The best Samsung tablets (2021)

By Anula Wiwatowska

Last updated 19 May 2021

Picking a phone doesn’t feel nearly as complicated as picking a tablet. Phone series are relatively straightforward, if it has a ‘Plus’ or a ‘Pro’ in the name it is a step or two above the entry level model. Tablets however, they’re a bit different. Especially Samsung tablets.

You’ll still stumble across some of the Ps but these are buried within different product types. Samsung has three main tablet types, the Active, the A, and the S series. Each of these come with their own unique set of features, accessories and of course price points to match. To navigate through some of this confusion, below are our recommendations for the best Samsung tablets for specific people and uses.

Best all around Samsung tablet
Best Samsung tablet for work and school
Best Samsung tablet for kids
Best budget Samsung tablet

Best all around Samsung Galaxy Tab

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+

Huge 12.4-inch display
120Hz refresh rate
Compatible with a range of accessories
S Pen supported

Samsung's Galaxy Tab S7+ is the absolute top of the line tablet product available from this manufacturer. The device comes with at least 128GB internal storage, as well as up to 1TB of external storage via micro SD, a dual rear camera set up, included S Pen, support for a range of keyboard accessories, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a generous 12.4-inch display.

All this is powered by a 10,090mAh battery that is rated to last around 15 active hours making it a long lasting and powerful device. Next to the rear cameras, there is an included holder for your S Pen on the slim-line device. And this is the first Samsung tablet available in Australia with 5G connectivity.

To take full advantage of everything the device has to offer, pair it with a data SIM with Optus or Telstra - both which have ever widening 5G networks within Australia. Of course you could opt to go with Vodafone as well, but be aware that 5G coverage with the provider is only speckled through the country.

Also consider

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

Slightly smaller display and battery than the S7+, but the internals are the same
Still is compatible with a range of accessories
Cheaper

Both the Tab S7 and the Tab S7+ come with dual rear cameras, 5G connectivity, keyboard and S Pen support and super-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The main difference between the two are the sizes of both the screen and the battery.

While the S7 is smaller in both respects, it still provides excellent functionality and is worth considering if you don't want to fork out all the big bucks for a top of the line tablet.

Best Samsung Galaxy Tab for work and school

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+

12.4-inch display is big enough to work on
10,090mAh battery will last all day
Compatible with keyboard accessories
S Pen supported

Working and studying on a tablet can be difficult if you're not well equipped to do so. The good news though is that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ has flexible options that allow you to expand your tablet in to a laptop of sorts, similar to the latest iPads in case you're thinking about switching.

Add on a keyboard case and typing on your tablet is far easier. Coupled with the included S Pen you'll be able to switch between hand writing, and typing wherever necessary. With a huge battery you know that your tablet will last the day (which is more than can be said for most laptops), and the generous display makes looking at the screen for hours easier on the eyes.

These tablets are available through all major telcos and are coupled with a data SIM so that you can stay connected on the go.

Also consider

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

Smaller screen and battery but should still last all day
Compatible with keyboard accessories
S Pen supported
More affordable

Similar to how the S7 could be interchanged with the S7+ as the best overall tablet, it can also take its place as a tablet for school or work. Sporting all the same keyboard and S Pen support, the S7 comes in cheaper than its + counterpart with the only major drawback being battery and screen size.

If you can handle a smaller 11-inch screen then there is no reason not to opt for the Tab S7 in order to save some money.

You can get the S7 with all major Australian telcos.

Best Samsung Galaxy tab for kids

Samsung Galaxy Active3

Tough design made for bumps, and falls
IP68 water and dust resistance rating
No need to buy extra accessories

Durability is key when it comes to devices for children. Anything that ends up in a kid's hands has the potential to slip to the floor, or get held up in a tantrum of sorts. Hence why the Active3 is a solid (oh so solid) choice as a Samsung tablet for kids.

Equipped with an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, and encassed in a heavy duty case rated for falls from 1.5m, this baby should be able to withstand your own. Of course the device comes with the usual functionality you would expect from a tablet, along with an included S Pen.

While the Active Pro is also available, it is not the most affordable device and therefore not our top pick for a tablet for kids. Right now the Active series is only available through Telstra.

Also consider

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

Much cheaper device
Entry level tablet
Does everything your child would need from a tablet

If your little one is not so little, or not so clumsy then the Galaxy Tab A7 is a great entry-level device to use as a kid's tablet. Coming in at under $350 it is light on the pocket but heavy enough on the functionality.

You'll only get 32GB of internal storage, but this can be extended to 1TB with a micro SD card. Equipped with a generous 10.4-inch display and Dolby Atmos through the quad speakers it packs an entertainment punch. You won't get S Pen support with this tablet, but at this price point it's not the end of the world.

The Samsung A7 is available on a plan through each major Australian telco. Here are the most popular plans available right now.

Best budget Samsung Galaxy Tab

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

Generous 10.4-inch display
Under $350
Substantial 7,040mAh battery capacity

Samsung's latest A series tablet is affordable, and the best budget pick available right now. Not only is the A7 the cheapest Samsung tablet on the market, it comes with a large 10.4-inch display and was created for entertainment housing Dolby Atmos and quad speakers.

While you won't be able to use an S Pen with this device, it has enough functionality for an affordable tablet and represents great bang for your buck.

You can nab this device on a plan with any of the three major Australian telcos.