El iPad Pro from Apple has arrived to try to become the reference tablet of the market. We've said it doesn't have a truly powerful rival in the market, but the truth is that one could soon arrive. Apple's tablet's biggest rivalThe new Samsung Galaxy Tab S3which is already preparing for its launch and has received certification. Beyond the headline, the direct comparison is of interest to those looking for productivity, leisure and good support digital pen.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S3
Although it has received FCC certification, the truth is that the tablet's specifications have not been published, so the only information we have at the moment is that of a benchmarkingAnd the truth is, this data might not be very relevant considering that the iPad Pro has been released since its publication, and it needs to compete against it. Nevertheless, it's all we have. And according to this data, the tablet would have a screen of 9,7 inches with a resolution of XIt will likely feature a Super AMOLED HD display. However, it is claimed that the processor will be the Qualcomm Snapdragon 652It's capable of reaching a clock speed of 1,8 GHz, with 3 GB of RAM. Not bad, but these aren't the technical specifications of Samsung's flagship tablet. It would run Android 6.0 Marshmallow.
That means two things can happen. One is that this data is not from the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 ultimate that it will compete with the iPad Pro. And two, that Samsung doesn't want to launch any Android tablet to compete with the iPad Pro. In other words, that its high-end tablets They run Windows 10, and then they have this Samsung Galaxy Tab S3, which is almost high-end, but doesn't quite reach the top of the market.
In any case, we cannot rule out one last possibility either, and that is a Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 Prowhich would also use the same name as the Apple tablet, and which could be an improved version of this tablet with a 9,7-inch screen. With the consolidated information, the commercial model of the Tab S3 opted for a Snapdragon 820 4 GB of RAM and Android Nougat, raising the bar against the similarly sized iPad Pro.
Display and layout
The screen Super AMOLED The Tab S3 offers very vibrant colors and purest blacks Apple's panels are noticeably superior, especially in video and games. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, shines thanks to its calibration and proprietary technologies such as true ToneIn terms of density, both 9,7-inch environments are around 264 dpiTherefore, the sharpness is equivalent.
In hand, the Galaxy turns out light and comfortableMany users perceive less weight even though on paper there is only a difference of eight grams (429 g versus 437 g) and of 0,1 mm in thickness (6 mm vs. 6,1 mm). The iPad feels more substantial. solid because of its aluminumwhile the Tab S3 opts for a less flashy finish.
Performance and benchmarks
In terms of CPU, the iPad Pro with Apple A9X excels in tests of single core like Geekbench, while the Tab S3 with Snapdragon 820 performs adequately in multicore and it holds its own on GPUs thanks to its AdrenoTests such as 3DMark o GFXBench They are useful for measuring graphics performance, but in real-world use (browsing, popular games, high-resolution video) neither shows any relevant bottlenecks.
S Pen and Apple Pencil
One differentiating factor is the S Pen included in the Galaxy box, ready to use without needing load. The Apple Pencil has an additional cost. that goes around 109 Euros and requires recharging. The S Pen is smaller and lighter...very convenient for quick notes and annotations; in advanced precision and tilt detection For thicker strokes, the Pencil maintains its advantage for artistic profiles.
Connectivity, sound and storage
The Tab S3 integrates USB-C y microSD with support up to 256 GBwhile the iPad Pro relies on its ecosystem with lightning and more extensive internal storage options. In terms of connectivity, there are variants with High-category LTE, Dual band WiFi and Bluetooth (up to 4.2 on Galaxy and 4.0 or higher on iPad). Both offer stereo sound and a full array of sensors; Apple adds barometer in some versions. In terms of battery life, both aim for around 10 hours of use typical, with fast charging available on the Galaxy.
Price, refurbished models and key differences
On paper, the Tab S3 boasts being more recent compared to certain iPad Pro models and a rear camera with higher resolutionwhile Apple compensates with its ecosystema polished experience and a more versatile Pencil. Many comparisons add a button of “highlight differences” to see them at a glance: that's where the following usually stand out AMOLED screen and the S Pen included of the Galaxy, and the sustained performance and iPad accessories.
If the budget is a determining factor, it's worth looking at the refurbished prices and best keyboards for tabletsThey reduce costs while maintaining a warranty and allow access to higher-end configurations. In practice, there are no radical differences for general use; therefore, the choice leans towards the operating system, the kind of pencil what you need and if you value the extension for microSD Or do you prefer more standard internal storage?
Those who prioritize a screen with perfect blacks, an included stylus, and USB-C will find in the Galaxy Tab S3 a excellent companionIf you're looking for the best drawing pencil, a feel of a more robust chassis and a full integration With apps and accessories from the ecosystem, the iPad Pro remains the rival to beat.
