The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 has been a popular budget-friendly tablet option. Samsung refreshed it in 2022, but is the upgrade worth it? This comparison dives deep into the differences between the 2020 and 2022 models to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The 2020 model, powered by the Snapdragon 662, generally offers slightly better performance and a smoother experience. While the 2022 model has minor improvements, the chipset downgrade makes it a less compelling choice for most users seeking a responsive tablet.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat13 400/50 Mbps - cellular model only | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat13 400/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 02. Released 2020, September 11 | 2022, November 18 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, November 21 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 247.6 x 157.4 x 7 mm (9.75 x 6.20 x 0.28 in) | 247.6 x 157.4 x 7 mm (9.75 x 6.20 x 0.28 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 476 g (Wi-Fi), 477 g (LTE) (1.05 lb) | 477 g (1.05 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~224 ppi density) | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~224 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.4 inches, 307.9 cm2 (~79.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.4 inches, 307.9 cm2 (~79.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Unisoc UMS512 T618 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 10, upgradable to Android 12, One UI 4 | Android 12, One UI 4 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO - cellular model only | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 7040 mAh | Li-Po 7040 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Gray, Silver, Gold | Dark Gray, Silver, Gold |
| Models | SM-T500, SM-T505, SM-T505N | SM-T509 |
| Price | About 240 EUR | About 250 EUR |
| SAR EU | 1.01 W/kg (body) | 1.54 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2020)
- Better Performance (Snapdragon 662)
- Slightly better low-light camera
- More readily available (older model)
- Older design
- May receive fewer software updates
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022)
- Slightly newer design
- Potentially lower price
- May have slightly improved software (depending on updates)
- Weaker Performance (Unisoc T618)
- Can feel sluggish
- Less readily available
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature a 10.4-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 2000 x 1200. Picture quality is comparable, offering decent viewing angles and color reproduction for everyday use. Neither display is exceptional, but both are adequate for streaming videos and browsing the web.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both tablets is unremarkable. The front and rear cameras are adequate for video calls and occasional snapshots, but don't expect high-quality photos. The 2020 model might have a slight edge in low-light performance, but the difference is minimal.
Performance
This is where the biggest difference lies. The 2020 model's Snapdragon 662 chipset provides noticeably better performance than the 2022's Unisoc T618. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive overall experience on the 2020 model. The 2022 can feel sluggish at times, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both tablets have a 7,040 mAh battery. Real-world battery life is similar, offering around 8-10 hours of mixed usage. Charging speeds are identical at 15W wired.
Buying Guide
The 2020 Tab A7 is ideal for casual users, students, and those on a tight budget who prioritize performance. The 2022 Tab A7 might appeal to those seeking a slightly newer design and potentially a lower price, but be aware of the performance trade-off.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the 2022 Galaxy Tab A7 worth the upgrade from the 2020 model?
Generally, no. The performance downgrade makes it a less appealing option unless you find a significantly better price on the 2022 model.
❓ What operating system do these tablets run?
Both tablets initially launched with Android 11 and have been updated to Android 12. Samsung's One UI provides a user-friendly interface.
