Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Vs Tab 4 Is It Worth Upgrading Or Are They Basically The Same

When Samsung released the Galaxy Tab 4 shortly after the Tab 3, many users were left wondering: is this just a minor refresh, or does the newer model offer tangible improvements? For owners of the Tab 3 considering an upgrade, the decision hinges on more than just price. Real differences in performance, software support, build quality, and long-term usability matter—especially if you rely on your tablet for work, media, or education.

The two devices may look nearly identical at first glance, but beneath the surface, key upgrades make the Tab 4 more future-proof and capable. This isn’t merely a cosmetic update; it’s a strategic step forward in Samsung’s mid-range tablet evolution.

Design and Build: Subtle But Meaningful Changes

At a glance, the Galaxy Tab 3 and Tab 4 appear almost indistinguishable. Both feature plastic chassis, similar bezel sizes, and the signature Samsung home button below the screen. However, closer inspection reveals subtle refinements in the Tab 4’s design that improve ergonomics and durability.

The Tab 4 is slightly lighter across most variants (7-inch, 8-inch, and 10.1-inch models), with a marginally thinner profile. The back panel has a finer texture, offering better grip and reduced fingerprint smudging. While not revolutionary, these tweaks enhance daily handling—especially during extended reading or video sessions.

Tip: If portability matters, prioritize the 7-inch Tab 4—it fits comfortably in one hand and slips easily into small bags.

Performance Comparison: Hardware That Actually Matters

Under the hood, the Tab 4 introduces a noticeable leap in processing power. While the Tab 3 used older dual-core or quad-core chips (depending on screen size), the Tab 4 upgraded to a more efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 series processor across all models. This means smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and better responsiveness when switching between apps.

RAM remains at 1.5GB for most configurations, which was adequate in its time but now feels limiting by modern standards. Still, the improved CPU architecture in the Tab 4 ensures less lag during everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and streaming.

Storage options stayed consistent—typically 8GB or 16GB with microSD expansion up to 64GB. But here's where the Tab 4 gains an edge: better file management software and native support for adoptable storage (on certain Android versions post-upgrade) allow users to treat the SD card as internal memory, easing space constraints.

Benchmark Summary (Average Scores)

Metric	Galaxy Tab 3	Galaxy Tab 4
CPU Speed	Dual-core 1.2GHz	Quad-core 1.2GHz
GPU	PowerVR SGX544	Adreno 305
RAM	1GB–1.5GB	1.5GB
Antutu Score (approx.)	18,000	26,000
OS at Launch	Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean)	Android 4.4 (KitKat)

The higher benchmark scores reflect real-world benefits: quicker camera startup, reduced stutter in YouTube playback, and improved performance in lightweight games like Candy Crush or Asphalt 8.

Software and Longevity: Why KitKat Was a Turning Point

One of the most significant differences lies in software. The Tab 3 launched with Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, while the Tab 4 debuted with Android 4.4 KitKat—a version optimized for lower-end hardware. This meant longer battery life, better memory management, and enhanced security features like SELinux enforcement.

More importantly, KitKat laid the groundwork for future updates. Many Tab 4 units received official updates to Android 5.0 Lollipop, extending their usable lifespan by 12–18 months compared to the Tab 3, which largely remained on Jelly Bean or received only partial updates.

“Devices running KitKat had measurably better background process control and battery efficiency.” — David Lin, Mobile Systems Analyst at TechInsight Group

For users who depend on current apps, even basic functionality today requires at least Android 5.0. As of 2024, major services like Google Meet, Zoom, and banking apps have dropped support for pre-Lollipop devices. This makes the Tab 3 functionally obsolete for secure, reliable use.

Display and Multimedia Experience

Both tablets offer the same resolution across equivalent sizes: 1280x800 pixels for the 10.1-inch models, 1024x600 for the 7-inch. There’s no improvement in pixel density or brightness, so visual clarity remains identical.

However, the Tab 4 includes updated media software—better video scaling, improved audio routing, and native support for more codecs. Users report fewer issues playing MKV or AVI files directly from SD cards without third-party players.

Speakers remain mono on smaller models and stereo on the 10.1-inch variant, but tuning on the Tab 4 delivers slightly richer mids and less distortion at high volumes.

Real-World Example: A Teacher’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah, a middle school teacher in Portland, used her Galaxy Tab 3 for three years to manage lesson plans, display videos, and grade digital assignments. By 2016, she noticed increasing slowdowns—Google Drive would freeze, Chrome tabs crashed frequently, and updating apps became impossible.

She considered buying a used iPad but found a refurbished Tab 4 for $120. After switching, she immediately noticed faster boot times, smoother navigation in Google Classroom, and stable performance during class presentations. The device lasted her another two full academic years before she eventually moved to a newer Android tablet.

Her experience reflects a broader trend: for budget-conscious users needing reliable access to cloud tools and educational apps, the Tab 4 provided a meaningful upgrade path from the Tab 3.

Step-by-Step: Should You Upgrade?

If you're still using a Galaxy Tab 3, follow this decision timeline to determine whether upgrading to the Tab 4—or skipping both—is the right move:

1. Evaluate Current Performance: Can your Tab 3 open Gmail, Google Docs, and YouTube without freezing? If not, hardware limitations are likely the cause.
2. Check App Compatibility: Try installing a modern app like Microsoft OneNote or Khan Academy. If installation fails or the app crashes, your OS is too outdated.
3. Assess Security Needs: Devices stuck on Android 4.2 receive no security patches. Using them for email or banking poses real risks.
4. Compare Upgrade Costs: Refurbished Tab 4 units can be found under $80, but consider spending slightly more ($150–$200) for a current entry-level tablet with modern support.
5. Decide: If staying within the old ecosystem, the Tab 4 is clearly superior. But if possible, jump to a newer platform entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Galaxy Tab 3 be upgraded to KitKat or Lollipop?

Some regional variants received unofficial firmware updates via custom ROMs, but most never got past Android 4.3. Official support ended years ago, making upgrades risky and unsupported.

Is the battery life better on the Tab 4?

Battery capacity is nearly identical (4000mAh for 10.1-inch models), but the Tab 4’s more efficient OS and processor yield about 1–1.5 hours more usage under similar conditions.

Are accessories interchangeable between models?

Yes—cases, screen protectors, and charging cables are fully compatible due to identical dimensions and port placement.

Final Verdict: Worth Upgrading—But With Caveats

Yes, upgrading from the Galaxy Tab 3 to the Tab 4 is worthwhile—if you’re constrained by budget and must stay within this generation. The improvements in performance, software support, and reliability are real and impactful for day-to-day use.

However, “worth it” depends on your needs. If you require dependable access to modern apps, secure browsing, or video conferencing, even the Tab 4 will struggle today. Both devices are over a decade old. While the Tab 4 was a meaningful upgrade in 2014, neither meets minimum standards for smooth operation in 2024.

Tip: Consider donating or recycling your old tablet. Many schools and nonprofits accept retired devices for parts or educational disassembly projects.

Upgrade Checklist

• ✔️ Confirm your Tab 3 struggles with basic apps
• ✔️ Research availability of Tab 4 in working condition
• ✔️ Back up data before switching devices
• ✔️ Install essential apps and test performance
• ✔️ Plan for eventual transition to a modern Android or iOS tablet

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 was a justified successor to the Tab 3—offering better performance, improved software, and greater longevity. For users in 2014–2016, the upgrade made sense. Today, however, both devices serve best as secondary units for children, offline reading, or media playback from local storage.

If you're clinging to a Tab 3, moving to a Tab 4 will feel like a breath of fresh air—but don’t mistake it for a long-term solution. Technology moves fast. Invest in a current-generation tablet when possible, and use these older models as stepping stones, not endpoints.

💬 Have experience upgrading from the Tab 3 to Tab 4? Share your story in the comments—your insights could help others make a smarter choice.