Samsung closes 2025 with the release of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE, a tablet that combines premium features with an affordable price. This Fan Edition model borrows core elements from Samsung’s flagship series while offering a more budget-friendly option for consumers.
The biggest highlight is its IP68 certification, making it dustproof and waterproof. Even the included S Pen carries the same IP68 rating, which is rare at this price point, positioning this tablet as the cheapest in the market with full waterproof capabilities.
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE features a 10.9-inch IPS display with a sharp resolution of 2304 x 1440 pixels. The adaptive 90 Hz refresh rate can drop to 30 Hz to save battery. Its screen also reaches brightness levels up to 700 nits, ideal for outdoor use.
Audio quality is boosted by dual speakers equipped with Dolby Atmos technology. Buyers will appreciate that the S Pen comes bundled for free, unlike competitors that sell styluses separately for around $70-$75.
Under the hood, it runs on the Exynos 1380 chipset, the same processor found in Samsung’s Galaxy A54 5G smartphone. The tablet is equipped with 6 GB of RAM, 128 GB internal storage, and supports microSD cards up to 1 TB for additional space.
Powering the device is a substantial 8,000 mAh battery capable of up to 17 hours and 30 minutes of local video playback. Fast charging at 25 watts reaches 50% battery capacity within 43 minutes, and a full charge takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Photography needs are met with a 12 MP front camera capable of recording 4K video at 30 FPS, suitable for high-quality video calls and selfies. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE also supports Samsung DeX, delivering a PC-like desktop experience.
Its software runs on One UI 5.1.1, which offers advanced multitasking features. Security options include face unlock and a fingerprint scanner. For users interested in productivity, the tablet is compatible with the Tab S9’s book cover keyboard.
Pricing starts at approximately $430 for the WiFi-only variant and about $495 for the 5G-enabled model. Given its combination of flagship-level features, IP68 water resistance, and bundled S Pen, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE is an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable Android tablet.
Samsung’s extensive warranty and service center network provide additional peace of mind for owners. Overall, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE delivers significant value in the mid-range tablet category, particularly with its rare waterproof credentials and versatile stylus support.
