Galaxy Tab A (8.4", 2020) vs iPad Pro (2020, A12 series)

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) and the iPad Pro 2020 represent distinct approaches to the tablet experience, both released in the same year. While the Galaxy Tab A 8.4 operates on the Android ecosystem, the iPad Pro 2020 runs on Apple's iPadOS. The primary differences between these two devices lie in their performance capabilities, display technology, and the overall user experience offered by their respective operating systems.

Both tablets were released in 2020, offering a similar starting point in terms of age. However, their expected software longevity and build quality present different long-term prospects.

• Software Support: The iPad Pro 2020, running iPadOS, typically receives major software updates for a longer duration, often 5-6 years or more, with security updates extending even further. For instance, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation) is compatible with iPadOS 26.4.1 as of April 2026. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020), an Android tablet, generally receives fewer major OS updates, often around 2-3, and security updates for approximately 4 years. Some users reported receiving Android 11 with One UI 3.1 in July 2021, but some devices were still on Android 9 or 10 later on.
• Build Materials: The iPad Pro 2020 features an aluminum unibody design, contributing to a more rigid and premium feel. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) typically uses a combination of plastic and metal, which is durable for everyday use but may not offer the same level of perceived robustness.
• Practical Lifespan: Users prioritising extended software support and a device that remains capable with the latest applications for many years may find the iPad Pro 2020 to offer a longer practical lifespan. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) remains a functional device for basic tasks, but its software support window is generally shorter.

The performance of these two tablets caters to different user needs, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering significantly more processing power and memory for demanding tasks compared to the Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020).

• Processing Power: The iPad Pro 2020 is equipped with a high-performance processor, enabling it to handle intensive applications, complex multitasking, and advanced gaming with fluidity. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) features a mid-range octa-core processor, suitable for everyday activities like web browsing, email, social media, and casual gaming.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: With its robust internal components and ample RAM (6GB), the iPad Pro 2020 provides a highly responsive user experience, allowing for seamless switching between multiple applications and efficient handling of professional-grade software. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) comes with 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for light multitasking but may experience occasional slowdowns when running numerous apps simultaneously or more demanding applications.
• Storage Options: The iPad Pro 2020 offers a wide range of internal storage configurations, from 128GB up to 1TB, catering to users with extensive storage needs for large files and applications. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) typically includes 32GB of internal storage, with the advantage of expandable storage via a microSD card, offering flexibility for users who need more space for media and documents.

The visual experience on these tablets differs considerably, primarily due to variations in display technology, resolution, and advanced features.

• Display Technology and Clarity: The iPad Pro 2020 features a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, known for its accurate color reproduction, wide color gamut (P3), and high brightness. It offers sharp visuals with resolutions like 2388 x 1668 pixels for the 11-inch model and 2732 x 2048 pixels for the 12.9-inch model. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) uses a TFT LCD screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, providing clear visuals for media consumption and general use.
• Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A key differentiator is the iPad Pro 2020's ProMotion technology, which enables an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in exceptionally smooth scrolling and highly responsive interactions, particularly beneficial for creative work and gaming. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) operates at a standard refresh rate, which is adequate for most daily tasks but does not offer the same level of visual fluidity.
• Viewing Experience: The iPad Pro 2020's display includes True Tone technology, which adjusts the white balance to match the ambient light, and an anti-reflective coating, enhancing the viewing experience in various lighting conditions. While the Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) offers a bright and sharp screen for its category, it lacks these advanced display features.

The camera systems on these two tablets are designed for different purposes, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering a more advanced and versatile setup compared to the functional cameras on the Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020).

• Rear Camera System: The iPad Pro 2020 features a dual-camera system on the rear, including a 12MP wide lens and a 10MP ultrawide lens, along with a LiDAR Scanner. This setup allows for more detailed photography, wider shots, and enhanced augmented reality (AR) experiences. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) has a single 8MP rear camera, suitable for casual photos and document scanning.
• Front Camera and Video Quality: For video calls and selfies, the iPad Pro 2020 includes a 7MP TrueDepth front camera, supporting features like Face ID. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) is equipped with a 5MP front camera, which performs well for video conferencing. Both tablets can record video, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering higher resolution and more advanced video features.
• Audio Experience: The iPad Pro 2020 boasts a four-speaker audio system, delivering a rich and immersive sound experience for media consumption. The Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020) features stereo speakers, which are adequate for general audio playback, though some users have noted them to be less robust.