What's the Difference between an iPad and a Samsung tablet

iPad vs. Samsung Tablet: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing the right tablet can be confusing due to the wide range of options available. Mainly, differentiating between Apple's iPad and Samsung's tablet can be challenging if you're unsure about how they differ. For that, we're here to assist you, so there's no need to worry. In this blog post, we will compare Apple iPads and Samsung tablets to help you choose which one to purchase. We'll talk about their OS, designs, features, and prices. No matter whether you're a creative professional or an entertainment enthusiast, we have a tablet that will meet your needs. Get ready to learn everything about iPads and Samsung tablets.

Overview of Apple Tablets

Apple is famous for its innovative and popular tech products. It has four main tablet options: iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. Each model has different features that appeal to different people, making it easier for consumers to pick the one that fits their needs and preferences.

  • iPad: The iPad is Apple's popular tablet for everyday use. It usually features a 10.2-inch Retina screen, an A12 Bionic processor, and is compatible with the Apple Pencil.
  • iPad mini: The iPad mini is a smaller version with a 7.9/8.3-inch Retina display. However, don't let its small size fool you - it still features a strong A12 Bionic chip and supports the Apple Pencil, too.
  • iPad Air: The iPad Air is a better version with a bigger screen, faster chip, and compatibility with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.
  • iPad Pro: The iPad Pro is the most powerful and versatile tablet in Apple's lineup. It has a beautiful display, powerful chip, large storage capacity, and high-quality cameras for professional photos and videos.

Overview of Samsung Tablets

Samsung is a popular brand with many tablet options for consumers. Samsung tablets are available in three main types: A series, Active series, and S series. Each series is made for a specific audience, helping customers choose what they need.

  • A Series: The A series is Samsung's affordable tablet lineup, great for those seeking a budget-friendly option. There are different sizes available, such as 7", 8", and 10.1" models, all with good display and performance.
  • Active series: The Active series is for people who need a tough tablet. It is very durable and can withstand drops and water. The screen can be used with gloves, making it ideal for tough work environments.
  • S series: The S series is Samsung's top-of-the-line flagship lineup. You can choose from different sizes, such as 8.4”, 10.5”, and 12.4”. They have good screens, fast processors, and good cameras, making them great for watching stuff, doing work, and having fun.

Check Out: Refurbished iPad Air Vs. iPad Pro: A Comprehensive Guide (2023)

Overview of Samsung Tablets

Differentiation of Features Between Apple iPad & Samsung Tablet

When deciding between an Apple iPad and a Samsung tablet, there are some important distinctions to think about. In the end, it's all about what you like. Each brand has good choices at different prices.

1) Display: Which Screen Display is the Best?

When deciding between an iPad and a Samsung tablet, the screen display is an important factor to consider. Which brand has better picture quality among their different screen sizes? Let's examine it more closely.

iPad Screen Display: Colourful & Vibrant

The iPad has great picture quality because of its Retina display technology. The bright colors and clear details make films and games more interesting. The newest iPads have OLED screens for improved display quality.

Samsung Tablet Screen Display: Best OLED Technology You Can Trust

Samsung tablets have OLED screens that provide excellent picture quality. That is also similar to the newest iPad models. Samsung tablets have displays that naturally show colors. That makes the viewing experience more immersive and lifelike.

Resolution Differences

Samsung and Apple have tablets with different screen resolutions that impact display clarity and sharpness. For example, The Samsung Tab S7+ has a resolution of 2800x1752, while the iPad Pro 12.9-inch has a resolution of 2732x2048. The resolution difference doesn't matter so you won't notice a big difference in picture quality.

The iPad has a vibrant screen display with vivid colors. If you want a display that looks realistic and lifelike, Samsung tablets might be a better choice for you. However, Both brands have great screen display technology for an excellent viewing experience so you can choose either one.

Check Out: Everything You Need to Know About Buying Refurbished iPads in 2023

Resolution Differences

2) Stylus: iPads vs. Samsung Tablets

Apple and Samsung are two big players in the tablet market. Apple has the iPad, and Samsung has a line of impressive tablets. Each device has unique features that make it stand out from the rest. The tablets have different styluses. The Apple Pencil and Samsung S-Pen have some similarities in how they work, but each stylus has its special features that make it different.

Apple Pencil: Enhancing Artistic Skills

The Apple Pencil is popular among artists and designers. It is great for making detailed sketches, digital art, and designs. The pencil's angle and sensitivity to pressure allow for versatile brushstrokes and shading in your artwork. Additionally, the Apple Pencil has minimal delay, allowing for fast and accurate strokes, resulting in almost flawless drawings and designs.

The Apple Pencil has palm rejection, allowing you to rest your hand on the screen while drawing without any interference. This feature is really important, especially when you have to do detailed work for a long time.

Samsung S-Pen: Greatest Stylus

The Apple Pencil is for artists and designers, while the Samsung S-Pen is for everyday tasks. The Samsung S-Pen is great for graphic design and offers versatility for quick note-taking, document signing, and photo drawing.

Additionally, many Samsung tablets include a free S-Pen, saving you the need to spend extra money on purchasing the stylus. The S-Pen has special features like the air command menu, hover pointer, and smart select, which make it very versatile.

Which Stylus Is the Best?

The Apple Pencil and Samsung S-Pen are both great for drawing and writing. But it comes down to personal preference. The Apple Pencil is perfect for professional designers and artists who value accuracy, precision, and attention to detail. The Samsung S-Pen is a great option for those who want versatility and flexibility without spending too much money on additional purchases. Both styluses provide a great user experience, and it ultimately depends on your tablet usage goals.

Which Stylus Is the Best?

3) Cost of Apple iPad vs Samsung Tablet

Price is very important when buying an iPad or a tablet. In this comparison, we will look at the prices of Apple's iPad and Samsung's tablets to help you decide which one is cheaper for you.

Apple iPad Prices

The iPad lineup from Apple includes the 8th-gen iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. The prices for these models start at $499 and go up to $2,549 for the most expensive iPad Pro with 2TB storage and 5G. The price of each model changes based on storage choices and, sometimes, screen size.

Samsung Tablets Prices

Samsung has different tablet models like the Galaxy Tab A, Galaxy Tab Active, and Galaxy Tab S. The prices of these models start at $379 for the 32GB Galaxy Tab A7 and go up to $1,949 for the 512GB Galaxy Tab S7+. Samsung tablets are a more affordable choice compared to Apple tablets when purchasing without a contract.

Samsung tablets are generally cheaper than Apple's iPads. The priciest Samsung tablet is $1,949, but it's $600 less than the priciest iPad Pro. Additionally, Samsung tablet prices are more consistent compared to Apple, making it simpler to find a model that suits your budget. 

4) Storage Choices

Storage is a key factor to think about when selecting a tablet. Apple iPad and Samsung Tablets have different storage options, but there are important differences to consider.

iPad Storage Capacity

The storage capacity of an iPad differs based on the model you select. The 8th gen iPad starts at 32GB storage, while the 5th gen iPad Pro has a massive 2TB storage capacity. Internal storage is convenient because it is easily accessible and doesn't require an internet connection. Apple iPads don't have microSD card support. Once you pick a model with a certain storage capacity, you can only change it if you upgrade to a model with more storage.

Samsung Tablet Storage Capacity

Samsung Tablets have storage options starting from 32GB for the A series and going up to 512GB for the S series. Samsung tablets can use microSD cards for extra storage. To get more space, buy an external storage card with up to 1 TB capacity. It's really useful for storing large amounts of files like music, videos, and photos. External storage cards are cheap and easy to find online.

When deciding between an iPad and a Samsung Tablet, think about how much storage you require. If you need a large amount of storage space and don't need the ability to add more, an Apple iPad is a good choice. If you want flexibility and the option to increase your storage easily, a Samsung Tablet with external storage support is a good choice.

Samsung Tablet Storage Capacity

4) Operating Systems: iOS Vs. Android: 

Another big difference to think about is the operating system on each device. iOS and Android are popular mobile operating systems. Apple's iOS is only available on Apple devices like the iPad, while Android is open source and used by various manufacturers, including Samsung.

Customization and User Friendliness

These operating systems differ in terms of customization options. Android systems are flexible and let users personalize their devices a lot. Choose an Android operating system if you want complete control and the ability to customize your device to fit your preferences. However, if you want a simple and easy-to-use experience, then choosing iOS on an iPad is the better option. The iPad interface is user-friendly and simple to navigate, making it a good choice for people with limited technical skills.

App Performance

iOS is made for Apple devices, so it runs well on them. iOS apps must pass rigorous approval procedures before being available on the Apple App Store. That ensures that they are generally more stable and secure. However, Android is more open, so it's easier to develop and test apps. Sometimes, this can lead to apps that are not very good and don't work well. Because there are many different Android devices, it can be hard for manufacturers to make sure their products work on all of them.

Which One Is the Best?

But when it comes to deciding which OS is best for a tablet? It depends on your preferences. Choose Android if you want customization and flexibility. If you want a simple and fast experience, go for iOS on an iPad. In the end, both operating systems have pros and cons, and it all comes down to what you prefer. No matter what you choose, the tablet you have will be perfect for reading, browsing, and entertainment.

Check Out: How to Remove Water from Your Tablet Safely in 2023?

5) Applications Availability

When buying a tablet, it's crucial to think about the variety and quality of apps. The right app can make your tablet experience better and offer many possibilities. Apple's iPad and Samsung's tablets have some important differences.

App Store Facilities

The Apple App Store has a lot of apps, including many that work well on the iPad. Developers consider the iPad's special features and abilities when creating apps. That leads to a customized and engaging experience.

If you have an Apple Pencil, you can easily find drawing apps that work well with your iPad and stylus. Many apps for productivity, education, and entertainment are optimized for the iPad's big screen.

Samsung's Play Store 

However, Samsung's Play Store has more apps, approximately 2.87 million in total. Most of these apps need to be made better for tablets and are just bigger versions of mobile apps. Usually, the Samsung Play Store has a limited selection of apps optimized for tablets. 

In short, Apple's iPad is better than Samsung's tablets in terms of the app experience. Many apps on the App Store are designed specifically for iPads and take advantage of their special features. The Samsung Play Store has more apps, but tablet apps may need to be fixed.

6) Security of iPad vs Samsung Tablet: Which One is More Secure?

Apple and Samsung have different security measures. Below, we have compared the security features of Apple's iPad series and Samsung's tablet line to see which one provides better data and privacy protection.

iPad Security

Apple is known for being secure, and the iPad is no different. From iPadOS 14.4 and now the latest version, IOS 17 has many advanced security features for your safety. Some of them include features like FileVault 2, which encrypts your hard drive, and Gatekeeper, which blocks unauthorized apps, ensuring your device is secure. 

Moreover, The iPad has encryption to protect your data if it gets lost or stolen. Even if someone gets your iPad, they can't access your data. Lastly, Apple regularly releases software updates that include security patches to ensure your safety. That ensures your iPad is always secure with the latest updates.

Samsung Tablet Security

Samsung tablets have good security features. Samsung Knox is a security platform made by Samsung for all their devices. It has various levels of protection, such as system security, malware protection, and secure boot. Samsung regularly updates the security of its devices, but the frequency may differ depending on the model. These updates have the newest security patches to guard against new threats. 

Moreover, Samsung tablets have fingerprint and facial recognition for biometric authentication. It makes your device more secure by allowing only you to unlock it.

Both iPad and Samsung tablets have strong security features for your safety. But if we had to choose one winner, we would choose the iPad. Apple devices have strong security features that are integrated into the system. Apple regularly updates its devices to keep them secure and protect you. Samsung's security features are impressive and shouldn't be ignored.

Check Out: Things to Do When iPad Is Stuck Recovery Mode in 2023

7) Performance and Battery 

Tablets need good performance and long battery life. How do Apple and Samsung tablets compare in terms of performance and battery life?

Performance: 

Apple's custom processors are famous for their super-fast speed, thanks to being developed in-house by the company. Qualcomm, an external company, usually makes Samsung's tablet chipsets. Apple iPads are generally faster than Samsung tablets, especially for running demanding apps or multitasking. It's because Apple designs powerful processors for their devices.

Battery Life:

On the other end, Battery life is important, and it's better to have a long-lasting and consistent battery. Apple and Samsung both have good battery life options. Apple says their latest iPads have a battery life of about 10 hours, which should be sufficient for a typical day of use. 

Samsung offers different battery capacities for their tablets based on the model you select. For example, The Galaxy Tab S7 has a battery that can last for about 15 hours with its 8,000mAh capacity. Samsung may have longer battery life in some models, but Apple's newest iPads consistently offer an impressive 10-hour battery life.

In conclusion, Apple and Samsung both have good tablet options, but the main difference is in their performance and battery life. The iPad is a good choice if you need a tablet that can handle demanding apps easily. Samsung offers tablets with longer battery life options.

8) Accessories

Apple Accessories

Apple accessories are pricey but offer excellent quality. For instance, a newer Apple Pencil costs $199, while a basic iPad keyboard begins at $235 without a trackpad. The prices may be very high, but many people believe Apple's accessories are worth it.

Moreover, Apple's accessories are popular because they work well with the iPad. The Magic Keyboard with trackpad is made for the iPad Pro so that you can use it like a laptop. The keyboard and trackpad work well, making typing on a tablet feel like using a desktop computer.

Samsung Accessories

On the other end, Samsung accessories are cheaper now, but they have some limitations. Samsung has a unique approach to its tablet accessories. Tablets with S Pen include one, so there is no need to buy a separate stylus. Samsung's keyboard covers with trackpads are much cheaper than Apple's alternative, priced at only $299.

Samsung still has limitations despite the affordability of these accessories. Some Galaxy Tablets may not support S Pen or keyboard covers. It would help if you researched to find out which accessories work with your device. Samsung's keyboard covers may not work as well as Apple's, so you might have to make some changes to get them to work perfectly.

Choosing between Apple and Samsung for tablet accessories depends on your priorities. Choose Apple if you want top-notch accessories that work well together and are okay with paying more. But if you want to spend less money and only require basic features, Samsung's accessories are a good choice.

No matter what brand you pick, getting accessories for your tablet can greatly 

improve your productivity and make it feel more like a laptop. Whether you choose Apple's pricey accessories or Samsung's cheaper options, you'll be closer to using your tablet for both work and play.

Check Out: Live a Productive Life with Apple iPad Pro and Save the Environment

Advantages & Disadvantages of Apple iPads

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of Apple's iPad to help you decide:

Advantages:

  • If you have an iPhone or iPod, you'll find the iPad interface familiar and easy to use. It's easy to use and saves you time.
  • Apple is famous for its high-quality products, including the iPad. It's made with great materials and feels luxurious.
  • Apple's iPad is faster than the Samsung tablet in the same price range because it has better hardware.
  • Apple ensures that all apps meet strict standards and regulations, so you can trust that downloaded apps won't harm your device. Apple's app screening process is very strict, causing popular apps to fail.
  • The best iPad models are as powerful as PCs and laptops, allowing them to perform all the same tasks. These iPads are great alternatives to PCs or laptops because of their advanced hardware.

Disadvantages:

  • iPads cannot expand storage - no SD card slot means you're stuck with the available storage space.
  • Apple offers limited customization options to users. If you want to customize your iPad, you'll either have to go without or jailbreak it, which also has its drawbacks.
  • iPads are usually pricier than Android tablets.
  • iPad battery life is shorter compared to some competitors, although it still lasts up to 10 hours.
  • Niche apps may only be available on the App Store if they are able to pass Apple's testing process. Some apps only work on Android, so if you can't find an app you want on iOS, you'll have to choose a different device or go without that app.
  • iPad pen not included. If you want to use it for drawing, taking notes, or any activity that needs a stylus, you'll need to buy one separately.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Samsung Tablets 

When choosing a tablet, you'll need to decide between an iPad or a Samsung tablet. Let's examine the advantages and disadvantages of Samsung tablets to assist you in making a well-informed choice.

Advantages: 

  • Samsung tablets offer more options for personalization, allowing you to make the device uniquely yours. You can customize your home screen, add widgets, and install different launchers to change the appearance of your device completely.
  • Samsung has many tablet options, from affordable to expensive models. You can find a tablet that suits your needs and budget.
  • Samsung tablets are cheaper than iPads, so they're a good choice for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Samsung tablets have long-lasting batteries, with certain models lasting up to 15 hours on one charge.
  • Samsung's S-Pen offers a better writing and drawing experience for tablet users who need to take notes or sketch. Certain Samsung tablets have a designated slot for storing the S-Pen, allowing for convenient access.

Disadvantages:

  • Google's Play Store is less secure than Apple's App Store. That increases the risk of downloading harmful apps or malware.
  • Samsung tablets have both strengths and weaknesses when it comes to customization options. Some users may need help finding the large number of options to be overwhelming and confusing.
  • Limited built-in compatibility. Samsung devices may not work as well with Apple devices as iPads do because they use different operating systems.
  • It's more powerful hardware than the iPad. Apple's hardware is generally considered excellent. Samsung tablets are good, but they should be as good as iPads in terms of performance and build quality.

Get Refurbished iPads and Galaxy Tablets From Roobotech in Australia.

Want to buy a refurbished iPad or Galaxy tablet in Australia? Try Roobotech! We have a variety of good refurbished tablets available in our online store, including the newest ones from Apple and Samsung, all at reasonable prices.

Select from a variety of iPads, including models from the 5th to 8th generation, iPad Pros spanning from 2015 to 2021, and different versions of iPad Air. We have various Galaxy Tablets to choose from, such as the Tab Active 3 Cellular, Galaxy Tab S6, and S5e Wifi, and the Galaxy Tab S4. You have plenty of options to meet your needs.

At Roobotech, we focus on minimizing electronic waste and supporting sustainable practices. Buying a refurbished tablet saves money and reduces carbon emissions compared to buying a new one.

Our tablets are carefully inspected by our skilled technicians, who only use original parts, and are cleaned before being given to customers. We are proud to offer top-quality refurbished electronics and excellent customer service.

We have great deals and promotions on tablets and accessories every week. You'll find the perfect device for your needs and budget. Additionally, our return policy allows for easy returns within 14 days, and we offer a comprehensive warranty and return policies for your peace of mind. Get your refurbished tablets from Roobotech and see the difference now.

Conclusion: Which One Is Better?

When deciding between an iPad and a Samsung tablet, there are some things to think about. You have to figure out what you need as a user or maker and assess the prices, storage, and display choices for each tablet. Compare the specifications and features of each model to find the one that suits you best. Choosing a tablet depends on what you need and prefer. We hope this guide helped you decide, and good luck finding the right tablet for you.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Which is superior, an iPad or a tablet?

iPads are better and simpler than other tablets. The iPad has the most apps available, and they are useful. However, Android has fewer tablet-optimized apps at the moment.

Are Samsung Galaxy Tab and iPad the same?

The Galaxy Tab S9+ is slightly thinner but slightly wider than the iPad Pro. The measurements for the Galaxy Tab S9+ are 11.2 x 7.3 x 0.2 inches (HWD), and for the iPad Pro are 11.0 x 8.5 x 0.3 inches. It's lighter by about 0.2 pounds, weighing approximately 1.3 pounds, while the iPad weighs 1.5 pounds. Remember, the Tab S9+ has a slightly smaller screen size.

What are the downsides of using an iPad?

The iPad cannot use flash drives to increase storage capacity, and apps cannot be stored on external hard drives or cloud storage. Tablets are less expandable than laptops, and laptops are less expandable than desktop PCs. The iPad is more limited than certain Android tablets.

Which is better for students, a tablet or an iPad?

To save money, students should buy a tablet because it's eco-friendly. Non-Apple fans or Android users may prefer buying a tablet instead of an iPad. The Samsung tablet is good for customization and work-related tasks.

Back to blog