The sub-$200 Android tablet market is fiercely competitive. Both the TCL Tab 8 4G and the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite aim to deliver a functional tablet experience without breaking the bank. However, they achieve this with different approaches to processing power and features, making the choice less straightforward than the price tag suggests.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite offers a more responsive and versatile experience. Its octa-core MT8768T chipset provides a noticeable performance boost over the TCL Tab 8 4G’s quad-core MT8766, making it better suited for multitasking and light gaming. While the TCL Tab 8 4G is a viable option, the A7 Lite’s extra processing power justifies the often minimal price difference.
| 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, 13, 17, 20, 28, 40, 41, 66 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 04 | 2021, May 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, Q3 | Available. Released 2021, June 18 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame, plastic ends |
| Dimensions | 197 x 124.8 x 8.9 mm (7.76 x 4.91 x 0.35 in) | 212.5 x 124.7 x 8 mm (8.37 x 4.91 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 295 g (10.41 oz) | 366 g (Wi-Fi), 371 g (LTE) (12.91 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) | 800 x 1340 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~179 ppi density) |
| Size | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~75.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 8.7 inches, 214.9 cm2 (~81.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT8766 | Mediatek MT8768T Helio P22T (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8300 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 14, One UI 6.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, (wide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 2 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM radio | 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 | Accelerometer, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4080 mAh | Li-Po 5100 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Prime Black | Gray, Silver |
| Models | 9132G2 | SM-T225, SM-T220, SM-T225N, SM-T227U |
| Price | - | About 140 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.68 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.64 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
TCL Tab 8 4G
- Potentially lower price point
- Functional for basic tasks
- 4G connectivity for on-the-go use
- Slower processor limits multitasking
- Likely slower charging speeds
- Less responsive user interface
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
- Faster octa-core processor for smoother performance
- 15W fast charging for quicker top-ups
- More responsive user experience
- May be slightly more expensive
- Camera quality is unlikely to be exceptional
- Still a budget device with inherent limitations
Display Comparison
Neither tablet boasts a particularly impressive display. Specifics like panel type (IPS is assumed for both) and resolution are not provided, but both likely target a 1080p resolution. The key difference lies under the hood: processing power impacts UI smoothness. While both will be adequate for video playback, the A7 Lite’s faster processor will contribute to a more fluid scrolling experience. Bezels are likely comparable, typical of this price segment.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is unlikely to be a deciding factor for either tablet. Both are likely equipped with basic sensors. Without specific megapixel counts or aperture information, it’s safe to assume image quality will be adequate for casual snapshots but not competitive with smartphones. Focusing on the chipset difference is far more relevant to overall user experience.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite’s Mediatek MT8768T Helio P22T is the clear winner here. Its octa-core configuration (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) significantly outperforms the TCL Tab 8 4G’s quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53. The A7 Lite’s chipset is fabricated on a more efficient 12nm process, suggesting better thermal management and potentially sustained performance. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience, even with graphically undemanding titles. The TCL Tab 8 4G will handle basic tasks, but will struggle with heavier workloads.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, but both likely fall in the 5000-6000 mAh range, typical for tablets of this size and price. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite benefits from 15W wired charging, which will significantly reduce charging times compared to the TCL Tab 8 4G, which likely uses a slower charging standard. This faster charging capability provides a more convenient user experience, especially for those who rely on their tablet throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the TCL Tab 8 4G if you prioritize basic functionality – primarily media consumption and light web browsing – and need the absolute lowest price point. It’s a suitable choice for users who rarely multitask or demand high performance. Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite if you value a smoother, more responsive user experience, plan to use the tablet for more than just basic tasks, or occasionally engage in light gaming. The A7 Lite’s superior chipset and 15W charging offer a more future-proof and convenient experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
While the MT8768T Helio P22T isn't a gaming powerhouse, the Tab A7 Lite can handle PUBG Mobile at lower graphics settings and frame rates. Expect playable performance, but don't anticipate a high-end gaming experience. The TCL Tab 8 4G will likely struggle even at the lowest settings.
❓ Is the 4G connectivity on the TCL Tab 8 4G useful, or should I rely on Wi-Fi?
The 4G connectivity is beneficial for users who frequently travel or lack reliable Wi-Fi access. It allows for on-the-go browsing, streaming, and app usage. However, data usage can be a concern, so monitoring your data plan is crucial. The A7 Lite also has a Wi-Fi only version.
❓ How much storage do these tablets typically offer, and can it be expanded?
Both tablets typically come in 32GB or 64GB storage configurations. Crucially, both support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add up to 512GB or 1TB of additional storage for apps, photos, and videos. This is highly recommended, as the base storage fills up quickly.
❓ Does the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite support Samsung DeX?
No, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite does not support Samsung DeX. DeX is typically reserved for higher-end Samsung tablets and phones. It offers a desktop-like experience when connected to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
