The Android tablet market is heating up, and two contenders are vying for your attention: the Google Pixel Tablet and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+. Both offer compelling features, but cater to different needs. This comprehensive comparison will break down their strengths and weaknesses to help you choose the perfect tablet.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Galaxy Tab S8+ boasts superior performance, a brighter display, and faster charging. However, the Pixel Tablet's unique charging speaker dock and tight Google ecosystem integration offer a distinct advantage for smart home enthusiasts. For raw power and a premium experience, the S8+ wins, but the Pixel Tablet is a strong contender with a unique value proposition.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | N/A | LTE |
| 5G bands | - | SA/NSA |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA, LTE, 5G - cellular model only |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, May 10 | 2022, February 09 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, June 20 | Available. Released 2022, April 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum frame, aluminum back | - |
| Dimensions | 258 x 169 x 8.1 mm (10.16 x 6.65 x 0.32 in) | 285 x 185 x 5.7 mm (11.22 x 7.28 x 0.22 in) |
| SIM | No | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 493 g (1.09 lb) | 567 g (Wi-Fi), 572 g (5G) (1.25 lb) |
| | Stylus support | Stylus, 6.2ms latency (Bluetooth integration, accelerometer, gyro) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 1600 x 2560 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~276 ppi density) | 1752 x 2800 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~266 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.95 inches, 347.7 cm2 (~79.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 12.4 inches, 446.1 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | Super AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+ |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.85 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.35 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (1x3.00 GHz Cortex-X2 & 3x2.50 GHz Cortex-A710 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A510) |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) | Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G710 MP7 | Adreno 730 |
| OS | Android 13, upgradable to Android 15 | Android 12, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 6.1.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 8GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM |
| | UFS 3.1 | UFS |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/3.4", 1.0µm, AF
6 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide) |
| Features | HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 12 MP, f/2.4, 120˚ (ultrawide) |
| Features | HDR, panorama | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) |
| | - | Tuned by AKG |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO - cellular model only |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.2 (Gen 1), magnetic connector | USB Type-C 3.2, magnetic connector |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, proximity (accessories only) | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| | Ultra Wideband (UWB) support | Wireless Samsung DeX |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | 45W wired, 100% in 82 min |
| Type | Li-Po 7020 mAh (27 Wh) | Li-Po 10090 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Porcelain, Hazel, Rose | Graphite, Silver, Pink Gold |
| Models | GA06156-EU, GA06157-EU, GA06158-EU | SM-X800, SM-X806, SM-X806B, SM-X806U, SM-X806N |
| Price | About 670 EUR | About 950 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.68 W/kg (body) |
Google Pixel Tablet
- Unique charging speaker dock
- Seamless Google ecosystem integration
- Good audio quality from dock
- Clean Android experience
- Built-in Chromecast
- Less powerful processor
- Slower charging
- LCD display not as vibrant
- Camera performance is average
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+
- Superior performance (Snapdragon 8 Gen 1)
- Stunning AMOLED display
- Fast charging (45W)
- Included S Pen
- Excellent camera system
- Higher price
- Samsung's One UI can be bloated
- Less unique features compared to Pixel Tablet
Display Comparison
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ features a stunning 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth scrolling. The Pixel Tablet has an 11-inch LCD display, which is good but lacks the punch and contrast of the AMOLED panel. Brightness is also noticeably higher on the S8+. The S8+ wins here.
Camera Comparison
The Galaxy Tab S8+ generally offers better camera performance, with higher resolution sensors and improved image processing. While both tablets are not primary camera devices, the S8+ produces more detailed and vibrant photos. The S8+ wins in camera quality.
Performance
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in the Galaxy Tab S8+ provides significantly more processing power than the Tensor G2 in the Pixel Tablet. Expect faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding games. While the Tensor G2 is capable, it doesn't match the raw horsepower of the Snapdragon. The S8+ takes the lead.
Battery Life
The Galaxy Tab S8+ has a larger battery capacity and significantly faster charging (45W) compared to the Pixel Tablet's 15W charging. This translates to longer battery life and quicker top-ups. The S8+ is the clear winner in battery performance.
Buying Guide
The Google Pixel Tablet is ideal for users deeply invested in the Google ecosystem, those seeking a smart home hub, and those who appreciate a unique, integrated charging and audio experience. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is perfect for power users, creatives, and anyone who demands top-tier performance, a vibrant display, and a versatile S Pen.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Pixel Tablet good for gaming?
While the Pixel Tablet can handle casual games, its processor isn't ideal for demanding titles. The Galaxy Tab S8+ offers a much smoother gaming experience.
❓ Does the Pixel Tablet dock come with the tablet?
Yes, the Pixel Tablet is sold with the charging speaker dock included, which is a key part of its functionality.
❓ What is the S Pen used for on the Galaxy Tab S8+?
The S Pen allows for precise note-taking, drawing, and navigation. It enhances productivity and creativity.
