Released in August 2023, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ was one of the most premium Android tablets of its time. Now, in 2026, with newer models like the Galaxy Tab S10 series entering the market, many users are asking: Is the S9+ still worth buying?
Let’s break it down.
⚙️ Quick Specs Overview
| Feature | Galaxy Tab S9+ (2023) |
|---|---|
| Display | 12.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
| Resolution | 2800 × 1752 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |
| RAM / Storage | 8GB or 12GB RAM / up to 512GB storage |
| Battery | 10,090 mAh with 45W fast charging |
| Cameras | Rear: 13MP + 8MP ultra-wide / Front: 12MP ultra-wide |
| Software | Android 13 (launch) → Android 15 in 2026 |
| S Pen | Included, magnetically attaches and charges |
| Water Resistance | IP68 (tablet and S Pen) |
| Weight | 581g |
(sources: Android Authority, PhoneArena, TechRadar)
🖥️ Design & Build Quality
Even in 2026, the S9+ still looks and feels ultra-premium.
- The aluminum Armor frame and IP68 water resistance remain standout features few tablets can match.
- The bezels are slim, and the magnetic S Pen mount is both practical and elegant.
- The 12.4-inch AMOLED 2X display continues to rival even the latest iPad Pro models for color accuracy and contrast.
✅ Still impressive in 2026: The design hasn’t aged at all — it feels modern, durable, and professional.
⚡ Performance in 2026
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, the Tab S9+ still delivers excellent performance in 2026.
- Everyday tasks, multitasking, and even light video editing run smoothly.
- Gaming performance remains strong, though the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Tab S10+ is about 20–25% faster.
One UI 7 (based on Android 15) runs fluidly, and Samsung’s DeX mode continues to be one of the best desktop-like tablet experiences available.
✅ Still fast enough for most users, unless you’re doing heavy 3D rendering or professional-grade editing.
🖋️ S Pen Experience
The S Pen remains one of the Galaxy Tab’s biggest advantages.
- It’s included in the box (unlike Apple’s Pencil).
- Latency is nearly unnoticeable, and Samsung Notes, Clip Studio Paint, and GoodNotes for Android are all optimized for it.
- The IP68 rating for the pen is a nice touch for durability.
✅ Perfect for students, designers, and note-takers even in 2026.
🔋 Battery Life & Charging
The 10,090 mAh battery still delivers solid endurance:
- Around 10–12 hours of mixed use (streaming, browsing, note-taking).
- 45W fast charging refills the battery in about 1.5 hours.
Compared to newer tablets, it’s slightly behind in efficiency, but still very reliable.
⚠️ Minor downside: No wireless charging, which some new tablets now include.
🎧 Audio & Multimedia
The quad AKG-tuned speakers with Dolby Atmos produce rich, balanced sound.
Combined with the AMOLED 2X display, it’s still one of the best entertainment tablets available in 2026.
✅ Perfect for Netflix, YouTube, and gaming.
📸 Cameras
While cameras aren’t a major selling point for tablets:
- The 13MP + 8MP rear setup is decent for document scanning and light photography.
- The 12MP front camera is excellent for video calls and online meetings.
✅ Great for productivity and remote work — not for photography enthusiasts.
🧠 Software & Longevity
Samsung promised four major Android updates and five years of security patches.
- That means the Tab S9+ will be supported until at least 2028.
- Running Android 15 / One UI 7 in 2026, it’s still receiving new features and security updates.
✅ Long software life makes it a smart buy even today.
💰 Current Price (2026)
| Model | Original Price (2023) | Average Price in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 8GB / 128GB | $999 | ~$650 (new) / ~$500 (used) |
| 12GB / 512GB | $1,199 | ~$750 (new) / ~$600 (used) |
Thanks to price drops, the S9+ offers excellent value in 2026 — especially compared to the newer S10+ which starts around $1,199.
✅ Pros & ❌ Cons (2026)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Gorgeous 12.4” AMOLED 120Hz display | No wireless charging |
| Premium design & IP68 rating | Slightly older chipset |
| Excellent S Pen (included) | Still pricey for casual users |
| Great battery life & fast charging | Cameras are average |
| Long software support (till 2028) | DeX mode still not perfect for all workflows |
🏁 Verdict: Is the Galaxy Tab S9+ Still Worth Buying in 2026?
Yes — absolutely, for most users.
If you want a premium Android tablet for productivity, creativity, or entertainment, the Galaxy Tab S9+ remains one of the best-balanced options in 2026.
💡 Buy it if you want:
- A flagship tablet without paying 2026 flagship prices.
- A top-tier screen, S Pen support, and strong performance.
🚫 Skip it if you need:
- The latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performance.
- Features like wireless charging or next-gen OLED HDR10+ Ultra display (found in the Tab S10+).
⭐ Final Rating (2026)
| Category | Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Display | 9.5 |
| Performance | 8.5 |
| Battery | 8.5 |
| S Pen & Productivity | 9.0 |
| Software & Updates | 9.0 |
| Value (2026) | 9.2 |
| Overall | 9.0 / 10 |
Verdict:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ remains one of the best Android tablets you can buy in 2026 — especially for those who value the S Pen, premium design, and Samsung’s long-term software support.
Additional Notes:
- Consider the Tab S9 Ultra for the ultimate power and screen size, but at a higher price.
- Budget-conscious users might find good alternatives in other Android tablets.
- If you prioritize software, iPads offer a cleaner and potentially smoother experience.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+: Features
| Feature | Highlights | Potential drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Display | * 12.4-inch Super AMOLED 2K display with 120Hz refresh rate | * Bezels slightly larger than Tab S9 Ultra |
| Performance | * Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor | * Not as powerful as the Tab S9 Ultra |
| Battery life | * Up to 15 hours of video playback | * Can drain quickly with heavy use |
| Cameras | * Dual rear cameras (13MP main, 6MP ultrawide) | * Front-facing camera not as good as some competitors |
| S Pen | * Improved latency and responsiveness | * Sold separately |
| Software | * Android 13 with One UI 5.1 | * Some bloatware pre-installed |
| Design | * Slim and lightweight | * No major design changes from Tab S8+ |
| Price | * Starting at $799 | * More expensive than some competitors |
Overall:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ is a great Android tablet with a beautiful display, powerful performance, and long battery life. However, it’s not perfect. The bezels are a bit larger than some other tablets, and the front-facing camera isn’t the best. Overall, though, the Tab S9+ is a great option for anyone looking for a high-end Android tablet.
Here are some additional things to consider:
- If you need the absolute best performance, the Tab S9 Ultra is a better option.
- If you’re on a budget, there are cheaper Android tablets available that offer good value for money.
- If you’re not a fan of Samsung’s software, you might want to consider an iPad instead.
Design and Build: Aesthetically Pleasing and Ergonomic
Samsung has always been known for its attention to design, and the S9 Plus is no exception. The phone boasts a sleek, ergonomic build that feels comfortable in the hand. Its curved edges and glass back give it a premium look and feel, making it not just a gadget, but a fashion statement.
Display: Vivid and Immersive
One of the most lauded features of the S9 Plus is its display. Users on the GalaxyTab subreddit have praised the screen for its media consumption capabilities. The S9 Plus features a Super AMOLED display, offering vivid colors and deep blacks. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or just browsing, the display ensures an immersive experience.
Performance: Powerhouse Under the Hood
Underneath its stylish exterior, the S9 Plus packs a punch in terms of performance. Equipped with a powerful processor and ample RAM, it handles multitasking and demanding applications with ease. Users have noted its capability as a productivity workhorse, seamlessly transitioning from business to entertainment.
Camera: Capturing Moments with Clarity
The camera on the S9 Plus is a standout feature. It offers impressive photo quality, even in low-light conditions. The dual-aperture setup ensures that your pictures are crisp and clear, whether taken during the day or at night. The camera’s intuitive interface also makes it easy for anyone to capture professional-looking shots.
Battery Life: All Day Endurance
Battery life is a crucial aspect of any smartphone, and the S9 Plus doesn’t disappoint. It’s equipped with a battery that can easily last through a day of moderate to heavy usage. This means less time tethered to a charger and more time being productive or enjoying your favorite media.
Software Experience: Smooth and User-Friendly
Samsung’s software experience has evolved significantly over the years. The S9 Plus comes with a user-friendly interface that’s both intuitive and customizable. Features like Bixby, Samsung’s digital assistant, add to the overall experience, making everyday tasks simpler.
Audio Quality: Immersive Sound Experience
The S9 Plus offers an exceptional audio experience, whether you’re using headphones or the phone’s speakers. The sound quality is rich and immersive, making it a great device for music lovers and movie watchers alike.
Security Features: Safe and Secure
In today’s world, security is paramount, and the S9 Plus addresses this with a range of features. From fingerprint scanning to facial recognition, the phone provides multiple layers of security to protect your data.
Connectivity and Extras: Staying Connected
The S9 Plus excels in connectivity, with fast network speeds and reliable Bluetooth connections. It also supports wireless charging, adding a layer of convenience to your daily routine.
Price and Value: Worth the Investment?
While the S9 Plus is a premium device, its price is justified by the features and performance it offers. It’s an investment for those who want a top-of-the-line smartphone experience.
Verdict: A Well-Rounded Flagship Tablet
The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus stands out as a well-rounded tablet. It excels in almost every area, from its stunning display to its robust performance. Whether for work or play, the S9 Plus is a reliable companion that won’t disappoint.
Pros:
- Excellent display: The 12.4-inch Super AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate is beautiful and smooth, perfect for movies, gaming, and creative work.
- Powerful performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor handles demanding tasks and multitasking with ease. While not the absolute best, it’s still a top performer.
- Versatile S Pen: Great for note-taking, drawing, and editing photos. If you want a productivity-focused tablet, the S Pen is a must-have.
- Good battery life: Up to 15 hours of video playback for most of the day, though heavy use can drain it faster.
- Reliable software: Android 13 with One UI 5.1 offers a clean and customizable interface, although some pre-installed bloatware might be unwanted.
Cons:
- Price: Starting at $799, it’s one of the more expensive Android tablets.
- Front-facing camera: Not the best for selfies, especially compared to some competitors.
- Slightly larger bezels: Compared to the newer Tab S9 Ultra, the bezels are a bit thicker, though still aesthetically pleasing.
- Competition: New tablets are released frequently, and there might be more value options available soon.
