Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G Review

The tablet market has seen its fair share of impressive devices over the years, but Samsung’s latest offering—the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G—might just set a new standard. Priced starting at ₹1,40,000 for the 5126GB model, this 14.6-inch behemoth isn’t just any tablet; it’s a statement of what premium technology can offer in 2024. While the price tag might make you pause—after all, you could invest in a high-end laptop or indulge in other luxuries—the question remains: Is the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra worth it? Let’s dive into the details.

Box content

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is a premium Android tablet that pushes the boundaries of size and performance. With its massive 14.6-inch display, powerful processor, and included S Pen, it aims to be a true laptop replacement. However, its large size and high price may not be for everyone.

What’s in the Box:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
• S Pen
• Data Cable (USB Type-C)
• Eject Pin
• Note: A travel adapter is not included.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is undeniably striking. Its expansive 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is framed by slim bezels, giving it a modern and sleek appearance. Despite its large screen, the tablet maintains an impressively slim profile at just over 5mm thick. This ultra-thin design not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also makes it relatively easy to slide into backpacks or briefcases. However, due to its substantial size, it might not fit into smaller bags or handbags.

The tablet’s chassis is constructed from Samsung’s enhanced Armor Aluminum, the same material used in the Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus smartphones. This material provides a solid feel and assures durability, alleviating initial concerns about potential flex or fragility given its thinness. The device weighs over 700 grams, so while it’s portable, prolonged one-handed use might be challenging for some users.

An IP68 rating for water and dust resistance adds a layer of protection, making it suitable for various environments—be it a kitchen countertop or by the poolside on a sunny day. Available in two elegant colors—Moonstorm Gray and Platinum Silver—the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra exudes a premium vibe that matches its price point.

Display Excellence

The display is where the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra truly shines. The 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen boasts a resolution of 2960 x 1848 pixels, ensuring crisp and vibrant visuals. Colors are vivid and lifelike, thanks to the AMOLED technology, making it perfect for media consumption, gaming, and creative work.

One standout feature is the screen’s anti-reflective coating. This allows for comfortable usage even in bright environments, effectively reducing glare and reflections. Whether you’re outdoors on a sunny day or in a well-lit room, the display remains clear and legible.

Moreover, the tablet supports HDR10+ content, enhancing the contrast and color range for compatible videos. The result is a more immersive viewing experience, with deeper blacks and brighter highlights that bring movies and games to life.

Audio Performance

Complementing the stunning display is the tablet’s quad-speaker setup, tuned by AKG and supporting Dolby Atmos. The speakers deliver rich and powerful sound, with a surprising amount of bass for such a slim device. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing a game, or listening to music, the audio experience is immersive and dynamic.

The inclusion of a “Boost Dialog” feature is a thoughtful addition, enhancing speech clarity in movies and shows where background scores might otherwise overshadow conversations. This ensures you won’t miss crucial dialogue, even in action-packed scenes.

Software and User Experience

Running on Samsung’s One UI 6.1 layered over Android 14, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra offers a user-friendly and feature-rich interface. Familiar to Samsung enthusiasts, One UI provides a seamless experience with intuitive navigation and a host of customization options.

The tablet comes pre-loaded with Samsung’s suite of apps, including alternatives to Google’s offerings like the Samsung Internet Browser, Smart Home Manager, and Samsung Health. While some users might prefer Google’s native apps, Samsung’s versions offer robust features and tight integration with the device’s ecosystem.

One of the key strengths of the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is its multitasking capabilities. The expansive screen real estate allows for efficient multitasking, supporting split-screen with up to three apps simultaneously. This is particularly useful for productivity tasks, such as browsing the web while taking notes and streaming a video—all on the same screen.

Samsung DeX enhances the productivity aspect further by providing a desktop-like experience. When paired with the optional keyboard cover (sold separately), the tablet effectively transforms into a laptop, complete with a taskbar and resizable windows. This feature is ideal for users who require a portable device capable of handling work tasks on the go.

S Pen Functionality

Included with the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is the S Pen stylus, a tool that significantly expands the tablet’s capabilities. The S Pen attaches magnetically to the back of the tablet and charges wirelessly when docked. While the magnetic attachment is generally secure, care should be taken when placing the tablet into bags to ensure the stylus doesn’t detach inadvertently.

The S Pen offers a natural and responsive writing experience, making it ideal for note-taking, drawing, and annotating documents. The stylus features low latency and pressure sensitivity, catering to artists and professionals who require precision.

Samsung has integrated several software features to enhance the S Pen experience. Users can access the Air Command menu, which provides shortcuts to functions like Smart Select, Screen Write, and Live Messages. Additionally, the tablet supports apps like Clip Studio Paint for digital art creation, although some may require additional purchases or subscriptions for full functionality.

Performance

Under the hood, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Plus chipset, paired with up to 16GB of RAM depending on the configuration. This combination ensures smooth performance across various tasks, from everyday browsing to intensive gaming and multitasking.

In practical use, the tablet handles demanding applications with ease. Games run smoothly, even at high graphics settings, and the device remains responsive when juggling multiple apps. Samsung’s advanced cooling system, including a sizable vapor chamber, effectively manages heat dissipation, preventing thermal throttling during extended use.

For storage, the base model offers 256GB, with options available up to 1TB. Furthermore, the inclusion of a microSD card slot allows for expandable storage up to an additional 1.5TB, providing ample space for media, apps, and files.

Cameras

While tablets aren’t typically used as primary photography devices, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra includes capable camera systems for those who need them. The rear features a dual-camera setup with a 13MP wide and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. These cameras are sufficient for tasks like document scanning or capturing quick photos.

The front-facing dual cameras, both at 12MP (wide and ultra-wide), are well-suited for video conferencing. They offer clear image quality and can handle varying lighting conditions, ensuring you look your best during virtual meetings or calls.

Battery Life

Equipped with an 11,200mAh battery, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra promises impressive longevity. In real-world testing, the tablet delivers around 8 to 9 hours of screen-on time, even with mixed usage that includes gaming, video streaming, and multitasking. This means it can comfortably last through a full day of work or entertainment without needing a recharge.

When it comes time to recharge, the tablet supports 45W fast charging. While not the fastest on the market, it ensures the device can be fully charged in a reasonable amount of time—approximately two hours from zero to full capacity.

Connectivity and Extras

The 5G connectivity option allows users to stay connected on the go, provided they have a compatible SIM card and data plan. This makes the tablet a versatile tool for professionals who need reliable internet access outside of Wi-Fi zones.

Biometric security features include an in-display optical fingerprint sensor and facial recognition via the dual front cameras. Both methods are quick and reliable, providing convenient and secure access to the device.

The tablet also incorporates various AI features designed to enhance user experience. These include on-device AI capabilities like image recognition and translation services, accessible through Samsung’s Galaxy AI suite. These tools can be particularly useful for productivity and accessibility, such as the web page summarization feature in the Samsung Internet Browser, which condenses lengthy articles into key bullet points.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G is a premium device that justifies its price tag through a combination of exceptional hardware, versatile functionality, and a suite of features that cater to both entertainment and productivity.

Its standout features include the stunning 14.6-inch AMOLED display with anti-reflective coating, making it usable in various lighting conditions, and the S Pen stylus, which enhances creativity and productivity. The powerful performance ensured by the Dimensity 9300 Plus chipset and generous RAM options means the tablet can handle demanding tasks with ease.

The battery life is commendable, offering a full day’s use on a single charge, and the inclusion of expandable storage via microSD card provides flexibility for users with extensive storage needs.

While the device’s size may not be ideal for everyone—particularly those looking for a more portable tablet—it excels as a multimedia powerhouse and a productivity tool. When paired with the optional keyboard cover and utilizing Samsung DeX, it can effectively replace a laptop for many users.

In essence, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a tablet can be. It’s a device that caters to power users, creatives, and professionals who demand the best from their technology.

If you’re in the market for a top-tier tablet that doesn’t compromise on performance, display quality, or functionality, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G stands out as a leading contender. Its combination of cutting-edge features and thoughtful design makes it one of the most impressive tablets available in 2024.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the screen size of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G?

A1: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G boasts a massive 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display.

Q2: What are the key features of the display?

A2: The display offers a 2960 x 1848 resolution, HDR10+ support, and an anti-reflective coating for excellent viewing in various lighting conditions.

Q3: Does the tablet come with an S Pen?

A3: Yes, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G includes an S Pen stylus that attaches magnetically to the back of the tablet for charging and storage.

Q4: What are the S Pen’s capabilities?

A4: The S Pen offers low latency and pressure sensitivity, making it ideal for note-taking, drawing, and annotating documents. It also supports various software features and apps like Clip Studio Paint.

Q5: What processor powers the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G?

A5: The tablet is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Plus chipset, ensuring smooth performance even with demanding tasks.

Q6: How much RAM and storage does the tablet have?

A6: The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G comes with up to 16GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB. It also supports expandable storage via microSD card (up to 1.5TB).

Q7: What is the battery life like?

A7: The tablet has an 11,200mAh battery, providing around 8 to 9 hours of screen-on time with mixed usage.