Introduction
Two giants stand out: Apple’s M4 iPad Pro vs Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. Both devices offer cutting-edge features and powerful performance, but which one truly reigns supreme? This article examine deep into the key aspects of these flagship tablets, comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
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Design and Display
Build Quality and Aesthetics
The M4 iPad Pro and Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra both boast premium build quality, featuring sleek aluminum bodies that exude sophistication. The iPad Pro maintains Apple’s signature minimalist design, while the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra showcases Samsung’s refined aesthetic.
Screen Size and Resolution
Both tablets offer expansive displays, but the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra takes the lead with its massive 14.6-inch screen, compared to the iPad Pro’s 12.9-inch display. However, the iPad Pro’s Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED technology provides superior brightness and contrast ratios.
Refresh Rate and Touch Response
Both devices feature smooth 120Hz refresh rates, ensuring fluid scrolling and responsive touch interactions. The iPad Pro’s ProMotion technology dynamically adjusts the refresh rate for optimal performance and battery efficiency.
Performance and Process Power
Chipset Comparison
The M4 iPad Pro is powered by Apple’s latest M4 chip, which represents a significant leap in tablet processing power. The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, is no slouch but falls short of the M4’s raw performance.
Benchmark Results
Benchmark tests reveal the iPad Pro’s clear advantage:
| Benchmark | M4 iPad Pro | Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra |
| Single-Core | 2,100 | 1,550 |
| Multi-Core | 8,750 | 5,000 |
| GPU Score | 25,000 | 18,000 |
Real-World Performance
The M4 iPad Pro’s superior processing power translates to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better handling of resource-intensive tasks like video editing and 3D rendering.
How to use Camera Systems
Rear Cameras
The iPad Pro features a dual-camera setup with a 12MP wide and 10MP ultra-wide lens. The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra offers a 13MP wide and 6MP ultra-wide configuration. While the Tab S9 Ultra has a slightly higher resolution main camera, the iPad Pro’s overall image quality and processing capabilities give it an edge.
Front-Face Cameras
The iPad Pro sports a 12MP front-facing camera, while the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra boasts dual 12MP front cameras. The Tab S9 Ultra’s side-mounted cameras provide a more natural angle for video calls, addressing a common complaint about the iPad Pro’s top-mounted camera.
Video Record Capabilities
Both tablets offer 4K video recording at 60fps, but the iPad Pro’s superior image processing and stabilization result in slightly better video quality overall.
Battery Life and Charge
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra packs a massive 11,200 mAh battery, while the iPad Pro houses a smaller 10,758 mAh battery. Despite the difference in capacity, the iPad Pro’s more efficient chipset leads to better overall battery life.
Battery Life Test Results
In standardized battery tests:
- M4 iPad Pro: 10 hours and 39 minutes
- Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: 9 hours and 27 minutes
Charge Speed and Options
Both tablets support fast charging, with the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra offering slightly faster charging speeds. The iPad Pro supports charging via USB-C and MagSafe, while the Tab S9 Ultra relies solely on USB-C.
Software and Ecosystem
Operate Systems
The M4 iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, offering a tablet-optimized experience with seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra utilizes Android with Samsung’s One UI overlay, providing a customizable and feature-rich environment.
App Availability and Optimization
The App Store offers a wider selection of tablet-optimized apps compared to the Google Play Store, giving the iPad Pro an advantage in software availability and quality.
Productivity Features
Both tablets support multitasking and external display connectivity. The iPad Pro’s Stage Manager feature and Apple Pencil integration provide a slight edge in productivity, while the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra’s DeX mode offers a desktop-like experience.
What is Price and Value
Base Models and Storage Options
- M4 iPad Pro: Starts at $1,099 (Wi-Fi) / $1,299 (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: Starts at $1,199
The iPad Pro offers more storage options, with configurations up to 2TB, while the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra maxes out at 1TB.
Accessory Costs
The S Pen stylus comes included with the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, representing a significant value. The Apple Pencil, sold separately for $129, adds to the overall cost of the iPad Pro ecosystem.
Long-Term Value and Support
Apple’s track record of long-term software support and high resale values gives the iPad Pro an edge in terms of long-term value retention.
Conclusion
Both the M4 iPad Pro and the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra are exceptional tablets that cater to different user preferences and needs. The iPad Pro excels in raw performance, display quality, and app ecosystem, making it the ideal choice for creative professionals and power users deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem. On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra offers a larger display, included S Pen, and the flexibility of Android, appealing to users who prioritize screen real estate and customization.
Ultimately, the choice between these two flagship tablets depends on your specific requirements, budget, and ecosystem preferences. Both devices represent the pinnacle of tablet technology, ensuring a premium experience regardless of your selection.