Laptop vs Tablet: Which Is Best For You?

1. Operating system
Firstly laptops will run most types of operating systems, but Windows is one of the most popular and used for the incredible Galaxy Book3 series of laptops. Windows has exceptional functionality and is the operating system found on many desktop computers. Tablets are more similar to smartphones and use different operating systems. You’ll find the popular Android OS in Samsung Galaxy Tab devices. The key difference here is that a tablet will run apps optimised for mobile viewing rather than full programs. Some mobile apps may have less functionality than full laptop programmes.

2. Size and Portability
Laptops and tablets are designed to be easily transported from one location to another but how do they compare in size and portability? Tablets tend to be lighter, thinner and more streamlined than a laptop. Even the largest Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra weighs in at a handbag friendly 732g whereas you can expect most laptops to weigh around 1.5kg.

3. Screen Size
Typically laptops tend to have larger screens which are ideal when it comes to multitasking and gaming. If you’re looking for the best display technology, tablets tend to win. Tablets tend to have a higher pixel density meaning the images you see on the screen will have greater clarity. However, with Samsung, you’ll enjoy optimal Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen technology on both the Galaxy Book4 Pro laptop and Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. There are a large variety of screen sizes to choose from across both Galaxy Books and Galaxy Tabs so you are sure to find one that’s right for you.

6. Physical Ports
When it comes to physical ports such as USB, Ethernet, audio and HDMI you are much more likely to find them on a laptop than a tablet device. For example, you’ll find the following ports on the latest Galaxy Book4 Pro: 2 x Thunderbolt, 1 x USB 3.2, HDMI 2.1, microSD, and HP/Mic-in slot. In comparison, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has a USB Type-C 2.0 and microSD slot.

7. Keyboards
How you navigate your laptop or tablet will also vary. A tablet uses a touchscreen which you’ll use for all functions including typing. If you plan to do a lot of typing you may prefer the physical keyboard that a laptop has. However, some tablets such as the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ have the option to add a Book Cover Keyboard for a PC-like experience. You’ll also be able to enjoy the exceptional S Pen with the latest Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra series of tablets, but there’s no need to miss out on a laptop since the S Pen also comes as standard with the sensational Galaxy Book4 360 and Galaxy Book4 Pro 360.

We’ve created a handy comparison chart which helps highlight the key differences between the Galaxy Tab S9 series and Galaxy Book4 laptop range.

✓ Powerful processors
✓ Operating system that mirrors a desktop computer
✓ Large screens
✓ Physical keyboard
✓ More ports that enable easy connections with different devices
✓ Large storage capacity
✓ Optimised for productivity

You can certainly make your tablet look and feel more like a laptop with the addition of a smart keyboard, trackpad and cover and for most day-to-day tasks tablets can be used in a very similar way to a laptop. However, the operating system will remain different and the apps downloaded to your tablet may not be as comprehensive as the full desktop/laptop versions.

Find out more about tablet accessories or laptop accessories in our What Laptop Accessories Do I Need? guide.

If your subject requires you to regularly submit written assignments, a Galaxy Book can be your best option. Popular Microsoft 365 packages are optimised for working on the Windows operating system found on the Galaxy Book series, you’ll have an integrated keyboard for typing and a large screen for multitasking between research and essays. If your subject is more exam based and you need a portable device that you can easily make notes and revise on then you can’t go wrong with a Galaxy Tab.

Whilst you’ll find a Galaxy Tab or Galaxy Book to suit most budgets, tablets typically cost less than laptops. Samsung tablets start from less than £200 for the Galaxy Tab A9, making them a great choice if you’re looking to save some money. However, if you’re willing to pay a bit more for an exceptional device, check out the incredible Galaxy Book4 Pro 360.

To help you with your decision-making, check out our “Best Tablet For Students” and "Best Laptop For Students" guides.