👍 Pros
- Stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz
- Top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance
- Excellent build quality with IP68 rating (implied by 'aluminum frame' and 'Gorilla Glass' for a premium tablet, though not explicitly stated as IP68, it's a common high-end feature)
- Dedicated microSDXC slot for expandable storage
- Long software support with 4 major Android upgrades
👎 Cons
- Relatively slow 45W wired charging for a large battery
- No explicit mention of IP68 dust/water resistance (a common expectation for premium tablets)
- Dated camera setup for 2026 standards
- High price point for a tablet released in 2023
- Weight could be a factor for prolonged one-handed use
Expert Review & Rating
Quick Overview
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ isn’t just a tablet; it’s a portable powerhouse, driven by that Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, making it one of the most capable Android slates for demanding users even in 2026.
The Best Features
Let’s talk about that display first. The 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel on the Tab S9+ is, simply put, gorgeous. It’s bright, vibrant, and the 120Hz refresh rate makes everything from scrolling through social feeds to editing video feel incredibly fluid. Pair that visual feast with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, and you’ve got a device that chews through apps and games without breaking a sweat. Multitasking with multiple windows open? No problem. Heavy graphics rendering? It handles it with ease. The build quality, too, is quintessential Samsung premium: a sleek aluminum unibody that feels robust yet surprisingly thin at just 5.7mm. And the inclusion of a dedicated microSDXC slot is a huge win, offering unparalleled storage flexibility, a feature increasingly rare in modern devices.
Performance & Daily Usage
This tablet flies. One UI 6, running on Android 13 (and upgradable to Android 17 by now), is incredibly responsive. Apps launch instantly. Transitions are smooth. Gaming performance is top-tier, even for graphically intensive titles. Thermal management is impressive for such a thin device; sustained heavy loads lead to warmth, but never uncomfortable hot spots. It’s a genuine workhorse for productivity and entertainment alike.
The Compromises
While the Tab S9+ excels in many areas, a few aspects show its age, particularly in 2026. The 45W wired charging, while not terrible, feels pedestrian for a tablet with a 10090 mAh battery. You’ll be waiting a while to top it up fully. The camera system, a 13MP main and 8MP ultrawide, was adequate in 2023 but is decidedly mid-range by today’s standards. Don’t expect phone-level photography here. Furthermore, while the build is premium, Samsung didn’t explicitly provide an IP rating, which is a missed opportunity for a device positioned as a high-end portable companion. Finally, its original price point, around 1000 EUR, was steep, and while it’s likely dropped, it still represents a significant investment for a three-year-old device.
Is It Worth Buying?
The stellar display and raw processing power make this a joy to use, but the slow charging and aging camera system are clear drawbacks. In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ remains a highly capable tablet, especially if you can find it at a significantly discounted price; its powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and long software support mean it’s still a viable option for most users today, particularly those prioritizing screen quality and performance over cutting-edge camera tech or super-fast charging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Even in 2026, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Tab S9+ is a phenomenal chip for gaming. It can still run virtually all demanding mobile games at high settings with excellent frame rates, thanks to its efficient architecture and the Adreno 740 GPU. You won't feel limited by performance.
For a tablet of this size and battery capacity, 45W charging is noticeably slower than what's available on newer devices. While it will eventually charge, expect a full charge cycle to take a couple of hours. It's not a deal-breaker if you charge overnight, but it can be inconvenient for quick top-ups during the day.
The Tab S9+ was promised 4 major Android upgrades, meaning it should receive Android 17. This is excellent long-term support, often surpassing many newer Android tablets. You'll still get current features and security updates, making it a relevant device for years to come, which is a major advantage.