Design and Display
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ boasts a sleek and modern design that is bound to catch the eyes of tech enthusiasts. Made up of a combination of metal and glass, this tablet feels premium and sturdy in hand. It comes in several color options, with the silver variant being particularly appealing. One notable feature is the inclusion of external storage support, allowing users to expand their storage capacity.
The tablet sports a large display, with the standard FE model measuring at 10.9 inches and the FE+ model at a whopping 12.4 inches. The FE+ model also offers a better battery and more RAM compared to its counterpart. While the larger display is undoubtedly immersive, I must admit that I had hoped for a higher refresh rate. The 90Hz refresh rate falls a bit short of expectations, and I would have liked to see it reach the 120Hz mark.
Entertainment and Productivity
One of the standout features of Samsung tablets is the inclusion of the Spen, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is no exception. Unlike other brands where you have to purchase the stylus separately, Samsung provides it right off the bat. This is a significant advantage for those who enjoy the versatility and convenience of using a stylus for note-taking, drawing, and other creative tasks.
In terms of entertainment and productivity, the tablet delivers a satisfying experience. Whether you prefer streaming your favorite movies and TV shows, browsing the internet, or engaging in gaming sessions, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has you covered. The large display provides an immersive viewing experience, allowing for vibrant colors and sharp details.
Moreover, the tablet’s external storage support ensures that you have ample space to store all your media files, documents, and apps without worrying about running out of storage. This is particularly useful for those who need to carry a large amount of data on the go.
Performance
While the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ excels in many areas, it does face some struggles when it comes to performance. Although I was able to fulfill my entertainment and productive needs quite nicely, there were instances where the tablet experienced performance issues.
Unfortunately, I won’t be delving into the specifications of the tablet, as the focus here is on the overall user experience rather than technicalities. If you’re interested in specific technical details, feel free to refer to the manufacturer’s specifications.
The Ultimate Tablet Viewing Experience
Tablets are primarily designed for indoor usage, and in that aspect, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ excels. The viewing experience on this tablet is great, allowing you to binge-watch all your favorite shows with ease. The display is clean and provides an immersive visual experience. Watching Netflix and YouTube on this tablet was a delight, thanks to its impressive display quality.
Audio Disappointments
However, when it comes to audio, I found myself disappointed. The tablet features a single pair of speakers powered by AKG and supports Dolby Atmos. As a music producer myself, I have high standards for sound quality. Unfortunately, the speakers on the Tab S9 FE+ fell short. The sound comes across as flat, with muffled mids and limited loudness due to the single pair of speakers. I personally found the audio quality underwhelming, but you can always listen and judge for yourself.
An Underwhelming Camera
The tablet is equipped with an 8-megapixel back camera and an additional 8-megapixel ultra-wide sensor. However, I found the back camera to be a disappointment. It struggled to focus, even on relatively simple subjects like my monitor. This issue made the camera experience seem unusual and unsatisfactory.
Zoom calls with this. So overall, I’m really impressed with the front camera of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+.
Battery Life and Charging
Moving on to battery life, the tablet comes with a 10,090mAh battery capacity, which is quite impressive. With moderate use, I was able to get through a full day without needing to charge. However, heavy usage, such as streaming videos or playing games, did drain the battery faster.
When it does come time to charge, the tablet supports 45W fast charging. This means you can quickly top up the battery and get back to using your tablet in no time. It’s definitely a convenient feature to have.
Display and Performance
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ features a stunning 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. The colors are vibrant, and the details are sharp, making it a joy to consume media on this tablet.
Under the hood, the tablet is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor coupled with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the variant you choose. This combination ensures smooth performance and speedy multitasking. Whether you’re browsing the web, playing games, or running multiple apps simultaneously, the tablet can handle it all with ease.
Software and Features
The tablet runs on Android 11 with Samsung’s One UI on top. This user interface provides a clean and intuitive user experience, with features tailored specifically for tablets. You’ll have access to the Google Play Store, allowing you to download a wide range of apps and games to enhance your tablet experience.
One standout feature of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is the S Pen support. You can purchase the S Pen separately, but it’s definitely worth it if you’re someone who enjoys taking notes, drawing, or editing photos on your tablet. The S Pen is precise and responsive, making it a great tool for creativity or productivity.
Storage and Connectivity
The tablet comes with either 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, depending on the variant. This should provide ample space for storing your files, apps, and media. If you need more storage, you can expand it further using a microSD card.
In terms of connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. These ensure fast and stable connections, whether you’re browsing the internet or connecting to other devices.
The Software Experience
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ runs on Android 13 right out of the box, with Samsung’s one UI skin on top of it. While the software experience is generally smooth and efficient, there is one aspect that falls short – the default Samsung keyboard. It’s a major drawback, especially when it comes to the backspace button. Typing on it becomes inconvenient as hitting the delete button does nothing. To overcome this issue, many users, including myself, have opted to switch to the Google keyboard, which offers a much better and familiar typing experience.
The Samsung Desk Feature
In addition to the software, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ also comes with a unique feature called Samsung Desk. This feature essentially transforms your tablet experience into a fully-fledged computer. By connecting a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, you can use it in full desktop mode. This mode makes it easier to control media settings, such as adjusting the volume and brightness. It adds versatility to the tablet and enhances the overall user experience.
Goodnotes for Android
In an exciting move, Samsung is offering Goodnotes for Android on the Galaxy Store. Goodnotes is a popular handwritten note-taking app that was previously only available for iPad users. Now, Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ users can enjoy the convenience and versatility of Goodnotes on their Android tablet. This app is highly regarded for its functionality and simplicity, making it an excellent addition to the tablet’s software ecosystem.
The Performance
Now, let’s delve into the performance of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. Powered by a high-performance processor, this tablet delivers exceptional speed and efficiency. Whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or streaming content, the device handles it all smoothly without any lag or hiccups. The vibrant AMOLED display enhances the visual experience, bringing every image and video to life with stunning clarity and detail.
The Ultimate Tablet Experience
With its impressive software features, powerful performance, and sleek design, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers the ultimate tablet experience. It combines productivity and entertainment seamlessly, allowing users to work, create, and connect on the go. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply a tech enthusiast, this tablet caters to your needs and exceeds expectations.
The Performance: Smooth Gaming and Multitasking
I have tested the performance of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ extensively, especially in terms of gaming. I can confidently say that it runs smoothly and I did not face any lags or performance issues so far. However, there were occasional stutters with the previous model, Asal 9, especially when switching between different apps. This might be attributed to its xos processor struggling with heavy apps. But for day-to-day tasks and multitasking, you won’t face any issues.
Comparison with iPad: Lower Resolution Games
When comparing the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ with the iPad, I noticed a major issue. All the games I played on this tablet were running in lower resolution, as they are primarily designed for mobile phones and not optimized for tablets. This resulted in a not-so-pleasant graphics experience. This is where the iPad has the upper hand when it comes to Android versus iPad in terms of tablets.
Disappointment with USB 2.0
One aspect of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ that disappointed me was the presence of a USB 2.0 port instead of USB 3.0. This limits the speed of transferring data from the tablet to other devices. If you frequently transfer files or media, you might find this a bit inconvenient.
Battery Life: Lasts Through the Day
Now, let’s discuss the battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. In my usage, the tablet had a decent battery life that lasted throughout the day. I was able to use it for extended periods without running out of power. However, keep in mind that the battery life may vary depending on your usage patterns and settings.
The Battery Life: A Mixed Bag
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ boasts a massive 1090 mAh battery capacity. During my usage, I was able to achieve around 7 hours of screen on time. However, when it comes to heavy usage like continuous gaming, the battery life dropped to around 6 to 6 and a half hours. Unfortunately, the idle time management was not as great as I had hoped. Comparing it to the Xiaomi Pad 6, Samsung falls short in this aspect. After leaving the Tab at around 60% battery in the evening, I was surprised to find it at almost 36% the following morning. Additionally, the lack of a power adapter included in the box is no longer surprising with Samsung devices.
The Spen: A Great Tool for Note-Taking
One of the highlights of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is the Spen. In fact, I’ll be creating a video where I compare the Spen with Apple Pencil, so make sure to subscribe to my channel for that. I extensively tested the Spen by taking notes using various apps such as Samsung Notes, GoodNotes for Android, and Neo. Out of all the apps, I found Samsung Notes to provide the most optimum experience. In fact, I believe it deserves its own video review. If you’re considering buying this tablet for note-taking purposes, I highly recommend it as the Spen provides a fantastic experience. I also tried my hand at digital art on this device.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is a tablet that promises to offer the ultimate tablet experience. With its sleek design and powerful features, it aims to be a versatile device for both work and play.
A Unique S Pen Experience
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is its S Pen. While some users may initially find it a bit weird to use, it quickly becomes a natural part of the tablet experience. If you’re someone who enjoys digital art or needs to take precise notes, then the S Pen will provide a good experience.
A Few Hiccups
However, it’s important to note that there have been some issues with certain digital art applications. For example, while using Infinity Painter or Infinite Painter, the tablet crashed numerous times during the creation process. This led to frustration and the need to restart the device multiple times. It’s clear that there are still some improvements needed in terms of software stability.
Pricing Considerations
When it comes to pricing, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is currently in a sticky state. In the United States, it is priced at $559, while in India it is available for Rs. 469 on Flipkart and Rs. 549 on Amazon. It’s worth noting that I was able to purchase this tablet for only Rs. 36,000 thanks to a bank offer from ICS Bank credit card. It’s advisable to keep an eye on sales and promotions as you might be able to get a hefty discount on this device.
Is it Worth Buying?
Considering the price I personally paid, I believe this device is totally worth it. The inclusion of the S Pen right in the box adds value, and if you’re able to find a good deal, it becomes an even better investment. However, if you feel that the tablet is stretching your budget, there are other options available, such as the Xiaomi Pad 6. Be sure to check out my review of that device for a more budget-friendly alternative.
Thank you for reading and happy tablet shopping!
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Review | The Ultimate Tablet Experience?
Design and Display
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ boasts a sleek and stylish design that is sure to catch anyone’s eye. With its slim profile and premium build quality, this tablet feels solid and comfortable to hold. The device features a stunning 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display, which offers vibrant colors and sharp details. Whether you’re streaming movies, playing games, or working on tasks, the display on the Tab S9 FE+ provides an immersive and enjoyable visual experience.
Performance and Battery Life
Equipped with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, the Tab S9 FE+ delivers smooth and fast performance. Switching between apps, multitasking, and running demanding games is a breeze on this tablet. The device comes with ample RAM and storage options, allowing you to store all your files, apps, and media without any worries. Additionally, the tablet’s generous battery capacity ensures long hours of use on a single charge, making it perfect for work or entertainment on the go.
Camera and Audio
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ features a high-resolution rear camera that captures detailed and vibrant photos. Whether you’re capturing memories, scanning documents, or participating in video conferences, the tablet’s camera performs admirably. On the front, you’ll find a capable selfie camera for video calls and selfies. The tablet also boasts impressive audio quality, thanks to its stereo speakers tuned by AKG. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or playing games, the sound produced by this tablet is clear, immersive, and satisfying.
Software and Features
Running on the latest Android operating system, the Tab S9 FE+ offers a user-friendly and intuitive interface. Samsung has also added its own One UI customization, which enhances the overall user experience. The tablet is packed with useful features, such as multi-window support, Samsung DeX, and a fingerprint sensor for added security. The S Pen included with the device provides a seamless note-taking and drawing experience, making it a convenient tool for creatives and professionals alike.
Connectivity and Accessories
The Tab S9 FE+ supports 5G connectivity, allowing for fast and reliable internet access wherever you are. It also offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options, ensuring seamless integration with other devices. Additionally, Samsung offers a range of accessories for the Tab S9 FE+, including a detachable keyboard cover and a Book Cover case, which enhances productivity and protects the tablet from scratches and bumps.
If you’re in search of the ultimate tablet experience, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is definitely worth considering. With its impressive design, high-quality display, powerful performance, and versatile features, this tablet offers a premium experience for both work and play. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply a tech enthusiast, the Tab S9 FE+ is sure to meet and exceed your expectations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ provides a compelling tablet experience with its sleek design, immersive display, and inclusion of the Spen. While it does face some performance struggles at times, it remains a reliable option for those seeking entertainment and productivity on the go. With its external storage support and impressive battery life, this tablet is definitely worth considering for those in need of a versatile and stylish device.
Despite its shortcomings in audio and camera performance, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ still offers a remarkable viewing experience. Its display quality is noteworthy, making it a great choice for entertainment purposes. However, if audio quality and camera performance are major priorities for you, it might be worth exploring other options in the market.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a premium tablet experience. The front camera delivers impressive results, making it perfect for video calls and online classes. The battery life is decent, and the fast charging support is a convenient feature to have. The display is stunning, and the performance is smooth. With S Pen support and ample storage, it’s a versatile tablet that can cater to both creativity and productivity needs. If you’re in the market for a high-quality tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is definitely worth considering.
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ provides a mixed bag of features. While its battery life leaves something to be desired, the Spen functionality is a standout feature, particularly for note-taking. The lack of a power adapter in the box may disappoint some users, but it has become a common trend with Samsung devices. Despite its shortcomings, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a solid tablet experience overall.