iPad vs Samsung Tablet: Which One Should You Choose?

iPad vs Samsung tablet? Both are super popular, but which one is right for you? iPads are known for being fast and great for work or school, while Samsung tablets are awesome for watching movies and playing games with their bright screens.

Each has its own strengths, from price to performance and even the apps you can use. So, which tablet fits your life best?

Want to know the real differences and find your perfect match? Keep reading to discover which one wins for you!

What's Different Between iPad and Samsung Tablets

iPads and Samsung tablets have some key differences that might help you decide which one is right for you. These differences show up in their screens, how fast they work, and the software they use.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between iPad and Samsung tablets:

 

Now, let’s talk about them in detail.

Screen Quality and Display Features

Samsung tablets often use OLED display technology, which gives you deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. Many Galaxy Tab models, including the S7+ and newer S10 series, feature these bright, colorful screens.

Samsung's tablets also tend to offer more screen size options. iPads typically use LCD screens, though Pro models now feature mini-LED technology.

iPad screens often have higher resolution and better color accuracy. This might matter a lot if you use your tablet for photo editing or drawing.

Both brands offer good screens, but Samsung usually wins for watching movies because of those deep blacks. iPads might be better for precise work that needs accurate colors.

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Speed and Power Comparison

iPad processors (like the M1 and M2 chips) are generally more powerful than what you'll find in Samsung tablets. These chips help iPads handle heavy tasks like video editing without slowing down.

Samsung tablets typically use Qualcomm Snapdragon processors or Samsung's own Exynos chips. While these are good processors, they don't quite match Apple's performance in most tests.

RAM is another difference. Samsung tablets usually offer more RAM (6GB-16GB) compared to iPads (4GB-16GB).

This helps with multitasking and keeping apps running in the background. For everyday use like web browsing and watching videos, both perform well.

But for demanding tasks, iPads usually have the edge in raw power.

Software: iPadOS vs Android Experience

The biggest difference might be the operating systems. iPads run iPadOS, which is known for being smooth and easy to use.

Apps on iPads are often better optimized and more reliable. Samsung tablets run Android with Samsung's One UI layer on top.

This gives you more freedom to customize your experience. You can change how your home screen looks and use widgets more freely.

File management is easier on Samsung tablets. You can access files just like on a computer.

iPadOS has improved here but still has some limitations. App selection is better on iPads, especially for creative and productivity apps.

Many professional apps like Procreate are only available on iPad. But Android gives you more flexibility with different app stores and sideloading options.

Daily Use Experience

When you pick up your tablet each day, both iPads and Samsung Galaxy Tabs offer unique experiences that affect how you'll use them. Battery performance, storage options, and stylus functionality all play key roles in your daily satisfaction.

Battery Life: Which Lasts Longer?

iPad models typically offer excellent battery performance. The iPad Air and iPad Pro can last about 10 hours of web browsing or video watching on a single charge.

This means you can use your iPad all day at work or school without worrying about finding an outlet. Samsung's Galaxy Tabs match this performance in most cases.

The Tab S series devices often claim similar 10-12 hour battery life spans. However, in real-world use, many users report that iPads tend to hold their charge better when in standby mode.

The difference becomes more noticeable when you use power-hungry apps. iPads handle graphic-intensive tasks with less battery drain thanks to Apple's efficient processors.

But the Galaxy Tabs often include faster charging options, so you can get back to full power quicker.

Storage and External Device Support

iPads start at 64GB or 128GB storage depending on the model. This might seem plenty at first, but you can't expand it later.

Once you fill it up with photos, videos, and apps, that's it! Samsung tablets shine here with their expandable storage.

Most Galaxy Tabs include a microSD card slot that lets you add up to 1TB of extra space. This is super helpful if you download lots of movies or take many photos.

For connecting other devices, Galaxy Tabs offer more options with their USB-C ports. You can easily plug in flash drives, cameras, or even external monitors without special adapters.

iPads have gotten better with USB-C on newer models, but they still limit what you can connect compared to Samsung's more open approach.

Using the Apple Pencil vs S Pen

The Apple Pencil feels amazing when writing or drawing on an iPad. It's super precise and responds instantly to pressure changes.

Artists and note-takers love how natural it feels, almost like using a real pen on paper. Samsung's S Pen has a big advantage - it comes included with many Galaxy Tabs!

The Apple Pencil costs extra ($99-$129). The S Pen also never needs charging on some models and can be stored inside the tablet on certain Galaxy Tab versions.

Both styluses let you take notes, draw, and navigate your tablet. The S Pen includes some cool tricks like Air Actions, which let you control your tablet by waving the pen in the air.

But many creative professionals still prefer the Apple Pencil's smoother writing experience and better app support for detailed artwork.

Cost and Value

Choosing between an iPad and a Samsung tablet often comes down to how much you want to spend and what you get in return. Both companies offer various models at different price points.

Price Comparison Across Models

Apple iPads range from $329 for the basic iPad to $1,099+ for the iPad Pro with larger storage. The iPad Air sits in the middle at around $599. These prices increase if you want more storage or cellular connectivity. Samsung tablets are generally less expensive.

The Galaxy Tab A series starts around $149-$229. The mid-range Tab S7 FE costs about $529, while the premium Tab S8 series ranges from $699 to $1,099.

Sales happen frequently for Samsung tablets. You might find discounts of 15-30% throughout the year. Apple offers fewer discounts, though education pricing can save you 10%.

What You Get for Your Money

iPads give you excellent build quality with aluminum bodies and high-resolution displays. Even the basic iPad has a good screen and supports Apple Pencil.

The iPadOS is smooth and simple to use. Samsung offers more features at lower price points. Many Samsung tablets include SD card slots for extra storage. Most models come with a charger in the box, while Apple sells these separately now.

The S Pen comes included with many Samsung tablets. Apple charges $99-$129 extra for the Apple Pencil.

Samsung gives you more customization options. You can add widgets, change your home screen, and use split-screen more easily than on iPads.

With iPads, you're paying for the Apple ecosystem and integration with other Apple products.

How Long Each Tablet Will Last

iPads typically receive software updates for 5-7 years. The iPad Air 2, released in 2014, got updates until 2022.

Samsung has improved their update policy. Most new tablets now receive 4 years of operating system updates and 5 years of security updates.

This is better than before but still shorter than Apple's support. Build quality affects longevity too.

iPads have excellent hardware that often lasts many years. Samsung tablets are well-built but may show wear sooner on less expensive models.

Battery health is another factor. Both brands' batteries typically maintain good performance for 3-4 years before you notice significant decline.

Repair costs favor Samsung. Fixing a Samsung tablet screen costs about $150-250, while iPad repairs often range from $200-400.

Working With Your Other Devices

How your tablet connects with your other gadgets matters a lot. Both iPad and Samsung tablets offer different ways to work with phones, computers, and apps that you already use.

Connecting to Phones and Computers

iPads connect smoothly with other Apple products. If you have an iPhone, you'll love how they work together.

You can answer calls on your iPad when your iPhone rings. You can also start writing an email on your iPad and finish it on your Mac.

Samsung tablets play nicely with Android phones. You can easily share files between them using Quick Share.

Samsung also offers "Phone to Tab" features that let you see phone notifications on your tablet. Both tablets support Bluetooth for connecting to headphones and speakers.

iPads use AirDrop to share files with other Apple devices. Samsung tablets use Quick Share for the same purpose.

Windows users might find Samsung tablets easier to connect to their computers. Apple's ecosystem works best when you stay all-Apple.

App Selection and Quality

The App Store for iPads has more tablet-optimized apps than Google Play. Many iPad apps are made specifically for the bigger screen. This makes them look and work better. Samsung tablets use Google Play, which has tons of apps.

But many are just stretched-out phone apps. They don't always use the tablet screen space well.

Popular apps like Netflix, YouTube, and social media work great on both. But creative apps for drawing, video editing, and music often work better on iPad.

Apps like Procreate are only available on iPad. Some professional apps also run smoother on iPad. The iPad versions usually get updates first, too.

Productivity Features for Work

Both tablets help you get work done, but in different ways. iPads now have Stage Manager, which lets you use multiple apps at once. You can also use Split View to see two apps side by side.

Samsung tablets offer more computer-like features. You can open many app windows at once and resize them. Samsung DeX mode turns your tablet into something that works more like a laptop.

Video calls work well on both tablets. iPad uses FaceTime, which works only with Apple devices. Samsung tablets can use any video call app like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams.

File management is easier on Samsung tablets. You can access files more like you would on a computer.

iPads have improved with the Files app, but still feel more limited when working with documents.

Best Uses for Each Tablet

Samsung tablets and iPads excel at different tasks based on their unique features. The right choice depends on what you plan to do most often with your device.

Drawing, Design and Creative Work

iPads often win for creative professionals. Apple Pencil works really well with many design apps. Artists like the iPad's precise touch response when drawing.

Samsung tablets are getting better for creative work too. The S Pen comes included with many Galaxy Tab models, which saves you money. This is different from Apple, where you pay extra for the Pencil.

Drawing apps like Procreate are only available on iPad. But Samsung offers good alternatives like Clip Studio Paint and Sketchbook.

For video editing, iPads have more professional-grade apps. Final Cut Pro is now available on iPad Pro, giving you powerful editing tools.

Watching Videos and Playing Games

Samsung tablets shine for entertainment! Their screens usually have better contrast and more vivid colors because of their AMOLED display technology.

Galaxy Tabs also include:

• Better aspect ratios for watching movies (less black bars)
• Louder speakers on premium models
• More flexible multitasking for watching videos while using other apps

For gaming, both perform well. iPad games are often better optimized and release earlier. Samsung tablets sometimes offer better value with more storage for the price.

You might prefer Samsung if you watch a lot of content in dark rooms. The deeper blacks on their screens make movies look amazing.

School and Study Applications

For students, both tablets have strengths. iPads typically have:

• More education-focused apps
• Better note-taking options with Apple Pencil
• Longer software support (5+ years of updates)

Samsung tablets offer:

• Better multi-window support for research
• More flexibility with file management
• S Pen included for note-taking without extra cost

Educational apps tend to appear on iPad first. Apple's focus on education means you'll find more specialized learning tools.

For note-taking, both work great. Samsung's multi-window approach lets you take notes while reading a textbook on the same screen. This helps when you're studying complex topics.

Also, learn the difference between an iPad case and cover in our article: What Is the Difference Between an iPad Case and an iPad Cover?

How To Choose Between iPad and Samsung Tablet

Picking between an iPad and a Samsung tablet depends on what you need from your device. Both offer great features but shine in different ways.

When an iPad Makes More Sense

The iPad might be your best choice if you already use other Apple products. Your iPhone, Mac, and iPad will work together smoothly. You can start something on one device and finish it on another.

iPads are known for their powerful processors. The newer models use Apple's M1 or M2 chips, which are super fast. This makes iPads great for drawing, editing videos, or playing games.

Many people love iPads for note-taking and school work. The Apple Pencil works really well for writing and drawing.

Apps like Procreate aren't available on Samsung tablets. 

If you care about how long your tablet will get updates, iPads typically receive software updates for 5-7 years. This means your iPad will stay fresh with new features for a long time.

Why You Might Prefer a Samsung Tablet

Samsung tablets cost less than iPads with similar features. You can often get more storage and a bigger screen for less money with a Galaxy Tab.

If you like to customize your device, Samsung tablets give you more freedom. You can change how your home screen looks, use different app stores, and even add memory with SD cards on some models.

Samsung's S Pen comes included with many Galaxy Tab models. Apple charges extra for their pencil. The S Pen works great for notes and drawing too.

Multi-tasking is easier on Samsung tablets. You can have multiple apps open at once and even use DeX mode to turn your tablet into something like a laptop.

Galaxy Tabs work better with Android phones and Windows computers. If that's what you already use, a Samsung tablet might fit better in your life.

Questions to Ask Before Buying

What will you use it for most?

• Simple browsing and videos: Either works fine
• Creative work: iPad for art apps, Samsung for flexibility
• Work/productivity: Consider which apps you need

What's your budget? Samsung usually gives you more features for less money, while iPads often cost more but last longer.

Which other devices do you own? Your phone and computer should play nice with your new tablet.

How important is screen size? Samsung offers larger screens like the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, which is bigger than any iPad.

Do you need cellular connectivity? Both offer WiFi-only or cellular models, so check carrier compatibility.

Think about how long you want to keep your tablet. iPads tend to stay useful longer with software updates, which might make them worth the extra cost.

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Conclusion 

In the iPad vs Samsung tablet debate, it all comes down to what you want most. If you love smooth performance and lots of creative apps, the iPad is a great choice. But if you want a tablet for fun, movies, and a more flexible price, Samsung tablets are hard to beat.

No matter which you pick, both offer great value and cool features. Think about how you’ll use your tablet every day, and you’ll find the best fit.

Worried about screen safety after picking your tablet? Find out if you need extra protection in our article: Do I Need a Screen Protector if I Have a Case?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Samsung tablets last as long as iPads?

Samsung tablets typically have a shorter lifespan than iPads. While both can last several years, iPads often receive software updates for 5-7 years. Samsung tablets usually get updates for about 3-4 years.

The hardware quality is good on both devices. But Apple's longer software support means your iPad might stay useful longer.

Which is best Android tablet or iPad?

The best choice depends on what you need. iPads have better app quality and a simpler interface. They work great if you already have other Apple products.

Samsung tablets offer more flexibility and customization. You can change how your home screen looks and use features like split-screen apps more easily. They also connect better with Android phones and Windows computers.

Your budget matters too. Samsung offers more options at different price points.

What is the average lifespan of a Samsung tablet?

A Samsung tablet usually lasts about 3-5 years before it might need replacing. The hardware can last longer, but software updates typically stop after 3-4 years.

Newer Samsung tablets are getting better support. Some premium models now receive up to 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches.

Your usage affects lifespan too. Heavy gaming or constant use might wear out a device faster than occasional web browsing.

Why tablets are better than iPads?

This question has a misleading premise since iPads are tablets! But Android tablets like Samsung's do have some advantages over iPads.

Samsung tablets often cost less than iPads with similar specs. You can also expand storage with microSD cards on many Samsung models.

The customization options are greater on Samsung tablets. You can use widgets, change default apps, and modify the interface more.

File management is also more flexible, making it easier to transfer documents between devices.

How long do Apple iPads last?

Apple iPads typically last 5-7 years or even longer. They receive software updates much longer than most Android tablets.

Even older iPad models can run newer apps thanks to Apple's strong app ecosystem. The build quality is excellent, with many iPads still working well after many years of use.

Battery life will decrease over time. After about 3-4 years, you might notice your iPad doesn't hold a charge as long as it once did.