Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE: A Comprehensive Review

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE, priced at $500, is a tablet that offers a blend of solid performance, an excellent design, and long-term software support. Having used it for several weeks, I can confidently say that this tablet has impressed me in many ways, even though it may not be perfect for everyone. Some may point out that there are faster tablets available or those with AMOLED displays, but when you consider the overall package, the Tab S10 FE is a strong contender in its price range.

Design & Build

The design of the Galaxy Tab S10 FE is familiar to those who have used previous models, though with some improvements. A microSD card slot is included, which is a relief as many competitors like Lenovo have started phasing them out. The tablet features a single speaker on each side, ensuring that sound quality remains excellent despite only having one speaker grill per side. It also includes a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, which I find quicker and more convenient than using on-screen sensors.

At 10.9 inches, the screen size is slightly smaller than the Tab S9, but it still fits comfortably within most tablet cases, including keyboard covers. Though the bezels are a bit larger, they don’t significantly affect the tablet’s usability. Samsung’s inclusion of the S Pen, even though it doesn’t charge on the device, adds convenience and productivity options, especially when paired with the included S Pen holder.

Display

While the Tab S10 FE doesn’t feature an AMOLED screen, it offers an impressive 90Hz display that delivers vibrant colors and smooth visuals. The screen gets up to 800 nits in high brightness mode, ensuring visibility even under direct sunlight. For most users, this display will be more than sufficient, and unless you’re particularly sensitive to screen quality, the lack of an AMOLED display won’t be a dealbreaker.

Performance

The performance of the Galaxy Tab S10 FE is driven by the Exynos 1380 processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM. The tablet offers impressive speeds for daily tasks and even handles gaming, including emulation of PS2 games, though at medium graphics settings. For users focused on productivity, the smaller size of the Tab S10 FE can be seen as an advantage, offering portability while still delivering a fast and fluid experience. The tablet is more than capable of handling multitasking, and its smooth performance in day-to-day use stands out.

Comparison with Competitors

The Tab S10 FE competes with tablets from brands like Lenovo, which may offer faster processors at a lower price. For example, the Lenovo Idea Tab Pro, priced at $400, features a MediaTek processor and a larger screen. However, Samsung compensates for its higher price with superior software support, offering seven years of operating system updates, a feature that Lenovo can’t match. If you’re after long-term software stability, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE becomes a more attractive choice.

Moreover, while Lenovo may offer better value in terms of hardware specs, Samsung provides a more refined software experience. The inclusion of Samsung Dex, for example, enhances the tablet’s productivity potential by transforming the interface into a desktop-like experience, which Lenovo’s tablets don’t fully replicate.

Software and Long-Term Support

One of the key selling points of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE is the long-term software support it offers. Samsung commits to seven years of OS updates, making this tablet an excellent choice for those who value long-term reliability. Lenovo, by contrast, offers only two years of updates, which might be a drawback for users looking for a device with longevity.

Samsung’s One UI also offers a smoother and more polished user experience compared to other brands, with better optimization for tablet-specific tasks. While other manufacturers might offer slightly better hardware performance at a lower price, Samsung’s software experience, including the ability to use apps in landscape orientation and the availability of Samsung’s suite of apps, is hard to beat.

Battery Life and Charging

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE is equipped with an 8,000 mAh battery and supports 45W charging speeds, which is quite impressive for a tablet of this size. While the charging speed may not be the fastest on the market, the battery life ensures that you can use the device throughout the day without frequent charging, making it ideal for users on the go.

Drawbacks and Conclusion

The biggest drawback of the Galaxy Tab S10 FE is the lack of external monitor support. Unlike the Tab S7 FE, which offered this feature, the Tab S10 FE can only connect to external monitors wirelessly. This might be a dealbreaker for users who rely on external monitors for productivity tasks. Additionally, while the tablet is fast for most users, those seeking the latest in gaming performance or high-end features might prefer other options.

Despite these drawbacks, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE stands out as an excellent choice for those looking for a well-rounded tablet with great software support and solid performance. The display, battery life, and overall experience make it an attractive option for users who value a balanced tablet that can serve both entertainment and productivity needs.

If you’re someone who doesn’t mind a smaller screen and doesn’t need the fastest processor or AMOLED display, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE could be the perfect tablet for you, offering a great overall value for the price.