Apple’s M3-powered iPad Air has just entered the market, aiming to balance power and portability. Meanwhile, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 continues to be a strong Android contender with its vibrant display and versatile ecosystem. But which one is the better buy?
Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or someone who just wants a great tablet for casual use, this feature will break down the differences and help you decide.
Design & Display: LCD vs. AMOLED
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M3 iPad Air
- 11-inch and 13-inch models
- Liquid Retina (LCD) display
- 60Hz refresh rate
- Four color options (Blue, Purple, Starlight, Space Gray)
- Sleek aluminum body
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Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
- 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED display
- 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling
- Comes in Graphite, Beige
- IP68 water & dust resistance (a rarity in tablets)
If you want brighter colors and a smoother refresh rate, the Tab S9’s AMOLED screen wins. But if you prefer Apple’s ecosystem and don’t mind an LCD, the iPad Air holds its own.
Performance: Apple M3 vs. Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
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M3 iPad Air
- Apple M3 chip (same as MacBook Air M3)
- Up to 16GB RAM (higher configurations)
- iPadOS 17
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Galaxy Tab S9
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip
- Up to 12GB RAM
- Android 13 with One UI
Apple’s M3 chip is more powerful for video editing, AI tasks, and high-performance apps. But if you prefer Android and need more customization, Samsung’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is still very fast.
Stylus & Accessories: Apple Pencil vs. S Pen
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M3 iPad Air
- Supports Apple Pencil (USB-C version)
- New Magic Keyboard (adds a MacBook-like experience)
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Galaxy Tab S9
- S Pen included in the box
- Samsung Keyboard Cover available
If you’re a digital artist or note-taker, the S Pen (included for free) gives Samsung the edge. But if you prefer Apple’s creative apps, the iPad Air is still a great choice.
Battery Life & Charging
- M3 iPad Air: 10 hours of battery life
- Galaxy Tab S9: Up to 12 hours, slightly better than iPad Air
- Both use USB-C charging
Samsung wins slightly in battery life, but both offer solid all-day performance.
Which One Should You Buy?
For Casual Users & Entertainment
If you stream movies, browse social media, and play games, the Galaxy Tab S9’s AMOLED display and 120Hz refresh rate offer a better visual experience. However, iPadOS has better app optimization and a larger app library, which casual users might prefer.
Samsung for the display, Apple for smoother apps.
For Students & Note-Takers
The Galaxy Tab S9 is the better value because it includes the S Pen for free, while you have to buy the Apple Pencil separately. However, the iPad Air has better educational apps and a longer software update cycle, making it great for long-term use.
Samsung for affordability, Apple for long-term software support.
For Office-Goers & Professionals
If you’re looking for a laptop replacement, the iPad Air with the Magic Keyboard offers a MacBook-like experience. But if you prefer Samsung’s DeX mode (a desktop-like interface), the Galaxy Tab S9 is great for productivity.
iPad Air for Mac users, Tab S9 for Android/Windows users.
Which One Should You Pick?
Buy the M3 iPad Air if:
- You’re already in Apple’s ecosystem (iPhone, Mac, AirPods).
- You want stronger performance for creative work.
- You need long-term software updates.
Buy the Galaxy Tab S9 if:
- You prefer Android’s flexibility.
- You want better multitasking with Samsung DeX.
- You want an S Pen without extra cost.
Both the M3 iPad Air and Galaxy Tab S9 are excellent tablets, but they cater to different users. If you love Apple’s ecosystem and want top-tier performance, go for the iPad Air. But if you prefer Android, need a stunning display, and want better value, the Galaxy Tab S9 is a strong choice.
Which one are you considering?
