Introduction
Released in September 2015, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 series was once a flagship tablet lineup, known for its slim design and vivid Super AMOLED display. With models ranging from 8.0-inch to 9.7-inch, the Galaxy Tab S2 aimed to deliver high performance in a compact and lightweight form. But how does this tablet stack up in today’s tech environment? Can the Galaxy Tab S2 still find relevance in 2024?
In this post, we explore the specifications, strengths, and limitations of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 series, while also comparing it with other tablets of its era, including Google Nexus tablets, Huawei’s MediaPad series, and Apple’s iPads.
Historical Context and Evolution
In 2015, the tablet market was highly competitive, and Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S2 series stood out for its high-resolution AMOLED display, lightweight build, and solid performance. Competing directly with Apple’s iPad Air 2 and Google’s Nexus 9, the Tab S2 was seen as an excellent alternative for those who preferred Android over iOS.
Samsung emphasized slimness with the Tab S2, with its thinnest variant measuring just 5.6 mm. At the time, this was one of the slimmest tablets available, adding to its portability. It also offered excellent accessory support with S Pen compatibility and optional keyboard accessories for enhanced productivity, which made it a great choice for users looking for a versatile device.
Detailed Specifications
Let’s break down the key specifications of various Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 variants and how they compare to other tablets of the same generation.
| Model | Screen Size | OS | Chipset | RAM | Internal Storage | Camera (MP) | Battery | Initial Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Tab S2 9.7-inch Wi-Fi | 9.7″ | Android 5.0.2 | Exynos 5433 | 3 GB | 32 GB/64 GB | 8 MP (Rear) | 5870 mAh | $499 – $649 |
| Galaxy Tab S2 8.0-inch Wi-Fi | 8.0″ | Android 5.0.2 | Exynos 5433 | 3 GB | 32 GB/64 GB | 8 MP (Rear) | 4000 mAh | $399 – $499 |
Both the 9.7-inch and 8.0-inch models share similar specifications, featuring the Exynos 5433 chipset and 3 GB of RAM, which was competitive at the time. The tablets also came with expandable storage options up to 128GB, making them suitable for users who needed more space for media and apps.
The Super AMOLED display on the Tab S2 was one of its standout features, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. This made the tablet a strong contender for media consumption, especially when compared to rivals like the Google Nexus 9, which featured an IPS LCD display that couldn’t match the AMOLED’s contrast and brightness levels.
Use Cases in Today’s World
While the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 might not compete with modern tablets in raw performance, it still holds value for specific use cases:
- Media Consumption: The AMOLED display, combined with a high-resolution screen, makes the Tab S2 ideal for streaming movies, browsing photos, and reading.
- Note-taking and Light Productivity: With S Pen compatibility and an optional keyboard accessory, the Tab S2 can still function as a lightweight note-taking device for students or professionals.
- Casual Browsing and Social Media: For users who only need a tablet for light browsing or social media, the Galaxy Tab S2 still performs adequately, despite its age.
Hacks and Repurposing: Tech enthusiasts might repurpose the Tab S2 as a dedicated smart home controller or digital photo frame, given its bright display and lightweight build.
Common Problems and Limitations
However, the Galaxy Tab S2 does have its limitations when compared to newer models. The main challenges users may face include:
- Outdated Software: The latest official software update for the Tab S2 is Android 7.0, which means it lacks security updates and access to some newer apps.
- Battery Life: The 5870 mAh (for the 9.7-inch model) and 4000 mAh (for the 8.0-inch model) batteries are modest by today’s standards, and users may notice shorter battery life.
- Performance: The Exynos 5433 chipset, while powerful in 2015, may struggle with today’s heavier apps and multitasking demands.
Comparisons with Other Tablets
Google Nexus 9 (2014)
Google’s Nexus 9, released a year before the Tab S2, was a close competitor. While it featured an 8.9-inch display and Tegra K1 chipset, the Nexus 9 couldn’t match the Super AMOLED display quality of the Tab S2, which had better contrast and vibrant colors. However, Nexus 9 received longer software support, making it a preferred choice for those focused on the latest updates.
Huawei MediaPad M2 (2015)
Huawei’s MediaPad M2 offered an alternative Android experience with its IPS LCD display and Kirin 930 chipset. While the MediaPad M2 had similar pricing to the Galaxy Tab S2, it lacked the AMOLED display quality and extensive accessory support. The S Pen and keyboard support on the Tab S2 gave Samsung an edge over Huawei in productivity.
Apple iPad Air 2 (2014)
The iPad Air 2, with its A8X chip and iOS ecosystem, was perhaps the closest competitor to the Galaxy Tab S2. While the iPad Air 2 outperformed the Tab S2 in some benchmarks, Samsung offered superior display technology (AMOLED vs. Retina IPS) and expandable storage. Additionally, the Tab S2 supported productivity tools like the S Pen and DeX, making it a more versatile device for professional users.
Support for Accessories
One of the key benefits of the Galaxy Tab S2 series was its accessory support:
- S Pen: Although not bundled with every model, the S Pen was a great tool for drawing, taking notes, or marking up documents.
- Keyboard Support: Samsung also offered optional keyboard accessories, making the Tab S2 a lightweight productivity tool.
In comparison, Apple’s iPads from the same era did not include stylus support until the iPad Pro series, and Google Nexus 9 didn’t have a dedicated stylus or keyboard accessory.
Conclusion
While the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 series may seem outdated in 2024, it still holds value for certain use cases, particularly media consumption, note-taking, and casual browsing. Its lightweight design, stunning Super AMOLED display, and accessory support (S Pen, keyboard) make it a versatile tablet for users who don’t need the latest features.
However, for those looking for modern app support and better battery life, newer models like the Galaxy Tab S6 or iPad Air 4 may be better options. Still, the Galaxy Tab S2 remains a solid option for those on a budget or those who appreciate a classic piece of tech history.
