Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 vs Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2)

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2)
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2)

Verdict: The iPad Air 11-inch M2 wins on performance with M2 benchmarks exceeding Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 by 60-80% in multi-core per Geekbench 6 data from Notebookcheck. It also leads in longevity with extended iPadOS support and better app ecosystem per CNET reviews. The Tab S8 counters with its 120Hz panel and bundled S Pen but trails in sustained speed and future updates.

Winner: Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2)

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8: 6.5/10

Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2): 8/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2)
Screen Size11 inches 120Hz LCD11 inches 60Hz Liquid Retina
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 1Apple M2
RAM8GB8GB
Battery8000 mAh28.6 Wh

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8

What works

  • 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling
  • S Pen included in box
  • DeX desktop mode support

What doesn't

  • Only up to Android 15 updates
  • LCD panel with lower peak brightness

Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2)

What works

  • M2 chip delivers significantly higher performance
  • Longer software support through 2030+
  • Superior app optimization and ecosystem

What doesn't

  • 60Hz display only
  • Apple Pencil sold separately

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M2).

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