Choosing a budget-friendly Android tablet can be tricky. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A series has long been a popular choice, but with newer models like the Tab A7 10.4 (2022) and the older Tab A 10.1 (2019) available, which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022) generally wins thanks to its more modern chipset, slightly improved display, and faster charging. However, the Tab A 10.1 (2019) remains a solid option if you prioritize a slightly larger screen and can find it at a significantly lower price.
| 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 | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat13 400/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, November 18 | 2019, February 15. Released 2019, April |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, November 21 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 247.6 x 157.4 x 7 mm (9.75 x 6.20 x 0.28 in) | 245.2 x 149.4 x 7.5 mm (9.65 x 5.88 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 477 g (1.05 lb) | 469 g (1.03 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~224 ppi density) | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~224 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.4 inches, 307.9 cm2 (~79.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~80.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A73 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Unisoc UMS512 T618 (12 nm) | Exynos 7904 (14 nm) |
| GPU | Mali G52 MP2 | Mali-G71 MP2 |
| OS | Android 12, One UI 4 | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 11, One UI 3.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| 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 |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS - cellular model only |
| 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, compass |
| | - | ANT+ |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Po 7040 mAh | Li-Po 6150 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Gray, Silver, Gold | Black, Gold, Silver |
| Models | SM-T509 | SM-T515, SM-T510 |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 220 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.92 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 1.54 W/kg (body) | 1.36 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022)
- More powerful chipset
- Faster charging (15W)
- Slightly sharper display
- Modern design
- Can be slightly more expensive
- Speakers could be louder
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.1 (2019)
- Larger screen (10.1 inches)
- Generally more affordable (especially used)
- Decent battery life
- Older chipset - slower performance
- Slower charging
- Older design
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature LCD displays. The Tab A7 10.4 (2022) boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1200, offering slightly sharper visuals compared to the Tab A 10.1 (2019)'s 1920 x 1200 resolution on a slightly larger 10.1-inch screen. While both are adequate, the A7's slightly higher pixel density provides a marginally better viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Neither tablet excels in the camera department. Both feature basic rear and front-facing cameras suitable for video calls and occasional snapshots. Image quality is generally acceptable in well-lit conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The Tab A7 might have a slight edge due to newer image processing.
Performance
The Tab A7 10.4 (2022)'s Unisoc T618 chipset is a noticeable upgrade over the Tab A 10.1 (2019)'s Exynos 7904. The newer chipset offers improved CPU and GPU performance, resulting in smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming capabilities. Expect a more responsive and fluid user experience on the A7.
Battery Life
Battery life is comparable between the two devices. Both offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. The Tab A7 10.4 (2022) supports 15W fast charging, which is a significant improvement over the Tab A 10.1 (2019)'s standard charging speed.
Buying Guide
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022) is ideal for students, casual users, and families seeking a reliable tablet for streaming, browsing, and light gaming. The Galaxy Tab A 10.1 (2019) is a good choice for those on a very tight budget who need a basic tablet for media consumption and light tasks, and don't mind slightly older technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tab A7 10.4 (2022) worth the extra money?
Yes, if performance and faster charging are important to you. The chipset upgrade makes a noticeable difference in everyday use.
❓ Can the Tab A 10.1 (2019) handle streaming video?
Yes, it can handle streaming video without issue, but don't expect the smoothest experience with demanding games or heavy multitasking.
