Released in 2017, the Tab S4 was once the best Android tablet. Equipped with a 10.5 Super AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 835 processor, an S-Pen and an overall robust design, the S4 embodied the best of Samsung engineering. But with no major software updates and outdated hardware, is the Tab S4 worth your money?
Why you should consider the Tab S4
Though the Tab S4 is old, it offers several features and capabilities that may be useful to a wide range of users, such as:
- Acceptable hardware: The Galaxy Tab S4 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor and 4GB of RAM, which allows it to handle note-taking with the S-Pen and minimal multitasking tasks. This is great for students and casual users who need the device for media consumption, signing documents, drawing and light productivity.
- High-resolution display: The Galaxy Tab S4 features a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600, providing sharp, vibrant visuals for all types of content. In perspective, this display is even better than the newer Tab S6 lite and it’s also the same resolution as the Tab S8 (which doesn’t have an OLED display).
- Stylus support: The Galaxy Tab S4 is compatible with the Samsung S Pen, which allows users to write, draw, and take notes directly on the screen, making it a great tool for productivity and creativity.
- Expandable storage: The Galaxy Tab S4 features expandable storage via a microSD card (up to 400 GB), allowing users to easily add additional storage for their apps, games, and other files.
- Long battery life: The Galaxy Tab S4 is equipped with a large 7,300mAh battery, which provides up to 16 hours of video playback, making it a great device for long trips and extended use.
- Modern design: Take a look at Samsung and Apple’s latest tablets. The Tab S4 isn’t that far behind. If aesthetics matter to you, the Tab S4 won’t disappoint.
- Great Speakers: The Tab S4 features quad speakers tuned by AKG and they sound amazing. In comparison, the Tab S7 FE only has 2 speakers.
- Premium build quality: The tablet is sleek with a metal frame on the sides and glass on the front and back.
- Accessories: There are various accessories that you can buy from Amazon, including the OEM keyboard case that works great with Samsung Dex.
- Samsung Dex: Samsung Dex allows you to convert the Tab S4’s OS into a PC-like environment. The feature is versatile and great for productivity. It may not be a laptop replacement, but it’s close enough.
- Low price: The Tab S4’s price has dropped significantly throughout the years, and there’s never a better time to grab one.
- Secure: The Tab S4 is the last Samsung device to feature the Iris scanner.
Reasons not to buy the Tab S4
- No software updates: The Tab S4 can only be updated to Android 10 (One UI 2.1). There are many features that Samsung has introduced throughout the years, and it’s such a disappointment that the Tab S4 cant get these updates. That alone is a good enough reason not to buy this tablet, especially if it will be your primary device.
Note: The Tab S4 may still get security updates.
- Old Hardware: The Tab S4’s hardware is already outdated. With app resources exponentially increasing, the device will become slow.
Is the Tab S4 better than the Tab S6 Lite?
The Tab S6 Lite is Samsung’s entry-level midrange Tablet. Not to be confused with the Tab S6, the S6 Lite is still actively sold by Samsung.
Though the Tab S4 has better build quality, better speakers and an OLED screen, we recommend the Tab S6 Lite because of software support.
The best use cases for the Galaxy Tab S4
- Note-taking
- Light productivity
- Car infotainment system
- Cheap laptop replacement with Samsung Dex
- Document signing and office tasks
- Drawing
- Light gaming
Should you get the Galaxy Tab S4?
Despite the old hardware, the Galaxy Tab S4 is still a capable tablet that offers a range of useful features for various users. Whether you need it for light work, a versatile tool for creativity, or an entertainment device, the Galaxy Tab S4 is still a solid choice. It’s also affordable, has a modern design, great speakers and Samsung Dex.
However, the lack of future software updates makes it hard to recommend this device. Android has evolved throughout the years, introducing new privacy features, security updates, multitasking tools and refined large-screen compatibility. It might be better to get the Tab S6 Lite which currently runs Android 13 (One UI 5).
For more Galaxy Tablet comparisons, check out our article here.
