Best $599 Tablet? - iPad Air 6 (2024) vs Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus

Summary

In this video, a detailed comparison is made between the all-new iPad Air 6 and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus, two mid-range tablets priced at $599. Both devices offer similar storage options, but the Galaxy Tab includes an S Pen, whereas the iPad requires an Apple Pencil. While the iPad excels in performance, with nearly double the multi-core and GPU scores, the Galaxy Tab offers better battery life and features like fast charging and a higher refresh rate display. Each tablet has its strengths, and the choice depends on personal preferences, such as software ecosystem, drawing tools, and performance needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 Both the iPad Air 6 and Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ are priced similarly at $599, but the Galaxy Tab offers more flexibility with expandable storage via MicroSD.
• 😀 The iPad Air 6 has a smaller 10.68-inch display, while the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a larger 12.4-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother experience for media consumption.
• 😀 Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a brighter display (600 nits) compared to the iPad's 500 nits, making it better for outdoor use.
• 😀 Battery life on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is superior, lasting about 6.5 hours compared to the iPad Air 6's 5.5 hours, making it a better option for longer usage without charging.
• 😀 The iPad Air 6 offers better performance, with significantly higher multi-core and GPU scores compared to the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+, making it the better choice for gaming and demanding apps.
• 😀 Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ includes the S Pen stylus in the box, whereas Apple’s iPad Air 6 requires a separate purchase for the Apple Pencil.
• 😀 Software-wise, the iPad Air 6 runs iPadOS 17.5 with Stage Manager, while the Galaxy Tab runs Android 14 with Samsung Dex, providing a more desktop-like experience.
• 😀 The iPad has superior performance for tasks like gaming and intensive apps, while the Galaxy Tab offers a more cost-effective solution with a built-in stylus and greater customization options.
• 😀 Both tablets feature good speakers, but the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ can get louder, especially with Dolby Atmos enabled, providing a better sound experience for media.
• 😀 For video recording, the iPad offers 4K at 60fps on the rear camera, while the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is limited to 4K at 30fps on the front camera and 1080p on the rear, making the iPad a better choice for high-quality video creation.

Q & A

What are the main differences in the screen size and resolution between the iPad Air 6 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+?

The iPad Air 6 features a 10.68-inch display with a resolution of 2360 x 1640, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a larger 12.4-inch display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600. The iPad has a 60Hz refresh rate, whereas the Galaxy Tab has a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals.

How does the battery life compare between the iPad Air 6 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+?

The iPad Air 6 lasts 5.5 hours on a battery drain test, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ lasts 6.5 hours, offering better battery life. Additionally, the Galaxy Tab supports 45W fast charging, compared to the iPad's 30W charging.

Which tablet has better performance in terms of processing power?

The iPad Air 6 significantly outperforms the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ in terms of processing power. The iPad has about twice the multi-core performance and a much higher GPU score, making it a better choice for demanding tasks and gaming.

What are the software features that distinguish the iPad Air 6 and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+?

The iPad Air 6 runs on iPadOS 17.5 and features Stage Manager for multitasking, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ runs Android 14 with One UI 6.1, offering Samsung Dex for productivity and a taskbar for quick app switching. The iPad also has AirDrop for easy file transfer to Macs.

What are the advantages of the S Pen included with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+?

The S Pen comes included with the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ and does not require charging. It provides a seamless experience for note-taking and drawing, making it a convenient tool for users who need a stylus for productivity or creativity.

Which tablet has better camera specifications and video recording capabilities?

The iPad Air 6 has a 12 MP wide-angle rear camera and a 12 MP ultra-wide front camera, capable of 4K recording at 60fps. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has an 8 MP wide-angle and 8 MP ultra-wide rear camera, and a 12 MP ultra-wide front camera, capable of 4K recording at 30fps.

How do the speaker systems compare between the two tablets?

Both the iPad Air 6 and Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ feature stereo speakers, but the Galaxy Tab has Dolby Atmos support, making it louder and more immersive, especially for multimedia. The iPad’s stereo speakers are decent but not as powerful.

Can the storage of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ be expanded?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ supports expandable storage via a MicroSD card, allowing users to increase their storage capacity. The iPad Air 6, on the other hand, does not support external storage expansion.

What are the key differences in terms of the stylus options for both tablets?

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ includes the S Pen with no need for charging, while the iPad Air 6 requires an additional purchase of the Apple Pencil (either the regular or Pro model). The Apple Pencil offers advanced features like double-tapping and pressure sensitivity but needs to be charged.

Which tablet offers better value for money based on the features and performance?

The iPad Air 6 provides better performance, especially for power users who need strong processing power and graphics. However, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers better value for users who prioritize a larger display, longer battery life, included stylus, and overall versatility, all at the same price point.