Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB Review: The Budget King We’ve Been Waiting For?

In our household, the evening routine has a familiar rhythm. After dinner, my partner settles on the sofa to catch up on a series, I retreat to the home office to finish some work, and the kids are left in that digital limbo—too old for cartoons, too young for unrestricted internet access. For weeks, the solution was a tired, old smartphone with a cracked screen, passed between them for homework research and the occasional game. It was a constant source of negotiation and frustration. We needed a dedicated “house tablet”—something with a screen large enough for watching movies, powerful enough for schoolwork and light gaming, but not so expensive that a minor drop would trigger a financial crisis. The market is flooded with options, from ultra-cheap devices that lag on basic websites to premium models that cost more than my laptop. Finding that perfect balance of performance, quality, and price felt like an impossible task.

What to Consider Before Buying a Tablet

A tablet is more than just a gadget; it’s a key solution for portable entertainment, on-the-go productivity, and creative expression. It fills the gap between the small screen of a smartphone and the bulk of a laptop, offering a versatile canvas for everything from streaming high-definition films and video calling relatives to sketching ideas and managing emails. The main benefits lie in its convenience, intuitive touchscreen interface, and long battery life, making it an ideal companion for travel, commutes, or simply relaxing on the sofa. Neglecting to choose the right one can lead to a frustrating experience with slow performance, a dim screen, and a device that gathers dust in a drawer.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing our exact dilemma: families needing a shared device, students requiring a portable note-taker and research tool, or professionals looking for a secondary screen for media consumption and light work. It’s for the user who values a vibrant display and smooth performance for daily tasks but doesn’t need the raw power of a pro-grade machine for video editing or high-end gaming. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who need a true laptop replacement for heavy software applications or digital artists who require hyper-accurate stylus tracking and colour-perfect screens. For those users, a more powerful tablet like a Galaxy Tab S-series or an iPad Pro, or even a 2-in-1 laptop, would be a better investment.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Screen Quality: The physical size and weight determine portability, but the screen is where you’ll spend all your time. Look beyond just the size (like 11 inches) and consider the resolution (Full HD or higher is best for clarity), brightness (measured in nits; higher is better for outdoor use), and refresh rate (90Hz or 120Hz provides a much smoother experience than the standard 60Hz). A tablet’s aspect ratio, like 16:10, can also be better for watching videos than a more square display.
• Capacity & Performance: This is the engine of your tablet. The processor (CPU), like a Qualcomm Snapdragon, determines how quickly apps open and run. RAM (Random Access Memory) is crucial for multitasking; for a modern Android tablet, we recommend at least 4GB, with 6GB or 8GB being ideal for running multiple apps smoothly. Internal storage (e.g., 128GB) dictates how many apps, photos, and videos you can save, and the option for microSD card expansion is a massive bonus for future-proofing.
• Materials & Durability: A tablet’s build quality affects how it feels and how long it lasts. Plastic bodies are lighter and cheaper but can feel less premium and may be more prone to scratches. Metal bodies, like aluminium, offer a sturdier, more premium feel and better heat dissipation. Pay attention to the thickness and weight, as these contribute significantly to how comfortable it is to hold for extended periods.
• Ease of Use & Ecosystem: The operating system (like Android) defines your experience. Consider how user-friendly the interface is and the availability of apps you need from its app store. Features like multi-window support are vital for productivity. Also, check for long-term support, including security updates and major OS upgrades, as this ensures your device remains secure and functional for years to come. The extended warranty offered with some models provides invaluable peace of mind.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB stands out in several areas, particularly with its large 90Hz display and generous RAM for its price point. You can explore its detailed specifications here to see how it measures up.

While the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing the A9+: First Impressions and Standout Features

Opening the box for the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB is a typically minimalist Samsung affair. Inside the slim, white packaging, the silver tablet is presented front and centre, protected by a thin film. Lifting it out, the first thing we noticed was the cool, reassuring touch of its metal body. Weighing in at 480 grams and just 6.9mm thick, it feels substantial and well-built without being heavy or unwieldy. It strikes a fantastic balance—light enough for one-handed reading but solid enough that it doesn’t feel fragile.

Alongside the tablet, the box contains a USB-C to USB-C cable and the standard paperwork. As one user correctly pointed out, there is no charging brick included in the box. This is a common trend across the industry to reduce e-waste, but it’s a critical point to be aware of. If you don’t already have a USB-C power adapter, you will need to purchase one separately. Powering it on, the 11-inch display comes to life with vibrant, if not OLED-level, colours. The setup process is standard Android fare—quick, easy, and guided. Within minutes, we were signed in and ready to explore. The initial impression is one of surprising quality for a device in the “A” series, which traditionally sits below Samsung’s flagship “S” line. It feels less like a budget compromise and more like a carefully curated premium experience.

Performance Deep Dive: Living with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+

A tablet’s worth is proven not in its spec sheet but in daily use. Over several weeks, we put the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB through its paces, using it as our primary device for media, light work, and family entertainment. It became the go-to for streaming shows in the kitchen, a homework station for the kids, and a surprisingly capable productivity tool for weekend emails. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.

The Screen and Sound: An Unexpectedly Premium Media Hub

The star of the show is, without a doubt, the display. At 11 inches with a 1920 x 1200 resolution, it’s sharp and expansive. But the secret weapon is the 90Hz refresh rate. This is a feature typically reserved for more expensive devices, and its inclusion here is a game-changer. Scrolling through websites, navigating the user interface, and playing compatible games feels incredibly fluid and responsive. It makes the entire experience feel faster and more polished than a standard 60Hz screen. We found the maximum brightness of 570 nits to be more than adequate for indoor use and even managed to watch a video in a brightly lit conservatory without issue, a testament to its strong backlighting.

Samsung pairs this excellent screen with an equally impressive audio setup. The device features quad speakers tuned for “3D Sound,” which is Samsung’s branding for Dolby Atmos support. The result is a soundstage that is remarkably wide and immersive for a tablet. When watching action movies, sound effects pan convincingly between the speakers, and dialogue remains crisp and clear. While they won’t replace a good pair of headphones for critical listening, the speakers are powerful and clear enough to fill a room, making this a fantastic device for sharing a movie with someone without needing to huddle close. This combination of a large, smooth screen and enveloping audio transforms the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB from a simple tablet into a genuinely enjoyable personal cinema.

Powering Through Tasks: Multitasking and Everyday Performance

Under the hood, the tablet is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon SM6375 processor, more commonly known as the Snapdragon 695. Paired with a healthy 6GB of RAM, this combination delivers consistently smooth performance for everyday tasks. We never experienced lag or stuttering when browsing media-heavy websites, streaming 1080p videos, or flicking between social media apps. It handles light to moderate gaming with ease; titles like Asphalt 9 and Call of Duty Mobile were playable on medium settings, which is impressive for a non-gaming-focused tablet.

Where the A9+ truly shines, however, is in its multitasking capabilities. Samsung’s software allows you to split the screen into up to three sections, running three apps simultaneously. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a genuinely useful productivity feature. We found ourselves regularly having a web browser open for research on one side, a notes app in another pane, and a video chat running in a third. The 6GB of RAM is crucial here, as it prevents the apps from needing to reload when you switch between them. This capability elevates the tablet from a simple content consumption device to a viable tool for students and professionals who need to juggle multiple sources of information. The 128GB of built-in storage is ample for dozens of apps and media files, and the ability to add a microSD card up to 1TB means you’ll likely never worry about running out of space. For those looking for a device that can handle both work and play without compromise, the performance offered by the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB is a remarkable value.

Design, Battery Life, and the Little Details

The sleek metal body isn’t just for show; it gives the A9+ a rigid, premium feel that belies its price point. The flat edges are comfortable to hold, and the placement of the power and volume buttons is intuitive. At just 480 grams, it’s comfortable to hold for an entire movie or an hour of reading. The build quality inspires confidence, suggesting it can withstand the rigours of daily family use—though, as one user noted, a protective case is always a wise investment.

The 7,040 mAh battery provides solid, if not spectacular, endurance. In our testing, we consistently achieved around 8-10 hours of mixed-use screen time, which included web browsing, video streaming, and some light gaming. This is more than enough to get through a full day of typical use without needing to reach for the charger. When you do need to top up, it supports 15W fast charging, which is reasonably quick, though you’ll need to supply your own 15W (or higher) USB-C power adapter.

Samsung has also included thoughtful software features that enhance the user experience. Samsung Kids mode provides a safe, curated environment for younger users, while the Secure Folder allows you to store sensitive files and apps in an encrypted, private space. The inclusion of an extended 3-year manufacturer warranty for this UK version is a significant benefit, offering long-term peace of mind that is rare in this product category. These thoughtful additions demonstrate Samsung’s commitment to creating a device that is not just powerful, but also secure, reliable, and user-friendly.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our positive experience with the tablet is echoed in much of the feedback from other buyers. One user confirmed our feelings about the UK version, stating simply it was “Lovely. UK VERSION. Very happy!!!”, which underscores the value of the included 3-year warranty and proper regional configuration. Another user’s feedback, while technically about a third-party case, highlights a key use case: they found themselves using the tablet far more than their desktop computer once they had a good protective cover, which speaks to the device’s convenience and versatility.

However, the most prominent piece of critical feedback confirms a point we’ve already raised: the charging situation. One user expressed frustration that the “item doesn’t come with a usb connector it has a double ended C connector which doesn’t work to charge it in the Uk.” To clarify, the USB-C to USB-C cable is standard, but the lack of a compatible power brick is a genuine inconvenience for anyone who doesn’t already own one. This feedback is crucial for potential buyers to manage their expectations and factor in the potential small additional cost of a charger if needed.

How Does the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Compare to the Alternatives?

The budget and mid-range tablet market is fiercely competitive. While the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB carves out a strong position as a premium-feeling all-rounder, certain alternatives may be better suited for specific needs.

1. Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet

The Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet is designed with one user in mind: young children. Its primary strengths are its robust, kid-proof case, a 2-year worry-free guarantee that covers accidental damage, and the tightly controlled Amazon Kids+ ecosystem filled with age-appropriate books, games, and videos. Compared to the A9+, its 7-inch screen is smaller and lower resolution, and its performance is significantly more basic. This isn’t a tablet for family movie night or productivity; it’s a dedicated, durable, and safe digital playground for children aged 3-7. If your sole purpose is to buy a first tablet for a young child, the Fire 7 Kids is the more specialized and secure choice.

2. Lenovo Tab M10 (3rd Gen) 10-inch Android Tablet

The Lenovo Tab M10 (3rd Gen) is a direct competitor to the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+. It offers a similar 10-inch Full HD display and runs a clean version of Android. However, the A9+ pulls ahead in several key areas. The Samsung boasts a larger 11-inch screen with a smoother 90Hz refresh rate, a more powerful Snapdragon processor, more RAM (6GB vs. 4GB), and double the internal storage (128GB vs. 64GB). While the Lenovo M10 is a very capable budget tablet and may sometimes be available at a lower price, those who value smoother performance, superior multitasking, and more generous storage will find the upgrades on the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB to be well worth the extra investment.

3. BRILLAR Kids Tablet 7 inch 4GB+64GB Android 13

Similar to the Fire tablet, the BRILLAR Kids Tablet is squarely aimed at children, but it runs a more standard version of Android 13, offering more flexibility than Amazon’s locked-down OS. It comes with a protective case and boasts decent specs for a kids’ tablet, including 4GB of RAM and Wi-Fi 6 support. However, its 7-inch screen is much smaller than the A9+’s expansive 11-inch display, and its octa-core processor, while capable for kids’ games, won’t match the Snapdragon 695 for general productivity and media consumption. This is a good middle-ground option for parents who want a kid-proof device but prefer the full Android experience over Amazon’s ecosystem. For anyone other than a young child, the A9+ remains the vastly superior choice for entertainment and general use.

Final Verdict: Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB Worth It?

After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB is one of the best value-for-money tablets on the market today. It masterfully balances premium features with an affordable price tag. The large, fluid 90Hz display and powerful quad-speaker system create an outstanding media experience that punches well above its weight. Its performance is smooth and reliable for everyday tasks, and its three-way multitasking capability makes it a surprisingly adept productivity tool.

While the lack of an included charging brick is a minor annoyance and the cameras are merely functional, these are small trade-offs for what you get in return: a beautifully built, powerful, and versatile device backed by a reassuring 3-year warranty. If you’re looking for a tablet that can serve the whole family—for movies, homework, browsing, and light gaming—without the premium price of a flagship model, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is not just a good choice; it’s arguably the best choice in its class. We wholeheartedly recommend it.

If you’ve decided the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Tablet 128GB is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.