Samsung Tab S5e Vs S7 Fe Is The Newer Model Really Worth The Upgrade 3

When it comes to Samsung’s mid-range tablets, the Galaxy Tab S5e and the Galaxy Tab S7 FE often spark debate among users considering an upgrade. Released three years apart—2019 for the S5e and 2021 for the S7 FE—they represent different generations of design philosophy, hardware capability, and software integration. While the S7 FE appears to be a clear successor in name, its positioning as a “Fan Edition” device raises questions about value, performance, and long-term usability. So, is upgrading from the S5e to the S7 FE truly worthwhile? The answer depends on how you use your tablet.

Design and Build: Evolution with Purpose

The Galaxy Tab S5e set a high bar for sleekness when it launched. At just 5.5mm thick and weighing 400g (Wi-Fi model), it was one of the slimmest and lightest Android tablets available. Its metal unibody gave it a premium feel, and the symmetrical bezels provided a balanced aesthetic ideal for media consumption.

In contrast, the S7 FE is noticeably thicker at 6.3mm and heavier at 508g (Wi-Fi). This increase stems from a larger 12.4-inch display and a significantly bigger battery. While less portable, the S7 FE compensates with improved ergonomics for extended use—especially when paired with the optional S Pen or used in landscape mode for note-taking or video calls.

Tip: If portability is key, the S5e remains unmatched in its class. But if you prioritize screen real estate and stylus support, the S7 FE’s bulk is a fair trade-off.

Display and Visual Experience

The S5e features a 10.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2560x1600. The colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and viewing angles are excellent—making it a favorite for streaming content.

The S7 FE steps up with a 12.4-inch TFT LCD (not AMOLED) at 2560x1600 resolution. While the pixel density is similar, the lack of AMOLED means less contrast and dimmer blacks. However, the sheer size makes multitasking more effective, and the flat matte finish reduces glare—ideal for writing with the S Pen.

For movie lovers who value color accuracy and contrast, the S5e still holds an edge. For students, artists, or professionals using split-screen apps or taking handwritten notes, the S7 FE’s expansive canvas is far more functional.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

The S5e runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 670—a capable chip for everyday tasks but not designed for heavy workloads. It handles web browsing, video streaming, and light gaming well, but struggles with demanding apps or prolonged multitasking.

The S7 FE uses the Snapdragon 750G, a significant leap in both CPU and GPU performance. Benchmarks show nearly 70% better multi-core performance and double the graphics output. Paired with 4GB or 6GB RAM (vs. 4GB on the S5e), the S7 FE delivers smoother app switching, faster app launches, and better handling of productivity suites like Microsoft Office or Adobe Fresco.

“Tablets are no longer just for media—they’re becoming hybrid work devices. The shift from entry-level to mid-tier processors reflects that change.” — David Lin, Mobile Tech Analyst at GadgetInsight

Feature	Samsung Tab S5e	Samsung Tab S7 FE
Release Year	2019	2021
Display Size & Type	10.5\" Super AMOLED	12.4\" TFT LCD
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 670	Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G
RAM Options	4GB	4GB / 6GB
Storage Options	64GB / 128GB (expandable)	64GB / 128GB / 256GB (expandable)
Battery Capacity	7,040 mAh	10,090 mAh
S Pen Support	No (sold separately, limited functionality)	Yes (included with some models)
Weight (Wi-Fi)	400g	508g
OS Launch Version	Android 9 (One UI 1.1)	Android 11 (One UI 3.1)
Current OS Support	Up to One UI 4 (security updates only)	Eligible for One UI 6 (Android 14)

Battery Life and Charging: A Clear Winner

The S5e’s 7,040 mAh battery offered around 12 hours of mixed usage—impressive at launch. However, after several years of charging cycles, many users report diminished longevity.

The S7 FE’s 10,090 mAh battery pushes endurance to 15–18 hours under typical use. With moderate screen brightness and background activity, it can last two full days. Additionally, it supports 45W fast charging (though most units ship with a 15W charger), allowing a 0–70% charge in under an hour.

Tip: Enable adaptive battery settings and reduce screen timeout to extend daily life, especially on older devices like the S5e.

Software, Features, and Real-World Usability

The S7 FE benefits from being a newer device with longer software support. It launched with Android 11 and is eligible for Android 14 and possibly Android 15, ensuring access to future security patches and feature updates. In contrast, the S5e reached its major OS update limit with One UI 4 and now receives only occasional security fixes.

One of the biggest practical advantages of the S7 FE is native S Pen support. The stylus magnetically attaches to the top edge, charges wirelessly, and enables precise note-taking, sketching, and navigation. Samsung Notes integrates seamlessly, and handwriting-to-text conversion is accurate and fast.

DeX mode—the desktop-like interface—is also more refined on the S7 FE. With resizable windows and better peripheral support, it becomes a viable alternative to a lightweight laptop when paired with a keyboard case.

Mini Case Study: From Student to Remote Worker

Lena, a university student in 2020, relied on her Tab S5e for lectures and PDF annotations. By 2023, she transitioned into a remote marketing role requiring frequent collaboration, slide editing, and handwritten client feedback. Her S5e struggled with app lag and lacked stylus precision. She upgraded to the S7 FE and immediately noticed improvements: smoother multitasking between Slack, Google Docs, and Zoom; effortless note-taking during calls; and the ability to use DeX for presentations. The larger screen reduced eye strain, and the included S Pen eliminated the need for third-party accessories.

For Lena, the upgrade wasn’t just about specs—it was about workflow efficiency. The S7 FE became a true productivity tool, whereas the S5e had remained primarily a media device.

Upgrade Checklist: Are You Ready for the S7 FE?

Before making the switch, consider this checklist:

• ✅ Do you use your tablet for work, study, or creative tasks?
• ✅ Do you want built-in S Pen support without extra cost?
• ✅ Is screen size important for reading, drawing, or multitasking?
• ✅ Do you value longer software support and future-proofing?
• ✅ Can you accept a heavier, less pocketable device?

If most answers are yes, the S7 FE is a justified upgrade. If you mostly watch videos in bed or read e-books, the S5e may still serve you well—especially if it’s functioning properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the S Pen from the S7 FE with the S5e?

Technically, yes—but functionality is limited. The S5e doesn’t support Bluetooth pairing or magnetic attachment. You’d need to carry the pen separately, and features like air commands won’t work.

Is the S7 FE worth buying in 2024?

Absolutely, especially at discounted prices. As a refurbished or sale item, it offers exceptional value for students, note-takers, or secondary device users. Just ensure you get a model with at least 6GB RAM for optimal performance.

Does the S5e still receive updates?

No major OS updates since One UI 4. Security patches are infrequent and likely to stop soon. Continued use carries increasing vulnerability risks, especially if handling sensitive data.

Conclusion: Upgrade with Intention

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE isn’t just a newer version of the S5e—it’s a reimagined device for a different kind of user. If your needs have evolved beyond passive consumption to active creation, the upgrade makes strong sense. You gain a larger, more productive screen, vastly superior performance, essential S Pen integration, and years of software support ahead.

However, if your S5e still meets your needs and you prioritize portability and media quality, holding off is reasonable. Not every newer device is inherently better for every person.

🚀 Ready to optimize your digital workspace? Assess your daily usage, try the S7 FE in-store if possible, and make a decision based on real needs—not just release dates.