​​Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus (12.4-inch) vs Galaxy Tab S9 Plus (12.4-inch) Comparison: Bigger The Better

Samsung has recently launched two new mid-range tablets, namely the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. These new tablets have caused a stir as the bigger screen variant, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a budget-friendly option with the same screen size as the Galaxy Tab S9+. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ made its debut on August 11, 2023 and boasts top-notch performance along with a high price tag. In this Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ vs Galaxy Tab S9+ comparison, we will be putting the two big screen tablets against each other to find out how they differ in terms of performance, display, and other key aspects. 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ vs Galaxy Tab S9+: Specs Overview

Specs	Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus	Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus
Display	12.4-inch LCD 2560×1600 pixels resolution, 90Hz Refresh Rate	12.4-inch AMOLED 1752 x 2800 pixels resolution, 120Hz Refresh Rate
CPU	Exynos 1380 Octa-Core with 8GB/12GB RAM	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy with 8GB/12GB RAM
Storage	128GB / 256GB with microSD expansion	256GB / 512GB with microSD expansion
Operating System	Android 13 with One UI 5.1.1	Android 13 with One UI 5.1.1
Cameras	8MP+8MP rear, 12MP ultra-wide front	13MP+8MP rear, 12MP ultra-wide front
Battery	10,090 mAh	10,090 mAh
Fingerprint sensor	Physical fingerprint sensor embedded into Power key	In-display fingerprint scanner
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 6 / 5G	Wi-Fi 6E / 5G
Measurements	285.4 x 185.4 x 6.5 mm	285.4 x 185.4 x 5.7 mm

Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy Tab S9 Plus was launched in August 2023, starting at $1000 for the 12GB RAM model. On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus was introduced on October 3, 2023, and its pricing is yet to be disclosed. However, considering that the base variant of the Tab S9 FE is priced at $449, it’s safe to assume that the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ will likely fall below the $600 price range. We’ll update this article once the official pricing for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is revealed.

Display and Design

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus features a 12.4-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, 16:10 aspect ratio, and a 90Hz refresh rate. In contrast, the Galaxy Tab S9 Plus boasts a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 16:10 aspect ratio. This 12.4-inch AMOLED panel not only offers a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals but also supports HDR10+. 

While LCD technology doesn’t produce the same vibrant colors and deep blacks as AMOLED, the Tab S9 FE+ display still provides sharp visuals and brightness.

In terms of design, both tablets follow Samsung’s signature sleek and slim design language. However, it’s worth noting that the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ carries slightly more bulk and weight compared to the Tab S9+.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus and Tab S9 Plus feature different hardware configurations.The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1380 processor, accompanied by the Mali-G68 MP5 GPU. You have the flexibility to choose between two RAM options: 8GB or 12GB, along with storage capacities of 128GB or 256GB. While the Exynos processor is a capable performer, it’s important to note that its performance may not match the sheer processing power of the Tab S9+.

On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab S9+ is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, paired with 12GB of RAM and storage options of 256GB or a spacious 512GB. In terms of raw power and multitasking capabilities, the Tab S9+ takes the lead. It is better equipped to handle demanding applications, resource-intensive games, and multitasking scenarios with ease.

In the Geekbench 5 screenshot below, you can see that the Tab S9 FE+ ranks lower than Xiaomi Pad 6 in terms of performance while the Tab S9 is on the top.

It’s worth noting that the Tab S9+ performs even better than its smaller screen variant as you can see in the Geekbench 5 score below.

Software and Connectivity

Software and connectivity play pivotal roles in the user experience of any device. Let’s explore how the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ and Tab S9+ stack up in these aspects.

Both tablets ship with the latest Android 13 and Samsung’s One UI 5.1.1. This means you can expect a consistent and user-friendly interface on either device. Samsung’s One UI adds various optimizations and features that enhance productivity and usability on a tablet, including multi-window support and a rich ecosystem of apps optimized for larger screens.

But the problem here surfaces for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ as it reportedly lacks the same level of Samsung DeX support as seen on Tab S9+ and other Samsung flagships. Now, don’t worry. Technically, the Tab S9 FE+ does support DeX but not in the way that you expect. The culprit behind the issue is the USB C integration. 

Upon closer inspection of the specifications, it becomes apparent that both Galaxy Tab S9 FE models are equipped with USB-C 2.0 rather than USB-C 3.2. Consequently, the USB ports lack the ability to support DisplayPort functionality. Unfortunately, this means that the tablets are unable to operate Samsung DeX externally, and the wireless alternative is also absent. We also confirmed the issue during our unboxing of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Tab S9 FE Plus.

Currently, there is no official explanation for why the DeX feature is not available on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE series. However, we will provide updates as we receive more information from Samsung on this matter. If you desire to use this feature, you can still do so by directly running the desktop environment on the tablet and connecting a keyboard cover and other peripherals. We will continue to keep you informed if any changes occur.

When it comes to connectivity, both tablets offer a robust set of options. These include 5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, ensuring that you can stay connected wherever you are. However, it’s worth highlighting that the Tab S9+ goes a step further by supporting Wi-Fi 6E. Wi-Fi 6E not only offers faster wireless speeds but also reduces interference, resulting in a more stable and reliable Wi-Fi connection. If you frequently connect to Wi-Fi networks and prioritize speed and stability, the Tab S9+ has an edge in this department.

Both the tablets have 10,090 mAh batteries backing them, which is more than enough to support your gaming and Netflix streaming sessions.

Cameras

Tablet cameras, while not the primary focus, can still be important for certain use cases. Let’s take a closer look at the camera setups on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ and Tab S9+.

Starting with the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+, it features an 8MP primary rear camera paired with an 8MP ultra-wide camera. On the front, you’ll find a 12MP ultra-wide camera, which is more than capable of video calls and casual selfies.

The Galaxy Tab S9+, in contrast, offers a slightly more versatile camera configuration. Its rear camera setup comprises a 13MP autofocus camera, accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide camera. On the front, it houses a 12MP ultra-wide camera, ensuring high-quality video calls and self-portraits.

Verdict

In conclusion, the choice between the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ ultimately boils down to your priorities and budget.

The Galaxy Tab S9+ stands out as the premium option in this comparison. Its captivating AMOLED display, high-end performance, and Wi-Fi 6E support make it the ideal choice for those who demand the best in terms of display quality, processing power, and connectivity. If you’re an enthusiast who values an immersive visual experience and the ability to tackle demanding tasks effortlessly, the Tab S9+ is the tablet for you.

On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a compelling overall package at a more budget-friendly price point. It still delivers excellent performance, a decent display, and a feature set that caters to a wide range of user needs. If you’re looking for a capable big-screen tablet that strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, the Tab S9 FE+ is a solid choice.

Ultimately, the right tablet for you will depend on your specific requirements and budget. If you are game for spending money on a premium tablet with big screen then the Tab S9+ is the best option for you. However, if you want a big screen tablet within a mid-range budget then the Tab S9 FE+ will give you almost everything that the Tab S9+ brings except for a faster processor, better rear cameras, and AMOLED screen.