Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S4, released in 2018, was one of Samsung’s most advanced tablets at the time. Equipped with a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display, S Pen support, and the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 chipset, it stood out as a productivity-focused device. But in today’s rapidly evolving tech world, how does the Tab S4 hold up against newer models and alternative tablets from Google, Huawei, and Apple? In this post, we’ll explore the features of the Tab S4 and compare it with other tablets from the same era, such as the Google Pixel Slate, Huawei MediaPad M5, and the Apple iPad Pro (3rd Gen).
Historical Context and Evolution
At the time of its release, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 was designed to blur the line between tablets and laptops. Its DeX mode offered a desktop-like experience, a feature that was unique compared to its competitors. With a starting price of $649 for the Wi-Fi model and $749 for the LTE variant, it was positioned as a premium option for professionals and creatives.
Alternative Tablets of the Time:
- Google Pixel Slate (2018): Google’s attempt to dominate the tablet market with Chrome OS and keyboard support.
- Huawei MediaPad M5 (2018): A competitive Android alternative with a focus on media consumption.
- Apple iPad Pro (3rd Gen, 2018): Apple’s powerhouse tablet, competing directly with the Tab S4 in terms of performance and accessory support.
Detailed Specifications
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 was available in Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + LTE models, offering two storage options: 64GB and 256GB. It also supported microSD expansion up to 256GB. Below are the detailed specifications for the tablet:
- Display:
- Screen Size: 10.5 inches
- Type: Super AMOLED, 16:10 aspect ratio
- Resolution: 2560 x 1600 pixels (287 PPI)
- Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 4
- Brightness: 600 nits (peak brightness)
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Touch Sampling Rate: 240 Hz
- HDR Support: No
- Peak Brightness: 600 nits
- Performance:
- Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 (10 nm)
- CPU: Octa-core (4×2.35 GHz Kryo & 4×1.9 GHz Kryo)
- GPU: Adreno 530
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB or 256GB, expandable via microSD up to 256GB
- OS Version: Android 8.1 (upgradable)
- Camera:
- Main Camera: 13 MP, f/1.9, autofocus, HDR, panorama, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
- Features: LED flash, panorama
- Video Recording (Main): 1080p @ 60fps
- Selfie Camera: 8 MP, f/1.9, HDR, autofocus
- Video Recording (Selfie): 1080p @ 60fps
- Camera Benchmarks: Main Camera (80), Selfie Camera (70)
- Battery:
- Capacity: 7300 mAh
- Type: Non-removable Li-Po
- Charging: Fast charging 15W
- Battery Life: Up to 16 hours of video playback
- Connectivity:
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 4.2, NFC
- Physical Ports: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, microSD slot
- Cellular Connectivity: LTE (on Wi-Fi + LTE model), supported bands: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900, HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100, LTE bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28
- SIM Type: No SIM for Wi-Fi models; Nano SIM for Wi-Fi + LTE models
- Design:
- Dimensions: 249.3 x 164.3 x 7.1 mm
- Weight: 482g (Wi-Fi), 483g (Wi-Fi + LTE)
- Body: Metal frame with Gorilla Glass front
- Water Resistance: IP68 rating for water and dust resistance
- Colors: Black, Silver, Gold
- Audio:
- Speakers: 4 stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos sound
- Audio Jack: 3.5mm headphone jack
- Speaker Loudness Score: 85/100
- Sensors and Security:
- Biometrics: Iris scanner, face recognition
- Sensors: Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
- Accessories:
- Included: S Pen (no battery required, 4096 pressure levels)
- Optional: Book Cover, Keyboard (sold separately)
- Accessory Support: DeX mode, external keyboard, S Pen
This breakdown of the Galaxy Tab S4‘s detailed specifications showcases the premium features it brought to the market in 2018, while offering a glimpse into how it holds up today. The S Pen’s inclusion without needing additional purchases makes it stand out compared to other tablets of its time.
Comparison with Competitors:
- Google Pixel Slate: Offers 12.3-inch Molecular Display and runs Chrome OS, but lacks a dedicated stylus like the S Pen.
- Huawei MediaPad M5: Smaller 10.8-inch IPS LCD, but similarly powerful with Kirin 960 chipset.
- Apple iPad Pro (3rd Gen): A bigger 11-inch or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display and a more advanced A12X Bionic chip.
Use Cases in Today’s World
While the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 may not compete with the raw power of today’s flagship tablets, it remains an excellent option for users who prioritize productivity and media consumption. Its DeX mode offers a near-desktop experience, perfect for multitasking. Moreover, the S Pen makes it a great choice for note-taking, sketching, and editing documents on the go.
Modern Use Cases:
- Education: A great tool for students who need a reliable device for note-taking and light multitasking.
- Content Creation: The S Pen and DeX mode provide versatility for those who want to create content on the go without the need for a laptop.
- Media Consumption: The Super AMOLED display and quad speakers offer an immersive experience for watching videos or playing casual games.
Common Problems and Limitations
Given that the Tab S4 was released in 2018, it faces certain limitations in today’s fast-moving tech landscape:
- Software Updates: Official software support for the Tab S4 stopped at Android 10, meaning you won’t get the latest Android features unless you root the device.
- Performance: While the Snapdragon 835 was powerful in 2018, newer chipsets significantly outperform it, especially in gaming and multitasking.
- Accessory Compatibility: The S Pen is included, but users seeking a detachable keyboard may find that third-party options are limited compared to newer models.
Comparisons with Newer Models
When compared to newer tablets, like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 or Apple iPad Air (2020), the Tab S4 holds its own in terms of display quality and accessory support. However, the gap in performance becomes apparent in more demanding tasks such as video editing or 3D rendering.
Accessory Support:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S4: S Pen (included), Book Cover Keyboard (optional)
- Apple iPad Pro (3rd Gen): Apple Pencil (sold separately), Smart Keyboard Folio (optional)
- Google Pixel Slate: Pixelbook Pen (sold separately), Keyboard (optional)
- Huawei MediaPad M5: M-Pen (sold separately), Keyboard (optional)
While the iPad Pro and Pixel Slate also support stylus and keyboard accessories, the S Pen‘s inclusion with the Tab S4 provides a better value for creative professionals and students looking for a built-in tool for note-taking and drawing.
User Testimonials / Real-Life Examples
Many users still report positive experiences with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4, especially for tasks like web browsing, watching videos, and basic productivity. Several users appreciate the S Pen’s precision and responsiveness, making it a go-to for artists on a budget.
Collectibility and Market Value
As of 2024, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 has become a popular choice in the refurbished and second-hand markets. Prices range from $200 to $400, depending on the condition and included accessories. Given its premium build quality and productivity features, it holds value as a budget-friendly alternative to newer tablets.
FAQ Section
- Can the Galaxy Tab S4 still run modern apps?
- Yes, but with Android 10 being the latest supported OS, some apps may not receive updates.
- Is the Galaxy Tab S4 still worth buying in 2024?
- For users seeking a mid-range productivity device with stylus support, it’s a solid option. However, heavy multitaskers or gamers may want to consider newer models.
- What is DeX mode on the Tab S4?
- DeX mode transforms the tablet into a desktop-like interface, allowing you to open multiple apps in windowed mode and use it more like a laptop.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 may be from 2018, but its S Pen integration, Super AMOLED display, and DeX mode still make it a versatile tool for users today. Whether you’re looking for a media tablet, productivity device, or budget-friendly option for creative work, the Tab S4 is a hidden gem in Samsung’s tablet lineup.
