Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra vs. Galaxy Tab S11: Samsung has unveiled its latest flagship tablet lineup, the Galaxy Tab S11 series, at a dedicated online event on September 4, 2025, just ahead of the IFA 2025 trade show in Berlin. The series comprises two models: the Galaxy Tab S11 and the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, each catering to distinct user needs. With the Tab S11 Ultra positioning itself as a laptop replacement boasting a massive 14.6-inch display, and the standard Tab S11 targeting a broader audience with its more portable 11-inch form factor, the two tablets share many similarities but diverge in key areas. Here’s a detailed look at how these devices compare, based on initial hands-on impressions and early specifications, to help you decide which one suits your needs.
Design and Display: Size Matters
The most striking difference between the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and the Galaxy Tab S11 is their size. The Ultra model features a colossal 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 2960 x 1848 pixels, designed to rival laptop screens and offer an immersive experience for productivity, streaming, and gaming. Weighing approximately 692 grams (1.53 pounds), it’s notably heavier than the standard Tab S11, which tips the scales at around 496 grams (1.06 pounds) with its more compact 11-inch AMOLED display at 2560 x 1600 pixels. Despite the size disparity, both tablets maintain Samsung’s premium design language, featuring sleek aluminum unibody constructions with tempered glass fronts and IP68 water and dust resistance.
The Ultra’s larger screen makes it ideal for multitasking and creative workflows, but its 5.1mm thickness—Samsung’s slimmest tablet yet—keeps it surprisingly portable for its size. The standard Tab S11, at 5.5mm thick, is slightly bulkier but far easier to carry for users on the go. Both displays support a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations, with peak brightness reaching up to 1,600 nits for excellent outdoor visibility. Early reports suggest the Tab S11’s smaller screen offers a slightly higher pixel density, but the difference is minimal, and comprehensive display tests are needed to confirm brightness and color accuracy differences. Both tablets also feature under-display optical fingerprint scanners for secure unlocking.
A subtle design distinction lies in the camera layout: the Tab S11 Ultra sports a dual rear camera setup, while the standard Tab S11 has a single rear camera, reflecting their respective positioning as a premium versus a more mainstream device. The Ultra also features a small notch for its front-facing camera, a design element absent on the Tab S11.
Keyboard and Stylus: Productivity Essentials
Both the Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S11 Ultra come with Samsung’s redesigned S Pen, included in the box, despite earlier rumors suggesting the stylus might be phased out. The new S Pen features a hexagonal shape with a conical tip, resembling a traditional pencil for improved grip and precision when writing or sketching. Initial impressions indicate it performs fluidly, though it lacks Bluetooth Low Energy, which some see as a downgrade compared to previous iterations. The stylus enhances productivity with Galaxy AI features like Drawing Assist, which refines rough sketches into polished artwork.
For keyboard accessories, both tablets are compatible with Samsung’s existing Book Cover Keyboard models from the previous generation, allowing users to transform their devices into laptop-like setups. However, there’s no confirmation yet on whether Samsung will release a new keyboard accessory tailored for the Tab S11 series, with some leaks hinting at a potential refresh in 2026. This compatibility ensures both models cater to productivity-focused users, but the Ultra’s larger screen makes it a better candidate for extended typing and multitasking.
Performance: Powered by MediaTek’s Latest
Under the hood, both tablets are equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset, with the Tab S11 Ultra featuring a slightly overclocked Dimensity 9400+ variant. Built on a 3nm process, this octa-core chipset (1×3.63 GHz Cortex-X925, 3×3.3 GHz Cortex-X4, 4×2.4 GHz Cortex-A720) delivers impressive performance, rivaling Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite. Early benchmarks conducted during hands-on sessions show the Tab S11 Ultra scoring 2652 (single-core) and 8561 (multi-core) on Geekbench 6, with GPU scores of 6547 and 5049 on 3DMark Extreme (High and Low, respectively). The standard Tab S11 trails slightly with 2776 (single-core) and 8811 (multi-core) on Geekbench 6, and 6313 and 4244 on 3DMark Extreme. These results position both tablets as powerhouses for gaming, video editing, and AI-driven tasks, with the Ultra’s slight edge catering to power users.
Memory and storage options reflect their positioning: the Tab S11 starts at 12GB RAM and 128GB storage, topping out at 12GB/512GB, while the Tab S11 Ultra offers up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. Both support microSD card expansion up to 2TB, ensuring ample space for files and apps. The Dimensity 9400’s efficiency is expected to enhance battery life, though real-world performance awaits further testing.
Software: AI-Powered One UI 8
Both tablets run Samsung’s One UI 8, based on Android 16, out of the box, delivering a seamless and tablet-optimized experience. The software includes Samsung’s enhanced DeX mode, which now supports Extended Mode for dual-monitor setups and up to four separate workspaces, mimicking a desktop environment for improved productivity. Galaxy AI features, such as Writing Assist, Circle to Search, Live Translate, and Gemini Live integration, enhance functionality for tasks like note-taking, content creation, and real-time communication. Both models are promised seven years of software updates, ensuring longevity through 2032.
Audio: Immersive Soundscapes
Samsung continues its partnership with AKG to equip both tablets with quad stereo speakers, delivering loud, clear, and distortion-free audio. Initial hands-on impressions praise the rich soundscape, ideal for media consumption and video calls. Haptic feedback, often a challenge in larger devices, is reported to be strong and responsive, though further testing is needed to confirm consistency across use cases. The audio experience appears comparable between the two models, making it a strength for both.
Battery and Charging: Size-Driven Differences
Battery capacity reflects the size disparity: the Tab S11 Ultra houses a massive 11,600mAh battery, while the Tab S11 features an 8,400mAh cell. Both support 45W wired fast charging, but their large capacities mean charging times may exceed an hour. The Ultra’s larger battery is designed to power its expansive display, while the Tab S11’s smaller cell suits its more compact form factor. Both are upgrades over their predecessors (the Tab S10 Ultra had 11,200mAh, and the Tab S9 had 8,400mAh), and the Dimensity 9400’s efficiency could further improve endurance. Comprehensive battery tests are pending to evaluate real-world performance.
Camera: Functional but Not Revolutionary
Tablet photography remains a secondary feature, but cameras play a role in video calls and occasional snapping. The Tab S11 Ultra features a dual rear camera setup with a 13MP main sensor and an 8MP ultrawide lens, offering versatility for creative tasks. The standard Tab S11 has a single 13MP rear camera. Both tablets share a 12MP ultrawide front-facing camera, but the Ultra’s downgrade from the dual front cameras of the Tab S10 Ultra (12MP wide + 12MP ultrawide) has raised eyebrows. Samsung cites usage data showing preference for the ultrawide lens, but this change may disappoint users prioritizing video call quality. Detailed camera comparisons will follow once samples are available.
Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy Tab S11 series is available starting September 4, 2025, in Grey and Silver color options. Pricing for the Tab S11 starts at $799/£799 for the 12GB/128GB Wi-Fi model, while the Tab S11 Ultra begins at $1,200/£1,200 for the 12GB/256GB Wi-Fi variant, with the top-tier 16GB/1TB model reaching $1,619/£1,699. In India, the Tab S11 Ultra is expected to cost around ₹1,29,990. Samsung offers trade-in deals, including up to $800 off the Ultra and a free Book Cover Keyboard Slim for purchases by September 30, 2025
Which One Should You Choose?
The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S11 cater to different needs. The Ultra, with its 14.6-inch display, larger battery, dual rear cameras, and up to 16GB RAM/1TB storage, is a productivity powerhouse for professionals, artists, and multitaskers willing to pay a premium and carry a heavier device. Its Wi-Fi 7 support and slightly faster Dimensity 9400+ chipset further enhance its appeal for power users. The standard Tab S11, with its 11-inch screen, lighter 496g build, and lower $799 starting price, is ideal for users seeking portability without sacrificing flagship performance.
Both tablets offer premium features like the S Pen, One UI 8 with Galaxy AI, and seven years of updates, making the choice largely dependent on screen size and budget preferences. The Ultra’s laptop-like capabilities make it a strong iPad Pro competitor, though its $1,200 starting price pits it against Apple’s offerings and even some laptops. The Tab S11, meanwhile, strikes a balance between power and portability, appealing to a wider audience. As Samsung rolls out these devices, further testing will clarify their performance, but for now, the Tab S11 Ultra is the choice for those needing maximum screen real estate, while the Tab S11 suits those prioritizing mobility and value.
