Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4) vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
Get the iPad Air (M4). Unless you use an Android phone, or want a pen in the box and a tablet that can get wet — then the Galaxy Tab S11.
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4)
The tablet most people should buy: fast, light, with a sharp screen and support for the best Apple Pencil and keyboard. No 120Hz screen and no Face ID.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
The best small Android tablet: a bright 120Hz AMOLED screen, S Pen in the box, water resistance and seven years of updates. It costs more than an iPad Air.
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The Air is fast and light, costs less and has more apps made for tablets. The Tab S11 adds a 120Hz AMOLED screen, an S Pen in the box, water resistance and seven years of updates, which is worth it if you use Android.
- —You have an iPhone, or don't mind which system.
- —You want the most apps made for tablets.
- —You want to spend less.
- —You use an Android phone, especially a Samsung.
- —You want a pen included.
- —You want a tablet that can get wet.
Key differences
Pros and cons
- +Fast M4 chip
- +Works with Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard
- +Light, with a sharp screen
- −60Hz screen, so scrolling isn't as smooth as on the Pro.
- −Touch ID only, no Face ID.
- −The keyboard and Pencil cost a lot extra.
- −Battery life is about the same as the last model.
- +Bright 120Hz AMOLED screen
- +S Pen in the box
- +Water resistant, 7 years of updates
- −Expensive at full price; it's often discounted.
- −The glossy screen reflects light.
- −Battery life is only average.
- −Fewer tablet-made apps than on iPad.
Ready to choose?
- Is the iPad Air (M4) worth it?
- Is the Galaxy Tab S11 worth it?
- iPad Air (M4) vs iPad (A16)
- iPad Air (M4) vs iPad Pro (M5)
- iPad mini vs iPad (A16)
- iPad mini vs iPad Air (M4)
- Best tablets
How we reached this verdict
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: Tom's Guide, TechRadar, manufacturer specifications.