Samsung, renowned for its flagship S series and innovative Z foldable phones, is not just limited to high-end devices. The tech giant boasts an impressive array of budget-friendly devices, including the Galaxy Tab A series. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+, evaluating its design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, software features, and overall value for money. Let’s explore whether this budget tablet can outshine its competitors in a fiercely competitive market.
Design & Build: A Premium Touch at an Affordable Price
Samsung manages to marry affordability with premium aesthetics in the Galaxy Tab A9+. Priced at under £250, this tablet exudes a sleek and shiny metal body, available in three chic colors: Graphite, Navy, and Silver. At just 6.9mm thick and 480g in weight, it’s comfortably portable without sacrificing style. The absence of an IP rating, common in budget tablets, may leave it vulnerable to water and dust, but the tablet compensates with its face recognition feature, working seamlessly even in dimmer conditions.
Screen & Speakers of Tab A9+: A Visual and Auditory Feast
The 11-inch FHD+ LCD display on the Tab A9+ impresses indoors with its bold and vivid visuals. However, outdoor visibility under bright sunlight leaves something to be desired, especially when compared to competitors like the Redmi Pad SE. The tablet’s up to 90Hz refresh rate provides a smooth user experience, though users have to choose between adaptive mode and the standard 60Hz option. The quad speakers deliver reasonably loud and surprisingly deep sound, a notable feature for a tablet in this price range.
Specs & Performance: Balancing Act with Snapdragon 695
Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, the Tab A9+ offers smooth day-to-day performance. The 4GB RAM and 64GB storage variant may feel constrained for heavy users, but the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage option provides a more robust experience. While it handles tasks like web browsing and video streaming adeptly, resource-intensive applications like Genshin Impact might require additional storage. The tablet’s support for 5G is an advantage, although it comes at a £50 premium over the Wi-Fi version.
Cameras: A Modest Offering
Budget tablets often compromise on camera quality, and the Tab A9+ is no exception. The 8MP rear and 5MP front cameras deliver subpar performance, struggling with distant details and producing washed-out results. While sufficient for video calls, these cameras fall short of capturing impressive shots, even in well-lit conditions. The tablet’s limited zoom capabilities further underscore its focus on functionality rather than photography.
Battery Life & Charging: Holding Its Own
With a 7040mAh battery, the Tab A9+ provides a decent one-day battery life under heavy usage. However, competitors like the Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE offer superior longevity. The tablet’s 15W charging, while not exceptional, gets the job done. Adjusting to the standard 60Hz refresh rate improves power efficiency, making it a practical choice for travelers looking to conserve battery during extended use.
Software & Apps: The Samsung Advantage
Running on Android 13 with One UI 5.1, the Tab A9+ delivers a clean and user-friendly software experience. Samsung’s skin over Android provides a familiar interface, akin to Galaxy phones. Minimal pre-installed clutter, access to popular apps, and a well-optimized tablet layout enhance the overall user experience. The promise of four years of security updates adds a layer of longevity to the device.
Price & Availability: Bang for the Buck
Starting from £239, the Galaxy Tab A9+ offers a compelling package in terms of performance, design, and software. Available in various configurations, including Wi-Fi and 5G options with different storage capacities, it caters to diverse user preferences. The tablet is accessible through multiple retailers in the UK, with availability on Samsung, Amazon, Argos, John Lewis, EE, and Sky. While not yet available in the US at the time of writing, it remains a noteworthy contender in the budget tablet arena.
The Verdict on the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ emerges as a commendable budget tablet, presenting an appealing blend of design, performance, and software. Despite its strengths, the tablet faces stiff competition from the likes of the Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE, offering longer battery life and a more impressive display at a lower price point. Alternatively, the Tab A9, its smaller sibling, provides a cost-effective alternative with some shared specifications. Ultimately, the choice between the Tab A9+ and its competitors boils down to individual preferences, with its larger 11-inch screen and Samsung branding serving as key selling points for those seeking a balance between affordability and functionality.
