Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Review: Is This the Best Budget Tablet?

Annalyn Bernaldo|13. September 2025

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab A9+ aims to deliver a strong balance of price and performance. It features an 11-inch display that refreshes at 90Hz, a Snapdragon 695 processor, and up to 8GB of RAM.

It offers one of the best combinations of smooth visuals, solid performance, and long software support in today’s budget tablet market.

The Galaxy Tab A9+ also stands out with its competitive price. It gives access to features usually found in more expensive models, making it a wise choice for anyone who wants a reliable Android tablet without overspending.

Quick Insights 🔆:

11-inch 1920×1200 90 Hz LCD delivers sharp visuals and smooth scrolling
Snapdragon 695 5G chip and 4–8 GB RAM—offers responsive daily performance
Quad Dolby Atmos speakers impress for audio on a budget
7,040 mAh battery powers through ~20 hours of usage
Includes Samsung DeX and multitasking with up to 3-split screen
4-year Android update promise is exceptional in this price tier

Design & Display - Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Review

🔥Check Out: CHESONA Step Series Keyboard Case for Samsung Galaxy tablet A9+ 11"🔥

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ emphasizes a slim design and a practical screen that strikes a balance between size, weight, and usability. It feels modern and portable while offering a display that is sharp and smooth for everyday tasks.

Build Quality & Size

The Galaxy Tab A9+ uses a metal chassis that gives it a sturdy feel without adding too much weight. At about 480 g, it is light enough to carry around for long periods without strain. The slim profile also makes it easy to slip into a bag or hold in one hand.

The 11-inch screen size strikes a balance between compact tablets and larger premium models. It is big enough for watching shows, browsing, or working on documents, but it does not feel bulky.

The overall design appears clean, featuring thin bezels and a flat-edge frame. This makes the tablet look more modern compared to older Galaxy Tab models.

The build feels reliable, which is important for families, students, or anyone who plans to use it daily.

Screen Quality

The tablet features a 1920×1200 resolution display that delivers clear text and detailed images. Colors look accurate and the screen brightness is strong enough for indoor use, though direct sunlight can still be challenging.

A key feature is the 90 Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations feel smoother compared to standard 60 Hz screens. This is noticeable when browsing, gaming, or switching between apps.

Some highlights of the display:

Resolution: 1920×1200 pixels
Refresh rate: 90 Hz
Size: 11 inches
Panel type: LCD

For streaming, reading, and casual gaming, the screen performs well. It may not match the deep contrast of AMOLED panels, but it offers a solid balance of sharpness and smooth motion at this price level.

Also Read: Samsung Tablet Comparison Guide 2025: Features, Specs & Prices

Performance & Usability

The Galaxy Tab A9+ uses mid-range hardware that balances speed with efficiency. It delivers smooth everyday use, though performance depends on the chosen memory option. Productivity features like split-screen and Samsung DeX improve usability for both work and casual use.

Processor & RAM

The tablet runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695, a 6 nm processor that handles daily tasks well. Web browsing, streaming, and light gaming run without major issues. Apps open quickly, though heavier 3D games may show limits compared to higher-end chips.

RAM options make a noticeable difference.

The 4 GB model can feel slow when switching between apps.
The 8 GB version offers smoother multitasking and better long-term use.

Storage options start at 64 GB and increase, with microSD support for further expansion.

Battery efficiency benefits from the Snapdragon 695. Users can expect reliable performance through a full day of mixed use. The chip also supports 5G models, which helps with faster connectivity when available.

Multitasking & Productivity

Samsung designed the Tab A9+ to handle multiple tasks at once. It supports running up to three apps side by side using split-screen mode.

✅ This makes it practical for students or professionals who need to view documents, notes, and a browser at the same time.

✅ Samsung DeX is included, giving a desktop-style interface when connected to a monitor or keyboard. This allows drag-and-drop file management and a taskbar layout that feels closer to a laptop.

Key features for productivity:

Split-screen with up to 3 apps
Pop-up view for floating windows
DeX mode for desktop-like use
Smooth sync with other Samsung devices

These features make the tablet more than just a media device, giving it flexibility for light work and study tasks.

Audio & Sound Experience

The Galaxy Tab A9+ uses quad speakers with Dolby Atmos. This setup gives the tablet a fuller sound compared to models with only two speakers.

The placement of the speakers helps create a more balanced sound effect when the device is held in either portrait or landscape orientation.

Dolby Atmos support enhances the depth of movies, shows, and games. Voices sound clearer, and background effects are easier to pick out.

While it cannot match a dedicated speaker system, it performs well for a tablet in this price range.

Key points about the audio:

Four speakers provide louder and clearer sound than dual-speaker tablets.
Dolby Atmos improves spatial effects, making music and video more engaging.
Works well for streaming, video calls, and casual gaming.

The speakers also keep distortion low at higher volumes. This makes it easier to hear dialogue or music without needing headphones. For travel or shared use, the sound quality is strong enough to fill a small room.

For those who prefer private listening, the tablet supports Bluetooth headphones and wired audio through USB-C. This flexibility makes it easy to switch between personal and shared listening.

Also Read:

Battery Life & Charging

The Galaxy Tab A9+ uses a 7,040 mAh battery, which is the same size as the one in the previous Tab A8. It provides steady performance for daily tasks like browsing, streaming, and light gaming.

In mixed-use, many users report approximately 7 to 8 hours of screen time on a full charge. Streaming video or gaming can shorten this to closer to 6 hours, while lighter use such as reading or web browsing stretches it longer.

Samsung rates the tablet for up to 20 hours of video playback, making it suitable for long trips or extended periods of media use. Actual results vary depending on brightness, apps, and network activity.

Charging speed is modest. The tablet supports 15W wired charging, which is slower compared to many newer devices. Filling the battery from empty to full can take over 3 hours with the included charger.

Key points:

Battery capacity: 7,040 mAh
Typical screen time: 7–8 hours
Rated video playback: up to 20 hours
Charging speed: 15W, takes several hours to fully charge

This setup works well for budget users who value endurance more than fast charging. It is reliable for day-to-day use but not ideal for those who need quick top-ups during the day.

Also Read: Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra vs iPad Pro: Which Is Better?

Software & Future-Proofing

The Galaxy Tab A9+ ships with Android 13 and Samsung’s One UI interface. This combination keeps the software simple to use while adding extra tools for multitasking, such as split-screen mode.

Samsung has also committed to regular updates, which is important for security and app compatibility. Buyers can expect both feature upgrades and monthly or quarterly patches.

Key points about updates:

Promises 4 years of security updates
Will receive at least two major Android upgrades
Expected upgrade path includes Android 15

One UI also makes the tablet work smoothly with other Samsung devices. Features like Quick Share and Samsung Notes syncing add convenience for users who already own a Galaxy phone or laptop.

While the tablet is not a flagship model, its update plan gives it a longer life than many budget Android tablets. This makes it a practical choice for students, families, or anyone who wants a device that stays reliable over time.

Price & Value for Money

The Galaxy Tab A9+ launched at about $220 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage model. This price places it within the budget range, while still offering a large display, solid performance, and long-term software support.

What makes it stand out is how often it goes on sale. Discounts of around 25–30% are common, which can bring the price closer to $155. At that level, it becomes one of the most affordable tablets with a modern Snapdragon chip and an 11-inch screen.

Key points on value:

Base price: ~$220 for 8/128 GB
Sale price: Often drops to ~$155
Included features: 11-inch display, Snapdragon 695, Dolby Atmos speakers
Longevity: Promised security updates longer than many budget rivals

Compared to similar tablets in the same price range, the A9+ offers a strong mix of performance and usability.

It handles streaming, light gaming, and school or work tasks without major issues, which makes the lower sale price especially appealing for families and students.

For buyers on a budget, the combination of frequent discounts and reliable hardware makes the Galaxy Tab A9+ a cost-effective choice.

Also Read: Best Tablet for Reading PDF Documents: Top Options for 2025

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Pros & Cons

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ offers a balance of affordability and valuable features. It offers solid performance for everyday use, but it also comes with a few trade-offs that buyers should be aware of before making a decision.

Pros ✅

The Galaxy Tab A9+ keeps costs low while still offering a premium look and feel. Its aluminum body gives it a sturdy build that feels more expensive than most budget tablets.
The 11-inch display runs at 90 Hz, which makes scrolling smoother and more enjoyable. Although it features an LCD screen, the 1920 x 1200 pixel resolution is sharp enough for reading, streaming, and casual gaming.
Battery life is a strong point. The tablet can last through a full day of mixed use, which makes it reliable for students and families.
Samsung includes four years of Android updates and five years of security patches, which is rare in this price range. This ensures the device stays usable longer.

Other highlights include stereo speakers that deliver clear sound for movies and video calls. It also supports multitasking tools in One UI, such as split‑screen and Samsung DeX, which improve productivity for work or school.

Cons ❌

The display, although smooth and sharp, remains an LCD panel. It does not match the deep contrast or vibrant colors of OLED screens that are found on higher-end tablets.
The tablet does not support the S Pen, which limits its appeal for users who want to take notes or draw. Competing tablets in higher price ranges often include stylus support.
Memory is another limitation. The base model starts with 4 GB of RAM, which can feel slow when switching between apps. Even the 8 GB version may not handle heavy multitasking as well as premium tablets.
These limits keep the Galaxy Tab A9+ in the budget category, making it best suited for light use rather than demanding tasks.

Also Read: Samsung Tablet Software Update: Latest Features & Fixes

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Review: Final Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ offers a solid balance of price and performance. It feels well-built, has a large display, and includes features like 5G support on some models.

For streaming, browsing, and light productivity, it handles tasks smoothly.

Battery life is dependable for daily use, and Samsung’s software support adds value compared to other budget tablets.

Choosing the 8GB RAM model makes a noticeable difference in speed and performance, particularly when it comes to multitasking.

Who Will Like It:

Media enthusiasts seeking a larger screen for streaming Netflix, YouTube, and reading.
Light users, such as kids, students, and families, who need a reliable tablet for homework, taking notes, or casual apps.
Budget-conscious buyers who want a capable device without paying flagship prices.

Who Should Skip It:

Power users who edit videos, run demanding apps, or need heavy multitasking should look at higher-end tablets like the Galaxy Tab S9 FE or iPad Air.
Mobile gamers who play graphics-intensive titles may find performance lacking, although casual games run smoothly.

👉 Protect your Galaxy Tab A9+ with sleek style—check out the latest Galaxy Tab A9+ Cases from Chesona.

FAQs: Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Review

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ offers a balance of price, performance, and features. It provides a large display, long software support, and options like 5G connectivity, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Is the Galaxy Tab A9+ worth buying?

Yes, for those seeking a budget-friendly tablet with solid performance, the Galaxy Tab A9+ is worth considering. It handles streaming, web browsing, light productivity, and casual gaming well without costing as much as premium models.

How old is a Samsung A9+ tablet?

The Galaxy Tab A9+ launched in late 2023, making it about two years old as of 2025. It remains current with software updates and still fits into Samsung’s active support cycle.

Which is better, the Galaxy A9 or the Galaxy A9+?

The Galaxy Tab A9+ is the stronger option. It has a larger 11-inch display, smoother 90Hz refresh rate, and better performance compared to the standard A9. The A9 is more basic and better suited for lighter use.

How long does the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ last?

With regular use, the battery typically lasts a full day on a single charge. In terms of software, Samsung usually provides several years of updates, so the device should stay usable for at least 4 to 5 years.

Is the A9+ 5G version available?

Yes, the Galaxy Tab A9+ is available in both Wi-Fi and 5G models. The 5G version allows mobile connectivity for streaming, browsing, and apps without relying on Wi-Fi.