The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Apple iPad Pro M4 are two of the most powerful tablets on the market, setting new standards in performance, display quality, and versatility for professional and creative users. Both devices come with expansive screens—the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra offers a massive 14.6-inch display, while the iPad Pro M4 has a 13-inch option. These large, high-resolution screens are ideal for multitasking, creative projects, and immersive entertainment.
Under the hood, these flagship tablets have different approaches. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+, a top-tier processor for Android devices, while the iPad Pro M4 uses Apple’s M4 chip, which brings desktop-level performance. Each tablet is equipped with features designed for productivity and creativity, such as stylus compatibility (S Pen and Apple Pencil) and multi-window support, though each brand brings its unique spin on these tools.
In this comparison, we’ll dive into the design, performance, multitasking capabilities, and app ecosystem of each tablet, helping you determine which device best suits your needs—whether it’s powerful creative work, professional productivity, or everyday entertainment.
Design and Display Quality
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Apple iPad Pro M4 are both designed to be sleek yet powerful, offering large, high-quality displays that push the limits of what a tablet can do. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra has a 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, providing more horizontal screen space for multitasking, watching videos, or drawing. This widescreen format is ideal for immersive media experiences and side-by-side app usage. In contrast, the iPad Pro M4 features a 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, giving it more vertical space—perfect for applications that need stacked toolbars, like design or editing apps.
Both tablets feature anti-reflective coatings, but the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s screen is particularly effective at reducing reflections, enhancing outdoor visibility. However, the iPad Pro M4 boasts higher brightness levels, making it excellent for use in bright environments or direct lighting.
Performance and Software Capabilities
In terms of performance, the iPad Pro M4’s Apple M4 chip delivers unparalleled power that’s closer to a desktop processor than a mobile one. This chip allows for demanding tasks like 4K video editing and advanced gaming, making it a strong choice for professionals in creative industries. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ is also a high-end processor, providing smooth performance across applications, but it falls behind the M4 in benchmark tests, especially in graphics-intensive tasks.
When it comes to software, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s One UI interface allows for enhanced multitasking, including Samsung’s DeX mode, which simulates a desktop environment for more intuitive productivity. iPadOS, meanwhile, brings features like Stage Manager, a windowing system for easier app management. Both tablets excel in multitasking, but Samsung’s more flexible approach allows for multiple floating windows, while Apple’s iPadOS emphasizes a “one thing at a time” approach with fewer open windows.
Camera Features and Quality
Tablets are increasingly used for video calls and basic photography, and both Samsung and Apple have equipped these devices with advanced cameras. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra has a dual 12MP front camera setup—one standard and one ultra-wide—enhanced by Samsung’s Auto Frame feature that follows users as they move. This setup is excellent for video calls, keeping the user in focus even as they shift positions.
The iPad Pro M4’s front camera offers a similar feature, Center Stage, which uses the 12MP ultra-wide lens to keep users centered within the frame during calls. Apple’s single 12MP rear camera, complemented by a LiDAR sensor for augmented reality (AR) applications, makes the iPad Pro suitable for quick document scans or AR experiences, though AR apps have yet to see widespread use.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s 11,200 mAh battery and the iPad Pro M4’s 10,300 mAh battery offer all-day usage, though each excels in different areas. In tests, the iPad Pro M4 outlasts the Galaxy Tab during web browsing and video playback, which may be due to Apple’s power-efficient M4 chip. However, for gaming, the Galaxy Tab’s battery performance slightly outshines the iPad, showing Samsung’s optimization for intensive applications.
When it comes to charging, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra supports 45W fast charging, while the iPad Pro M4 charges at 20W. Although the Galaxy Tab supports higher-wattage charging, the iPad Pro often regains more battery during short charging sessions, making it convenient for quick top-ups.
Audio Quality and Haptics
Both tablets offer quad-speaker setups for an immersive audio experience, with clear and loud sound suitable for media consumption. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s wider form factor allows for better stereo separation, particularly in landscape mode, making it a strong choice for watching movies. The iPad Pro M4, however, has a slight edge in sound clarity, providing a less compressed, fuller audio experience.
In terms of haptics, only the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra includes haptic feedback. While it’s an interesting addition, the vibrations can feel a bit odd on a tablet of this size.
Stylus Comparison: S Pen vs. Apple Pencil
For creative users, both the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and iPad Pro M4 support stylus input, though each has a different approach. Samsung includes the S Pen with the Galaxy Tab, offering natural-feeling resistance thanks to its rubberized tip, which is appreciated by artists. The Apple Pencil, while extremely precise, is a separate purchase, and its plastic tip glides more easily, which can be challenging on a glass screen.
The iPad Pro’s Reference Mode makes it ideal for professional artists who need color accuracy, while Samsung’s S Pen integration includes features like air gestures, making it highly versatile across apps.
Productivity and Multitasking Features
Both tablets support a wide range of productivity features, with Samsung’s DeX mode and Apple’s Stage Manager offering unique approaches to multitasking. DeX mode provides a desktop-like experience, allowing users to run multiple windows simultaneously, while Stage Manager brings more window management to iPadOS. Both setups can be paired with their respective keyboards, but Apple’s Magic Keyboard offers a more refined experience, while Samsung’s Book Cover Keyboard is functional but has a softer feel.
App Ecosystem and Professional Software
For professionals, the iPad Pro M4’s App Store provides a rich selection of optimized software for creative work, such as Procreate, Adobe Suite, and LumaFusion. Samsung has also partnered with developers like LumaFusion, but Android apps generally lack the same level of professional polish, especially in creative fields. However, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s ability to handle multiple Android apps in floating windows offers versatility for general productivity.
This comparison highlights the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra as a great choice for versatile multitasking and media, while the iPad Pro M4 remains the top option for creative professionals due to its app support and exceptional performance.
Value and Pricing Considerations
When comparing the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Apple iPad Pro M4, each offers unique value for specific user needs. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra typically starts at a lower price, which includes the S Pen—a significant advantage for artists and note-takers who need a stylus right out of the box. This device offers great value for those focused on entertainment, multitasking, and a versatile Android experience, thanks to Samsung’s DeX mode, wide screen, and strong multimedia performance.
The iPad Pro M4, however, commands a higher price, especially once you add the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard—both sold separately. Despite the higher cost, the iPad Pro M4 provides robust performance with its M4 chip, which brings desktop-grade power ideal for creative professionals and intensive workflows. The app ecosystem on iPadOS is also more polished for professional-grade tasks, particularly in graphic design, video editing, and AR.
Ultimately, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is the more cost-effective choice for general productivity and entertainment, while the iPad Pro M4, though pricier, offers a specialized toolset for users who require peak performance and access to professional-grade apps.
Final Verdict: Which Tablet Should You Choose?
The choice between the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Apple iPad Pro M4 ultimately depends on your needs and preferred ecosystem. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra offers excellent value, especially with the S Pen included. Its expansive 14.6-inch screen, wide 16:10 aspect ratio, and DeX mode make it ideal for media consumption, multitasking, and general productivity. It’s perfect for users who prioritize versatility and enjoy the Android experience, especially at a more accessible price point.
The iPad Pro M4, while pricier, is the powerhouse for creative professionals. Its M4 chip delivers desktop-level performance, and the iPad’s app ecosystem is unmatched in terms of professional software availability. With tools like Procreate, LumaFusion, and Adobe apps, the iPad Pro M4 shines in intensive tasks like video editing, digital art, and AR applications. The optional Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard elevate its usability further, making it a top choice for designers, artists, and professionals in need of peak performance.
For multimedia and flexible use, go with the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra. For professional-grade apps and creative power, the iPad Pro M4 is the clear winner.