Surface Tablet Vs Samsung Tablet Are Samsung Tablets Finally Catching Up In 2024

For years, Microsoft’s Surface lineup has dominated the premium tablet-for-work category. With its Windows OS, full desktop applications, and sleek integration with Office 365, the Surface became the go-to device for professionals who needed more than a media consumer but less than a full laptop. Meanwhile, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab series, running on Android, focused on creativity, portability, and multimedia—often seen as complementary rather than competitive.

But 2024 marks a turning point. Samsung has aggressively refined its DeX interface, expanded multitasking capabilities, and partnered with Microsoft to bring deeper Windows-like functionality to Android. At the same time, Microsoft has slowed Surface hardware innovation, leaving room for challengers. So, is Samsung finally closing the gap? The answer isn’t binary—but the momentum is shifting.

Operating System: Windows vs Android — Who Offers Real Productivity?

The core difference between Surface and Samsung tablets lies in their operating systems. Surface devices run full Windows 11, giving users access to legacy software, file system control, and desktop-grade applications like Adobe Photoshop, Visual Studio, or AutoCAD. This makes them ideal for developers, engineers, and enterprise users who can't compromise on compatibility.

Samsung tablets, powered by Android with One UI and enhanced DeX mode, have traditionally been better suited for media consumption, note-taking, and light editing. But recent updates have transformed DeX into a near-desktop experience. In 2024, DeX supports resizable windows, drag-and-drop between apps, external monitor output at 4K, and even mouse and keyboard shortcuts that mimic traditional PC workflows.

Microsoft has also enabled cloud-based Windows 365 integration on select Samsung tablets via the “Windows Link” app, allowing users to stream a full Windows desktop directly to their Galaxy Tab S9 or S9 Ultra. While not a native replacement, it blurs the line between mobile and desktop environments.

“Samsung is no longer just chasing Microsoft—they’re redefining what a tablet can do in hybrid work environments.” — Raj Patel, Senior Analyst at TechInsight Group

Tip: Use Samsung DeX with a Bluetooth keyboard and monitor to simulate a lightweight workstation for email, spreadsheets, and video calls.

Hardware Showdown: Design, Performance, and Build Quality

In terms of build quality, both brands deliver premium experiences. The Surface Pro 9 features a magnesium alloy chassis, kickstand, and detachable Type Cover, offering a familiar laptop-like setup. It's powered by either Intel 12th Gen chips or Microsoft’s SQ3 ARM processor (in collaboration with Qualcomm), though the latter still struggles with x64 app emulation.

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra counters with a sleek aluminum unibody, ultra-slim bezels, and an industry-leading 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display at 2960x1848 resolution. Under the hood, it runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2—for-Galaxy chip, optimized for power efficiency and graphics performance. RAM options now reach up to 16GB, matching high-end laptops.

Where Samsung pulls ahead is in display technology and stylus integration. The included S Pen offers 2ms latency, pressure sensitivity, and Bluetooth controls—ideal for artists and note-takers. Surface’s Slim Pen is excellent too, but requires separate storage and charging solutions.

Key Hardware Comparison (2024 Flagship Models)

Feature	Surface Pro 9	Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Display	13” PixelSense Flow (2880x1920)	14.6” Super AMOLED (2960x1848)
Processor	Intel i7-1255U / SQ3	Qualcomm SM8550-AC (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2)
RAM	Up to 16GB	Up to 16GB
Storage	128GB–1TB SSD	256GB–1TB UFS (expandable via microSD)
OS	Windows 11	Android 14 with One UI 6.1
Battery Life	~10 hours	~12 hours
Stylus Included	No (sold separately)	Yes

Productivity Ecosystem: Office, Multitasking, and Real-World Use

Microsoft Surface thrives in environments where full Office suite usage is non-negotiable. Running native Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook means seamless macro support, add-ins, and document formatting—critical for legal, financial, or academic work.

Samsung has closed this gap through partnerships. The Galaxy Tab S9 series comes preloaded with Microsoft 365 apps optimized for Android, including desktop-mode versions of Word and Excel. Split-screen multitasking allows side-by-side use of Teams and OneNote, while floating windows let you keep Slack or WhatsApp open during presentations.

Moreover, Samsung’s Task Bar in DeX now supports pinned apps, system tray icons, and quick settings—features once exclusive to Windows. For users whose workflow revolves around cloud tools (Google Workspace, Notion, Zoom, Trello), the distinction between platforms matters less than it did five years ago.

Mini Case Study: A Freelance Designer’s Workflow

Lena Kim, a UX designer based in Seoul, switched from a Surface Pro 8 to a Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra in early 2024. Her primary tasks include wireframing, client meetings, and annotating PDFs. She uses Figma via browser, Samsung Notes for sketching, and Adobe Express for quick edits.

“I was skeptical at first,” she admits. “But after setting up DeX with a wireless keyboard and docking station, I realized I wasn’t missing anything. The S Pen feels more natural than typing for annotations, and the screen is brighter and more colorful. Plus, I can take calls directly on the tablet if needed.”

She still connects to a Windows VM via Windows 365 when she needs Illustrator, but for 80% of her daily work, the Samsung tablet suffices—and weighs less.

Software Updates and Longevity

A key concern for enterprise buyers has always been update longevity. Microsoft promises four years of driver and security updates for Surface devices, aligning with typical corporate refresh cycles.

Samsung now matches this commitment. As part of its “Galaxy Ecosystem Promise,” Samsung guarantees four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security patches for the Tab S9 series—unprecedented for Android tablets. This reduces total cost of ownership and makes Samsung a viable option for business deployments.

Additionally, Samsung Knox provides military-grade encryption and enterprise mobility management (EMM) support, enabling IT departments to remotely manage fleets of tablets with policies, app whitelisting, and data separation.

Checklist: Is a Samsung Tablet Right for You in 2024?

• ✅ Need a lightweight, long-lasting device for travel or fieldwork
• ✅ Prioritize display quality and stylus input for creative tasks
• ✅ Use mostly web-based or mobile-optimized productivity apps
• ✅ Want expandable storage and built-in S Pen without extra cost
• ✅ Open to using cloud-based Windows (via Windows 365 or Parsec) when needed
• ❌ Require native Windows-only software (e.g., QuickBooks Desktop, CAD tools)
• ❌ Depend heavily on file system navigation and USB peripherals

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Samsung tablet replace a laptop in 2024?

For many users, yes—but with caveats. If your work relies on cloud services, modern browsers, and touch-first apps, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra can function as a primary device, especially with DeX and accessories. However, power users needing specialized desktop software will still benefit from carrying a Windows machine.

Does the Surface still offer better keyboard and trackpad options?

The Surface Type Cover remains one of the best tablet keyboards available, with excellent key travel and tactile feedback. Samsung’s Book Cover Keyboard is functional but thinner and less ergonomic. For heavy typing, the Surface holds an edge, though third-party Bluetooth keyboards can level the playing field.

Is DeX ready for professional use?

DeX has matured significantly. With window snapping, taskbar navigation, and external display support, it’s suitable for email, document editing, video conferencing, and light design work. However, inconsistent app optimization across Android developers means some programs don’t scale well in desktop mode.

Conclusion: The Balance of Power Is Shifting

In 2024, Samsung tablets aren’t just “catching up”—they’re reimagining what productivity looks like in a mobile-first world. While Microsoft Surface retains its crown for full Windows functionality and enterprise integration, Samsung has made undeniable strides in hardware, software, and ecosystem support.

The real winner is the user. Competition is forcing both companies to innovate, improve support, and deliver better value. Whether you choose a Surface or a Samsung tablet should now depend not on brand loyalty, but on actual workflow needs: Do you need Windows natively, or can you work efficiently in a hybrid, cloud-powered environment?

🚀 Ready to rethink your mobile workstation? Evaluate your daily tasks, try DeX or rent a Surface for a week, and see which platform truly fits your rhythm. The future of productivity isn’t tied to one OS—it’s about flexibility, choice, and getting work done wherever you are.