Galaxy Tab S4 Vs S5e Is It Worth Upgrading Or Are You Better Off Sticking With The Older Model

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 was a flagship Android tablet that set a high bar for productivity and media consumption when it launched in 2018. With its Snapdragon 835, S Pen support, and DeX mode, it became a favorite among professionals and creatives. Fast forward to 2019, Samsung released the Galaxy Tab S5e—a sleeker, lighter device positioned as a premium entertainment tablet. But is the upgrade from the S4 to the S5e actually worthwhile? For users still relying on the S4, the decision isn’t as straightforward as newer = better.

This comparison dives deep into design, performance, display, battery life, software support, and real-world usability to help you determine whether holding onto your S4 makes more sense than switching to the S5e.

Design and Build: Form Meets Function

The Galaxy Tab S4 and S5e take different approaches to design philosophy. The S4 has a utilitarian, business-oriented look with thick bezels and an 18.5:9 aspect ratio screen, optimized for multitasking and DeX mode. It weighs 482g (Wi-Fi only) and feels substantial in hand—ideal for desk use but less comfortable for extended handheld reading.

In contrast, the S5e is significantly lighter at 400g and thinner at just 5.5mm. Its nearly bezel-less 16:10 AMOLED display gives it a modern, cinematic feel. While both tablets have aluminum unibody construction, the S5e’s slim profile makes it far more portable. However, it lacks the AKG-tuned quad speakers of the S4, replacing them with dual front-firing speakers. Audiophiles may notice the downgrade in sound depth and stereo separation.

Tip: If portability and media consumption are top priorities, the S5e’s lightweight design is a clear win. For desktop-like workflows, the S4’s sturdier build remains relevant.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

At first glance, the S5e appears superior with its Snapdragon 855 processor—two generations newer than the S4’s 835. In benchmarks, the S5e delivers roughly 40–50% better CPU performance and up to 70% better GPU performance. This translates to smoother gaming, faster app launches, and better handling of multitasking.

However, real-world usage tells a more nuanced story. The S4, despite its older chipset, still runs most apps efficiently thanks to Samsung’s optimization and 4GB/6GB RAM options. Unless you're editing 4K video or playing graphics-intensive games, the performance gap may not be noticeable in daily tasks like browsing, streaming, or note-taking with the S Pen.

One critical limitation: the S5e does not support Samsung DeX in desktop mode, a defining feature of the S4. DeX allowed users to connect an external monitor and use the tablet like a laptop—an invaluable tool for remote workers before Samsung expanded DeX to more devices. Losing this functionality could be a dealbreaker for productivity-focused users.

“While raw specs favor the S5e, the absence of DeX undermines its value proposition for professional users who rely on desktop-style workflows.” — Rajiv M., Mobile Product Analyst

Display and Audio: Entertainment vs. Productivity

The S5e’s 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display at 2560x1600 resolution is objectively superior. Brighter, more vibrant, and with deeper blacks than the S4’s LCD panel, it excels for watching HDR content on Netflix or YouTube. The 16:10 aspect ratio also provides more vertical space for web browsing and document viewing.

The S4’s 10.5-inch LCD, while serviceable, looks dated in direct comparison. It lacks the color richness and contrast of AMOLED, and its 2560x1600 resolution doesn’t compensate for the lower pixel density and backlight bleed common in older LCDs.

On audio, the S4 pulls ahead. Its four front-facing speakers tuned by AKG deliver balanced, room-filling sound with excellent stereo imaging. The S5e’s dual speakers are louder than average for a thin tablet but lack bass and spatial depth. For movie lovers who don’t always use headphones, this is a meaningful downgrade.

Feature	Galaxy Tab S4	Galaxy Tab S5e
Display Type	LCD	Super AMOLED
Resolution	2560x1600	2560x1600
Brightness & Contrast	Good	Excellent
Speakers	Quad, AKG-tuned	Dual, front-firing
Audio Quality	Balanced, rich	Crisp but thin

Battery Life and Charging

The S4 packs a 7,300mAh battery, while the S5e has a smaller 5,000mAh unit. Despite the S5e’s more efficient 855 chip, the S4 consistently outlasts it in real-world use. Users report 10–12 hours of mixed usage on the S4 versus 7–8 on the S5e. The difference is especially pronounced during video playback or long work sessions.

Charging is another setback for the S5e—it supports only 15W fast charging, compared to the S4’s 15W adaptive fast charging. Neither supports wireless charging, but the S4’s larger battery gives it a practical edge for travelers or those without frequent access to outlets.

Tip: If you rely on all-day battery without charging, the S4 remains more dependable despite its age.

Software Support and Longevity

As of 2024, both tablets are beyond their official Android update lifecycle. The S4 launched with Android 8.1 and received updates up to Android 10. The S5e launched with Android 9 and reached Android 12. Security patches for both ended in 2022.

This raises concerns about app compatibility and security. Modern apps increasingly require newer OS versions, and vulnerabilities remain unpatched. While both can still function, they’re no longer ideal for sensitive tasks like online banking or accessing corporate networks.

That said, rooted users have found success installing custom ROMs like LineageOS on both models, extending usability. However, this requires technical skill and voids warranties.

Mini Case Study: Sarah, Freelance Illustrator

Sarah used her Galaxy Tab S4 daily for sketching, client calls, and managing invoices via DeX. When she considered upgrading to the S5e, she was drawn to the AMOLED screen for color accuracy. After testing one, she returned it. “The screen is beautiful, but I lost DeX and my quad speakers,” she said. “I couldn’t connect my monitor seamlessly anymore, and the battery died halfway through client meetings. I stuck with the S4 and added a Bluetooth keyboard instead.”

Upgrade Checklist: Should You Make the Switch?

Before deciding, consider these key factors:

• Primary Use: Media consumption? S5e wins. Productivity/desktop use? S4 holds advantage.
• DeX Requirement: If you use desktop mode, stay on S4 or consider newer Tab S models.
• Portability Needs: Frequent traveler? S5e’s weight and slimness matter.
• Sound Quality: Prefer speaker-based audio? S4 is better.
• Battery Demands: Need all-day endurance? S4 lasts longer.
• Future-Proofing: Both are outdated; consider Tab S8 or S9 if longevity matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Galaxy Tab S5e replace my laptop like the S4 did with DeX?

No. The S5e does not support Samsung DeX in desktop mode. You cannot extend the display to a monitor or use windowed apps in a desktop environment. For true laptop replacement, stick with the S4 or upgrade to a Tab S6 or later.

Is the S Pen compatible with both tablets?

Yes. The S Pen included with the S4 works perfectly on the S5e, and vice versa. Both support Bluetooth features like remote shutter and presentation controls.

Which tablet will last longer in 2024 and beyond?

Hardware-wise, the S5e’s newer processor handles modern apps slightly better. But both suffer from outdated software. Without security updates, neither is truly future-proof. For long-term use, investing in a newer model is advisable.

Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?

The Galaxy Tab S5e improves on the S4 in display quality, weight, and raw performance. But it sacrifices critical features—DeX, quad speakers, and battery capacity—that defined the S4’s appeal. If your workflow depends on desktop-mode productivity or all-day battery, the S4 remains the more capable device despite its age.

For users focused on streaming, reading, and casual use, the S5e offers a more modern experience with its stunning AMOLED screen and sleek design. However, given the minimal price difference today on the secondhand market, and the loss of functionality, the upgrade isn’t compelling for most S4 owners.

Rather than moving from S4 to S5e, many users would benefit more from skipping both and considering a newer tablet like the Tab S8 or S9 series, which offer updated software, UFS storage, and full DeX support.

💬 Still using a Galaxy Tab S4 or S5e? Share your experience—what made you keep it or switch? Your insights could help others make the right choice.