Expectation vs. reality: a flagship tablet for the price of a mid-ranger
The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is a 2025 device. The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is the latest. You might think the newer one is the only choice. But not when the older model drops to $850. That’s what Best Buy is offering in its Black Friday in July sale. It’s a real discount, not a fake promo code or a 'limited-time only' flimflam. Just $850 for what Android Central calls a 'stunning, behemoth' tablet.
Big screen, big battery, but is it too big?
This Tab S10 is 14.6 inches. It’s not a device you toss in a bag or casually hold during a long movie night. But the screen is AMOLED, 120Hz, and gorgeous. The battery is 11,200mAh with 45W fast charging — so you get all-day use, and you don’t have to wait forever to charge it back up.
The S Pen is included. That’s a plus for anyone who draws, takes notes, or just needs a stylus to navigate. And the 256GB version is the deal, at this price. The 512GB and 1TB versions are still full price. For some buyers, that may be a dealbreaker. For others, $256 for 256GB of space feels just right.
Processor and camera: close to the best, but not quite there
The MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Plus inside is no slouch. It’s fast, capable, and handles multitasking with ease. 12GB of RAM helps. The camera specs are 12MP front, 13MP + 8MP rear. They’re good but not groundbreaking. For most users, that’s fine. Unless you want to take photos in low light or do anything that demands a real powerhouse lens, you won’t miss much.
The S11 Ultra still has a slightly better screen, a newer chip, and a more refined design. It’s not cheap — it never is. But the S10 Ultra at $850 is a close cousin with most of the same DNA. If you can live with a slightly older model, this one makes more sense.
The catch, of course, is the weight. It’s not just awkward to hold — it’s awkward to lift. If you want something you can use one-handed or toss in a backpack, look elsewhere. This is a desk-based machine, a productivity tool for those who like their work on a tablet. But if you’re all about portability, this isn’t your pick.