Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 FE blends flagship design with a mid-range price. But does its LCD screen and Exynos 1380 chip hold it back? Our review reveals the truth.
Priced at $450, the Tab S9 FE undercuts premium rivals with an IP68 rating and included S Pen. Is it the best budget Android tablet? Let’s find out.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Review
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 FE delivers flagship design at half the cost of the Tab S9. But does its $450 price tag justify compromises like an LCD screen and mid-tier chip? Let’s dive in.
Key Specs & Pricing
- Display: 10.9-inch 90Hz LCD (1440 x 2304)
- Chipset: Exynos 1380
- Battery: 8,000mAh with 45W charging
- RAM/Storage: 6GB/128GB ($450) or 8GB/256GB ($520)
- Extras: IP68 rating, included S Pen, 5G option
Quick Verdict: A stellar pick for casual users but struggles under heavy workloads.
Design & Display: Flagship Looks, Budget Screen
The S9 FE mirrors the premium Tab S9 with slim bezels, aluminum chassis, and a lightweight 523g build. However, its LCD panel lacks the OLED’s contrast and vibrancy. While bright enough for indoor streaming, sunlight exposure reveals washed-out blacks.
Pro Tip: Skip dark-themed movies—this display thrives on colorful content like cartoons or YouTube.
Performance: Smooth… Until It’s Not
The Exynos 1380 handles casual gaming (think Hearthstone) and multitasking smoothly, but demanding titles like Genshin Impact cause lag and overheating. For social media, streaming, and note-taking, it’s more than capable.
Storage Wins: The microSD slot lets you cheaply expand beyond its 128GB base.
Software & Battery: Reliable, Not Revolutionary
Running Android 13 with One UI 5.1.1, the Tab S9 FE offers polished multitasking. Samsung promises 4 OS updates, ensuring longevity. The 8,000mAh battery lasts a full day with mixed use, but 5G drains it faster.
Verdict: Perfect for travelers needing a Netflix-and-notes companion.
Cameras & Accessories: Don’t Expect Magic
The 8MP rear and 12MP front cameras suffice for Zoom calls or document scans, but photos lack detail. The included S Pen is a standout, magnetically attaching for seamless note-taking.
Missing: A headphone jack—bring your Bluetooth earbuds.
Galaxy Tab S9 FE vs Competitors
- iPad (10th Gen): Better performance, pricier accessories.
- Xiaomi Pad 6: Brighter display, no water resistance.
Should You Buy It?
Buy if:
- You want premium design under $500.
- Your needs are casual—streaming, browsing, light gaming.
Avoid if:
- You edit videos or play AAA mobile games.
- OLED screens are non-negotiable.
Final Thoughts
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE hit the basics with flagship flair, making it a top budget pick for students and casual users. Just don’t ask it to replace your laptop.
Related Posts:
- Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ vs S9 FE+: Which Samsung Tablet Wins?
- iPad vs Android Tablets: Which OS is Best for You?
- Top 5 Budget Tablets for Students in 2024
