This $400-Off Tablet Rivals the iPad Pro on a Large Screen
▼ Summary
– The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is a large 14.6-inch tablet with a powerful processor and advanced Galaxy AI tools, making it ideal for productivity and entertainment.
– Its design is nearly identical to the previous generation, with Samsung focusing on performance improvements, AI capabilities, and software longevity instead of physical changes.
– The tablet’s size and the separate, expensive keyboard case reduce its portability, and the S Pen stores awkwardly on the back, often detaching without a case.
– It features a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset optimized for AI tasks, supporting tools like Sketch-to-Image and Circle to Search, with enhanced Bixby and smooth performance.
– With Android 15 and up to seven years of OS updates, the S10 Ultra is future-proof for power users but starts at $1,200, making it a premium option compared to more affordable alternatives.
Finding a high-performance tablet that genuinely challenges the dominance of the iPad Pro can feel like a quest, but the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra makes a compelling case for itself, especially when you can currently secure one for up to $800 off with a trade-in. This 14.6-inch device is engineered as a productivity powerhouse, combining a robust processor with a suite of integrated Galaxy AI tools designed for both serious work and immersive entertainment.
As someone who juggles a writing career with family life, I rely on a dependable tablet for work and leisure during my children’s activities. While my usual go-to is an iPad, I recently spent time with the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and came away with a fresh perspective.
Visually, the Tab S10 Ultra’s design and display haven’t undergone a dramatic transformation from its predecessor. The physical resemblance is so strong that it even fits perfectly into the protective case I originally purchased for the older Tab S9 Ultra model. Samsung’s primary upgrades for this generation are concentrated under the hood, focusing on enhanced performance, more sophisticated AI capabilities, and a commitment to long-term software support.
The 14.6-inch AMOLED 2X display is undeniably massive, delivering vibrant colors and a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The tablet also boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. However, that expansive screen comes at a cost to portability. Its imposing size means it’s not a device I would casually toss into a bag for every outing, particularly without a protective case.
Speaking of which, the tablet does not include a case, which is standard. Samsung’s official keyboard accessories, however, represent a significant additional investment. The Book Cover Keyboard is priced at $350, with a slimmer alternative costing $200. Anyone considering this tablet as a laptop replacement must factor this keyboard expense into their total budget.
In a notable shift, Samsung equipped the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra with a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset instead of a Qualcomm processor. Samsung highlights this chip as being optimized for AI-driven tasks. The performance feels noticeably snappier than the previous model, but the real standout is the AI integration. Features like Sketch-to-Image, an enhanced Note Assist, and Circle to Search operate seamlessly. Even the Bixby assistant has become more intelligent and useful.
These generative AI features perform exceptionally well, creating a fun and efficient environment for users looking for an alternative to an iPad Pro. While Apple Intelligence is rolling out, many of the AI capabilities available on the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra are not yet accessible on some Apple devices.
The experience is further enhanced by the included S Pen. This IP68-rated Bluetooth stylus offers high-precision input for sketching and note-taking. I found it delightful for jotting down ideas and coloring, while AI tools like Sketch-to-Image opened up new creative possibilities. My primary complaint with the S Pen is its storage location on the back of the tablet; it tends to detach easily if you use the device on your lap without a case securing it in place.
Regarding longevity, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra runs on Android 15 with One UI 7 and is promised up to seven years of OS upgrades. This makes it an excellent choice for users deeply embedded in the Samsung ecosystem, as it ensures fast and reliable syncing with Galaxy phones, Buds, and Watches.
After several months of testing, I can confidently say the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is a superb option for creative professionals and productivity-focused users who want to leverage a powerful processor and reliable AI features. It’s also a strong contender for anyone considering an AI-powered tablet like an iPad Pro, given the breadth of software features available out of the box.
The S10 Ultra is a future-proof device with a powerful chipset, Wi-Fi 7 support, and long-term OS updates, making it ideal for power users. Be prepared for the price tag, though, as it starts at $1,200. For those who prefer a more affordable and portable tablet for working odd hours or casual play, alternatives like the Samsung Tab S10 FE or the iPad 11th Generation might be more suitable choices.
(Source: ZDNET)
