Samsung Tab S5e Vs A7 Is The Older Premium Tablet Still Worth It

As Samsung continues to expand its tablet lineup with budget-friendly models like the Galaxy Tab A7, many consumers are left wondering: does the older but more premium Galaxy Tab S5e still hold up? Released in 2019, the Tab S5e was positioned as a sleek, media-focused device with high-end materials and solid performance. The Tab A7, arriving in 2020 and refreshed in later iterations, targets casual users with affordability and improved software support. But when faced with a used or discounted S5e versus a new A7, which one truly offers better long-term value?

This isn't just about specs on paper—it's about real-world usability, longevity, software updates, and how each tablet fits into modern workflows. Whether you're using it for streaming, light productivity, or reading, understanding the trade-offs between these two devices can save you money and frustration.

Design and Build Quality: Premium Feel vs Practicality

The most immediate difference between the Tab S5e and the Tab A7 is evident the moment you pick them up. The S5e features an aluminum unibody construction, making it feel solid and refined in hand. At just 400 grams and 5.5mm thin, it’s one of the slimmest and lightest tablets Samsung has ever made—ideal for extended handheld use.

In contrast, the Tab A7 uses a plastic chassis, which reduces weight slightly (around 380g) but sacrifices that sense of durability and elegance. While the A7 is no slouch in ergonomics, its matte finish attracts fingerprints less than the S5e’s glossy metal, offering a practical advantage for daily use.

Tip: If portability and premium feel matter most, the S5e remains unmatched in its class—even years after release.

Both tablets feature an 8-inch display with narrow bezels and a centered front camera, though the S5e’s screen-to-body ratio is slightly higher due to thinner borders. However, the build quality gap remains the defining factor: the S5e feels like a premium device; the A7 feels like a well-designed budget option.

Display and Audio Performance

The S5e sports a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution (2560 x 1600), delivering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. This makes it particularly strong for video consumption, photo viewing, and even light graphic design work. AMOLED technology also means individual pixels can turn off completely, improving battery efficiency during dark-themed usage.

The Tab A7, meanwhile, uses a 10.4-inch TFT LCD panel at the same resolution. While sharp, it lacks the color depth and contrast of AMOLED. Viewing angles are decent, but outdoor visibility and color accuracy fall short compared to the S5e. For users who watch a lot of Netflix, YouTube, or read comics and e-books, this distinction is significant.

Audio is another area where the S5e pulls ahead. It includes quad speakers tuned by AKG and supports Dolby Atmos, creating a rich, immersive soundstage. The A7 only has dual speakers without advanced tuning or surround enhancement, resulting in flatter, less dynamic audio—especially noticeable at higher volumes.

“Even in 2024, the Tab S5e’s display and speaker combo remains one of the best in sub-$400 tablets.” — James Lin, Mobile Tech Analyst at TabletInsider

Performance and Software: Can the S5e Keep Up?

Under the hood, the Tab S5e runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 670—a mid-tier chip from 2018 designed for efficiency and moderate performance. Paired with 4GB of RAM, it handles everyday tasks smoothly: web browsing, email, social media, and video playback. However, multitasking with multiple apps or running heavier games may result in occasional stutters.

The Tab A7 uses the newer Snapdragon 662 (or 665 in some regions), which is built on a more efficient 11nm process and includes improved GPU performance. While not dramatically faster, it offers better thermal management and slightly better app launch speeds. With 3GB or 4GB RAM options depending on region, multitasking is comparable—but the A7 benefits from fresher architecture and longer software optimization.

Feature	Samsung Tab S5e	Samsung Tab A7
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 670	Qualcomm Snapdragon 662/665
RAM	4GB	3GB / 4GB
Storage	64GB / 128GB (expandable)	32GB / 64GB (expandable)
Display	10.5” Super AMOLED	10.4” TFT LCD
Battery	7,040 mAh	7,040 mAh
OS (Launch)	Android 9 + One UI 1.1	Android 10 + One UI 2.5
OS (Latest Support)	Up to Android 12	Up to Android 13/14*
Rear Camera	13 MP	8 MP
Front Camera	8 MP	5 MP
Speakers	Quad AKG-tuned + Dolby Atmos	Dual speakers

*Software update availability varies by region.

Battery Life and Longevity Considerations

Both tablets come equipped with a 7,040 mAh battery, but real-world endurance differs due to display technology and processor efficiency. The S5e’s AMOLED screen consumes significantly less power when displaying dark content, giving it an edge in streaming scenarios. In mixed use, expect around 12–14 hours of screen-on time if brightness is managed well.

The A7, with its LCD panel, tends to drain faster under similar conditions—closer to 9–11 hours. However, its newer SoC and software optimizations help balance this somewhat. Both support 15W fast charging, though neither includes a fast charger in the box.

Longevity is a critical concern. The S5e launched with Android 9 and received updates up to Android 12, ending major OS upgrades in 2022. Security patches have since become sporadic. The Tab A7 started on Android 10 and reached Android 13, with select models eligible for Android 14—meaning it will likely receive security updates longer than the S5e.

Tip: Check firmware version before buying used. Devices stuck on outdated Android versions may lack app compatibility and security protections.

Real-World Use Case: Student Media Companion

Consider Maria, a university student majoring in communications. She needs a tablet primarily for watching lecture recordings, taking notes with a stylus, reading PDFs, and browsing between classes. She found a refurbished Tab S5e for $180 and a new Tab A7 for $230.

Maria chose the S5e. Despite being older, she valued the superior screen for long video sessions and the lightweight design for carrying in her backpack. She paired it with a Bluetooth keyboard and used Samsung Notes for annotations. Even without official DeX support, she leveraged split-screen mode effectively. Over nine months, the device performed reliably—though she noticed slower app launches over time as cache built up.

Her experience highlights a key insight: for media-centric users, the S5e’s hardware advantages often outweigh its software limitations. But had she needed stronger app compatibility or future-proofing, the A7 would have been the safer bet.

When the S5e Still Makes Sense

The Galaxy Tab S5e remains a compelling option under specific circumstances:

• You prioritize display quality and audio fidelity.
• Your primary use is entertainment: movies, music, audiobooks.
• You want a premium-feeling device at a fraction of current flagship prices.
• You’re comfortable sideloading apps or managing performance manually.

However, if your needs include:

• Using the latest apps and services that demand newer OS versions,
• Frequent multitasking or educational tools requiring consistent performance,
• Long-term ownership with reliable updates,

then the Tab A7—or even newer budget models like the Tab A8 or A9—is the more responsible choice.

Checklist: Choosing Between S5e and A7

1. ✅ Assess your primary use: media, productivity, or mixed?
2. ✅ Verify software version: Is the S5e updated to Android 12 or later?
3. ✅ Test performance: Open several browser tabs and switch between apps.
4. ✅ Evaluate screen preference: Do you notice and appreciate AMOLED quality?
5. ✅ Consider lifespan: Will you keep it beyond 2025? If yes, lean toward A7.
6. ✅ Check accessories: Does either model support keyboard covers or styluses you plan to use?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tab S5e run Zoom and Google Classroom smoothly?

Yes, both apps function well on the S5e for basic video calls and navigation. However, prolonged meetings may cause slight lag, especially if background apps aren’t closed. Ensure sufficient storage space and clear cache regularly for optimal performance.

Is the Tab A7 better than the S5e overall?

It depends. The A7 wins in software support, value-for-newness, and consistency. But the S5e surpasses it in display, audio, and build quality. Neither is universally “better”—your priorities determine the winner.

Does the S5e support any stylus?

The S5e does not natively support the S Pen. While some third-party capacitive styluses work for basic writing, they lack pressure sensitivity and palm rejection. The A7 also lacks S Pen support, putting both on equal footing here.

Final Verdict: Worth It Only Under the Right Conditions

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S5e was a standout device in its time—an elegant, powerful media machine wrapped in premium materials. Today, it remains technically capable, especially for users who value screen quality and audio immersion over cutting-edge software.

But time has caught up. Limited update support, aging internals, and potential battery degradation in used units make it a riskier investment. The Tab A7, while less impressive in craftsmanship, offers better future readiness, newer components, and broader compatibility.

If you find a well-maintained S5e at a steep discount—under $150—and intend to use it mainly for videos, reading, or as a secondary device, it’s absolutely worth considering. But if you need reliability, longevity, and peace of mind, the Tab A7 or its successors deliver more sustainable value in 2024.

🚀 Ready to decide? Audit your usage habits, set a realistic budget, and test both devices if possible. The right tablet isn’t always the newest—it’s the one that fits your life.