Based on our overall comparison score, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra rates higher at 77/100 versus 58/100 for Apple iPad Air 13 M3 — a 19-point lead. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra vs Apple iPad Air 13 M3
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra leads Apple iPad Air 13 M3 overall by 24 points (75 vs 51 out of 100).
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra stands out on Display Size: 14.6 in, Display Type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X, Display Refresh Rate: 120 Hz.
- Best value: Apple iPad Air 13 M3 (from $799) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra leads overall
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
75
Apple iPad Air 13 M3
51
Why it stands out
- Display Size: 14.6 in
- Display Type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X
- Display Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is an exceptionally large flagship tablet designed for users seeking maximum screen real estate and top-tier mobile performance. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (for Galaxy) processor and features a massive display alongside premium additions like an under-display fingerprint reader and S Pen integration.
Best for Split-screen multitasking and productivity workflows that demand maximum screen Best for Digital illustration and precise note-taking with the included stylus
Pros
- High-performance Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (for Galaxy) processor provides robust processing power
- Generous screen size offers an expansive workspace for productivity and media
- Comes with integrated S Pen support for writing and drawing
- Features convenient under-display fingerprint biometrics
Cons
- Its massive physical footprint makes it less portable and difficult to hold comfortably for long periods
Apple iPad Air 13 M3
AI analysis isn't ready yet
We haven't generated an in-depth write-up for Apple iPad Air 13 M3 yet. The specs, scores and strengths profile above still cover it — check back later for the AI summary.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Apple iPad Air 13 M3
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra1,500,000
Apple iPad Air 13 M32,262,674
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra11,200 mAh
Apple iPad Air 13 M39,705 mAh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 UltraApple iPad Air 13 M3
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is 116 g (19%) heavier than Apple iPad Air 13 M3.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra vs Apple iPad Air 13 M3 comparison
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and Apple iPad Air 13 M3 are compared side by side above across every spec in the tablets category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 77/100 for Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and 58/100 for Apple iPad Air 13 M3.
At launch, Apple iPad Air 13 M3 was the more affordable option ($799) versus Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra ($1199). Weigh that against the overall scores (77/100 vs 58/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
If you want the higher-rated tablets option overall, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra (77/100) edges out Apple iPad Air 13 M3 (58/100). But if Apple iPad Air 13 M3 is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.