Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 Review: A Premium Android Tablet That Rivals iPad Pro
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S3 elevates the Android tablet experience, blending productivity and entertainment into a sleek 9.7-inch device. Priced at $600, it’s positioned as a direct compe***** to the iPad Pro—but does it deliver enough value to justify the cost? Let’s dive into its features, performance, and whether it’s worth the investment.
Design and Build: A Refined Upgrade
The Tab S3 marks a significant departure from its predecessor, the Tab S2, with a premium glass-and-metal design that exudes sophistication. Key improvements include:
- Dimensions: 6mm thickness, weighing 15.1 oz (Wi-Fi) or 15.3 oz (LTE)
- Display: 9.7-inch Super AMOLED screen (2048×1536 resolution) with vibrant colors
- Durability: Glass back and metal frame for a premium feel (though prone to fingerprints)
Performance: Power Meets Versatility
Under the hood, the Tab S3 packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chipset (also found in the Galaxy S7), ensuring smooth multitasking for work and play. Other highlights:
- Storage: 32GB internal + microSD expansion (up to 256GB)
- RAM: 4GB for seamless app switching and gaming
- Software: Android 7.0 Nougat with pre-installed Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
While it won’t replace a desktop, it handles everything from email to graphic design with ease.
Camera and Audio: Upgrades for Work and Play
Camera
- Rear: 13MP lens (sharp for a tablet)
- Front: 5MP camera (improved for video calls)
Audio
- Quad speakers tuned by AKG (Harman)
- Adaptive sound calibration based on orientation (portrait/landscape)
Though the audio quality is impressive, some users may notice minor dead zones when holding the tablet sideways.
Productivity Features: Keyboard and S Pen Support
Pogo Keyboard (Sold Separately)
- Price: $130
- Pros: Doubles as a protective case, magnetic attachment
- Cons: Non-standard key layout; prone to smudges
S Pen Stylus
- Precision: 0.7mm tip with tilt/palm rejection
- Features: Note-taking, text translation, and creative design
- Drawback: No built-in storage (risk of misplacement)
Gaming and Entertainment
The Tab S3 shines as an entertainment hub:
- Vulkan API support for high-performance gaming
- Game Launcher: Centralized hub for games with screenshot/recording tools
- Media Playback: Stunning AMOLED display for movies and videos
Security and Missing Features
- Included: Fingerprint sensor, PIN protection, Secure Folder (for private files)
- Missing: Iris scanning (a notable omission)
Verdict: Should You Buy the Galaxy Tab S3?
Pros
- Premium design and display
- Strong performance for multitasking
- S Pen support (ideal for creatives)
- Solid battery life (6,000 mAh with fast charging)
Cons
- High price tag ($600)
- Keyboard sold separately
- No iris scanner
Final Thoughts: If you’re invested in the Android ecosystem and want a high-end tablet for work and play, the Tab S3 is a compelling choice. While it’s not a laptop replacement, its versatility makes it a worthy rival to the iPad Pro—especially for those who value the S Pen’s functionality.
Available for preorder now; launches March 24.
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