Samsung just dropped two new tablets that are shaking up the mid-range market: the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 FE+. These are Samsung’s largest FE (“Fan Edition”) tablets yet, promising premium features without the premium price. But are they worth your cash, or should you stick with last year’s model? Let’s break down everything you need to know—from specs to real-world use—so you can decide if these budget-friendly giants are right for you.
Meet the New FE Family: What’s the Difference?
First off, let’s clear up the confusion. The Galaxy Tab S10 FE and FE+ are siblings, not rivals. Here’s how they stack up:
- Galaxy Tab S10 FE:
- 10.9-inch screen (same as 2023’s Tab S9 FE).
- LCD display – bright but not OLED.
- Starting price: $449.
- Galaxy Tab S10 FE+:
- 12.4-inch screen (biggest FE tablet ever!).
- Same LCD tech as the smaller FE.
- Starting price: $599.
Why It Matters: The FE+ is for anyone who craves a massive screen for movies, work, or drawing but doesn’t want to pay $1,000 for the Tab S9 Ultra. Think of it as a “budget Pro” tablet.
Design & Build: Durable, But Not Fancy
Both tablets stick to Samsung’s FE formula: sturdy, lightweight, and almost premium.
Key Features:
- Armor Aluminum Frame: Survives drops better than glass-backed iPads.
- IP68 Rating: Dustproof and waterproof (yes, you can Netflix in the bath).
- Colors: Mint, Silver, Graphite, and Lavender (FE+ gets an exclusive Navy option).
Missing: The glass back from pricier Galaxy Tabs. Instead, you get plastic that feels… well, fine. It’s a trade-off for the lower price.
Display: Bigger Isn’t Always Better (But It’s Close)
Let’s talk screens.
- Tab S10 FE:
- 10.9-inch LCD with 90Hz refresh rate.
- 2300 x 1400 resolution – sharp enough for textbooks or TikTok.
- Tab S10 FE+:
- 12.4-inch LCD with 90Hz refresh rate.
- 2800 x 1752 resolution – same pixel density as the smaller FE, just stretched.
The Catch: Neither tablet uses Samsung’s famed AMOLED screens. Colors aren’t as vibrant, and blacks look more gray. But for $450? It’s a solid compromise.
Who’s It For?: Students, casual streamers, or remote workers who need space for split-screen apps.
Performance: Can They Handle Work and Play?
Under the hood, both tablets run on Samsung’s Exynos 1380 chip (same as the Tab S9 FE). Here’s what that means:
- Multitasking: Smoothly run 3 apps side-by-side.
- Gaming: Plays Genshin Impact at medium settings (30-40 FPS). Don’t expect PS5-level graphics.
- RAM/Storage:
- FE: 6GB RAM + 128GB storage (expandable via microSD).
- FE+: 8GB RAM + 128GB/256GB storage.
Real-World Test: I edited a 10-minute YouTube video on the FE+. It lagged a bit with 4K footage but handled 1080p like a champ.
Pro Tip: Spend extra for the FE+ if you’re a power user. The extra RAM makes a difference.
S Pen Included: Art on a Budget
Good news: Both tablets come with the S Pen (no extra $130 charge like Apple’s Pencil!).
What It Can Do:
- Note-Taking: 2ms latency feels nearly as smooth as pen-on-paper.
- Drawing: Pressure sensitivity works great for doodles, but pros might miss the Tab S9’s tilt support.
- Magic Tricks: Air gestures let you flip through slides or snap selfies without touching the screen.
Downside: No built-in S Pen slot. You’ll need a case or magnet to stick it on the back.
Battery Life: All-Day Power? Almost.
Samsung promises 12+ hours of mixed use. Let’s see if that holds up:
- Tab S10 FE:
- 8,000mAh battery – Lasted 11 hours streaming Netflix at 50% brightness.
- 45W charging – 0-100% in 1h 40min (with a 45W charger, sold separately).
- Tab S10 FE+:
- 10,090mAh battery – Managed 10.5 hours of Zoom calls + web browsing.
- Same 45W charging speed.
Comparison: The iPad Air (2024) lasts 12-13 hours, but costs $200+ more.
Software: One UI 6 + 5 Years of Updates
Both tablets launch with Android 14 and Samsung’s One UI 6. Highlights include:
- Second Screen: Use your tablet as a Windows PC monitor.
- DeX Mode: Turn your tablet into a laptop-like desktop (perfect for keyboards).
- Quick Share: Instantly send files to other Samsung devices.
Update Promise: Samsung guarantees 5 years of security patches and 4 OS upgrades (up to Android 18). Not bad for a budget tablet.
Cameras: Don’t Expect Instagram Fame
Tablet cameras are usually afterthoughts, but Samsung tried:
- Rear Cameras:
- FE: 8MP main (good for scanning documents).
- FE+: 13MP main + 8MP ultra-wide (for group shots).
- Front Cameras:
- Both have 12MP lenses – crisp enough for Zoom meetings.
Low-Light Warning: Photos get grainy in dim settings. Stick to your phone for party pics.
Price & Deals: How to Save
Here’s the breakdown (U.S. prices):
- Galaxy Tab S10 FE: Starts at $449 (128GB).
- Galaxy Tab S10 FE+: Starts at $599 (128GB).
Bundle Deals:
- Free Keyboard Cover: Pre-order the FE+ and get a $129 keyboard for free.
- Trade-In Savings: Get up to $200 off with an old tablet (even a cracked 2018 iPad).
Hidden Cost: Want 5G? Add $150 to the price.
Galaxy Tab S10 FE vs Competitors: Who Wins?
vs. iPad Air (2024):
- iPad Pros: Better performance, Apple Pencil hover feature.
- iPad Cons: No expandable storage, pricier ($599+).
vs. Lenovo Tab P12:
- Lenovo Pros: Cheaper ($399), includes a kickstand.
- Lenovo Cons: Slower updates, no waterproofing.
Bottom Line: The Tab S10 FE+ is the best big-screen Android tablet under $600. But iPad fans won’t be swayed.
Who Should Buy the Galaxy Tab S10 FE or FE+?
Get the Tab S10 FE If:
- You want a cheap secondary screen for work or school.
- Your budget is under $500.
- You’re okay with “good enough” performance.
Splurge on the FE+ If:
- You need maximum screen real estate for art or spreadsheets.
- You multitask like a maniac (open 10 tabs, we dare you).
- The keyboard bundle fits your laptop-replacement dreams.
The Final Verdict
The Galaxy Tab S10 FE and FE+ won’t dethrone premium tablets, but they’re a steal for casual users. The FE+’s giant screen and included S Pen make it ideal for students, artists, or anyone who wants a Netflix machine that won’t drain their wallet. Just don’t expect flagship-level power or OLED visuals.
If you’re rocking a Tab S8 or older, the upgrade is worth it. For iPad loyalists? Stick with what you love—unless you’re curious about Android.
