[Review] Samsung Galaxy Tab S9... Waterproof and Dustproof Features Enhanced, Safe Even When Dropped in Water

Weight Increases by 11g... Frame Impact
Clear Image Quality, Eye Protection Features
Equipped with GoodNotes... Feels Like Writing on Paper

Samsung Electronics has launched its new premium tablet series, the 'Galaxy Tab S9'. Equipped with the new Qualcomm chipset, the 'Snapdragon 8 Gen 2', as the mobile Application Processor (AP), No Tae-moon, President of Samsung Electronics MX Division, described it as a "perfect product without compromise," boasting the best performance ever.

On the 3rd, I tried the Ultra model, which has the highest specifications among the Tab S9 series. The color was beige, one of the two basic colors, giving a bright feel. The exterior felt like a greatly enlarged version of the 'Galaxy S23' series. The rear camera's waterdrop design enhanced that impression.

The first impression upon holding the Ultra was that it was 'heavy.' The screen size and thickness remained the same as the previous model at 14.6 inches and 5.5 mm, but the weight increased by 11g to 737g. This seems to be due to the application of an 'Armor Aluminum' frame to enhance hardness and strength.

Turning on the screen, the advantages of the OLED display were clearly noticeable. Samsung Electronics applied the 'Dynamic AMOLED 2X display' to all Tab S9 series models. Compared to LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), this offers faster screen response times, allowing users to enjoy high-capacity movies or games with natural image quality even at low refresh rates. In fact, I was able to watch videos with clear image quality even in very bright lighting conditions. Scrolling was also fast and smooth.

The enhanced eye protection features were also noticeable. When looking at the screen for long periods, eye strain was reduced, likely because it cuts blue light by about 70% compared to general LCD displays.

Samsung Electronics supports HDR 10+ functionality on all Tab S9 models, enabling scene-by-scene color optimization. It introduced an automatic refresh rate adjustment feature from 60 to 120Hz, providing vivid colors and clear image quality in videos and games while improving battery usage efficiency.

The biggest difference from the previous model is that the Galaxy Tab S series is the first to feature IP68-rated water and dust resistance. According to videos provided by Samsung, the pen can be used on a wet screen after being submerged in water. The S Pen also supports IP68 water and dust resistance.

Another advantage is that the tablet comes pre-installed with apps commonly used by tablet users. Notably, the popular handwriting app 'GoodNotes' is included. 'GoodNotes' will be exclusively available on Galaxy devices starting with the Galaxy Tab S9 series until the end of the year. Using GoodNotes, I could fully experience the fine pressure sensitivity of the S Pen. Despite being an electronic device, it even felt like writing on paper. Additionally, from this series onward, the S Pen can be attached to the back of the tablet for charging without worrying about orientation, making it more convenient to use.

The multitasking capabilities were also excellent. Through DeX mode, it provides a PC-level work environment and supports a second screen function, allowing the PC and tablet screens to be used as dual monitors. You can split the screen by dragging and dropping apps, and conveniently switch to other apps by sliding unwanted apps to the side. Screen splitting supports up to three tasks simultaneously on one screen, and with popup view, you can use desired apps in floating windows while viewing other screens.

The one drawback is the price. The Tab S9 Ultra is priced between 1,598,300 KRW and 2,406,800 KRW depending on storage capacity. Considering that the lowest price of the Apple iPad 10th generation is in the 500,000 KRW range, consumers may feel it is expensive. The Tab S9+ is priced between 1,248,500 KRW and 1,637,900 KRW, and the Tab S9 ranges from 998,800 KRW to 1,388,200 KRW.