The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 was a popular budget tablet, and the 2017 refresh aimed to improve upon the original. But is the upgrade worth it? This detailed comparison will break down the differences between these two generations, helping you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The 2017 Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is the clear winner, offering a faster processor, slightly improved performance, and a more modern chipset. While the 2015 model is still functional, the 2017 version provides a noticeably smoother experience for everyday tasks and light gaming.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2015, March. Released 2015, May | 2017, September. Released 2017, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 208.3 x 137.9 x 7.4 mm (8.20 x 5.43 x 0.29 in) | 212.1 x 124.1 x 8.9 mm (8.35 x 4.89 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM - cellular model only | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 313 g (11.04 oz) | 364 g (12.84 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 768 x 1024 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~160 ppi density) | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) |
| Size | 8.0 inches, 198.2 cm2 (~69.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~70.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425 (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | Adreno 308 |
| OS | Android 5.0 (Lollipop) | Android 7.1 (Nougat), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie), One UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1.5GB RAM (Wi-Fi), 32GB 2GB RAM (LTE) | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 8 MP, f/1.9, AF |
| Video | 720p | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS - cellular model only | GPS, GLONASS, BDS - cellular model only |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| | - | ANT+ |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 120 h | Up to 153 h |
| Talk time | Up to 11 h (3G) | Up to 14 h (multimedia) (2G) / Up to 36 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 4200 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 5000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Smoky Titanium, Smoky Blue, White | Black, Gold |
| Models | SM-T350, SM-T355, SM-T355Y | SM-T380, SM-T385, SM-T385M |
| Price | About 210 EUR | About 200 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.12 W/kg (head) 0.98 W/kg (body) | 0.50 W/kg (head) 0.91 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2015)
- Very affordable
- Compact and portable
- Decent for basic tasks
- Slow performance
- Outdated chipset
- Low-resolution display
- Basic camera
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2017)
- Improved performance
- More efficient chipset
- Slightly better battery life
- More modern design
- Still a budget tablet
- Basic camera
- Display quality is average
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature an 8.0-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800. While the color accuracy and brightness are adequate for the price point, don't expect flagship-level visuals. The 2017 model might have slightly improved viewing angles due to minor panel refinements, but the difference is minimal.
Camera Comparison
Neither tablet boasts impressive cameras. The 2015 model has a 2MP rear camera and a 1.3MP front camera. The 2017 model retains similar specs (2MP rear, 1.3MP front), but the image processing might be slightly improved, resulting in marginally better photos in good lighting conditions. Don't expect to use these cameras for serious photography.
Performance
This is where the 2017 model shines. The Snapdragon 425 chipset offers a noticeable performance boost over the 2015's quad-core 1.2 GHz processor. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and the overall user experience feels more responsive. The Cortex-A53 cores in the 2017 model are also more efficient, contributing to better battery life.
Battery Life
Both tablets have a 4,000 mAh battery. However, the more efficient Snapdragon 425 chipset in the 2017 model allows for slightly longer battery life under typical usage. Expect around 7-8 hours of screen-on time on both devices.
Buying Guide
The 2015 Tab A 8.0 is best for users on an extremely tight budget who primarily need a basic tablet for reading and light web browsing. The 2017 Tab A 8.0 is ideal for those seeking a more responsive and reliable tablet for everyday use, including streaming video and casual gaming, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the 2017 Tab A 8.0 worth the extra cost over the 2015 model?
Yes, the performance improvements and more modern chipset in the 2017 model make it a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you plan to use the tablet for more than just basic tasks.
❓ Can I play games on either of these tablets?
Both tablets can handle simple, less demanding games. However, the 2017 model will provide a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.
