TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE: Which Android Tablet Delivers More?
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🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing performance and long-term software support, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is the better choice. Its Exynos 1380 chipset, built on a 5nm process, provides a noticeable performance advantage and superior thermal management compared to the TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro’s Mediatek MT8771. However, the NxtPaper’s unique display may appeal to specific users.
| PHONES | ||
|---|---|---|
| Phone Names | TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE |
| 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, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 32, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 20, 26, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66, 77, 78 SA/NSA/Sub6 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G - cellular model only | HSPA, LTE, 5G - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch | ||
|---|---|---|
| Announced | 2023, January 05 | 2023, October 04 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, January 05 | Available. Released 2023, October 16 |
| Body | ||
|---|---|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 279 x 192.5 x 6.9 mm (10.98 x 7.58 x 0.27 in) | 254.3 x 165.8 x 6.5 mm (10.01 x 6.53 x 0.26 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | Nano-SIM + eSIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 599 g (1.32 lb) | 523 g or 524 g (1.15 lb) |
| Stylus support | - | |
| Display | ||
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1440 x 2160 pixels, 3:2 ratio (~213 ppi density) | 1440 x 2304 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~249 ppi density) |
| Size | 12.2 inches, 443.2 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.9 inches, 344.5 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | NCVM IPS, 370 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform | ||
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT8771 | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G68 MP5 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 6 |
| Memory | ||
|---|---|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| eMMC 5.1 | - | |
| Main Camera | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dual | 8 MP 8 MP | - |
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 13 MP, AF | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dual | 8 MP 8 MP | - |
| Single | - | 12 MP, (ultrawide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound | ||
|---|---|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | - |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms | ||
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS - cellular model only | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS - cellular model only |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, magnetic connector | USB Type-C 2.0, magnetic connector |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features | ||
|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, compass, proximity (accessories only) |
| Battery | ||
|---|---|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 45W wired, QC2.0 |
| Type | Li-Po 8000 mAh | Li-Po 8000 mAh |
| Misc | ||
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Navy Blue | Mint, Silver, Gray, Lavender |
| Models | 9494G | SM-X510, SM-X516B |
| Price | About 500 EUR | About 300 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.55 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.59 W/kg (body) |
TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro
- Unique NxtPaper display for comfortable reading
- Large 12-inch screen size
- Potentially lower price point
- Less powerful Mediatek MT8771 chipset
- Slower 18W charging
- Limited software update support (likely)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
- Faster and more efficient Exynos 1380 chipset
- 45W fast charging with QC2.0
- Samsung ecosystem integration and software support
- Higher price compared to the TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro
- May lack the unique paper-like display feel
- Potentially less focus on eye comfort
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature 12-inch displays, but the similarities largely end there. While specific display technologies for the TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro aren't detailed, its 'NxtPaper' branding suggests a focus on a matte, paper-like texture designed to reduce glare and eye strain. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE, while lacking the NxtPaper’s texture, benefits from Samsung’s display expertise. The TCL’s chipset will likely struggle to drive a high refresh rate panel, while the S9 FE could potentially support a smoother experience. The lack of detailed brightness specs for the TCL makes it difficult to assess its outdoor visibility compared to the S9 FE.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is unlikely to be a deciding factor for most tablet buyers. Details are sparse for both devices, but given the market segment, expectations should be tempered. The TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro’s camera specs are not available, but it’s reasonable to assume a basic setup. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE also likely features a modest camera system. Without detailed sensor information, it’s difficult to make a definitive comparison, but Samsung’s image processing algorithms generally provide a more refined result.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE’s Exynos 1380 (5nm) offers a significant advantage over the TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro’s Mediatek MT8771. The 5nm fabrication process of the Exynos 1380 translates to improved power efficiency and reduced heat generation, allowing for sustained performance during demanding tasks. Both CPUs share an octa-core configuration with 4x Cortex-A78 and 4x Cortex-A55 cores, but the Exynos benefits from architectural refinements and a more efficient manufacturing process. This means the S9 FE will handle multitasking, gaming, and video editing with greater ease. The TCL’s MT8771, while capable for everyday tasks, will likely exhibit more throttling under sustained load.
Battery Life
Battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE has a clear advantage in charging speed. Its 45W wired charging with QC2.0 support will significantly reduce charging times compared to the TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro’s 18W charging. While the TCL may have a larger battery capacity (details unavailable), the faster charging of the S9 FE minimizes downtime. The Exynos 1380’s 5nm efficiency also contributes to potentially longer battery life during typical use.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL NxtPaper 12 Pro if you prioritize a paper-like reading experience and a large screen for note-taking or document viewing on a tight budget. Its NxtPaper display is its defining feature. Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE if you value overall performance, faster charging, and integration with the Samsung ecosystem, and are willing to spend a bit more for a smoother, more responsive experience.