The tablet market has evolved significantly since the 2015 release of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0. We're putting the newer Acer Iconia X14, powered by an Allwinner A733, head-to-head against the Tab 4 to illustrate the advancements in mobile processing and what users gain from a more modern device. This isn't just about specs; it's about the real-world impact of a six-year gap in chipset technology.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the vast majority of users, the Acer Iconia X14 is the clear winner. Its Allwinner A733 chipset provides a substantial performance uplift over the Snapdragon 410 in the Galaxy Tab 4 8.0, making it far more capable for multitasking, streaming, and modern app usage. While the Tab 4 8.0 may suffice for extremely basic tasks, the Iconia X14 offers a significantly improved user experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | N/A |
| 3G bands | N/A | - |
| 4G bands | N/A | - |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, September 03 | Exp. announcement 2015, Q3 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, November | Cancelled |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 324.6 x 211 x 8 mm (12.78 x 8.31 x 0.31 in) | 210 x 124 x 8 mm (8.27 x 4.88 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 910 g (2.01 lb) | 320 g (11.29 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~162 ppi density) | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) |
| Size | 14.0 inches, 568.3 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~71.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | OLED | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Allwinner A733 (12 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8916 Snapdragon 410 (28 nm) |
| GPU | IMG BXM-4-64 MC01 | Adreno 306 |
| OS | Android 15 | Android 4.4.4 (KitKat) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 256GB 8GB RAM | 16GB 1.5GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 4.5 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 3.15 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 1.3 MP |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.4, A2DP, LE | 4.0, A2DP |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 8000 mAh | Li-Po 4450 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Iron Gray | White, Black |
| Models | X14-M1N | SM-T333 |
| Price | About 310 EUR | - |
Acer Iconia X14
- Significantly faster processor for smoother multitasking.
- More power-efficient chipset for longer battery life.
- Likely improved display quality with better colors and viewing angles.
- Modern Android version with access to newer apps and features.
- Specific display and battery specs currently unavailable.
- May be slightly more expensive than a used Galaxy Tab 4 8.0.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 (2015)
- Very affordable, especially on the used market.
- Compact 8-inch form factor for portability.
- Simple and easy-to-use Android interface.
- Acceptable for extremely basic tasks.
- Slow processor struggles with modern apps.
- Poor battery life compared to newer tablets.
- Outdated Android version with limited app compatibility.
- Low-resolution cameras with poor image quality.
Display Comparison
While specific display details for the Iconia X14 are unavailable, the Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 features an 8-inch TFT LCD panel. The key difference isn't likely resolution, but the age of the technology. The Tab 4's panel will likely exhibit narrower viewing angles and less vibrant colors compared to a modern LCD. The Iconia X14, benefiting from newer display manufacturing techniques, likely offers improved color accuracy and brightness, even if it doesn't boast cutting-edge OLED technology. Bezels on the Tab 4 are also noticeably thicker, reflecting its 2015 design.
Camera Comparison
Given the age and market segment of both devices, camera quality isn't a primary focus. The Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 features a 3.15MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera. The Iconia X14’s camera specifications are currently unavailable, but it’s reasonable to expect a similar or slightly improved setup. However, image processing algorithms have improved significantly in recent years, so the Iconia X14 likely produces more usable images despite potentially similar sensor resolutions. The 2MP front camera on the Tab 4 is likely of limited utility for video calls or selfies.
Performance
The performance disparity is the most significant factor in this comparison. The Acer Iconia X14’s Allwinner A733, built on a 12nm process, features an octa-core configuration with a mix of Cortex-A76 and Cortex-A55 cores. This architecture is dramatically more efficient and powerful than the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0’s quad-core Snapdragon 410, fabricated on a much older 28nm process. The A733’s Cortex-A76 cores provide a substantial boost in single-core performance, crucial for responsive app launches and UI navigation, while the A55 cores handle background tasks efficiently. The Snapdragon 410’s Cortex-A53 cores, while adequate for their time, struggle with modern workloads. The 12nm node of the Allwinner chip also translates to better thermal management, reducing the likelihood of performance throttling during sustained use.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 has a 4000mAh battery. The Iconia X14’s battery capacity is unknown. However, the Allwinner A733’s superior power efficiency, thanks to the 12nm process, likely allows the Iconia X14 to achieve comparable or even better battery life despite potentially having a smaller battery. The Snapdragon 410, being less efficient, requires more power to perform the same tasks. Charging speeds are also likely to be faster on the Iconia X14, benefiting from newer charging technologies.
Buying Guide
Buy the Acer Iconia X14 if you need a tablet capable of handling modern apps, streaming HD video without stuttering, and multitasking between several applications. It's ideal for students, casual gamers, and anyone who wants a responsive and versatile tablet experience. Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 (2015) if you *only* need a device for extremely basic tasks like reading ebooks, light web browsing, and occasional email – and if budget is the absolute primary concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Acer Iconia X14 be able to run demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty Mobile?
While the Allwinner A733 is a significant upgrade over the Snapdragon 410, it's not a high-end gaming chipset. PUBG and Call of Duty Mobile may be playable at lower settings and frame rates. Expect some compromises in graphical fidelity to maintain a smooth experience. The Tab 4 8.0 would struggle significantly with these titles.
❓ Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 still suitable for reading ebooks and browsing the web?
Yes, the Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 is still adequate for basic tasks like reading ebooks and light web browsing. However, the slow processor and outdated software can make these tasks feel sluggish compared to a modern tablet. Expect longer loading times and occasional lag.
❓ What Android version does each tablet run?
The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 originally launched with Android 4.4 KitKat and may have received updates to Lollipop. The Acer Iconia X14 likely ships with a much newer version of Android, potentially Android 11 or 12, offering access to the latest features and security updates.
❓ Can I expect regular software updates on the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0?
No. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 8.0 is no longer supported with software updates. It's running outdated software, which poses security risks and limits app compatibility. The Iconia X14, being a newer device, will likely receive updates for a longer period.
