iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE: which one is Better ?

iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE

Today marks the day when two highly-hyped mid-range contenders face-off: the iPad 11th Gen released not too long ago and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE, which just recently hit the market. These tablets are about to become students’ casual users, entertainment consumers, and light productivity-on-the-go users. This post will go through what makes them different from each other and what they have in common so that you can make an informed decision about which to get.

I. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Design and Display:

iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE share a common modern tablet design, but the visual and tactile experiences are different for each.

Continuing in the same Apple design ethos, the iPad 11th gen comes with a slim, industrial design characterized by a smaller bezel than earlier models. Combined with aluminum unibody integrity, it feels very premium and solidly built. It is available in a fun palette of colors such as Silver, Blue, Pink, and Yellow, which adds a hint of personalization. The display is an 11-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD with a resolution of 2360×1640 pixels. The Apple iPad has a crisp display with good color accuracy and absolutely has typical brightness at about 500 nits. Nevertheless, we cannot forget about the 60Hz refresh rate, the first drawback, and unlamination of the display-meaning the glass is separated from the display by a slight air gap-which certain users will find annoying, especially with stylus use.

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE, having been more recently released on April 2, 2025, adheres more to the traditional pen-first concept, with a 10.9″ IPS LCD and resolution of 1440×2304 pixels that gives it the superior 90Hz refresh rate, which means all scrolling, animations, and interactions feel highly fluid and responsive-whether you are drawing or just navigating the user interface. The brightness quotient of the Tab S10 FE is another huge plus-it typically achieves 600 nits and can shine way brighter at up to 800 nits in outdoor settings. Equally sleek, it features an aluminum frame and back, but in a more subdued palette of colours of Grey, Light Blue, and Silver. One more huge plus going for the Tab S10 FE is its IP68 dust and water resistance rating-an added assurance of durability that the iPad simply doesn’t offer.

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Key takeaway : All in all, if smoothness of display and viewing in daylight are necessities, the Tab S10 FE carries a knife-edge. If you enjoy Apple’s design and want its color options, the iPad will be more to your liking.

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II. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Performance:

Lining up an A16 Bionic chip in the iPad 11th Gen, this silicon is also found in iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max. Being a 4-nanometer chip, the CPU has a 6-core composition (2 performance, 4 efficiency), with a 5-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine. Benchmark tests typically show that Apple’s A-series chips are very good at single-core and multi-core tasks, putting the 11th Gen iPad in a position of being dragged through the most demanding applications, high-end gaming, and video editing. In keeping with its powerful reputation, it comes with 6GB of RAM and storage configurations of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, allowing for much-welcomed hop from the previous generations’ base storage.

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE is powered by the Exynos 1580 chipset (4nm) also used in the Galaxy A56 5G. This octa-core processor (1×2.9 GHz Cortex-A720 & 3×2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4×1.9 GHz Cortex-A520) coupled with the Xclipse 540 GPU offers good performance for basic tasks, multitasking, and casual gaming. It comes with 8 or 12GB of RAM and 128 or 256GB storage. The Exynos 1580 is still significantly improved from the Exynos 1380, but in general, it’ll fall short of the A16 Bionic’s raw computational power on benchmarking.

Key takeaway : For gaming sessions of significant graphical intensity and applications aimed at professionals, the iPad 11th Gen wins this round. For run-of-the-mill applications and casual Android apps, the Tab S10 FE is all the muscle you need.

III. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Software Ecosystem:

Operating System: Probably the most important differentiator between the two tablets is their operating systems and how they influence everything, from app availability to customization.

The iPad 11th Gen runs on an operating system called iPadOS 18, which has either that version or a later version, depending on the release schedule. Apple’s operating system for tablets is quite famous for its intuitive interface, seamless integration with other Apple devices and services, and a long list of high-quality tablet-optimized applications. The iPadOS system comes with multitasking features like Split View and quickly brings users closer to their apps through Slide Over. Although awesome, iPadOS is a more “walled garden” experience and thus less customizable than Android. Software updates come consistently for several years, ensuring longevity and the latest features plus security patches.

Out of the box runs Android 15 layered with Samsung’s One UI 7 on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE. Android grants users more freedom and personalization, and also greater control over widgets, launchers, and file management than any other OS. For productivity with an external monitor or keyboard, DeX mode is an amazing innovation on Samsung tablets, where the entire tablet interface is completely transformed into a desktop interface of resizable windows with a taskbar. Very huge application library App ecosystem, sometimes, and unlike iPadOS, the layout optimization may, for example, vary much in that library. Samsung has also worked on its software update commitment, but it’s not going to reach the height of the standard Apple support window.

Key takeaway: The most important thing: For a curated, highly optimized app experience, along with effortless integration of Apple devices, then, iPadOS is the best bet. If you appreciated more, bust a free customizable file system, and like a desktop-like mode for productivity, then, Android with One UI and DeX on the Tab S10 FE is more seducing.

IV. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Cameras:

Tablet cameras tend to serve as installations for lightweight photography, video calls, or document scanning and both these tablets carry the same.

The iPad 11th Gen is equipped with a hardware setup comprising a 12MP wide-angle rear camera with an aperture of f/1.8 and capable of 4K video recording at a maximum of 60fps. The front-facing camera is a 12MP ultrawide lens with a field of view at 122˚ and aperture f/2.4 with support for Apple’s “Center Stage”, which automatically ensures the user is framed in during video calls.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE comes packed with features such as a 13MP wide-angle rear camera with f/2.0 aperture that is acclaimed to support 4K video recording at 30fps. For selfies and video calls, it comes along with a 12MP ultrawide front camera with f/2.4 aperture.

Key takeaway: On the whole both tablets have competent cameras tuned primarily for their utility purposes. Center Stage of iPad is indeed a stellar plus for video conferencing, while the rear camera of Tab S10 FE tops this with its higher megapixel count.

V. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Battery Life & Charging:

The two devices are comparable in longevity with regard to battery life; however, charging speeds may vary.

The iPad 11th Generation has this 7819mAh battery that is, like, normal “all-day” battery life. Apple generally mentions web browsing or video playback lasting for up to 10 hours. USB-C charging and, surprisingly, a charger in the box: 11th-generation iPads come bundled with a charger which is a welcome break from some of Apple’s other devices.

The battery in the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE is rated at 8000mAh, and with mixed use, it should last longer than a full day. It’s able to charge fast with 45W and can top it all even quicker. Unlike the iPad, however, the Tab S10 FE does not come with a power brick in the box, so you’ll have to buy one to fully benefit from the fast charging speeds.

key Takeaway: Both have great battery lives. The iPad 11th Gen is super convenient because it includes a charger; the Tab S10 FE, on the other hand, supports faster charging if you have a compatible adapter.

VI. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Accessories & Connectivity:

Accessories make or break the tablet experience, and that is where the key difference points out.

When it comes to the new iPad 11th Generation, stylus support can be acquired through the use of an Apple Pencil (presumably either the USB-C version or perhaps the original Apple Pencil, based on its compatibility). Apple Pencil is considered the best in terms of low latency and accuracy for drawing and note-taking. Of course, the Apple Pencil is sold separately, just like the keyboard folio. Connectivity provides Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, with optional 5G cellular models. Furthermore, it features a USB-C port (with USB 2.0 transfer speeds).

Among the greatest advantages of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE caters to this: S Pen is included with it. It is a big selling point for students and everyone that needs to take notes or sketch frequently, which saves the cost of buying one right away. S Pen flaunts terrific pressure sensitivity as well as Air Actions (mainly gimmicky) and Screen Off Memo. It also features microSD card support for up to 2TB, which is that feature all too absent in any iPad, creating great flexibility for storage. Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and optional models with 5G are also included. It’s got a USB-C port and the IP68 rating even protects the S Pen.

Key takeaway: The S Pen bundled in and the expandable storage are the main benefits for the Galaxy Tab S10 FE, which give more out-of-the-box value and flexibility in terms of space. The iPad’s accessory ecosystem is quite rich but comes with a cost.

VII. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Price and Value Proposition:

Pricing is critical in the mid-range segment, and both tablets aim to provide a great value.

First of all, the starting price of the iPad 11th Gen is around $349 Wi-Fi only for 128GB model. The 5G cellular model starts at about $499. That’s really tempting pricing for an iPad. However, accessories like the Apple Pencil and the keyboard folio are chargeable on top. Apple products, in general, retain their resale value quite well.

The prices for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE begin at $499.99 for the 128GB Wi-Fi model, with the 5G cellular costing around $599.99. This starting price is a little extra over that of the base iPad; however, do remember that the S-Pen comes complimentary, which adds a lot more value from the outset.

Key takeaway: the iPad 11th Gen has a lower entry price, while the Tab S10 FE offers better out-of-the-box value with the included S Pen. Do consider the total cost of ownership regarding accessories.

VIII. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Pros and Cons:

iPad 11th Gen:

• Pros:
  • Powerful A16 Bionic chip for top-tier performance.
  • Highly optimized app ecosystem with many tablet-specific applications.
  • Excellent long-term software support and regular updates.
  • Premium build quality and high resale value.
  • Center Stage feature for video calls.
  • Charger included in the box.
• Cons:
  • Apple Pencil and keyboard sold separately, increasing total cost.
  • Less customization compared to Android.
  • No expandable storage.
  • 60Hz unlaminated display.
  • No official IP rating for water/dust resistance.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE:

• Pros:
  • S Pen included in the box, offering immediate stylus functionality.
  • Expandable storage via microSD card (up to 2TB).
  • 90Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals.
  • DeX mode for a desktop-like experience.
  • IP68 dust and water resistance for added durability.
  • More customizable Android experience.
• Cons:
  • Processor generally not as powerful as Apple’s A-series chips.
  • Android tablet app optimization can be inconsistent for some applications.
  • Shorter software update cycle compared to Apple.
  • Charger not included in the box.

IX. iPad 11th Gen vs Galaxy Tab S10 FE Who Should Buy Which?

There is no such thing as the “best” tablet in the sense that it universally applies to any given person; rather, it is about matching that device with one’s individual needs and preferences.

The iPad 11th Gen :

• You are already enjoying the Apple ecosystem while seeking seamless integration, and you are all set up with an iPhone, Mac, etc.
• You need raw processing power for the most demanding tasks like gaming or video editing or the really optimized apps for computer graphics.
• You like a clear, easy-to-understand user experience and long-term software support.
• Resale value is important to you.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE :

• For the built-in stylus to note, draw, or navigate without further purchase.
• If you want expansion slots for more than your usual share of large files or media libraries.
• That is the kind of experience you want with the advantages and permissions that Android brings.
• Need DeX mode-enabled tablets, as they tend to be quite productive for the biggest parts of daily-tech work of most people these days.
• You prefer the smoothness of display experience at a 90HZ refresh rate and better visibility outdoors.
• Moreover, you want durability with water and dust resistance.

X. Conclusion

Both iPad 11th Gen and Galaxy Tab S10 FE are brilliant mid-range tablets offering value for their price and features. iPad enjoys a reputation for offering raw power and an elegant software ecosystem, whereas the Galaxy Tab S10 FE shines because of its S Pen in the box, expandable storage, and a smoother-and-brighter display.

At the end of the day, it’s all about your personal preferences. Do you value the sheer power of Apple and an ecosystem polished to a shine-or are you willing to go with a value proposition from Samsung with a free stylus, expandable storage, and versatility with Android? Think about your workflow, how you would want to use the tablet, and your budget, and the right option will manifest.

Which tablet speaks to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!