anyone who wants connectivity beyond Wi-Fi. Do note, the 5G models cost more (typically ~$150–$200 premium) and may not be available in all regions or carriers. Interestingly, The Verge noted that the Tab S9 Ultra in the U.S. initially didn’t have a cellular option theverge.com – it might have been a Wi-Fi only at launch in some places – but globally Samsung does list 5G models for all three. If you need always-on connectivity, check your local Samsung or carrier listings for the 5G version availability. Otherwise, you can tether from your phone when needed.
• Bluetooth: They come with Bluetooth 5.3, the latest standard, for connecting accessories: keyboards, mice, headphones, etc. Bluetooth connections are stable and with 5.3 you get benefits like lower latency audio (if using Samsung’s own Galaxy Buds2 Pro, for instance, you can get the Samsung Seamless Codec for high quality, low-latency audio). You can easily use a Bluetooth mouse or keyboard if you don’t have Samsung’s official keyboard cover.
• USB-C and Expandability: The USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port supports data transfer, charging, and video out (DisplayPort Alt Mode). You can connect a USB-C hub to plug in external monitors, USB drives, Ethernet, HDMI, SD card readers, etc. It effectively can turn the tablet into a mini laptop/desktop when combined with DeX mode. External monitor support will mirror or extend your display; in DeX you can have a different app on the external screen while using the tablet screen as a second monitor – very cool for multitasking. Also, file transfers via USB-C to a computer or drive are speedy thanks to USB 3.2 speeds. And don’t forget the microSD slot (usually on the side, combined with SIM tray on 5G models), which is a simple way to expand storage or transfer files/photos from a camera.
• GPS: The cellular models have full GNSS (GPS, Glonass, etc.) support for location, which is useful if you use the tablet for navigation or mapping in the field (e.g., in a car mount). Wi-Fi models can still do location via Wi-Fi positioning, but not as accurately in all scenarios.
• Samsung Ecosystem Connect: The Tab S9s support Quick Share (Samsung’s AirDrop-like file sharing) with other Galaxy devices, and even Second Screen as mentioned (use tablet as second monitor for a Windows PC). If you have a Windows 10/11 PC, you can also use Link to Windows to get notifications and messaging integrated. The tablet can also serve as a smart home dashboard through the SmartThings app, controlling IoT devices, etc.
• Accessories: Samsung offers a range of first-party accessories. The most popular is the Book Cover Keyboard(and the Book Cover Keyboard Slim variant). For the Tab S9 Ultra, Samsung has a premium keyboard cover with a built-in trackpad, effectively turning it into a laptop form factor. It even has a back cover portion that protects the S Pen and a detachable keyboard part. This keyboard with trackpad was priced around $349 (and a keyboard-only version without trackpad for ~$200) theverge.com. It’s pricey, but it is very useful for productivity and DeX mode. Many reviewers liked the typing feel but noted the keyboard could be “flimsy” or less rigid than ideal on the Ultra due to its size techradar.com. Still, if you intend to do a lot of typing, it’s a worthy addition (or you can use any Bluetooth keyboard/trackpad as an alternative). Samsung also sells Book Covers (without keyboard) that protect the tablet and double as a stand (with multiple viewing angles). There are third-party cases, including rugged ones and folios, widely available since the dimensions are common to Tab S9 series. Another accessory is the USB-C to 3.5mm headphone adapter (since no jack on board, if you want to use wired headphones). And of course, extra S Pen tips and the S Pen Creator Edition pen we touched on for enthusiasts.

In short, the Tab S9 series is well-equipped for connectivity and expandability, making it a versatile device in various scenarios – whether you’re using it at home, in the office hooked up to peripherals, or on the go with LTE/5G. It’s on par or better than competitors in this regard (for instance, iPads only recently got USB-C and still don’t support mouse pointers as fully as Android does, nor expandable storage). Samsung clearly aimed to make the Tab S9 trio not just tablets, but potential PC replacements for many tasks, and the connectivity options reflect that.

Pricing and Availability

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 family sits in the premium price tier, reflecting their high-end specs. At launch (August 2023), Samsung actually raised prices by ~$100 over the prior generation theverge.com. Official starting prices (USD)were approximately: $799.99 for the base Tab S9 (128GB, Wi-Fi), $999.99 for the Tab S9+ (256GB, Wi-Fi), and $1,199.99 for the Tab S9 Ultra (256GB, Wi-Fi) theverge.com. Higher storage or 5G-capable configurations cost more – for example, a Tab S9 Ultra 512GB or 5G model could go for $1,399+, approaching ultrabook laptop prices. These tablets undoubtedly represent a significant investment, especially if you add accessories (the official keyboard case, for instance, can add a few hundred dollars). As one reviewer quipped, a fully decked Tab S9 Ultra with keyboard can hit $1,400–$1,500, “the price of a nicely equipped MacBook Air” theverge.com.

However, by 2024 and into 2025, we’ve seen discounts and deals that make the Tab S9 series more accessible. It’s not uncommon to find $100–$200 off during sales. In fact, during holiday season 2024, the Galaxy Tab S9+ (256GB) was spotted at $300 off its regular price phonearena.com phonearena.com, bringing it down near ~$800 which is a great value for its capabilities. Samsung’s own store and major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon often run promotions – e.g., Samsung might offer trade-in credits or bundle an accessory, and Amazon/Best Buy have intermittent price cuts. As of mid-2025, the Tab S9 base could often be found around $699 on sale, S9+ around $899, and S9 Ultra near $999-$1,049 on sale (these figures fluctuate, of course). It’s worth keeping an eye on seasonal deals if you’re looking to buy.

Availability: The Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra are widely available in many regions including North America, Europe, and Asia. They can be purchased through Samsung’s official website, carriers (for cellular models), electronics retailers (Best Buy, etc.), and online platforms (Amazon, etc.). By now, since they’re no longer the very latest model (with Tab S10 announced in late 2024), some configurations might go in and out of stock, but Samsung typically continues selling the previous gen for a while, often at a slight discount. In some markets, only the Wi-Fi variants might be sold officially. All three models come with the S Pen in box, but as noted no charger included, so factor in a charger if you don’t have a spare 45W brick.

Color options (Graphite, Beige) are generally both available in most places, though sometimes one might be exclusive to certain retailers. There aren’t multiple finishes beyond those two for the flagship models (the Fan Edition tablets had different colors like Mint and Lavender en.wikipedia.org, but not the main S9 series).

Warranty and Support: Samsung provides a standard 1-year warranty in most regions. They also offer Samsung Care+ accidental damage coverage plans at purchase if you want insurance for drops/spills (though given the IP68 rating covers spills to an extent, the main worry would be screen damage from drops). Replacement S Pens are available (~$60) if you lose yours, and tips are cheap to replace when they wear out (Samsung includes a couple extra nibs in the box).

In terms of longevity, since these are premium devices, they should remain viable for several years. Samsung’s promise of multi-year updates means you’ll get new features and security fixes, keeping them fresh. Even when the Galaxy Tab S10 series became official in late 2024, the Tab S9 series still remained a powerful and slightly more affordable alternative (much like how last year’s phone model often is a good value). For example, PhoneArena in late 2024 pointed out that the Tab S9+ was “still a very capable device” and a great bargain when discounted, even though it became the “previous generation” after S10’s launch phonearena.com phonearena.com.

If you’re shopping in 2025, you essentially have a choice: get the Tab S9 series at a discount or wait/pay more for the Tab S10 series (which we’ll discuss next). The Tab S9 models are readily available now and proven in reviews – they’re among the best Android tablets you can buy as of now notebookcheck.net, frequently topping “best tablet” lists.

Which Galaxy Tab S9 Model is Right for You?

Samsung has stratified the S9 series to cater to different users. Here’s a breakdown of who should choose the Tab S9 vs S9+ vs S9 Ultra, based on expert insights and capabilities:

• 💼 Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra – “The one to get work done on” theverge.com: This is the tablet for professionals, power users, and creatives who want the absolute best and biggest. With its expansive 14.6″ display and highest specs, the S9 Ultra is ideal if you plan to replace or supplement a laptop. It shines in scenarios like: using multiple apps in DeX mode for serious multitasking, editing documents while on video calls (the dual front cameras are great for Zoom/Teams), drawing or photo editing on a large canvas, and consuming media on a home theater-like screen. If you’re an artist, the Ultra gives you the most screen real estate to draw. If you’re a business user, pairing the Ultra with the keyboard cover can turn it into an Android laptop – it’s pricey, but extremely capable. As The Verge puts it, “There’s really only one reason to consider the enormous Tab S9 Ultra: you plan to use it instead of a laptop to get work done.” theverge.com It is overkill for casual use – and too large to carry casually or hold for long – but for those who need a productivity machine, it will amaze enthusiasts and please those who love big screens techradar.com. Keep in mind: it’s very expensive and not very portable. Also, if you specifically need cellular, verify if your region has the Ultra 5G model (some noted a lack of cellular option at first theverge.com). Battery life is decent but can dip if you’re pushing it hard. In short, choose the Tab S9 Ultra if you want the maximum screen and performance for work and play, you’re okay with laptop-like weight, and budget is no issue. It’s tailor-made for professionals (think graphic designers, engineers viewing large blueprints, executives wanting a tablet that can do it all in meetings) and die-hard tech enthusiasts who just want the biggest and best.
• 🎨 Galaxy Tab S9+ – “The golden middle” or “just mid”?: The 12.4″ Tab S9+ is a balanced option for media lovers, gamers, and general productivity. It offers a significantly larger screen than the base S9, which is great for movies, games, and split-screen apps, yet it’s more portable and affordable than the Ultra. If you find the Ultra too huge (or too expensive), but the 11″ S9 too small for your needs, the S9+ is the “Goldilocks” choice – as one review dubbed it the “balanced choice” notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. It’s fantastic for entertainment (earning the nickname “12.4-inch entertainment monster” in one Black Friday deal post phonearena.com) – the AMOLED screen and quad speakers make Netflix or Disney+ content shine. It’s also a great productivity device: with 12GB RAM and the same processor, it handles multitasking and DeX very well, just on a slightly smaller scale than the Ultra. Students might find the S9+ useful – it’s big enough to view full-page documents or textbooks and take notes side-by-side. It can also serve as a family tablet, propped up for everyone to watch. However, some tech experts felt the S9+ doesn’t stand out strongly against its siblings. For instance, Reviewed.com (USA Today) argued that “there’s nothing particularly wrong with the Galaxy Tab S9+. But there are better options… for almost every scenario”, suggesting that power users might as well go Ultra, while casual users might stick to the smaller S9 notebookcheck.net. The Verge bluntly called it “the one to skip”, reasoning that it combined the worst aspects of the Ultra’s size and the S9’s compromises, without a unique advantage theverge.com. That’s a harsh take, but it stems from the S9+ being a middle-ground device. Choose the Tab S9+ if you know you want a large screen for entertainment or productivity, but you’re not prepared for the bulk or cost of the Ultra. It’s a “happy medium” for many, offering a spacious digital canvas that’s still backpack-friendly and slightly easier to handle, plus it has that extra rear camera if tablet photography matters at all. Many will find it just right – especially if you can snag it on sale, as it often gets hefty discounts, making it a great value for what you get phonearena.com.
• 📱 Galaxy Tab S9 – “The one for tablet stuff” theverge.com: The smallest of the lot, the Tab S9 is best suited for casual and everyday tablet use – think of it as Samsung’s equivalent to the iPad Pro 11” or iPad Air, but with an OLED advantage. If your usage is mostly consuming content (web browsing, eBooks, YouTube/Netflix, social media), taking notes, sketching, and maybe some light work on the go, the 11″ S9 is ideal. It’s the only one truly comfortable to hold for long periods or toss in a small bag. The Verge’s review highlighted that “of the three, the 11-inch Tab S9 is the one best suited for typical tablet tasks” and “the only one that’s really comfortable to hold in your hands for an extended period” theverge.com. Students might prefer this model for note-taking in class due to its portability (it’s roughly the size of an A5 notebook). It’s also a lot more wieldy for reading or gaming on the couch. Despite being the “base” model, it doesn’t feel like a downgrade – you still get the same premium display tech and speakers, so media is awesome on it. And performance is identical for all intents and purposes. You do miss out on the dual rear camera (only a single lens here) and the screen’s obviously smaller which makes multi-window multitasking a bit tighter. It’s also limited to 8GB RAM in the base variant, which is fine now but heavy multitaskers might prefer the 12GB config. The battery life can stretch slightly further than the others, making it a marathon runner for all-day casual use. Choose the Tab S9 (11″) if you want a high-end tablet that’s comfortable and versatile: it’s great for travel, as an e-reader, as a digital notebook, and for general use around the house or office. It’s also the cheapest of the trio, and while still pricey compared to mid-range tablets, it offers the best value if you don’t need the larger displays. One could argue it’s the most practical of the three for typical users. As a bonus, being smaller, it pairs well with compact Bluetooth keyboards or even in handheld gaming mounts. And if you ever need to do serious work, it still can – just hook it up to a monitor via DeX and it’s as powerful as the rest.

In summary, your choice boils down to portability vs. productivity vs. size:

• Go for Tab S9 Ultra if you want the ultimate Android tablet experience and a potential laptop replacement – you’re a pro user, creative, or someone who needs that giant screen.
• Pick Tab S9+ if you desire a larger display for entertainment/productivity but still value some portability – it’s the all-rounder that tries to offer the best of both worlds.
• Stick with Tab S9 (11″) if you need a premium tablet that’s easy to carry and hold, for general use, note-taking, and media – essentially a high-end tablet in a convenient form factor.

Each model excels for its target audience, and all support the same accessories and software features, so it’s really about form factor preference and budget.

Recent Updates and Future Outlook

Since the Galaxy Tab S9 series release, there have been a few noteworthy updates and news:

• Software Updates: Samsung has rolled out updates bringing Android 14 (One UI 6.0) to the Tab S9 trio in late 2024, and is expected to bring Android 15 (One UI 7.0) in 2025 en.wikipedia.org. These updates add features like a refreshed UI design, improved multitasking gestures, and enhanced privacy features. For example, One UI 6 improved the taskbar and added new S Pen functions, while One UI 7.0 (expected with Android 15) will continue to refine the experience. Samsung’s commitment to four major OS upgrades means the Tab S9 series will stay current for years, receiving new One UI capabilities that may debut on newer devices and trickle down.
• Galaxy Tab S9 FE Series: In October 2023, Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and S9 FE+, which are toned-down, more affordable versions of these tablets androidauthority.com. They have slightly larger LCD screens (10.9″ and 12.4″ TFT 90Hz displays), Exynos 1380 mid-range processors, and a lower price point. For those who loved the idea of an S9 but couldn’t justify the cost, the FE series (Fan Edition) became an attractive option. They come with S Pens too, but cut some features (e.g., FE has LCD instead of AMOLED, no in-screen fingerprint – it uses side button, slightly lesser cameras, etc.  en.wikipedia.org). While not our main focus here, it’s good to know Samsung expanded the S9 family to different price tiers. The FE models are great budget alternatives for students or casual users, though the flagship S9 models still outshine them in display and performance.
• Competitive landscape: Samsung’s main rival Apple updated its iPad Pro 11 and 12.9 with M2 chips, and other Android makers like Lenovo and Xiaomi also launched new tablets. But the Tab S9 series has generally maintained a lead as the best Android tablets thanks to their combination of hardware and software. They frequently top “Best Tablets of 2024” lists notebookcheck.net. As of 2025, if someone wants an Android tablet, the conversation often starts with Tab S9 (or Tab S8 if budget, or S9 FE for mid-range).

Looking ahead, Samsung’s upcoming tablets are on the horizon:

• 📰 Galaxy Tab S10 Series: Samsung did not launch a Tab S10 alongside the Galaxy S24 phones in early 2024, instead they held off until later in the year. In September 2024, Samsung officially unveiled the Galaxy Tab S10+ and S10 Ultra as the successors news.samsung.com. Interestingly, Samsung chose to skip a direct Tab S10 (11-inch) model in that launch. Rumors had suggested Samsung might drop the small size to focus on larger screens androidcentral.com – which turned out true, at least initially. The Tab S10 Ultra (14.6″) and Tab S10+ (12.4″) come with notable upgrades: a next-gen processor (reports indicated Samsung might use a mix of Qualcomm and MediaTek chipsets in different regions androidcentral.com – indeed some Tab S10 units feature a flagship MediaTek Dimensity chip, while others use Qualcomm, similar to how Samsung mixes chips in phones). Samsung touted the Tab S10 series as “AI-Ready” tablets news.samsung.com, highlighting new AI features integrated into One UI. For example, they introduced a Galaxy AI assistant key on the new keyboard, Note AI features (Note Assist that can summarize or refine your notes), Drawing Assist for art, and even an AI image generation feature (Sketch to Image) on-device news.samsung.com news.samsung.com. They also improved the displays with an advanced anti-reflective coating for better outdoor visibility news.samsung.com, and of course bumped performance (Samsung cited roughly 18% faster CPU, 28% faster GPU vs Tab S9 Ultra’s chip, plus a 14% NPU boost for AI tasks news.samsung.com). The Tab S10 series still uses Dynamic AMOLED 2X tech and keeps the sizes the same. They come bundled with an S Pen (no surprise) and maintain IP68 durability news.samsung.com, with even stronger Armor Aluminum frames. By October 2024, the Tab S10+ and Ultra became available in markets 9to5google.com. For consumers in 2025, this means if you want the absolute latest, the Tab S10 series is it – but they are iterative improvements. If AI features and a bit more horsepower excite you, those are the models to watch. However, if you find a good deal on a Tab S9 series device, rest assured it’s still very close in core experience to the S10 (the S9’s screen, design, and main features are still among the best).
• 🔮 Rumors of Tab S10 Lite / S11: Beyond the Ultra and Plus, there have been rumors that Samsung might release a Galaxy Tab S10 Lite (or S10 FE) to fill the lower end of the premium lineup androidcentral.com. Some leaks suggest a “Lite” model could come in early 2025 alongside the Galaxy S25 phones reddit.com, which might reintroduce an 11-inch size in the S10 generation. Additionally, looking further, there are already whispers about the Galaxy Tab S11 series. One report claims the Tab S11 line could launch not too long after, possibly in late 2025 androidcentral.com androidcentral.com, which indicates Samsung might accelerate their tablet release cadence or simply align with new chips (like Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Gen 4) and new display tech. Some early leaked renders for a Tab S11 Ultra suggest maybe minor design tweaks and even bigger batteries in the works androidcentral.com androidcentral.com. It’s also mentioned that Samsung is exploring new form factors, including a potential tri-fold tablet (a tablet that folds in two places) androidcentral.com – though that seems more experimental and not yet confirmed for release.
• Software future: Samsung’s tablets will also benefit from Google’s renewed focus on large-screen Android (Android 12L, 13, 14 all brought improvements for tablets). So we expect even better app support and features in coming updates, which will make devices like the Tab S9 even more capable over time. Samsung’s own software, like the upcoming One UI 7, might incorporate some AI enhancements backported from the S10 series, like possibly the Note-taking AI features or improved multitasking options.

For someone considering a purchase or just curious: the Tab S9 series remains an excellent buy in 2025, especially if you get it at a discount. It’s a mature, well-reviewed product with few downsides aside from cost. If you need the cutting edge, the Tab S10 series (with its AI features and slightly faster internals) is available, but it doesn’t drastically change the formula – think of it as a refinement. And Samsung’s likely to keep both lines updated for years.

In conclusion, Samsung has built a formidable tablet lineup with the Galaxy Tab S9 trio. They cater to nearly every high-end tablet user: from the portable power of the Tab S9, to the big-screen versatility of the S9+, up to the no-compromise, super-sized Ultra. They are praised by experts as possibly the best Android tablets ever techradar.com notebookcheck.net, giving even Apple’s iPad Pros strong competition with features like OLED displays and bundled stylus. Whether you’re an artist sketching your next masterpiece, a student going paperless with notes, a professional seeking a laptop alternative, or simply someone who wants an awesome device for movies and web browsing – there’s a Galaxy Tab S9 model aimed at you. And with Samsung continuing to refine its tablet offerings and software, the ecosystem is only growing stronger. The Galaxy Tab S9 series proves that Android tablets can be premium, powerful, and productive, and it sets the stage for even more innovation with the upcoming generations.

Sources: Samsung Official Galaxy Tab S9 Guide samsung.com samsung.com; The Verge (D. Seifert) theverge.com theverge.com; TechRadar (P. Berne) techradar.com; PhoneArena phonearena.com; Android Central androidcentral.com; Samsung Newsroom news.samsung.com; Notebookcheck/Reviewed notebookcheck.net; Wikipedia en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org.