WhichOneToGet
Compare Β· Updated 18 Oct 2026

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S11

For creative work, get the iPad Pro (M5). If you use an Android phone or want a pen in the box for less, the Galaxy Tab S11 is the better buy.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5)
Our pick

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5)

The best tablet you can buy: a stunning 120Hz OLED screen, Face ID and the fastest chip, in a very thin body. It costs a lot, and the keyboard more again.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S11

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 short answer

The Pro has the best screen on any tablet and the fastest chip, made for video editing, drawing and music. The Tab S11 costs less, includes the S Pen, is water resistant and gets seven years of updates, which suits Android users.

Get the iPad Pro (M5) if
  • β€”You edit video or photos, draw seriously, or make music.
  • β€”You want the best screen for films.
  • β€”You have an iPhone.
Check price at Best BuyBuy β†—
Get the Galaxy Tab S11 if
  • β€”You use an Android phone, especially a Samsung.
  • β€”You want a pen in the box.
  • β€”You want a tablet that can get wet.
Check price at Best BuyBuy β†—

Key differences

Screen
120Hz OLED, the best on any tablet
iPad Pro (M5)
120Hz AMOLED, but reflective
Galaxy Tab S11
Chip
M5, the fastest
iPad Pro (M5)
Fast
Galaxy Tab S11
Pen
Pencil Pro costs extra
iPad Pro (M5)
S Pen in the box
Galaxy Tab S11
Water resistance
No
iPad Pro (M5)
Yes, IP68
Galaxy Tab S11
Price
Higher
iPad Pro (M5)
Lower
Galaxy Tab S11

Pros and cons

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5)
  • +Best screen on any tablet: 120Hz OLED
  • +Fastest chip, Face ID
  • +Very thin and light
  • βˆ’Very expensive, before the keyboard and Pencil.
  • βˆ’The design is the same as the M4 model.
  • βˆ’The matte nano-texture glass is only on the pricier versions.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11
  • +Bright 120Hz AMOLED screen
  • +S Pen in the box
  • +Water resistant, 7 years of updates
  • βˆ’Expensive at full price; it's often discounted.
  • βˆ’The glossy screen reflects light.
  • βˆ’Battery life is only average.
  • βˆ’Fewer tablet-made apps than on iPad.

Ready to choose?

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.

Updated 18 Oct 2026How we decide