Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 vs Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4

By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified May 29 by Billy G.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4
Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4

Verdict: Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4 wins on raw performance and ecosystem integration with M4 delivering 1,800+ single-core Geekbench scores versus 1,500 on Tab S9 per Geekbench data. Tab S9 counters with 120Hz AMOLED and included S Pen at a lower price point. iPad Air leads in design and longevity but Tab S9 provides better value for Android users.

Winner: Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9: 7.5/10

Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4: 8.5/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4
display11-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz13-inch Liquid Retina 60Hz
processorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Apple M4
ram8GB8GB
osAndroid 13iPadOS 17

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

What works

  • 120Hz AMOLED display with HDR10+ support
  • IP68 water and dust resistance
  • DeX desktop mode for productivity

What doesn't

  • Only 8GB RAM base configuration
  • Slower updates than iPadOS

Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4

What works

  • M4 chip delivers significantly higher multi-core performance
  • Landscape front camera with 12MP ultrawide
  • Thin 5.1mm design and 1.02 lb weight

What doesn't

  • 60Hz refresh rate only
  • No IP rating for water resistance

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4.

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