The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 is a popular budget-friendly tablet, and Samsung has released updated versions over the years. This comparison dives into the differences between the 2022 and 2020 models to help you decide which one is right for you. We'll cover everything from performance and display to battery life and value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022) edges out the 2020 model thanks to its slightly more efficient chipset and improved overall performance. While the differences aren't massive, the 2022 version offers a more polished experience, justifying its likely slightly higher 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, 39, 40, 41, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat13 400/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat13 400/50 Mbps - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, November 18 | 2020, September 02. Released 2020, September 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, November 21 | Discontinued |
| 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 | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 477 g (1.05 lb) | 476 g (Wi-Fi), 477 g (LTE) (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 (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4x1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) |
| Chipset | Unisoc UMS512 T618 (12 nm) | Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) |
| GPU | Mali G52 MP2 | Adreno 610 |
| OS | Android 12, One UI 4 | Android 10, upgradable to Android 12, One UI 4 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB 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 | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO - 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, 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-T509 | SM-T500, SM-T505, SM-T505N |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 240 EUR |
| SAR EU | 1.54 W/kg (body) | 1.01 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022)
- Slightly better performance
- More efficient chipset
- Modern design (potentially)
- Likely software updates for longer
- Potentially higher price
- Camera quality remains basic
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2020)
- More affordable
- Decent performance for everyday tasks
- Good battery life
- Older chipset
- Potentially fewer software updates
- Performance can lag with demanding apps
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature a 10.4-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 2000 x 1200. Picture quality is similar, offering decent viewing angles and color reproduction for the price point. Neither display is particularly bright, so outdoor use can be challenging. The 2022 model might have slightly improved color accuracy, but it's a marginal difference.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both tablets is unremarkable. The front and rear cameras are primarily for video calls and casual snapshots. Expect grainy images in low light. The 2020 model's camera might have a slightly better processing algorithm, but the difference is minimal. Neither tablet should be considered for serious photography.
Performance
The 2022 model's Unisoc UMS512 T618 chipset, while not a powerhouse, is generally more efficient than the 2020's Snapdragon 662. This translates to slightly faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. The Snapdragon 662 is still capable, but the Unisoc chip provides a noticeable, albeit small, performance boost. Gaming performance is adequate on both, but don't expect to play demanding titles at high settings.
Battery Life
Both tablets have a 7,040 mAh battery. While capacity is identical, the 2022 model's more efficient chipset allows for slightly better battery life in real-world usage. Expect around 8-10 hours of mixed usage on both devices.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022)? Users seeking a smoother experience for everyday tasks, light gaming, and media consumption. Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2020)? Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize affordability and don't require top-tier performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022) worth the extra money?
If you prioritize a slightly smoother experience and longer software support, the 2022 model is worth the upgrade. However, if you're on a tight budget, the 2020 model still offers excellent value.
❓ Can I play games on the Galaxy Tab A7 10.4?
Yes, both models can handle casual games and less demanding titles. However, don't expect to play graphically intensive games at high settings.
