Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra vs. Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro: The Ultimate Tablet Showdown
The tablet market has long been dominated by two giants: Samsung and Apple. Their flagship models—the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and the Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro—represent the pinnacle of what Android and iOS tablets can offer, respectively. Both devices are aimed at professionals, creatives, and power users who demand top-tier performance, stunning displays, and versatile productivity features. But which one truly stands out as the best premium tablet in 2024? This in-depth comparison explores every facet, from design and display to performance, software, and ecosystem.
1. Design and Build Quality
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Dimensions: 326.4 x 208.6 x 5.5 mm
Weight: 726g (Wi-Fi), 728g (5G)
Materials: Armor Aluminum frame and back
Colors: Graphite
The S8 Ultra is a behemoth, boasting a massive 14.6-inch display, making it the largest mainstream tablet on the market. Despite its size, Samsung has engineered it to be incredibly thin and relatively light, with a premium aluminum body that feels sturdy and elegant. The ultra-thin bezels create an immersive screen experience, though the sheer size can make it unwieldy for handheld use over long periods.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Gen, 2022)
Dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm
Weight: 682g (Wi-Fi), 685g (Cellular)
Materials: Recycled aluminum enclosure
Colors: Silver, Space Gray
The iPad Pro maintains Apple’s signature minimalist design. It’s slightly thicker but lighter than the S8 Ultra. The build quality is impeccable, with a unibody aluminum chassis and precise machining. Its size strikes a balance between portability and productivity, and the squared edges provide a modern, professional look.
Verdict:
Both tablets exude premium quality, but the S8 Ultra’s size is both its distinguishing feature and potential drawback. If you want the largest possible canvas, the S8 Ultra wins. For portability and one-handed use, the iPad Pro is more practical.
2. Display
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Type: 14.6-inch Super AMOLED
Resolution: 2960 x 1848 (WQXGA+), 240 ppi
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Brightness: ~420 nits (typical)
HDR: Yes (HDR10+ support)
Samsung’s AMOLED panel is stunning, with deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive stylus input. The sheer size of the display makes it ideal for multitasking, digital art, and media consumption.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Type: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED
Resolution: 2732 x 2048, 264 ppi
Refresh Rate: 120Hz (ProMotion)
Brightness: 1000 nits (full-screen), 1600 nits (peak HDR)
HDR: Yes (HDR10, Dolby Vision)
Apple’s mini-LED display is a technological marvel. It offers exceptional brightness, precise local dimming for deep blacks, and wide color gamut support. HDR content looks spectacular, and the ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate matches Samsung’s for smooth interaction.
Verdict:
The S8 Ultra’s AMOLED is larger and immersive, but the iPad Pro’s mini-LED offers superior brightness and HDR performance. For outdoor use and HDR video, the iPad Pro has the edge; for size and OLED vibrancy, the S8 Ultra excels.
3. Performance
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm)
RAM: 8GB / 12GB / 16GB
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB (expandable via microSD)
GPU: Adreno 730
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a flagship mobile chip, delivering fast performance for multitasking, gaming, and creative work. The generous RAM options and expandable storage are advantages for power users.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Processor: Apple M2 chip (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU)
RAM: 8GB (128/256/512GB models), 16GB (1TB/2TB models)
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB (non-expandable)
The M2 chip is essentially a desktop-class processor. It outperforms most mobile and even some laptop CPUs, especially in graphics and machine learning tasks. The iPad Pro’s performance is unmatched in the tablet world, making it suitable for demanding creative and professional workloads.
Verdict:
While the S8 Ultra is extremely capable, the iPad Pro’s M2 chip leads in raw performance, especially for video editing, 3D modeling, and advanced multitasking.
4. Software and Ecosystem
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Operating System: Android 12 (One UI 4.1, upgradable)
Key Features: DeX mode (desktop-like interface), multi-window multitasking, S Pen support (included)
App Ecosystem: Google Play Store, Samsung Galaxy Store
Productivity: Samsung Notes, Microsoft Office integration, multi-device sync
Samsung’s One UI is optimized for large screens, offering robust multitasking with up to three apps in split view and floating windows. DeX mode transforms the tablet into a desktop-like experience when connected to a monitor or keyboard. The S Pen is included and offers low-latency, pressure-sensitive input, ideal for artists and note-takers.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Operating System: iPadOS 16/17
Key Features: Stage Manager, advanced multitasking, Apple Pencil 2 support (sold separately), Universal Control, Sidecar
App Ecosystem: App Store (tablet-optimized apps), seamless integration with macOS and iOS
Productivity: iWork suite, Microsoft Office, Pro apps (Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Affinity, Adobe)
iPadOS is refined for productivity, with advanced multitasking features like Stage Manager, external display support, and robust file management. The Apple Pencil 2 offers industry-leading responsiveness, magnetic charging, and double-tap shortcuts. The iPad Pro’s app ecosystem is unmatched for creative and professional apps.
Verdict:
The S8 Ultra offers more flexibility (DeX, file system, S Pen included), but iPadOS is more polished, with superior app support and integration across Apple devices.
5. Accessories
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
S Pen: Included in the box, magnetically attaches, ultra-low latency
Keyboard: Book Cover Keyboard (sold separately), touchpad, function keys
Others: Multi-device connectivity, Samsung Flow
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Apple Pencil 2: Sold separately, magnetic charging, advanced features
Magic Keyboard: Sold separately, integrated trackpad, floating design, backlit keys
Smart Folio, third-party options
Verdict:
Samsung includes the S Pen, giving it a value advantage. Apple’s Magic Keyboard is more laptop-like, but expensive. Both offer excellent stylus and keyboard experiences.
6. Cameras and Audio
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Rear: Dual (13MP main + 6MP ultra-wide)
Front: Dual (12MP wide + 12MP ultra-wide, centered notch)
Audio: Quad AKG-tuned speakers, Dolby Atmos
The S8 Ultra’s dual front cameras support auto-framing and ultra-wide video calls, making it ideal for conferencing. The quad speakers deliver immersive sound.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Rear: Dual (12MP wide + 10MP ultra-wide) + LiDAR scanner
Front: 12MP ultra-wide (Center Stage)
Audio: Four-speaker system, spatial audio
Apple’s cameras are versatile, with LiDAR for AR and superior video capabilities. Center Stage keeps you in frame during calls. Audio quality is excellent with spatial audio support.
Verdict:
Both excel in video calls and media. The iPad Pro’s LiDAR and Center Stage are unique, while the S8 Ultra’s dual front cameras offer flexibility.
7. Battery Life and Charging
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Battery: 11,200 mAh
Charging: 45W fast charging (no wireless charging)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Battery: 10,758 mAh
Charging: 20W USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), no wireless charging
Both tablets deliver all-day battery life under typical use, but the S8 Ultra’s larger battery and faster charging offer practical benefits for power users.
8. Connectivity and Ports
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Ports: USB-C 3.2, microSD slot, pogo pins for keyboard
Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E, 5G (optional), Bluetooth 5.2
Extras: microSD expansion
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Ports: USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), Smart Connector (for keyboard)
Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E, 5G (optional), Bluetooth 5.3
Extras: No expandable storage
The iPad Pro’s Thunderbolt port enables faster data transfer and more powerful peripherals, but lacks expandable storage. The S8 Ultra’s microSD slot is a key advantage for creators with large files.
9. Price and Value
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Starting Price: ~$1,099 (8GB/128GB, S Pen included)
Keyboard: ~$349 (Book Cover Keyboard)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Starting Price: ~$1,099 (8GB/128GB, no Apple Pencil)
Apple Pencil 2: $129
Magic Keyboard: $349
With both starting at similar prices, the S8 Ultra offers better value out-of-the-box by including the S Pen. However, the iPad Pro’s superior app ecosystem and performance may justify the higher cost for some users.
10. Use Cases and Who Should Buy Which?
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Best for:
Digital artists (S Pen included, huge AMOLED canvas)
Multitaskers (DeX desktop mode, split-screen flexibility)
Users needing expandable storage
Android enthusiasts and those invested in Samsung’s ecosystem
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
Best for:
Creative professionals (video editing, music production, graphic design)
Power users needing the best performance
Users in the Apple ecosystem (seamless integration with Mac, iPhone)
Those needing the best app selection and long-term software support
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and the Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro are both extraordinary devices, but they cater to slightly different audiences. The S8 Ultra is the ultimate Android tablet, offering a gigantic, vibrant display, included S Pen, and versatile multitasking. The iPad Pro, powered by the M2 chip and supported by iPadOS, is the undisputed king of performance, with unmatched software and accessory support for creatives and professionals.
Choose the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra if you want the largest screen, need expandable storage, or prefer Android’s flexibility.
Choose the iPad Pro 12.9-inch if you demand the absolute best performance, want the richest app ecosystem, or are already invested in Apple’s world.
Both are at the top of their game, and your choice will ultimately depend on your workflow, ecosystem, and personal preferences.
