Samsung Galaxy Tab S review: the new flagship tablet. Samsung Galaxy Tab S2, the best Android tablet – TechnObor Review

It's been a long time since we reviewed tablets. Today's review will be dedicated to the wonderful Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 tablet. In the article I will try to cover all the parameters and features that interest readers, and for those who want to buy this gadget, I will make a comparison with competitors and a separate analysis of the feasibility of the purchase.

Unboxing

In many reviews, the unpacking process is skipped, dryly mentioning only the delivery package of the device, but I think that this is a rather interesting process, so I will briefly touch on it.

I'll start with the device box. According to the old tradition, it is made in the old style, in contrast to the new Samsung Galaxy Alpha, whose box is made in light colors, with a stylized back cover of the S5. The box of the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 is made to look like wood, and, in my opinion, it’s not very beautiful, reminiscent of old Soviet wallpaper that was used to cover doors for decoration. In general, I hope that the trend will change in the future.

Opening the box, we see the tablet, which is in a protective paper case, which I liked much more than the cellophane film of previous tablet models: Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 10.1 and Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 8.4.

The tablet lies comfortably in the hands, I note that the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 is quite an interesting model and I liked it in appearance.

Now let's look at the package:

DATA cable microUSB-USB;

Charger;

Documentation.

A standard set of tools that comes with all tablets in the Galaxy Tab S line. Of course, I would like to see headphones, but Samsung doesn’t include them in the concept of using the tablet, otherwise, like similar gadgets from Apple. That's all that can be said about the packaging.

Characteristics

Now let's take a look at the technical parameters of the tablet model. The parameters of the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 are as follows:

Processor: 8-core Exynos 5420 (x4 1.9 GHz + x4 1.3 GHz);

Memory: operational – 3 GB RAM, physical – 16/32/64 GB (support for memory cards up to 128 GB);

Display: 10.5 inches, with HD Super AMOLED technology, resolution 2560x1600 pixels;

Operating system: Android4.2 (Kitkat), with built-in TouchWiz add-on;

Camera: main – 8 MP (with flash), front camera – 2.1 MP;

Network: GSM/GPRS/EDGE, 3G (WCDMA), 4G (LTE);

Internet: Wi-Fi (802.11 ac), Bluetooth 4.0, USB 2.0;

Navigation: GLONASS, GPS;

Battery: 7900 mAh;

Dimensions and weight: 247.3×177.3×6.6 mm, 467 g.

No deja vu effect? Didn't the parameters remind you of anything? Essentially, the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 is the same Samsung Galaxy Note 4, only in tablet sizes. It's funny, isn't it?! Let's briefly go over the parameters.

Processor and RAM. An 8-core processor and 3 GB of RAM will allow even the most avid gamer to roam. On a tablet with such filling, you can perform all possible tasks, as was just said, play games, and the latest and most sophisticated ones, watch videos in HD format, and also keep several applications open at the same time.

Memory. The tablets are sold in several versions: 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB, which is a pretty good choice for buyers. The ability to install a memory card, and even more so with a capacity of up to 128 GB, will be very convenient for gamers and movie buffs, and for those who like to download torrents onto a tablet or resave important data on it.

Screen. 10.5 inches for a tablet screen, I think is just right: the screen is large enough and roomy, while the size of the device does not cause discomfort. I would like to separately note the bright and rich colors of the screen, which are sometimes even too saturated. Image clarity, picture quality, viewing angles are simply class.

Net. Keeping up with the times, Samsung included support for fourth-generation LTE networks in some modifications of the Galaxy Tab S 10.5, which was very pleasing. If a 3G network is enough for me to work comfortably on the Internet on a smartphone, then on a tablet I feel cramped at such a speed, so 4G modules come in very handy, especially since the coverage map of this generation of network in Russia is now actively expanding.

Camera. Samsung gadgets have always been famous for their very good cameras, and the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 is no exception. The quality of the images is very good, with a photo resolution of 3264x2448 pixels. Although, many note that it would be possible to introduce a 16-megapixel camera from the flagship Galaxy S5. Yes, such a camera would not harm the tablet at all, on the contrary, but I don’t think that anyone will use the tablet as a camera, it’s not practical somehow.

Battery. The last thing I want to touch on is the battery. The battery capacity is quite enough for comfortable work:

With the “light” mode of using the tablet, the battery charge will last for 4-5 days;

With periodic use of the Internet and applications, on average the battery will last for 2-3 days;

With intensive use, the charge lasts for 8-9 hours.

Appearance and description

Now let's move on to the tablet itself. The tablet is made of plastic, but as always it is a high-quality material that does not play, does not stick together and is pleasant to the touch. The plastic on the back of the tablet is textured like leather and is completely similar to that of the flagship Galaxy S5.

At the top are the power button, volume rocker, infrared port, and at the bottom is the microphone. On the left of the device there are: a speaker and a headphone jack (headphones will need to be purchased separately), on the right are: a microUSB connector, a memory card slot and a speaker. On the front side of the tablet, above the screen, there is a front camera and a light sensor, at the bottom of the screen there are three buttons: a mechanical “Home” button with a fingerprint sensor, and on the sides of it there are touch buttons “Menu” and “Back”. On the back of the tablet, on the bottom sides there are 2 special magnets for fixing the cover.

As I said above, the tablet lies very comfortably in the hands, while the coating on the back of the gadget is quite “tenacious” with the hands, it stops like the tread of winter tires on a car. The tablet does not seem to slide, but stops in your hands, making it very comfortable to hold - it will not unexpectedly slip out of your hands.

In this model, the side frames have noticeably decreased, and the tablet began to look even more interesting, although now it is not very convenient to clasp your hands on its sides, since there is a high probability of accidentally touching the side parts of your thumbs on the screen.

The screen really tempts the user with picture quality and control. Multi-touch with 10 touches is implemented, that is, the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 can be controlled with all fingers. By the way, you can operate the device with gloves, a rather useful feature, especially in our country. Color saturation caused discomfort for many users, so South Korean developers introduced a special “Screen Mode” in which you can set the color profile.

Model Analysis

For me, a model with such parameters and capabilities was quite expected, since the next release of the flagship Galaxy S is a pre-release of the upcoming new Galaxy Tab model. I was pleased with the model's current and powerful technical parameters, thinness and lightness, resolution and screen quality, as well as the stable operation of Android KitKat (not counting minor TouchWiz flaws). I liked the ability to work with several applications simultaneously, as well as the user-friendly interface of the system.

I will also note the extreme energy saving mode, in which the tablet is switched to black and white mode and disables almost all functions and modules, except for calls, SMS and the browser (also in black and white mode). When the battery was more or less fully charged, I tried to activate this mode, which promised to work in this form for 72 days, but, unfortunately, I did not have time to check. Having looked at the weather forecast in the Chrome browser, the duration of operation in this mode, according to the device’s forecasts, was immediately reduced by a whole day - most likely a firmware flaw. However, by activating this mode when the battery charge is low, the tablet will be able to work for another 2-3 hours.

In general, the operation of the tablet left a pleasant feeling, almost everything flew, with the exception of the shell from Samsung TouchWiz, which at some points slowed down, which was a little uncomfortable - after all, South Korean luminaries do not know how to make system chips ideal; with hardware, things are much better.

Comparison with competitors

Galaxy Tab S 10.5 andiPad Air 2

The main competitor of our model in the global tablet niche will be the Apple iPad Air 2, so let's do a little comparative analysis between them.

So, the diagonal of the Air 2 is 9.7 pixels, versus 10.5 for the Tab S. As for the screen, the Air 2 has 2048x1536 and 264ppi, and the Air 2 has 2560x1600 and 287ppi. As you can see, the screen diagonal, resolution and pixel density are higher on the Galaxy Tab S 10.5, everything is clear here.

Now regarding the technical data. Air 2 has a x3 core processor of 1.5 GHz, versus an x8 core processor of 1.9 (x4) + 1.3 (x4) GHz in the Tab S. The iPad has 2 GB of RAM, and the Tab S has 3 GB. And here the tablet from Samsung has an obvious advantage.

Dimensions of iPad Air 2 – 240×169.5×7.5mm, weight – 465g; Galaxy Tab S dimensions – 247.3×177.3×6.6mm, weight – 465g. The battery life of the devices is almost the same. In principle, there was no clear leader in this group of parameters.

The cost of the “Cupertino” is 30,190 rubles, which is 7 thousand more than the cost of the “South Korean”. When faced with a purchase choice, I would give preference in favor of the subject.

Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and Galaxy Tab Pro 10.1

Now let's compare the new product and its predecessor.

Despite the fact that the models have the same screen resolution of 2560x1600 pixels, however, the diagonal of the new model is 0.4 inches larger, while it has 299ppi versus 287ppi for the Galaxy Tab Pro 10.1. Thus, the increase in diagonal did not affect on pixel density, and even vice versa. The undeniable advantage of the new product is the Super AMOLED display, when its predecessor had a TFT LCD display.

Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and Galaxy Tab Pro 10.1 include a x4 core processor with a frequency of 2.3 GHz, when the new product has a processor with as many as 8 cores on board. RAM: 2 versus 3 GB. There is progress.

In terms of dimensions and weight, the difference is minimal and imperceptible. The battery of the predecessor is 8220 mAh, while the new product has only 7900 mAh, and there is no significant difference in battery life.

The price of the tablet starts at 19,990 rubles, which is 3 thousand cheaper than the new product. Therefore, after analyzing all the facts, I would still choose the Galaxy Tab S 10.5.

Should I take it or not?

If you have clearly and thoroughly decided to buy yourself a new tablet, then I recommend choosing this particular model from the variety of tablet models available today. However, there are a few points.

Conducting comparative analyzes of the Tab S 10.5 with the Air 2 and Tab Pro 10.1, the winner was obvious. However, if you want to save money and are not very focused on the latest options, then give preference to the Tab Pro 10.1. You can give preference to Air 2 when you need a gadget that will primarily demonstrate your financial capabilities. Here are actually just 2 points.

I found myself turning to the Galaxy S5 a lot during this review because they're basically the same except for the size. In general, if you don’t yet have a smartphone, then I would still recommend purchasing the Galaxy Note 4, this is a compromise solution between a smartphone and a tablet. If you have a smartphone and want a tablet, then I would recommend the Galaxy Tab S 10.5.

I also advise you to purchase the 16 GB version, and match the required amount of memory with a memory card of the required capacity. As for the color, this is not for everyone, but in my personal subjective opinion, it is better to choose bronze, since it is less easily soiled than white, although white models are very suitable for our lovely girls.

The tablet is sold in two colors: white and bronze. The cost of the gadget today starts from 22,990 rubles, which is quite justified.

In 2014, the South Korean company Samsung updated its line of Galaxy Tab tablets. As a result of this update, the Galaxy Tab 4 10.1 tablet entered the market, where the last numbers are the display diagonal (there are also models with 7.0 and 8.0-inch screens).

The device received mixed reviews among users of various specialized resources. Someone argued that a tablet is an excellent solution for work and entertainment. Others, on the contrary, passionately argued that the device was noticeably inferior to its competitors in almost everything and was in no way worthy of public attention. Which of these two points of view turned out to be correct?

Tablet Specifications

According to the second side, it has “Samsung Tab 4”, which in no way corresponds to the flagship ones. Is it so?

Indeed, from the point of view of technical equipment, it was very outdated even at the time of release. The HD matrix (and the Samsung Tab 4 has a matrix with a resolution of 1280x800) is generally not bad, but it is not at all sufficient to create a high-quality image on a screen larger than 10 inches diagonally.

In addition, the processor that the company's engineers installed in the tablet also does not satisfy modern user needs. In the best case, on such a chip, paired with 1.5 gigabytes of RAM, you can while away the evening playing some Angry Bird or the first part of Injustice, or work in an undemanding office (by the way, the office is already preinstalled). But not more.

Maybe you can use a tablet to store data? No. In the basic configuration, only 16 gigabytes are available - formally. In fact, there are only 12. Of course, there is a slot for a memory card, but it only supports microSD cards whose capacity does not exceed 64 gigabytes.

You can’t count on good camera modules either. The main camera has 3 megapixels, the front camera has 1.3 megapixels. You won’t be able to achieve any serious results in terms of taking photos or videos, but, for example, you can make video calls in Skype or other instant messengers without any problems.

Of course, we are not talking about any high-speed data transfer. In the best case, the tablet will have a slot for SIM cards. Then it will support 2G and 3G data transmission formats. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules are, of course, available.

So indeed, in the end, the Samsung Tab 4 tablet has rather low-level characteristics.

Autonomy and smooth operation of the device

By the way, I am pleased with the battery life. A 6800 mAh battery, coupled with a well-optimized (and this is a rarity for Samsung) TouchWiz shell running on version 4.4.2 of Android OS, allows you to use the tablet without additional charging for 2-3 days. It can be much longer, by the way. It all depends on how intensively the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 10.1 is used.

By the way, the tablet software can be officially updated to version 5.0.2 of Android OS.

Moreover, thanks to the same good system optimization, the tablet works quite smoothly and is not prone to unexpected freezes. Although, of course, there are bugs, freezes and other minor problems. But no one has yet been able to completely get rid of them.

Cost of "Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 10.1"

And in general, all the shortcomings and flaws could be forgiven if not for the cost of the device. Sellers ask for "Samsung Tab 4" from 16 thousand rubles and more. And this despite the fact that Xiaomi in 2016 produces tablets that are many times more powerful for the same price. Although you don’t even need to take Chinese companies into account. Samsung itself has much more interesting solutions from the same device segment for about the same price.

In April last year, the South Korean giant Samsung decided to please customers by introducing an updated version of its line of ten-inch tablets. The model was designated Galaxy Tab 4 10.1 SM-T531.

The updated device is made in the traditional Samsung design: rounded shapes, the presence of touch-sensitive “back” and “options” buttons under the screen and a physical “home” key. The presence of the latter is a “feature” of the Korean manufacturer, but it receives mixed reviews among users. Some consider it a plus, others consider it a useless relic inherited from smartphones. The tablet has a quad-core processor, 1.5 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal storage and a 3G communication module with support for one SIM card.
Despite the cost (today it is about $250), it would be hard to call the tablet’s hardware more than budget-friendly. Whether it is sufficient for the needs of consumers or not is not for us to decide. A brief review will allow you to take a closer look at the Galaxy Tab 4 in order to draw your own conclusions.

Specifications

The Galaxy Tab 4 does not boast support for cutting-edge technologies. Here we sell only what has been in demand for a long time. By the way, it was implemented quite well.

CPU

The tablet uses a Qualcomm chipset, model Snapdragon 400. The processor has four cores and operates at a frequency of 1200 MHz. They are enough for Internet browsing, watching movies, and simple toys. But avid gamers will not appreciate it, considering it weak.
The Galaxy Tab 4 video chip is Adreno 305. As already mentioned, it is enough for not too resource-intensive tasks, but for those who need a tablet for games, this is not the best option.

A tandem of a CPU and GPU is capable of scoring only 16 thousand rating points in the AnTuTu test, which looks lackluster by modern standards.

Memory

The tablet has 1.5 GB of RAM. This volume is sufficient for everyday use. But compared to flagships with 3 GB, it seems not enough. However, some manufacturers still install 1 GB on such devices, so the Galaxy Tab 4 is not the worst option.
The built-in storage has a capacity of 16 GB. There is also support for memory cards with a capacity of up to 64 GB. Why not 128 is a mystery. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to test working with such a module.

Battery

The Galaxy Tab 4 battery has a capacity of 6800 mAh. Of course, there are devices on the market that have a similar diagonal of all 10,000, but thanks to optimization, the tablet’s operating time is quite decent. Of course, it won’t be enough for a day of web surfing, but 10 hours is quite realistic. Without a SIM card installed and a connection to the network, the device will last in standby mode for about a week (or even more), but with them this period is sharply reduced to 2 - 3 days.

Camera

The photomodules here, although they have mediocre resolution, are not installed “for show”. The rear camera has a 3 MP matrix and is quite suitable for quick shooting. The details of objects are visible, there are no color distortions, it is quite possible to see something in the semi-darkness.
The same can be said about the 1.3 MP front lens. It is quite enough for Skype or video calls over a 3G network, you can even try to take a good “selfie”.

Display

The screen of the Galaxy Tab 4 has a diagonal of 10.1" and supports up to 10 clicks simultaneously. The matrix resolution is quite typical for most devices, but from a tablet for $300 you want something more. After all, 1280x800 is HD, but at 10" pixels can be easily seen with the naked eye. After a smartphone with a similar resolution, it’s quite difficult to get used to such a screen.
As for brightness and color rendition, everything is at a decent level. The picture is visible in the sun, but there is no color distortion when viewed at an angle. But there is no light sensor here, which for many is a significant minus.

Data transfer

In addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which are standard for modern tablets, the Galaxy Tab 4 has a 3G module. It supports traditional GSM and UMTS networks, but is not compatible with LTE. You can make calls from the tablet (although the appearance of the 10-inch “tray” by the ear is somewhat comical, but no one forbids using a headset).

There is also GPS/GLONASS satellite navigation. It works well, apparently, the large antenna has an effect. The signal is received normally even indoors.

Sound

There are two speakers in the tablet, the sound from them is quite spacious. This is not a boombox, but the low and high frequencies are reproduced quite correctly. The Galaxy Tab 4 10.1 SM-T531 16Gb also sounds good with headphones, the jack of which is located on the left side of the tablet.

OS

Out of the box, the Galaxy Tab 4 comes with Android 4.4 OS on board. It comes pre-installed with the proprietary TouchWiz graphical shell. There are no brakes in operation, everything works smoothly.

Recently, users have the opportunity to upgrade to Lolipop, the fifth version of Android.

Advantages of the Galaxy Tab 4 10.1 tablet:

good sound;
good cameras;
high build quality;
excellent quality of all types of communication.

Unfortunately, there are also a lot of disadvantages:

low screen resolution;
far from top-end hardware;
lack of light sensor.

Conclusion

Galaxy Tab 4 10. 1 SM-T531 16Gb– a device for fans of this brand. Samsung will not succeed in attracting the interest of those for whom megapixels and gigahertz are above all else. Even the “average” position of the device can only be maintained by numerous devices of Chinese origin, equipped with lower-quality screens and hardware. If it weren’t for them, the Galaxy Tab 4 SM-T531’s chances of success could be called absolutely minuscule, since such “filling” is relevant at most at the beginning of 2014, when, in fact, the tablet was released.

To turn this flagship tablet into something like a personal computer, a separate docking station is no longer needed. The Keyboard Cover and the S Pen will help him transform on the go. The device with a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED screen, in addition to high performance, is also distinguished by high battery life and high-quality sound. In this review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4, we will find out all its advantages and disadvantages.

Android tablets have clearly not been the most popular gadget in recent years. But manufacturers hope that by combining such a device with a mechanical keyboard and modifying its software for convenient operation on a large screen, they can convince potential buyers to part with a fairly substantial amount (at the level of an inexpensive ultrabook).

Samsung is positioning the new Galaxy Tab S4 as a tablet for business people who are not a stranger to entertainment, but who value their time - both at work and at home; they can’t imagine themselves without the Microsoft Office suite of office programs. So a mechanical keyboard is always very desirable, but the role of a mouse can also be assigned to an electronic pen (stylus). The Galaxy Tab S4, unlike the previous generation flagship smartphones, has a PC mode - DeX (Desktop eXperience) - now built-in and does not require. It is activated upon contact with the branded Keyboard Cover, as well as in the settings and from the quick access panel. In the office or at home, to increase efficiency, it is recommended to connect a mouse and a full-size keyboard via Bluetooth, and a large monitor via a special HDMI adapter (for the USB Type-C port).

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: technical specifications

Model: SM-T835
Operating system: Android 8.1 (Oreo) with Samsung Experience 9.5
Display: 10.5 inches, capacitive Super AMOLED, WQXGA resolution (2560x1600 pixels, 16:10), 286 ppi, Corning Gorilla Glass 5, S Pen support
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (MSM8998) 8-core 64-bit processor, ARMv8-A architecture, 4-core Kryo 280 (2.35 GHz) + 4 core Kryo 280 (1.9 GHz), Hexagon 682 DSP co-processor
Graphics subsystem: Adreno 540
RAM: 4 GB, LPDDR4
Built-in memory: 64 GB, microSD/HC/XC memory cards (up to 400 GB)
Main camera: 13 MP, autofocus, LED flash, UHD 4K video recording (3840x2160@30fps)
Front camera: 8 MP
Communications: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), VHT80 MU-MIMO, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 5.0 (LE up to 2 Mbit/s), USB Type-C Gen.1 (USB 3.1, USB-OTG), ANT+, 3.5 mm audio connector
Communication: GSM/GPRS/EDGE, 3G UMTS, 4G LTE; LTE-FDD: band 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/17/20/25/26/28/66 (AWS-3); LTE-TDD: band 38/40/41
SIM card format: nanoSIM (4FF)
Navigation: GPS/GLONASS/BDS/Galileo
Sound: 4 AKG speakers, Dolby Atmos
Sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, geomagnetic sensor, Hall sensor, proximity and light sensors (RGB), iris scanner
Battery: non-removable, 7,300 mAh, fast charging
Features: Built-in support for DeX mode
Dimensions: 249.3x164.3x7.1 mm
Weight: 483 grams
Colors: black, silver

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: design, ergonomics

The body of the Galaxy Tab S4, like its predecessor Galaxy Tab S3, is formed by two panels of tempered glass, which are connected by an aluminum frame. Along with the screen diagonal (from 9.7 to 10.5 inches), the plan dimensions also changed (from 237.3x169 mm to 249.3x164.3 mm), while the thickness increased by 1.1 mm (7.1 mm versus 6 mm). The tablet comes in two colors - silver and black. In the latter case, the prints collected by the glass are especially visible. In addition, in everyday life, glass is not as practical as metal - it is much easier to damage.

Most likely, the developers believed in advance that the Galaxy Tab S4, which has a premium appearance, would serve its sentence in a case for life.

The glass design of the Galaxy Tab S4 has undergone some changes compared to its predecessor. Thus, the frames around the screen have become noticeably thinner and almost identical in width. As before, the glass on both sides of the tablet is in contact with the frame without a 2.5D effect. At the same time, the Samsung logo disappeared above the display.

Now they have put together a front camera, light and proximity sensors, as well as a camera used for iris recognition, and an infrared LED backlight.

The mechanical Home key with a built-in fingerprint scanner, which traditionally was under the display, has disappeared on the Galaxy Tab S4, and two touch buttons, Back and Recent Apps, have moved to the screen. A hole for a microphone was placed in the middle of the top end, and two decorative speaker grilles were placed on the sides.

Another pair of speakers is also symmetrically located on the bottom end, and between them are a USB Type-C connector and a 3.5 mm audio connector.

The power/lock button, as usual, is on the right edge, accompanied by a relatively large volume rocker. Under them there is a hole for a microphone, and literally next to the bottom end there is a closed slot, where on one side of the tray there is space for a microSD memory card, and on the other - for a subscriber identification module (nanoSIM format).

On the left edge everything is ready for connection with a branded keyboard case - two technological notches, and in the middle there is a 4-pin pogo connector.

The rear panels with the inscriptions Samsung and Tuned by AKG are practically the same on the Galaxy Tab S4 and Galaxy Tab S3. For the rear photo module, which includes a slightly protruding platform with a rear camera lens and an LED flash, a place was allocated in the upper part of the back.

The Galaxy Tab S4 is not IPxx certified for water and dust resistance. Note also that in DeX mode the tablet only works in landscape orientation. That is, when the case is rotated 90 degrees, the desktop image does not turn upside down. Windows tablets, by the way, do not have this limitation.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: S Pen and Keyboard Cover

The new tablet comes with an electronic pen, the S Pen, which is familiar, for example, from the flagship smartphone (our review). The stylus has a thin tip (0.7 mm) and high pressure sensitivity (4096 levels). Using an electronic pen, you can, for example, draw, make reminders (including on the locked screen), leave notes on photos, cut out screenshots, and even translate words. The Galaxy Tab S4 comes with PENUP pre-installed specifically for the S Pen.

But the Keyboard Cover was not included in the package. True, those who managed to pre-order the Galaxy Tab S4 receive a keyboard case for free. The rest will have to pay for this accessory.

The cover with the 4-pin pogo connector is made of dark plastic and is equipped with a holder for the S Pen. The 64-key keyboard integrated with the case is island-type (on our test sample, unlike the retail version, there is no Cyrillic alphabet). To switch the layout to Cyrillic and back, there is a separate button (Lang).

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: screen

Without any exaggeration, we can say that the Galaxy Tab S4 has an excellent, bright and juicy Super AMOLED screen for a tablet. In addition to being energy efficient, it boasts good viewing angles and deep blacks. If the Galaxy Tab S3 was content with a 9.7-inch matrix, then the new flagship has its diagonal increased to 10.5 inches. At the same time, the resolution also increased: from 2048x1536 pixels to 2560x1600 pixels. The maximum pixel density on such a WQXGA display reaches 286 ppi. The 16:10 aspect ratio is more convenient for work than 16:9 - more information can be placed “in height” on the screen.

Among the screen settings were, for example, such as brightness adjustment with automatic control, a blue light filter, as well as screen and font scaling with a possible change in the style of the latter. At maximum brightness (which can be easily reduced to a comfortable value), the image is clearly readable even in sunny weather outside. To enable a blue light filter with manual adjustment ("Transparency"), which makes the tablet screen more or less "jaundiced", it is suggested to create your own schedule. The display supports 10-point multi-touch, as confirmed by the results of the AntTuTu Tester program.

The screen can be set to one of four modes - “Main”, “Photo AMOLED”, “Movie AMOLED” and “Adaptive display”. At the same time, the last of them provides for adjusting the balance of the three primary colors. Selecting the "Basic" mode allows you to avoid acidic AMOLED shades. A high-quality olephobic coating is applied to the protective glass of the screen.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: cameras

If the front camera in a tablet looks quite natural, since it can be used, for example, for video communication or facial recognition, then the presence of a rear photo module is not so clear. At least shooting with a 10-inch gadget on the street looks pretty funny from the outside. However, even tablets with large screens are traditionally equipped with cameras on both sides. Thus, the predecessor of our flagship, the Galaxy Tab S3, was equipped with a 13-megapixel rear camera with an f/1.9 aperture and autofocus, which the Galaxy Tab S4 seems to have inherited, also retaining the LED flash. The maximum frame size with an aspect ratio of 4:3 is 4128x3096 pixels (13 MP). But the front camera matrix has grown from 5 MP to 8 MP, while the lens aperture has increased from f/2.2 to f/1.9, but the fixed focus remains. The maximum selfie resolution is achieved with an aspect ratio of 4:3 and is 3264x2448 pixels (8 MP).

If the front camera can record video in the maximum Full-HD resolution (1920x1080 pixels) with a frame rate of 30 fps, then for the rear photo module the best quality will be 4K UHD (3840x2160 pixels) at the same frame rate. For interval shooting (Hyperlapse mode) in Full HD resolution, recorded events can be accelerated by 4, 8, 16 or 32 times. All content is saved in MP4 container files (AVC - video, AAC - audio).

Horizontal swipes in the Camera application change shooting modes, which include HDR, Panorama, Professional, Beauty, Auto, Stickers, and the aforementioned Hyperlapse. The main screen prompts you to decide on the flash mode, select filters for the image, change the camera from the rear to the front (or vice versa), and also go to settings or to the “Bixby Camera”, which requires logging into your Samsung account.

Let us remind you that you can use it, for example, to translate text from a page, search for similar images, read QR codes, etc. Not everything has been successful yet.

In the “professional” mode, it is recommended to independently set the exposure level, the light sensitivity value (ISO) and the preset for white balance. But on “automatic”, the brightness of the image is adjusted with a slider in the form of an incandescent light bulb, which appears after tapping on the viewfinder. "Beautifiers" in the "Beauty" mode take care of the skin, face and eyes separately. The front camera can take not only regular but also wide-angle self-portraits. But activating the “Selfie Focus” mode means an attempt to blur the background. To achieve the best effect, it is recommended to hold the tablet at arm's length, but it is in this position that it is quite easy to lose control of the glass case. Funny stickers are used for images from both the rear and front photo modules. You can see several examples of photos from the rear camera.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: sound

The “vocal data” of the Galaxy Tab S4 is associated with four speakers tuned using the AKG method, as stated on the back of the case. Let us recall that Samsung owns such “sounding” brands as Harman/Kardon, JBL and AKG.

To obtain surround sound and surround sound effects, it is recommended to activate the Dolby Atmos option. But such “improvers” as UHQ Upscaler and “Professional Tube Amplifier” can only work when a wired headset is connected. A regular and graphic equalizer with presets is also available.

To select the optimal volume level, you need to select a preset suitable for your age, or add an individual profile, having first subjected yourself to a little testing. The built-in speakers of the tablet sound quite good, coping with the voice acting of films and games with a bang. And it’s quite possible to listen to simple music that doesn’t rely on deep bass.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: hardware, performance

The high performance of the Galaxy Tab S4 is easily explained by the flagship mobile platform, albeit of the previous generation - Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (MSM 8998), created taking into account 10 nm design standards. The eight computing cores of its processor, working in tandem with the Adreno 540 graphics accelerator, are divided into two clusters of Kryo 280 cores. At the same time, the first quartet is clocked at a frequency of up to 2.45 GHz, and the second - up to 1.9 GHz. The basic configuration of the tablet is complemented by 4 GB of RAM.

Testing Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 . Results in the AnTuTu benchmark

Testing Samsung Galaxy Tab S4. Results in the GeekBench benchmark

Testing Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 . Results in the 3DMark benchmark

Showing impressive results in tests, the powerful processor allows you to set maximum graphics settings for “heavy” games.

To expand the 64 GB of built-in storage, a closed slot on one side of the tray provides space for a microSD/HC/XC memory card up to 400 GB. In addition, thanks to the support of USB-OTG technology, you can connect a flash drive to the tablet.

The other side of the tray mentioned above is intended for installing a nanoSIM format subscriber identification module. The built-in X16 LTE modem allows you to organize access to the Internet via cellular networks, while the maximum transmission speed of 1 Gbit/s (Cat.16) is declared. In addition, the pre-installed Phone application makes it possible to use the tablet for voice communication. Along with support for “Russian” frequency bands (LTE-FDD b3, b7, b20), the Galaxy Tab S4 also received dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 and 5 GHz) and Bluetooth 5.0, with the latter providing increased range and transmission speed.

For positioning and navigation, not only GPS, GLONASS and BDS satellite systems are used, but also Galileo. In addition, support for A-GPS technology is promised.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: autonomy

The non-removable battery capacity of the Galaxy Tab S4 is 7,300 mAh, while its predecessor (Galaxy Tab S3) has 6,000 mAh. The new flagship comes with a branded Adaptive Fast Charging adapter model EP-TA20EBE (5 V/2 A; 9 V/1.67 A). It will take approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes to fully charge the battery.

The AnTuTu Tester test program rated the energy efficiency of the flagship tablet at 11,866 points. According to the manufacturer, on one charge you can talk on a 3G network for up to 50 hours, work on the Internet (3G/LTE/Wi-Fi) for up to 9/10/10 hours, respectively; listen to music up to 195 hours or watch videos up to 16 hours. At the same time, playing a set of videos in MP4 format (hardware decoding) and Full HD quality at full brightness every hour reduced the battery charge by approximately 9.7% (test for 7 hours).

Activating one of the energy saving modes - moderate or maximum - will help prolong battery life.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: software features

In DeX mode, the tablet's display displays a multi-window interface that resembles the Windows desktop. Thus, its bottom panel contains minimized applications, quick settings and control buttons. The window with the running program can be easily resized, as well as dragged to any location on the screen. It’s not very convenient to do such manipulations with your fingers; this is where the S Pen comes to the rescue.

The interface of the Android 8.1.0 (Oreo) operating system is replaced by the proprietary Samsung Experience 9.5 shell. When you long press the application icon on the main screen, the quick actions menu opens.

The switches on the quick settings and notifications curtain are located on two horizontal tabs. Here you can also adjust the brightness and go to general settings. There is a separate icon for activating DeX mode.

In the launcher, you can choose between the usual style of the home screen (all program shortcuts are collected on the desktop) and a style with a separate application menu (screen). The transition to the application screen is performed by swiping up, although it is also possible to display the usual icon button on the screen. It is convenient to display indicators on application icons not only about the presence of notifications, but also about their number.

For the navigation bar, it is easy to swap the position of the “Back” and “Recent” icons, as well as change its background.

Since the tablet does not have a fingerprint scanner, biometric recognition of the face or iris, as well as a combination of both - the so-called smart scan, is offered to quickly unlock the device.

Additional features include split-screen and pop-up window modes.

With Secure Folder using Samsung Knox, you can safely store confidential documents, photos, videos, apps, notes, and other files on your tablet in encrypted form.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 review: purchase, conclusions

Of course, the main feature of the Galaxy Tab S4 is the built-in DeX mode, which, when connecting a mouse and keyboard, turns the flagship tablet into a PC. The new device with a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED screen provides high performance and excellent battery life. Four speakers tuned using AKG technology and Dolby Atmos support provide high-quality sound with additional effects.

The marking surface of the glass case, which is left without protection from water and dust, is clearly visible even to the naked eye. But the main thing is that the keyboard case, unlike the electronic S Pen, which replaces the mouse on the go, is not included in the package. Therefore, the Keyboard Cover, which was priced at 8,990 rubles at the time of testing, will have to be purchased separately. The same applies to an HDMI adapter for connecting a monitor (about 2 thousand rubles) and an annual license for the Microsoft Office 365 software package (personal version - 2,699 rubles). We don’t even take into account a full-size mechanical Bluetooth keyboard and a wireless mouse. Although their acquisition is unlikely to significantly change the overall picture. The fact is that the price of the Galaxy Tab S4 at the start of sales is 52,990 rubles.

Perhaps the only full-fledged Android competitor can be considered the 10.8-inch Huawei MediaPad M5 10 Pro tablet, for which at the time of testing in the company’s online store they asked for 42,990 rubles.

At first glance, the rivals differ little from each other in terms of filling. Thus, the Huawei MediaPad M5 10 Pro, already made in an aluminum case, has an IPS screen with the same WQXGA resolution, a HiSilicon Kirin 960 processor, a 7,500 mAh battery, and a fingerprint scanner. The kit also includes an electronic pen, which is called an M Pen here, but a case with a keyboard, at least at the time of testing, came with the tablet as a gift (on AliExpress you can buy something similar for about 2 thousand rubles). At the same time, the PC mode is called EMUI Desktop. By the way, if office use of the tablet is not very interesting, but you want to take the device from the flagship line, you should think about last year’s Samsung Galaxy Tab S3, for the Wi-Fi version of which in large retail chains they asked 34,990 rubles.

Results of the review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 tablet

Pros:

DeX mode of operation
High performance
Excellent autonomy
Large Super AMOLED screen
High quality sound

Minuses:

Stainless glass case
No protection of the case from water
Keyboard case not included

Specifications
DISPLAY	10.54 inches WQXGA (2560x1600 pixels), Super AMOLED, 16:10 ratio, 286 ppi density, Corning Gorilla Glass 5
CPU	8-core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 835 (4x2.35 GHz Kryo & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo), Adreno 540 graphics
LTE SUPPORT	LTE Cat.16 DLCA, 4X4 MIMO
MEMORY	4 GB + 64 GB, microSD up to 400 GB
CAMERA MAIN	13 MP (SLSI_S5K2L2SA), autofocus, LED flash
FRONT CAMERA	8.0 MP (Sony_IMX320)
PORT	USB 3.1 (Type C), POGO
SENSORS	Accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, RGB sensor, proximity sensor, iris scanner, Hall sensor
WIRELESS CONNECTIONS	Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, MIMO, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth® 5.0
GPS	GPS + GLONASS, BEIDOU, GALILEO
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS	249.3 x 164.3 x 7.1 mm 483 g
BATTERY	7300 mAh, fast charging
OS	Android 8.1
ACCESSORIES	Electronic S Pen (included)
VIDEO	Recording: UHD 4K (3840x2160) at 30fps Playback: UHD 4K (3840x2160) at 60 fps
AUDIO	4 speakers, tuned by AKG specialists, Dolby Atmos®
MATERIALS	Glass and aluminum frame
COLORS	Black and white
OTHER	No FM radio, no NFC or Samsung Pay, cameras have no stabilization
PRICE	52,990 rubles (pre-order before August 24 and get a keyboard case as a gift (costs 8,990 rubles separately)

Introduction

The site released a rather emotional first look at the new tablet from Samsung.

However, time has passed, I became familiar with the device and am now ready to give a review that claims to be objective.

To begin with, the tablet market as a whole has been declining for 15 quarters in a row. For example, in the first quarter of 2018 the drawdown was 11.7%, and in the second quarter it was already 13.5%.

In 2018, Samsung fared worst in this aspect. According to IDC, in the 1st quarter, if measured year-on-year, the company under-delivered 700,000 tablets, or 11.5% less, which is generally in line with the market; in the second quarter, Samsung outpaced the market - year-on-year shipments decreased by 16 %.

Among the companies in the TOP 5, Amazon is doing the worst. Year on year in the 1st quarter the decrease was 50%, in the second – by 33%.

Apple's shipments are stable - there are no declines, as well as growth.

Huawei has the best situation. The company is increasing supplies - by 13% in the 1st quarter of 2018 compared to the 1st quarter of 2017, and by 8% in the 2nd quarter.

However, so far this has not affected our position in the market in any way, and the places in the TOP 5 are stable:

If you start segmenting, tablets can be divided into two large categories - just tablets and tablets with a keyboard. And if the first and most extensive category is constantly declining and dragging down market indicators, then the second is growing.

The life cycle of tablet computers is maximum. Consumers prefer to use a device until it breaks down or becomes hopelessly outdated (new versions of applications are not supported). The average lifespan of a tablet is 3-5 years. This is usually determined by battery degradation. Amazon's strong decline can be attributed to the long period of use. The company’s “tablets” are designed primarily for the consumption of branded content – movies, books, purchases on the Amazon website. For these purposes, the device will be enough for a long time.

Huawei is increasing its position as it has occupied the mid-price niche, offering customers interesting solutions with support for stylus and keyboards.

Apple's share, as I wrote above, is stable, but this is due to sales of the cheapest iPad options. The average tablet price for the 3rd quarter of 2017 was $435, now (Q3 2018) it is $410. We can say that basic tablets from Apple (without a stylus or keyboard) are the standard on the market today.

In terms of positioning, Samsung decided to place its tablets in the business devices segment.

Positioning

Samsung, based on IDC data, believes that the market for tablets with a keyboard will grow in double digits in the next couple of years, and this is quite enough to present its own versions of products and compete. In addition, this market segment cannot be called highly competitive, since in fact there are iPad Pro from Apple and tablets from Samsung. In the same, but lower price segment, Huawei is trying its hand.

Apple, having presented its updated basic tablet with support for third-party styluses in the spring, is pulling the average price on the market down.

Samsung claims that the Galaxy Tab S4 will be useful for office workers, most of whose workday is spent using Microsoft software. I can agree with this. A tablet with a keyboard, especially in DeX mode where you can work with windows and drag and drop files, is quite enough for everyday activities that do not require a lot of data entry. If you connect an external monitor and a full-fledged keyboard, the tablet can replace a computer. Another question is how justified are such combinations?

The second target category is creative people who love to draw. The Tab S4 has an excellent screen, and also comes with a high-quality stylus that has minimal parallax, that is, the difference between the point where the stylus touches and where on the screen it is displayed. The S Pen has 4096 sensitivity levels, which allows you to draw, shade, in short, work with the stylus as with a regular pencil. I believe that here too the device acts as an auxiliary device, since professionals still prefer other equipment. Just right for work on the road and for amateurs.

Price and competitors

The cost of the tablet at the start is 52,990 rubles. By pre-ordering, you can receive a keyboard case as a gift. Separately, it costs 8,990 rubles. The case is not bad. The version from Huawei is better, since it has a rigid bend that allows you to work by placing the tablet in the case on your lap and without fear of it turning over.

Interestingly, the starting price has decreased compared to last year. The Tab S3 started at 59,990 rubles for the LTE version, and the Wi-Fi-only version was priced at 49,990 rubles. I believe that if Samsung had presented, in addition to the LTE version, only a Wi-Fi version for a conditional 45 thousand rubles, it would have completely outplayed Huawei. However, the Wi-Fi version, as I understand it, does not fit into the strategy of a business device, which must provide powerful functionality and maximum comfort. And you’re not much of a businessman if you go to a fast food chain for free internet.

The main competitors of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 are Apple's iPad Pro 10.5, Huawei MediaPad M5 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab S3.

iPad Pro 10.5

Price – 46,990 rubles + stylus 6,990 rubles = 53,980 rubles.

Keyboard – 11,490 rubles.

Apple's solution may be more profitable if you absolutely do not need a stylus, and iOS suits you. In terms of technical characteristics, there is plus or minus parity in terms of user experience. Although the Apple tablet has been on the market for a long time and an update will probably be released in the near future.

Huawei Mediapad M5 Pro

Price – from 42,990 + stylus included.

It has Android OS and also has LTE.

In terms of technical characteristics, there is parity here. It feels like Huawei is easier to perceive than Samsung. Everything seems to be the same, but not the same. The stylus works well, if not compared with Apple or Samsung. Actually, you can go through many parameters this way. However, on the gray market the price is quite attractive. Yesterday there was a mixture about presentations. I visited the Huawei flagship showroom, where all the tablets are available. I recommend visiting and making your own impression. On the way from Tverskaya metro station to the store there is a Samsung showroom, so you can go there first, and after 300 meters you can go to Huawei. And while your impressions of the Galaxy Tab are still fresh, you’ll understand what I mean.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S3

From a distance, the tablets are not very different from each other. Up close, it is noticeable that the Tab S4 has become sleeker and more elegant in terms of design. Also, the Tab S3 has a 9.7 screen, while the S4 has a 10.5 screen.

It is also immediately noticeable that the new version no longer has a fingerprint scanner. The screen and its resolution are larger (it was 1536 x 2048 pixels and a 4:3 ratio, now it is 1600 x 2560 pixels, a 16:10 ratio), thinner frames and edges. I wrote about the edges and started checking the characteristics. It turned out that the thickness of the Tab S3 is 6 mm, and the S4 is 7.1 mm. However, visually it seems that the opposite is true. The secret is that Samsung made the rounded beveled edges.

Otherwise, the devices are quite similar in appearance. The improvements are significant, but generally evolutionary: a new version of the chipset (835 for the new one versus Snapdragon 820 for the S3), the front camera is not 5 MP, but 8 MP, the sound has been tweaked, but it’s still 4 speakers from AKG, the screen has become better, and it has more settings. Ergonomics and user experience when working with the stylus have also been improved. All these and many other improvements are striking when directly comparing gadgets when they lie side by side.

The price of Tab S3 starts from 34 thousand rubles for Wi-Fi, LTE – already 44 thousand rubles. On the gray market, prices are much more interesting. I suppose if you want to save money, then perhaps this will be a better option for you than even the MediaPad.

As a conclusion, I will say that if you need an Android tablet and there are no budget restrictions, then the Tab S4 is optimal, otherwise you should consider the Tab S3 first, then Huawei. If you need iOS, then you have no options.

Separately, I would like to emphasize that Samsung has a DeX mode, which turns the tablet into a complete analogue of a laptop and significantly changes the user experience. Neither Apple nor Huawei have such solutions. This to some extent makes Samsung's solution unique.

Appearance

Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 is a combination of aluminum and glass represented by Corning Gorilla Glass 5. There is no official confirmation of the manufacturer and version of the glass, so I am guided in this matter by the materials in the Tab S3.

Glass means fingerprints. A metal back would be more utilitarian, but in my opinion less beautiful.

In his review of the Tab S3, the boss complained that Samsung couldn't paint metal and recommended the unpainted silver version. I carried the tablet in my backpack because the case was taken away from me. Several times a bunch of keys to the apartment dangled nearby. There are no scratches on the screen or aluminum. Although, I’m probably not an indicator: my equipment is always in perfect condition. I’ll say right away that I’m not fussing over it, I’m just thinking about where I’m putting it.

On the right side of the tablet there is a power button, a paired volume button, and below there is a slot for a nano SIM card and a microSD card.

On the left side there are only connectors for the keyboard.

At the bottom there are 2 speakers, USB Type-C and a 3.5 mm jack.

On the top there are also 2 speakers and a microphone.

On the back, covered with glass, there are your fingerprints, a 13 MP camera lens, the Samsung inscription and a signature that the sound is “pumped” by AKG. I tested with an engineering sample with working stickers and covered with a protective film. I couldn’t peel off the stickers; Samsung, in addition to tablets, also produces glue, so I decided not to bother and didn’t touch the film either.

In front, above the screen, there is an 8 MP front camera, as well as an iris scanner.

At the ends of the device there are 4 speakers, which were worked on by AKG specialists.

For a tablet, the sound is very good - bright, powerful and rich. There is Dolby Atmos certification. But in order to enjoy this sound while watching movies to the fullest, I had to go to torrents, since not a single streaming service or video content store sells movies with this sound, and I can’t put the disc into my tablet. So, by the way, I found out that the tablet handles video files weighing 13-15 GB quite well. If you want to evaluate the sound in the store, there are official demo videos from Dolby on YouTube.

Screen and stylus

This is a top-end Super AMOLED screen. In fact, we can stop there, since most already have their own ideas about beauty.

For others, I’ll tell you the obvious. The screen is good, bright, juicy. For customization, there are both ready-made presets and you can configure it yourself. This was not the case with the previous tablet.

When reviewing the previous generation tablet, Eldar was unhappy that the screen was not as clear as the iPad Pro. This problem has been fixed in the Galaxy Tab S4.

The screen angles are excellent.

According to Samsung, the stylus has undergone significant revisions and improvements, both in terms of operation and ergonomics.

It's convenient to work with him. It feels like you're holding a ballpoint pen in your hands. The stylus allows you to both write by hand and draw, and depending on the pressure you press, you can get both light strokes and thick strokes.

Here we should, of course, give credit to the software. For example, Samsung has done a great job with its proprietary note-taking application, Samsung Notes. It allows you to type, write with a stylus, and also has sufficient powerful drawing capabilities.

I liked Autodesk's third-party editor better. It is free, its capabilities are much wider, but I think there is no need to talk about this, since the application is widely known.

A fun feature is drawing gifs, which can then be sent by mail or messenger. Previously, paper letters evoked warm feelings, but now - self-drawn gifs. The principle that efforts are made applies here and there.

All the capabilities of the Galaxy Note 9 stylus have also been transferred to the Galaxy Tab S4. The stylus can be used to open a context menu that allows you to create a note or take a screenshot of the entire screen or part of it. You can take a screenshot and recognize the text from it or automatically translate a foreign language.

You can also take notes while the screen is off. To do this, you need to bring the stylus to the screen, press the button, and then you can make notes. A very convenient option in situations where, for example, you urgently need to write down a phone number or make some other note.

In general, the tablet is entirely optimized for working with the S-Pen. The stylus is convenient for swiping across the screen, making it easier to type and edit text. In many programs you can write by hand, and the tablet will then recognize the text.

Performance

The tablet runs on an 835 chipset made using 10 nanometer technology. According to many (decisive and strict judges), the 835th turned into a pumpkin after the release of the 845th. In my opinion, nothing has changed and the power of the Snapdragon 835 will be sufficient for the next few years. The strength of the 845 for me lies not so much in the increased performance, but in the AI built into the hardware that optimizes resources. Samsung AI has a blemish in the form of software.

Below are the test results, which will probably tell you a lot:

Asphalt 9 is out. A new benchmark in the mobile racing market. It is logical that the tablet copes with a bang. Samsung has a special gaming mode where you can turn off distracting notifications, as well as record the screen and your face during gameplay.

PUBG is good to play on a big screen with high graphics settings.

DeX mode

Thanks to Samsung's DeX mode, the tablet turns into a full-fledged mini-computer. But if in smartphones Dex requires a special accessory, then in the Tab S4 everything can be switched in a couple of touches.

The strength of Dex mode is that it offers a windowed interface more typical of laptops than smartphones or tablets.

Also, unlike smartphones, the tablet can open any program, as in full screen mode. Thanks to DeX, the tablet has a truly convenient multitasking experience.

Another exclusive feature is the ability to connect the tablet via an adapter to an external screen, on which the DeX interface will be displayed, while the regular Android interface will remain on the tablet screen.

It is DeX that is the key advantage of the Tab S4 and, to some extent, justification for its cost, since competitors simply do not have anything like it.

I’ll emphasize once again for those who like to write in the comments that a stylus is not needed, neither is a keyboard, it’s convenient to work on a laptop, this DeX does not replace anything, I’d rather buy an iPad, and in general I need a tablet to watch cartoons at home. In that case, this device is not for you. For cartoons and bedside use, you should consider the basic options from Apple or Huawei, as they are cheaper. I hope this issue has been sorted out and we won’t see such nonsense in the comments.

Battery

The tablet has a 7300 mAh battery that supports fast charging. A full charge from empty takes about 3 hours.

In my opinion, battery life is the strong point of the gadget. If you turn on the video at maximum brightness and volume, you can get at least 13 hours of screen time.

In everyday use, the screen operating time is 10-12 hours. For example, here are the first use statistics. More than 10 hours. It should be taken into account that I downloaded and installed various software in large quantities.

However, these indicators are not too different from the usual use of the device:

Camera

The tablet's cameras have gotten better. However, my main complaint is that there is no stabilization here. The camera application here is traditional for all Samsung devices.

Here is an example of a front camera:

And here I was working on the image:

You can record timelapses:

Taking pictures at night on a tablet is not the best idea, but still it cannot be said that it turns out outright bad.

The tablet is not intended for photography, but for photographing documents and video conferencing, the camera capabilities are enough for the eyes.

Communication capabilities and security

Only one version of the Galaxy Tab S4 will be sold in Russia – 64 GB + 4G LTE. And if the first problem can be easily solved with a microSD card, then those who wanted to save money by purchasing the Wi-Fi version were out of luck. With a SIM card, the tablet turns into a huge phone. You can send SMS and call. The downside is that you need a headset for calls, since the Tab S4 has 4 very loud speakers, so you can only talk in speakerphone mode.

There is no longer a fingerprint scanner on the tablet. Samsung has improved its eye scanning system, creating the so-called Smart mode, when the device not only focuses on the iris, but also recognizes the face. In the settings you can choose how the device will recognize you, but the face + iris combination works quickly. During use, there were no problems with unlocking the gadget even in complete darkness. Of course, the system will not recognize you if you are wearing sunglasses.

Compared to the Tab S3, the Bluetooth version has been updated, now it is 5.0, Wi-Fi supports two bands and the AC standard. The tablet can be used as a hotspot.

The tablet has GPS and GLONASS. Everything works perfectly. It is probably best to use it in a car, since looking at a large screen on the street while on the go is not very convenient.

Impression

The tablet is perceived as a flagship device with a good performance reserve for any task. When testing devices, I like to make them the main ones, it makes it easier to understand all the pros and cons. For example, this 3,000 word review ended up being completely typed and edited on the road on a tablet. A video review will follow on YouTube. KineMaster has become the main application for video assembly. In my opinion, by the way, this is the best video editor for Android, not counting Premiere.

Compared to its competitors, the advantages of the Tab S4 include a stylus with advanced capabilities - from drawing to working with text. The second main advantage is DeX, which has no analogues. The mode allows you to turn your tablet into a computer.

Indeed, the Samsung Tab S4 is designed for business users and creative people who can afford to buy a tablet. The cost is within the limits allowed for this category of devices.

The device has extensive capabilities and potential, but it is not for everyone. Of course, you can purchase it to read websites, play games and watch movies. A bright Super AMOLED screen and 4 speakers with Dolby Atmos support allow this to happen perfectly. Watching movies and playing games on such a screen with such excellent sound is a real pleasure, but, in my opinion, this is an overly expensive solution for such simple needs.

I suppose they might write in the comments that the tablet should have had an 845 processor, and Apple will soon release a new iPad. I partially agree about the processor, and not because it’s missing here, but it’s just nice when the latest solutions are available. There is absolutely no difference about the release of the new iPad, since the iPad and Galaxy Tab S4 cannot be called direct competitors. One is a tablet with a good screen and a stylus for drawing, which Apple positions as a device for creativity. The second is a business device, the stylus of which is designed not only for drawing, but also for working with data, and the tablet itself, thanks to DeX, can replace a laptop at the right time.

Conclusion

Samsung managed to make an interesting product that is clearly aimed at the business and creative public, since the tablet’s capabilities are impressive. Of course, it is also suitable as a home device for browsing the Internet, but for such simple purposes it is better to buy something cheaper - an iPad from Apple or a Tab S3 from Samsung.