The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, Samsung’s latest flagship tablet, has hit the market with a bang. Building on the success of its predecessors, such as the Tab S10 Ultra, this device continues the trend of offering a large display and top-tier features. The Tab S11 Ultra boasts a stunning 14.6-inch AMOLED display that is housed in a remarkably slim 5.1mm chassis. Despite its slim profile, the tablet remains durable thanks to its aluminum armor frame and IP68 water and dust resistance rating. Under the hood, the Tab S11 Ultra is equipped with MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400+ chipset, which rivals the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Additionally, the tablet features a massive 11,600mAh battery with 45W charging support. Other notable features include quad speakers, three cameras, and Samsung’s magnetic S Pen stylus, making it a compelling option for tech enthusiasts.
However, despite its impressive specifications, there are several reasons why the Tab S11 Ultra may not be the ideal choice for everyone. One of the primary concerns is its high price point. Starting at £1,199/$1,199, the Tab S11 Ultra is a significant investment, especially considering that the LTE models start at £1,349. This hefty price tag may deter budget-conscious consumers who are seeking more affordable alternatives. Additionally, to fully utilize the Tab S11 Ultra’s capabilities, users may need to purchase extra accessories, such as the ‘Book Cover Keyboard Slim,’ which is sold separately. The cost of these accessories can add up quickly, making the overall investment even higher.
It’s too damn big
Another drawback of the Tab S11 Ultra is its size. With a 14.6-inch screen and dimensions of 208 x 326mm, the tablet may be unwieldy and cumbersome for some users. While the large display is ideal for productivity tasks when paired with the keyboard cover, it may not be practical for handheld use. Even users with larger hands may find it challenging to hold the tablet comfortably in one hand and navigate the screen with the other. This size issue may limit the tablet’s versatility and portability, making it less appealing to users who prioritize ease of use.
The S Pen had a downgrade
One of the standout features of the Tab S11 Ultra is Samsung’s S Pen stylus, which now boasts a redesigned design for a more natural writing experience. However, despite the improvements in ergonomics and performance, the new S Pen lacks Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support. This means that users will no longer be able to utilize the stylus as a remote control for various apps, as was possible with previous models. While the new S Pen offers a better handwriting experience, the removal of BLE functionality may disappoint users who relied on it for added convenience and functionality.
The software still can’t replace your laptop
Although the Tab S11 Ultra runs on One UI 8, which offers a robust software experience with useful multitasking features and Galaxy AI functionality, it still faces limitations as an Android tablet. Productivity tasks may be hindered by the lack of dedicated Android tablet apps for certain software, as many developers prioritize smartphone applications over tablet-specific versions. This disparity in app support can impact the tablet’s ability to serve as a laptop replacement effectively. While the Tab S11 Ultra excels in web browsing and content consumption, it may fall short in more demanding productivity tasks, making it a tough sell for users seeking a comprehensive laptop alternative.
Despite its impressive hardware and features, the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Stay tuned for our full review to learn more about the tablet’s performance and capabilities. In the meantime, explore our other tech reviews and news to stay informed about the latest developments in the world of technology.