Mobilawy

Unveiling Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 97 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Release Date
2017, April
Camera
13MP
Battery
6000mAh
Battery Type
18W
Processor
Snapdragon 820
Screen
9.7"
Storage
32GB/128GB , microSDXC
Ram
4GB RAM
Operating System
Android 7.0, up to Android 9.0, One UI

Introduction to Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7, launched in 2017, is a powerful tablet that has served as a popular option for tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. With its sleek design and robust hardware, it offers a compelling package for users looking for a device that balances performance with aesthetics.

Body and Design

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 is designed with precision, featuring a glass front and back coupled with a sturdy aluminum frame. Its dimensions are 237.3 x 169 x 6 mm, and it weighs 429 g for the Wi-Fi variant and 434 g for the LTE model. The front is dominated by a 9.7-inch display, making it convenient for media consumption and productivity tasks. The choice of materials gives the tablet a premium feel, further emphasized by its slim profile.

Display

The device boasts a Super AMOLED display, noteworthy for its vibrant color reproduction and deep contrasts. The 9.7-inch screen has a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels, with a density of approximately 264 pixels per inch. This results in sharp, detailed visuals, whether you are watching a movie or viewing photos. The display technology is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy consuming high-quality media content.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 houses the Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 chipset, a powerful processor choice in its release era. The CPU configuration includes a Quad-core setup with 2x2.15 GHz Kryo and 2x1.6 GHz Kryo cores, supported by the Adreno 530 GPU. This setup ensures smooth multitasking and offers substantial processing power for a variety of applications.

Paired with 4GB of RAM, the tablet delivers efficient multitasking capabilities and smooth performance. Storage options include 32GB and 128GB, both of which can be expanded using a microSDXC card, providing ample space for apps, media, and files.

Camera Capabilities

The tablet is equipped with a 13 MP main camera, featuring an f/1.9 aperture and a wide 27mm lens. This camera setup allows for respectable photography, supported by features such as LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes. It can also capture 4K video at 30fps, which is quite impressive for a tablet of this class. The front-facing 5 MP camera is adequate for video calls and selfies, offering a wide-angle 23mm lens and capability for 1080p video recording.

Battery Life

A critical aspect of any mobile device is its battery life, and the Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 delivers in this regard with a 6000 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery. This capacity is sufficient for prolonged use, making it suitable for both work and entertainment throughout the day. The device supports 18W fast charging, allowing users to quickly recharge and stay productive.

Operating System and User Interface

Originally shipped with Android 7.0 Nougat, the tablet is upgradeable to Android 9.0 Pie. This upgrade includes Samsung's One UI, offering an enhanced user experience with a focus on simplicity and intuitive design. The software optimizations complement the hardware capabilities, ensuring a fluid user experience.

Connectivity and Other Features

In terms of connectivity, the Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 supports a wide range of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE. The device is equipped with Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac for fast internet access and Bluetooth 4.2 for connecting peripherals. Positioning technologies such as GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO are included for accurate location tracking.

The tablet also features a USB Type-C 3.1 port for charging and data transfer, and it includes a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. Audio performance is enhanced by stereo speakers that provide a rich listening experience.

Additional Features

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 incorporates several sensors, including a front-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, and compass. These sensors add convenience and functionality, particularly the fingerprint sensor which provides an additional layer of security.

Price and Availability

Since its release, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 has been available in different markets worldwide, offered in classic black and white colors. At launch, it was priced around 380 EUR, reflecting its positioning as a mid-to-high-end tablet.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 stands out as a versatile and well-rounded device. Its robust design, high-quality display, capable performance, and extensive feature set make it a compelling option for users seeking a reliable tablet for both professional and personal use. Whether used for productivity, entertainment, or creative endeavors, the Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 continues to hold its ground as a solid choice in the ever-evolving landscape of tablet technology.

Key Features of Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7

  • Network Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE with multiple band support
  • Build: Elegant design with a glass front and back, and aluminum frame
  • Display: 9.7 inches Super AMOLED screen with high resolution (1536 x 2048 pixels)
  • Performance: Powered by Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 with Quad-core CPU
  • Expandable Storage: Offers microSDXC card slot
  • Camera: 13 MP rear camera with 4K video recording capabilities
  • Audio: Equipped with four stereo speakers for enhanced sound experience
  • Connectivity: USB Type-C port and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac support
  • Battery: Large 6000 mAh battery with 18W fast charging support
  • Sensors: Includes fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, and compass

Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 Drawbacks

  • Outdated Software: Initially released with Android 7.0 (Nougat), which may not support the latest apps and features despite being upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie).
  • Limited Internal Storage Options: Comes with a base model of 32GB which may not be sufficient for all users, although expandable via microSD.
  • No NFC Support: Lacks Near Field Communication feature, limiting modern connectivity options like contactless payments.
  • No Radio: Lacks a built-in radio feature, which might be a downside for some users who prefer offline radio listening.
  • Older Bluetooth Version: Utilizes Bluetooth 4.2 which is outdated compared to more recent devices supporting Bluetooth 5.0 and above.
  • Subpar Front Camera: The 5 MP front-facing camera may not deliver high-quality selfies or video calls compared to other devices in its class.
Network
Technology GSM / HSPA / LTE
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100
4G bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 17, 20, 28, 40
Speed HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps
Launch
Announced 2017, February
Status Available. Released 2017, April
Body
Dimensions 237.3 x 169 x 6 mm (9.34 x 6.65 x 0.24 in)
Weight 429 g (Wi-Fi)/ 434 g (LTE) (15.13 oz)
Build Glass front, glass back, aluminum frame
SIM Nano-SIM
Display
Type Super AMOLED
Size 9.7 inches, 291.4 cm2 (~72.7% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution 1536 x 2048 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~264 ppi density)
Platform
OS Android 7.0 (Nougat), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie), One UI
Chipset Qualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 (14 nm)
CPU Quad-core (2x2.15 GHz Kryo & 2x1.6 GHz Kryo)
GPU Adreno 530
Memory
Card slot microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal 32GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM
Main Camera
Single 13 MP, f/1.9, 27mm (wide), AF
Features LED flash, HDR, panorama
Video 4K@30fps
Selfie camera
Single 5 MP, f/2.2, 23mm (wide)
Video 1080p@30fps
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers)
3.5mm jack Yes
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Bluetooth 4.2, A2DP, LE
Positioning GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO
NFC No
Radio No
USB USB Type-C 3.1, magnetic connector
Features
Sensors Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, compass
Battery
Type Li-Po 6000 mAh, non-removable
Charging 18W wired
Misc
Colors White, black
Models SM-T820, SM-T825, SM-T825Y
SAR EU 0.99 W/kg (body)
Price About 380 EUR
Tests
Performance GFXBench: 13fps (ES 3.1 onscreen)

All Rights Reserved +13618 Phones © Mobilawy 2025