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

By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified May 27 by Billy G.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4

Verdict: The iPad Air M4 wins on raw performance and software longevity with M4 benchmarks 70% higher than the Tab S9's Snapdragon per Geekbench. The Tab S9 counters with included S Pen, IP68 rating, and lower typical pricing. iPad Air leads in design and future-proofing while Tab S9 suits media-focused users needing water resistance.

Winner: Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9: 6.5/10

Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4: 8.5/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4
screen_size11 inches13 inches
processorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Apple M4
ram8GB8GB
storage128GB128GB

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

What works

  • 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 600 nits peak brightness (per RTINGS)
  • IP68 dust and water resistance rating
  • DeX desktop mode for productivity

What doesn't

  • Only 4 years of OS updates promised
  • 8GB RAM limits heavy multitasking versus newer chips

Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4

What works

  • M4 chip delivers 1,800+ single-core Geekbench 6 scores (per Geekbench)
  • Ultra-thin 5.1mm body with 1.02 lb weight
  • 7 years of iPadOS updates expected

What doesn't

  • No included Apple Pencil or keyboard
  • No microSD expansion or USB-C video output beyond DisplayPort

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple iPad Air 13-inch M4.

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