I need to disagree with the thing about the speakers. I doubt that even many high end laptops got speakers this good. They got incredibly good sound quality, which makes them perfect for consuming media.
Exactly. My tab S8+ is still on its way but I have the tab S6 which has far superior sound quality than my old Asus TUF 505DY and my current Thinkpad T15g.
I actually did replace my laptop with the tab S8 Ultra and have not really had any draw backs that made me wish I had my laptop. This thing has been able to do everything I needed with running my business
It's important to mention that tablet cameras can be used as an accessibility feature for people who cannot look from far distances. There are many people with disabilities who have difficulty seeing and tablets are a great way to cope with that with cameras.
What a fair review. I've got one on the way to me because I don't have to do heavy lift apps like you do. For just media consumption, blogging and email this looks incredible. Again, you were perfectly impartial, and incredibly clear. One of the best reviews I've seen, period!
technically they can replace them, but at the same time not completely. It really comes down to what you are using your laptop or tablet for. In order for a tablet to completely replace a laptop their hardware and cooling systems would need to be adequate enough to do so. But the reality with the S8 ultra is that because the tablet is so thin, its extremely difficult to provide a good enough cooling system to assist with heavy work loads. Also while the snapdragon chip is indeed a very good chip its not good enough to replace a GPU needed for heavy workloads as well. But if you are merely using a laptop to run excel, browse the internet, and stream entertainment, then yes a tablet would be more than enough to act as a substitute. I just bought my s8 ultra recently to act as a laptop for easy things meanwhile i use my desktop for gaming at my home.
Just a small note, Excel on Android is not the full version so if you require Pivot Table functionality, for example, an Android tablet will not be an adequate replacement for a windows laptop.
One super important feature on Galaxy Tabs that is almost never mentioned, is the ability take apps that only work in portrait mode and force them into being displayed in landscape mode. And with the S8, you can even choose if you want the app to be displayed on only part of the screen, or if you want it to be full screen! This is just magical, and means that every app that is not made for tablets, can still be used in landscape mode with a keyboard. The function can be found within advanced features and Labs.
Flash is underrated in my opinion. Yeah you might never use it for photography, but here ar my uses for the flash: - scanning documents with good lightning, no harsh shadows, and being able to scan them in any conditions - using the tablet or phone at night, with my girlfriend sleeping near me -> quick light source that doesn't bother her - flash intensity can be controlled on most devices and can be aimed away from you => not that harsh on the eyes compared to a smart blub on it's lowest setting. Great when you need a light source after staying for too long on the dark So yeah.. i find myself using the flash on my tablet and phone quite often. Even tho i'm not using it for it's intended use
I would say a Tab is a great replacement for a Chromebook type laptop but not a full blown laptop. I sold my laptop and am using a tablet like this one but for heavy lifting or full apps like Adobe suite of apps, I actually remote into my desktop to get things done. But overall, even with its limitations, I think these are great! Spot on review. Well done.
Dude Chromebook is way better than normal laptop You people probably don't know about linux apps in Chromebook And also android apps also work in Chromebook which is a good experience Chromebooks are also more secure than windows laptops
@@drumworld And I appreciate that. And honestly I think we're both on the same page but are coming at it from two different perspectives. While Linux based systems could work for most users, there are some like me who need a different architecture for the type of apps I'm running. I would love to see specific programs be written for Android or Linux but until such a time I'm limited in the type of replacement system I can use 100% of the time.
I own the Tab S7 which almost matches in specs with S8. Just wanted to share that I have been seamlessly editing 4K videos on my machine without any hiccups. Obviously, not with the detailed functionality as Adobe Premiere Pro. But Adobe Rush for Androids performs quite decently.
It works. But a high end laptop will DRASTICALLY reduce transcoding / render times. It's not really a question of will it work, as it clearly will. It's more a question of can it match the performance. Which it can't. I have a S7+ and have tried transcoding videos. If I'm not in any hurry it will work just fine. I mean I can still do nearly anything on a Core 2 Duo that does not mean it's the best tool, or even one I should rely on. It however would work if nothing else is available.
In my experience my Tab S8u (and formerly my tab s7+) has replaced my laptops for 90% of what I do as a software dev. I leave my mbp and xps at home and only take my tab to the office. Outside of real android/ios development...I don't _really_ need them to do majority of my web development tasks. I upgraded from the s7+ to the s8u for the larger display and extra ram. I truely love these devices and what they have to offer. I def recommend using a bluetooth mouse, as the mouse support on android fixes a lot of the click and drag / copy paste stuff. The biggest desire I still have is multiple virtual desktops when in dex mode. Oh and more linux on arm support from 3rd party devs but thats not a drawback of the tablet or samsung, just me being a power user and wanting more stuff.
@@marvinpyles3274 generally if you have a tablet and a PC at home then you can rdp to it with something like parsec. Also, you can ssh with termux to a cloud vm on free tier or just buy a membership at linode.
Can I use s7+ or even s8u for trading in cryptos and stocks..as I have to monitor prices and draw trend lines and indicators..I am little bit confused I was hoping to buy asus zenbook duo 14..but portability of these tablets kind of seducing me 😅..pls if anyone can help me.. primary use media and trading 🙂
it might be useful to install applications like termux or andronix, userland or debian no root and you'd get a kind of "virtualized" linux, even with a graphical environment if you wish
4:23 I've seen you mention this a few times with respect to this device, and that's "Having a cable coming out of the side". With all due respect, they do make right angle USB C cables. Which would drastically reduce the look and feel of a protruding cable coming out of the side. I own an Oculus which has a right angle USB C cable and it really saves the port from being broken. That being said, I fully understand that the Tab isn't shipped with a right angle USB C cable, but TBH it's a easy to fix issue IMO.
This is on point. In my use case, I differentiate what I use a loptop for and what I use a tablet for. That's why even though I am impressed by the Tab S8 Ultra, I cannot justify it in my mind because it's less portable and more expensive.
I strongly agree! I use an iPad pro and a laptop. The iPad is mainly for writing notes in university. I have a pc at home for gaming and typing assignments that are longer. The laptop is just addition for university, because I have some subject were I need to type a lot :D annddd its a gaming laptop, so it has good graphics card and I can also play games when I´m not at home
A tip - If you add an external monitor, you can use the tablet on standard Android and the monitor on DeX - That leaves you with a multi screen machine. The mouse only works on the DeX side, but that's not much of a problem because your tablet is a touch screen.
If you're comparing the Galaxy Tab S series to the iPad, they have been better laptop replacements ever since the introduction of Dex. Heck, I use one as a productivity device for word processing, spreadsheets, and taking notes in class without Dex, and it's a decent laptop replacement. But I have a Galaxy Tab S7+. I think with the Tab S8 Ultra, we are in different territory. I was willing to spend $850 on a tablet because I wanted to be able to read small text on e-textbooks, PDFs, and digital comics, in addition to doing regular tablet stuff like curling up on the couch with a digital book, TH-cam, Netflix, etc. All of those are things a proper tablet is better at than a Windows hybrid like the Microsoft Surface series. However, the Tab S8 Ultra changes things. At that price, it is in competition with a variety of very competent Windows convertibles that have more processing power and can run any desktop app. There are a bunch of competent convertible Windows machines out there. If your primary concern is productivity, almost any of them would be better unless you need longer battery life, better cameras for video conferencing, better displays, or better pens.
Well as a hospital resident, most of my work are about editing documents, doing some spreadsheets, zoom meetings and doing some presentations. About 80% of my work could be done on my Tab S7 since I bought it a few months ago, and the biggest advantage is it is VERY light, compared to my 2019 MBP. But, a thing that can't be done smoothly on my tab is when I did a presentation through zoom meeting, it wasn't as easy as doing it on a real laptop. But other things are okay now. I rarely pick my MBP out, except when I have to do a presentation through zoom meeting next time.
How does the zoom layout look in gallery view? Can you pin and spot light people like on real laptop? This is the only thing holding me back from purchasing.
I liked your review very much, but @ 10:52, as you were discussing storage & RAM, you forgot to mention that it has expandable storage via micro SD for up to an additional terabyte (1TB). This is hugely significant for those of us who don't like/trust “the cloud” to store our stuff. Again, thank you for sharing this with us!
@@Wertyhappy27 They both are vulnerable to being corrupt, what we don't want is compromised privacy, which servers are publicly controlled by other people.
If Microsoft remake their apps info full size apps, it's perfect laptop replacement. As office worker, I like using tab for working, but when I must do more than typing for my documents, the apps can't do that.
I don't think Microsoft would want it to replace a laptop despite their partnership with samsung. Even samsung themselves make laptops. Will affect their sales It will affect Dell and Hp laptop sales.
S7FE owner here. I have the exact opinions you have. My take on the software problem is that Google doesn't have as tight control over their store as Apple has on theirs...and developers are lazy, only developing the basics and not following the rest of the spec because "they don't care". This is why many apps are portrait-only. I could be wrong but it sure seems that way to me. Good review!
My home machine is a Chromebook hooked up to two 32" TVs - Most of my work involves hunting for data, making spreadsheets with what I find, then writing a document or making a presentation. Frankly, it's pretty great. However, when out and about I like small and portable, something Samsung tablets do very nicely. I can happily edit my work and, using a USB C to everything but a coffee machine dongle, do everything I need when I'm mobile.
There's so much old tut written on this subject that it was refreshing to watch this video. From my experience I find the speakers better on the Tab than on any laptop that I've ever owned but I've not heard them all so.. Otherwise, this was quality.. thank you .
This is always one of my favorite videos that you do. I enjoy how much detail you include and how in-depth your test is. I have a Galaxy Tab S7+ and it's one of my favorite purchases of all time. Not quite a full laptop but I get so much use out of it. S Pens will change your life!
I have s7 fe and i use it as a computer, right now writing this in dex mode and no problem. I dont do what other people here do on their computers and for what i do this works well. I have my samsung smartphone and this and thats all i have, i dont have another device/computer. Plus he was wrong about the size of computers in this video. I remember that I had a computer back in 2015 or 16 from samsung with a smaller screen than s7+/s7 fe, plus they are close in size to the common 13 inch screen computers these days, not everyone has or wants to buy a 15 plus inch screen computer, i once had a 17 inch computer which was not convenient when it came to portability or just general everyday handling
@@dreamthedream8929 I agree. My laptop broke and I’ve been using my Samsung galaxy tab s7+ as a replacement. It’s so great! And the chip is better than most computers. Only downfall is I need Adobe Creative Cloud. However, you can always remote a virtual desktop using AWS workspaces. And I more so blame Adobe, because they call it creative “cloud” but make it software. New design softwares like Figma and Canva are completely online to cater to the new wave of devices
@@ckay8191 does pinterest work for you properly? I want to do some work there but i cannot seem to get a proper desktop version of it, it does not appear like in the videos that im watching. What internet browser are you using?
@Dream TheDream89 I actually use the pinterest app and found that it works good. However, I don't do a lot of work in pinteresr. You could also click "desktop version" in chrome when viewing sites. I also heard samsung interenet was pretty good.
I don't game or edit photos other than basic tweaks, so this would be great for me! It's pricey and Sammy charge a buttload of money for the keyboard folio, but great stuff. Thanks for your excellent review Mike!
Fold 3 user here, personally I think this paired with a portable monitor is the sweet spot. I use my Fold 3 as my everything device. It's my phone, tablet and PC all in one. Love gaming with GeForce Now over 5G. Magic Dosbox comes in clutch for all my retro gaming needs as well. Termux with a debian proot distro gives me access to some desktop class Linux apps like Firefox and Gimp. Increasingly finding a pc less necessary these days. If I really needed one, there's also Shadow PC service although a tad pricey at $30 a month with no annual plan.
Having a Fold 3 (And now 4), just pushed me into buying the Tab S8+ Sure, the Fold is the "All rounder", but for example if i want to use it as a secondary screen for my laptop, it's just too small, if i want to check something in azure, it's too small, if i want to write something i'm studying, it's too small, sure, for normal phone use it's great, but for those more productive focused things, i think the tablet it's the way to go
Nice review Mike, I think it's a pretty "down to earth" one. I bought the Tab S8 Ultra a few days ago, hoping it fulfill my PC requirements, at least, I'm not a editor or anything like that... So far, I think it is doing a great job. Hope that some day they do some improvement in Dex.
In a lot of cases yes. In my profession no. I need ports and specific programs that I need to use. For everyday stuff like email, web browsing, photo/video editing, TH-cam yes it can. TH-camrs seem to think computers and laptops are used for basic stuff.
As a long-time Samsung android tablet user, I would really recommend using the SAMSUNG INTERNET BROWSER. That thing is a game-changer and makes the experience even more like a DESKTOP experience as it has an option to load sites IN DESKTOP versions ALL THE TIME, this is important because you won't be presented with weird mobile layout pages on such a huge screen (of course, Chrome browser can do this too, but you have to set to desktop mode FOR EACH tab every time which is a little cumbersome to me.). I'm saying this because the Samsung Internet browser is underrated and not getting the right acknowledgment it deserves. Most of my daily work tasks can be done through a browser (answering emails, google services such as spreadsheets and docs, Jira, etc) but some can only work best when being viewed in desktop mode (ahem, google services!) as the mobile version won't cut it. There are also subtle things that makes the Samsung browser able to almost PURELY emulate from the desktop browsing experience. One good example is the ability to hover on web items like menu drop downs, when you're giving reaction to a facebook posts, when you need to hover a video on youtube so you can see a short teaser etc. There are lots of things a simple mouseover can do that completes the desktop-like browsing experience. I don't think that works perfectly in chrome mobile. The video assistant is amazing too. Bottom line, I like for a mobile browser to load the desktop versions of the sites I'm visiting especially on a tablet with a screen this big (14.6 inches). It makes more sense. :)
I use it as the default on my Tab S8 Ultra and it works better than the other Android browsers, but it could be user friendlier. One feature it has that makes it preferable to every other Android browser is that it has a favorites bar, an underrated feature most tablet browsers don’t have. I thought Chrome would have it since it exists on their desktop browsers, but no, it isn’t there in the mobile browsers.
How come they haven't made a legit laptop keyboard dock with hinge to turn this into a laptop. They could even put a larger battery in the keyboard to extend the battery life. Guess every accessory adds to the cost and eventually an actual laptop looks like the better option.
i honestly tried with my Samsung Tab S7+. but laptop is still strongly preferred due to a more polished software especially with Office apps like Excel
Biggest issue is how the Bluetooth forces a refresh of the whole screen and any running apps when ever pairing or unpairing or if it goes idle. Never happens on iOS. I’m really trying to go tablet only but some serious 🧐 but small things that need changing.
The thing about a laptop is - you can choose Windows or Linux. You can also load programs of your choice. Once you choose Android, you are severely limited in software choices. This can be considered a security feature, BUT that's small consolation if the software you want isn't available (or the Android version has bugs).
The primary difference is in software and apps and programs. There are few fullscale fully functional apps on Android. Multitasking on Android is very restrictive. Windows allows access to multiple programs at once in full view. If this were a Windows tablet, I'd snap it up. Those are the most significant points to making a buying decision.
I had the galaxy tab s6 light, and a tab s7 (11 inch) . I traded them both in for the tab s8+, and I use it as a second computer. I love my s8+, it does most of what I need. I have an ipad air 4, and its fast and sleek, I just dont like to use it as another computer. Samsung Dex is amazing. I can understand why it may not work for other peoples for use case.
One thing I wish reviewers would do is inform us what the pc equivalent of the latest mobile chips are so we can get a good understanding of how they are progressing.
As I understand much of what you use in tablets and cellphones require internet or the cloud to work and process with focus in social media., in order to be light. If they are getting more powerful it seems it is to play Genshin impact or to get more functions in WhatsApp or Instagram. DeX mode is great, I use it, but still is not the same as a laptop. They aren't comparable because they have different ways to work.
@@ReinoldFZ funny that you just replied. I just watched a video on abilities of s8 ultra and while it won't handle heavy loads it seems to excel in the lighter loads way better than my galaxy book One. Maybe I'd see more similar sharing functionality if i also had more Samsung devices.
The point about apps being optimized for mobile devices cannot be stressed enough. For example take excel, the functionality you get on the app is about 25% of the computer version. The Apple version is much better than android, but a higher end user would find excel lacking the functionality required to do many tasks on either platform’s tablets. If you have some apps that are deal breakers as far as replacing a laptop, I would look to confirm the app you are interested in performs the same as on a laptop or you may regret your purchase.
Really good video! I'm not a typical user. I transitioned directly from phones to tablets and bypassed laptops for some reason. I first used a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2. It was underwhelming. Then I got a Droid Xyboard 10.1 (sweet stereo speakers and surprisingly good camera) with ICS and it was much more user friendly with some tablet optimized apps. Then a Nexus 10 (dope front firing stereo speakers and screen) then a Nexus 7 (2013) LTE that was the bomb! I used it for 4 years until it wasn't viable anymore. I then got a Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 which as served me well. I never missed a Windows laptop and their excellent photo editing apps and such and I'm not a big gamer, so this 14.8" Samsung slab looks like it could be perfect for me. Thanks for this video. It's very beneficial for an atypical user like myself.
Great review, and well timed as my laptop is near the end of its life. I think this is the ideal do it all machine for me and having seen it in the flesh I can say the screen is just incredible. I have found in my search for a new laptop a massive disparity with screen and build quality between brands. Pretty sure with my wireless keyboard and mouse this will be incredible to use.
If u had some time to use the device you would see that Android is not optimized for keyboard and mouse. I would strongly advice to try to find some way to try using some tablet in that way - it ain't the greatest experience.
@@miljantrajkovic1862 brilliant thanks, have decided not go for a surface laptop, should be a much better experience all round. Still love the idea of the S8 ultra as a laptop
Short answer -YES for majority of people. I'm just a bit perplexed by your notion about the speakers. The speakers on this thing are absolutely TROUNCING 99% of laptops. They're fantastic. Also, what's the story with the text highlighting? On my Tab s6 touchpad, left klick does it automatically just like on laptop. As for your video editing .. all this could be done easily on Kinemaster or Power Director. There's one you tuber (Shirosuki) with almost 700k subs and he does all his editing on Kinemaster and Samsung tablet, and the vids are much more edit heavy.
Honestly, the tablet market to replace the laptop would be great, the only thing stopping it is the OS, Android is a mobile OS while a laptop tends to be using more of a regular desktop OS, what we need is a hybrid OS. the Chrome OS could actually be something great for the tablet market as it can use the full-blown Desktop OS type of OS while also being able to use the mobile apps like on android thus being a hybrid OS. But even then Chrome OS still has a drawback in the sense that it focuses more on cloud computing which means that there are a lot of apps/features that won't be developed due to amount of versions of the app that needs to be supported, therefore hurts compatibility.
The software limitations are really frustrating, Google docs is not really the same thing on dex, even with mouse and keyboard. Things like selecting, right clicking, copy paste are almost impossible. I think Samsung could have done something about this with a little effort... But I don't expect them to focus in these details
@@lollymanna yes, but the ux belongs to Samsung. They could for example override the right click of the mouse, that in Android is set to be the back button, to do what the long press does (open contextual menu).
I agree. It can replace a laptop but that depends on the user and what their needs might be. I would venture to say for most people it can replace a laptop but for a smaller group right now the answer is still no. This isn't about Mike but It's disappointing to me that most reviewers don't take the time to explore apps or really fully use the device. The things they miss indicate to me that they haven't done all their homework. They'd find that most users will have everything they need and the app situation is not as it used to be. Tech reviewers are a specific use case.
I completely agree. Most people can definitely get everything they need out of this tablet! Maybe I should phrase it based on the laptop style people purchase. For example, anyone considering buying a laptop with an intel i3 would probably be fine with this, as they are not likely to be doing high demand tasks. Anyone seeking an intel i7 is likely to have specific software needs that would not be met with this device.
I like desktops. I like cell phones. I love laptops. I love tablets very much. Merging laptops and tablets as the one thing to work on it, I hate the concept. Totally.
Thanks Mike for the great review. It really helps me in considering buying a Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra. By the way, I have no problem using Chrome in my current S7+. it works well..
Unfortunately i can not replace my laptop with a tablet because i am a software developer student and all the software i need is only optimized for windows
For basic needs Id say yes because most folks that aren't using creative or professional apps don't tend to use their laptops much. If you have a specific set of needs like 3d rendering, adobe stuff etc. then absolutely not.
I think samsung is one of the few companies that is trying to reduce that gap. The pro 2 360 is a good example. I think that's the way to go. Laptops replacing tablets.
I like the SUV, pickup truck analogy. It really gives you a visual to grasp onto. And the fact that I own a suburban and have a trailer to tow motorcycles and bigger items. I guess the trailer would be my USB dongle lol. Great video
I'm afraid since the ultra is no longer on pre-order. I feel like a lot of Samsungs laptops are more competitive as value. But ironically the screen on the ultra is actually more amazing than any of Samsung's current laptops. But they are releasing new version of a laptops soon and it may equal but I hope the company knows what they're doing. Because without the pre-order you can't justify $1,500 for a tablet and a keyboard book cover. During the pre-order, Samsung offered me $500 towards the S7 tab. But if you look right now that has been reduced to $200. Yikes.
You are right. The biggest competitor is the new Galaxy Book2 Pro 360. It has "only" FHD resolution, but besides that, it has the same brightness, has the S Pen and with its keyboard it is lighter than Tab S8 Ultra with its book cover, if you go for the 13" model. But even the 15.6" model is not really heavier than the Tab S8 ultra with the book cover. It is really hard to decide between them!
@@arvandvarahram and that's one reason why I'm looking at what other competitors are building. In fact you can get a good rog laptop for a decent price for school if you wanted to. Or even a legion laptop as well. But in my opinion if you're going to buy anything laptop like, you need to see it in the store first because sometimes you think it's a good deal and you find out the screen is not even IPS and the viewing angles bad. I saw like a $800 Samsung laptop but the screen on it was horrible. And his older gentleman with his wife even noticed it and the Best buy associate tried to sell it to them lol. Bruh lol. Sometimes I feel like Samsung focuses mostly on screen and everything else second. But you need a overall good product. One of the things I did at the store was I was taking pictures and of the price tag as well and go home and compare. But in conclusion I think I might end up keeping my pre-order for the ultra tablet. Because it will fix the touchpad and I have a bigger screen where I won't have to squint when doing homework. I have a 26-in BenQ eye Care monitor hooked up to my PC. It's weird that you go from a big screen to a small screen lol. I don't necessarily need Windows because Microsoft has their apps for Android. I did look at the Microsoft surface products but the portable ones are too small. So if I had to go pick a laptop today, probably would be that Asus rog, legion, or the Microsoft surface laptop. And they seem to be decent overall. I was surprised you get a 3050 mobile GPU in the legion for $1,200 lol
Nice video, thanks for that. Will watch your Tab 8 / Tab 8+ video as well as I am interested in considering a tab right now. I just got my S22 Ultra few days ago and am not really interested in the Tab 8 Ultra (mainly because of the HUGE size) but might be willing to shell out money for either of the other 2 variants. As a very casual user who uses laptop / phone mostly for media consumption & browsing the web, there is not much of a difference between a laptop and a high-end tablet but since I am used to Windows as the OS on laptops, if I were to replace a laptop with a tablet, it would be really uncomfortable at first because of the different UI, that's the only gripe that I have.
I've been using DEX on my S7+ for the past few weeks, since my Alienware 17R3 died. There are very few downsides and more upsides to using the tablet. When used with a USB-C monitor for everyday use, the tablet is really pleasant to use, even for online 3D modelling. Runs silent and fast. You do have to get used to doing things differently to how you might on a Windows laptop, but most peripherals seem reasonably supported. This is a long way from being a gimmick. It is important to use Good Lock and also search for hidden features that help with productivity.
Ports will be my deal breaker. 3.5mm and HDMI at a minimum. At least one type A port for a Logitech dongle and I'd be set. I would love to have the battery life and fancy screen, and I'd largely use it as a thin client to a windows VM for my hard hitting productivity concerns.
I think that in the future some tablets can replace laptops like these Samsung tablets they are good in my opinion right now but if apps were optimized for tablets I think they have a far better chance of being more useful and used more often but that's how I see it.
In Samsung devices you also have something called Samsung flow, that lets you share files not only between android devices but also between your Samsung smartphone/tablet and any Windows laptop! It even supports the drag and drop functionality
In the meantime, there are better options. DeX for Windows works just fine: you work literally on two difference computers using the same screen, mouse and keyboard. In case of Galaxy phones, you should simply use Link to Windows: the drag and drop is the least spectacular feature in this case😊 And of course access to all your files, photos and notifications is there, too. But what makes it really incredible is that you can stream 5 apps simultaneously from your phone on your Windows laptop, and if you prefer just use your laptop touch screen as if you were using your phone’s touch screens. And to start the Apps, just add them to your Windows task-bar as if they were native Windows Apps.
@@arvandvarahram Yeah but android apps still don't run as smoothly as they should on windows! U can use an emulator, but it's not native so the experience doesn't feel so smooth! Just recently android apps were integrated on win11, and they now run natively through the amazon store, but it's really clunky! In the meantime we have dex for android that is just better
I picked up the s8+ through my mobile carrier, and works just fine as a laptop replacement. If I ever need some heavy lifting, which isn't that often, I can just use my desktop.
For the regular work like reading e-mails, spreadsheets, documents and surfing the web, you can replace it for a laptop. But it will cost almost the same for a Macbook Air.
As a long time Samsung tab users I have just one gripe. Google chrome is still second best as you can't get the full version with bookmarks and so on. You can get the full versions of Sheets, Docs, and Slides by going to the site and hitting 'Desktop site', but these tablets are bigger than many laptops so they really need the full version of Chrome - even if it's only in DeX.
Depends on the use. In some cases it's a clear yes. If all you use a laptop for is watching TH-cam, or even basic office use, tablets can easily fill that void. If however you are needing something with more power and are doing 4k video editing or high resolution 3d rendering, OR even programming a laptop would be a better choice. Now that's not to say you can't use a tablet for those tasks as well. But it's a question of the BEST tool. I know as a high end gamer I could not replace my gaming laptop with my tablet (Samsung Tab S7+). While it's a nice tablet it just can't compete with even a midrange laptop for many tasks. Now, on to the video!
Like someone said in a different video. A great laptop can sorta be a half decent tablet when it needs to, and a fantastic tablet, can be a decent laptop when it's needed. Depends on what you're needs are. For me, my tab s7+ is irreplaceable. It's a tablet when it needs to be and when I need to serious tasks done, words documents, Excel, emails, push that dex button and you have a perfect laptop replacement. I wouldn't recommend the ipad to be a laptop replacement over the Samsung, because it lacks features, and I wouldn't recommend the Samsung over the ipad if you need to do hardcore video and photo editing because it lacks the hi end "pro" apps.
Loved you post so much saying both are great. iPad and Samsung tab for different needs, different jobs and different careers if you are a student. I think the iPad is the better tablet if you are sure you only need a great tablet and don’t care to make it a laptop replacement. The iPad has more optimized apps but the Samsung looks like it does better the job of being a two in one. Now the iPad Pro looks great for designers, an architect or even doctors but for let’s say a lawyer or business man or woman the Samsung looks like the better choice.
So u're saying that you can work on your reseach or presentations etc.. on your tablet using word , excel and powerpoint right? And is it good for a student because i am looking forward to buy it but i am a little bit confused
I really don't know about the video editing people say that but I currently have power director and I love this app for editing and I don't have lagging issues either on the Tab s7+ there's supposed to be an even better video editing app coming on the Tab S8 ultra and I can't really even complain. Can't wait for mine to come in.
When did it go from a camera flash to a flashlight? I own the Tab S7 5G and for my use it easily replaced my laptop especially with the keyboard and dex. It's also a very powerful device for my art.
Honestly it is all in what your needs are. If you are not a "power user" you can absolutely get away with it. Most people only need web browsing and media consumption with some light productivity.
It's very nice to have but I've always found tablets to be more passive productivity wise and simply not as useful. The single port is a big no-no for a laptop replacement, it's the first thing I look for. Great review, but I'm still undecided, and that price...
I'd love a device like the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra but with Windows 11 on ARM with M1 performance and multi-day battery life.....I don't think thats asking for too much is it? 😂
Not being able to use the desktop version of Google chrome kills it for me. I wanna be able to add extensions etc. I guess I'm sticking with my surface pro.
this clip is great, thanks! i'm planning to buy Tab S8 to replace my fone and laptop. I use my fone usually to browse the net and media consumption while I use laptop for work with basic tasks using MS office but it's too heavy and large to carry around. Viola! came the S8! it woul be weird answering calls though if no galaxy buds or something haha >.
I'm a remote contractor. 90% of my work is done on a computer. I have Surface Pro and a Samsung Tab A. They're more than enough and do a great job for me, with much more versatility than a laptop. 👍😊❤️
Regarding storage, I think the s8 series beats the ipad...yes only up to 512gb but did you mention it has expandable storage? Value is way better compared to dropping $$$$ for 2tb on an iPad
Important info : He said we cant use chrome extensions. (Thanks for the detailed review Mark love ya ) He said it. I just want to highlight it. I think it is so important whonis going to buy a tablet instead of a laptop ( like me )
To add with file sharing on Samsung, if Apple has Airdrop, Samsung has Quick Share. Compatible to all Samsung gadgets and much more convenient and fast than nearby share.
If you have a PC, this can be used as a second screen for when you do adobe premier,davinci. I have a network share that i save my files to. I have also installed vpn software, remote desktop for when i need to remote in to work and its great. I use it in the same way as my surface book. As far as storage, have the capaability to install a sd card for cheap.
We are facing the same problem here as Apple with Ipads: Despite the major improvement of hardware over the years, the bottleneck is now the software. Ios and Android are still catching up to use the full otential of the hardware offered. Which will end up with a big dilemma: Should they use a full operating system like MacOs or Windows in Tablets? And how would this impact laptops?
A really great video. This is the first time I saw a reviewer having really tried DeX in depth. I have two questions though. In which App did you fail to click and mark? In my case (DeX running on Fold 3) it works in Samsung Internet, in Chrome, but also in Samsung Notes or in Hancome Office. Unfortunatly I could not figure out which App you were using in your video. Which App does not rotate? Actually, I could not find even one App that cannot be freely resized. Even Instagram can be freely resized. You would have just to activate "Multi Window for all Apps". If not available in standard options on Tab S8 series, just do it via Good Lock Multistar App from Samsung, which is actually almost a native way to activate it.
There is a "Labs" utility on board that enables you to minimise any/every window/app.. it comes with the usual labs disclaimer but to date, I've not had any issues.
Have one, loooove it. I replaced my old laptop with a desktop last year, and carry a note 20 ultra for on the go stuff. Although it did everything I needed for work, I was missing some ability to do more detailed technical drawings while on a customer site. With this tab ultra, I'm far ahead of my old laptop, and much better equipped to handle any task necessary for me and my line of work. I couldn't be more pleased, ok well I COULD be...if we had a keyboard case comparable to the ipad... just saying, do it somebody please, lol. For now I have the Samsung one while on the go, and a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse for at the office.
At the price point we are talking, get a laptop, pure and simple. The s8 is Impressive. No one is denying it. But a similarly priced laptop from reputed oems like dell, hp will provide better value.
I need to disagree with the thing about the speakers. I doubt that even many high end laptops got speakers this good. They got incredibly good sound quality, which makes them perfect for consuming media.
Agreed, the I have Tab S7+ and the sheer crispness and bass of the speakers are amazing 👏
Exactly. My tab S8+ is still on its way but I have the tab S6 which has far superior sound quality than my old Asus TUF 505DY and my current Thinkpad T15g.
It depends on what you compare them to. The M1 iPad Pro 12.9 or M1 MacBook Pro 16 blows the Tab S8 Ultra speakers out of the park
@@shebjjeje9720 don't forget using them wire or Bluetooth they have hifi audio built in the only device that also has that is Macs
Anyone tried Dolby Atmos bluetooth headphones?
I actually did replace my laptop with the tab S8 Ultra and have not really had any draw backs that made me wish I had my laptop. This thing has been able to do everything I needed with running my business
what were those things if you don't mind me asking.
@@bluememe4652 Just putting this here in case they reply
I've recently done the same. I ain't looking back. No more buggy mess and random lag from the pos Microsoft Windows.
Can confirm. My wife uses an s8+ for school and work. Her Dell laptop has officially been retired
@@ryanhorton9594me too
It's important to mention that tablet cameras can be used as an accessibility feature for people who cannot look from far distances. There are many people with disabilities who have difficulty seeing and tablets are a great way to cope with that with cameras.
I have pretty good vision, but I still use my phone cameras to zoom big distances. For people with a disability it's probably a life changer.
What a fair review. I've got one on the way to me because I don't have to do heavy lift apps like you do. For just media consumption, blogging and email this looks incredible. Again, you were perfectly impartial, and incredibly clear. One of the best reviews I've seen, period!
technically they can replace them, but at the same time not completely. It really comes down to what you are using your laptop or tablet for. In order for a tablet to completely replace a laptop their hardware and cooling systems would need to be adequate enough to do so. But the reality with the S8 ultra is that because the tablet is so thin, its extremely difficult to provide a good enough cooling system to assist with heavy work loads. Also while the snapdragon chip is indeed a very good chip its not good enough to replace a GPU needed for heavy workloads as well.
But if you are merely using a laptop to run excel, browse the internet, and stream entertainment, then yes a tablet would be more than enough to act as a substitute. I just bought my s8 ultra recently to act as a laptop for easy things meanwhile i use my desktop for gaming at my home.
Just a small note, Excel on Android is not the full version so if you require Pivot Table functionality, for example, an Android tablet will not be an adequate replacement for a windows laptop.
One super important feature on Galaxy Tabs that is almost never mentioned, is the ability take apps that only work in portrait mode and force them into being displayed in landscape mode. And with the S8, you can even choose if you want the app to be displayed on only part of the screen, or if you want it to be full screen! This is just magical, and means that every app that is not made for tablets, can still be used in landscape mode with a keyboard. The function can be found within advanced features and Labs.
What is landscape mode? :o
@@fini8874 The opposite of portrait mode.
@@ribtin Yeah but how can an app be displayed in portray or landscape mode? Thats what I don't understand
do you use Tab S8 instead of laptop?? Is it good??? any problems youu faced???
he didnt even mention dex
Flash is underrated in my opinion. Yeah you might never use it for photography, but here ar my uses for the flash:
- scanning documents with good lightning, no harsh shadows, and being able to scan them in any conditions
- using the tablet or phone at night, with my girlfriend sleeping near me -> quick light source that doesn't bother her
- flash intensity can be controlled on most devices and can be aimed away from you => not that harsh on the eyes compared to a smart blub on it's lowest setting. Great when you need a light source after staying for too long on the dark
So yeah.. i find myself using the flash on my tablet and phone quite often. Even tho i'm not using it for it's intended use
I would say a Tab is a great replacement for a Chromebook type laptop but not a full blown laptop. I sold my laptop and am using a tablet like this one but for heavy lifting or full apps like Adobe suite of apps, I actually remote into my desktop to get things done. But overall, even with its limitations, I think these are great! Spot on review. Well done.
Dude Chromebook is way better than normal laptop
You people probably don't know about linux apps in Chromebook
And also android apps also work in Chromebook which is a good experience
Chromebooks are also more secure than windows laptops
@@drumworld Dude, some of us need full blown Windows or Mac programs/applications and a Chromebook like device isn't an option. So, no...
@@emanuelneiconi oh ok
Actually Chromebooks have full fledged Linux apps but I respect your opinion
I just wanted to help you
@@drumworld And I appreciate that. And honestly I think we're both on the same page but are coming at it from two different perspectives. While Linux based systems could work for most users, there are some like me who need a different architecture for the type of apps I'm running. I would love to see specific programs be written for Android or Linux but until such a time I'm limited in the type of replacement system I can use 100% of the time.
Will this table be sufficient for zoom/teams/pdf view/microsoft office (word/excel/ppt/outlook?)
I own the Tab S7 which almost matches in specs with S8. Just wanted to share that I have been seamlessly editing 4K videos on my machine without any hiccups. Obviously, not with the detailed functionality as Adobe Premiere Pro. But Adobe Rush for Androids performs quite decently.
Glad to hear that, I was hoping to do that too. Nice basic editing for functional videos, that would be superb.
It works. But a high end laptop will DRASTICALLY reduce transcoding / render times. It's not really a question of will it work, as it clearly will. It's more a question of can it match the performance. Which it can't. I have a S7+ and have tried transcoding videos. If I'm not in any hurry it will work just fine. I mean I can still do nearly anything on a Core 2 Duo that does not mean it's the best tool, or even one I should rely on. It however would work if nothing else is available.
In my experience my Tab S8u (and formerly my tab s7+) has replaced my laptops for 90% of what I do as a software dev. I leave my mbp and xps at home and only take my tab to the office. Outside of real android/ios development...I don't _really_ need them to do majority of my web development tasks. I upgraded from the s7+ to the s8u for the larger display and extra ram. I truely love these devices and what they have to offer. I def recommend using a bluetooth mouse, as the mouse support on android fixes a lot of the click and drag / copy paste stuff. The biggest desire I still have is multiple virtual desktops when in dex mode. Oh and more linux on arm support from 3rd party devs but thats not a drawback of the tablet or samsung, just me being a power user and wanting more stuff.
Can u run docker on this tablet?
@@marvinpyles3274 generally if you have a tablet and a PC at home then you can rdp to it with something like parsec.
Also, you can ssh with termux to a cloud vm on free tier or just buy a membership at linode.
Can I use s7+ or even s8u for trading in cryptos and stocks..as I have to monitor prices and draw trend lines and indicators..I am little bit confused I was hoping to buy asus zenbook duo 14..but portability of these tablets kind of seducing me 😅..pls if anyone can help me.. primary use media and trading 🙂
Can you web dev locally or so you need 'cloud' based tools?
Also, how do you inspect the page?
it might be useful to install applications like termux or andronix, userland or debian no root and you'd get a kind of "virtualized" linux, even with a graphical environment if you wish
4:23 I've seen you mention this a few times with respect to this device, and that's "Having a cable coming out of the side". With all due respect, they do make right angle USB C cables. Which would drastically reduce the look and feel of a protruding cable coming out of the side. I own an Oculus which has a right angle USB C cable and it really saves the port from being broken.
That being said, I fully understand that the Tab isn't shipped with a right angle USB C cable, but TBH it's a easy to fix issue IMO.
This is on point. In my use case, I differentiate what I use a loptop for and what I use a tablet for. That's why even though I am impressed by the Tab S8 Ultra, I cannot justify it in my mind because it's less portable and more expensive.
true, which is why I bought a base s8 despite having LCD screen. even the s8+ is still too big
I strongly agree! I use an iPad pro and a laptop. The iPad is mainly for writing notes in university. I have a pc at home for gaming and typing assignments that are longer. The laptop is just addition for university, because I have some subject were I need to type a lot :D annddd its a gaming laptop, so it has good graphics card and I can also play games when I´m not at home
I wish it could! But the limitations of Android and IOS prevent it from a laptop replacement. That's why I got the surface pro.
A tip - If you add an external monitor, you can use the tablet on standard Android and the monitor on DeX - That leaves you with a multi screen machine. The mouse only works on the DeX side, but that's not much of a problem because your tablet is a touch screen.
Mouse works across both screens check out dex settings mouse activate which side you want to access
One thing you forgot on the storage is that you can expand it
If you're comparing the Galaxy Tab S series to the iPad, they have been better laptop replacements ever since the introduction of Dex. Heck, I use one as a productivity device for word processing, spreadsheets, and taking notes in class without Dex, and it's a decent laptop replacement.
But I have a Galaxy Tab S7+. I think with the Tab S8 Ultra, we are in different territory.
I was willing to spend $850 on a tablet because I wanted to be able to read small text on e-textbooks, PDFs, and digital comics, in addition to doing regular tablet stuff like curling up on the couch with a digital book, TH-cam, Netflix, etc. All of those are things a proper tablet is better at than a Windows hybrid like the Microsoft Surface series.
However, the Tab S8 Ultra changes things.
At that price, it is in competition with a variety of very competent Windows convertibles that have more processing power and can run any desktop app. There are a bunch of competent convertible Windows machines out there. If your primary concern is productivity, almost any of them would be better unless you need longer battery life, better cameras for video conferencing, better displays, or better pens.
Well as a hospital resident, most of my work are about editing documents, doing some spreadsheets, zoom meetings and doing some presentations. About 80% of my work could be done on my Tab S7 since I bought it a few months ago, and the biggest advantage is it is VERY light, compared to my 2019 MBP. But, a thing that can't be done smoothly on my tab is when I did a presentation through zoom meeting, it wasn't as easy as doing it on a real laptop. But other things are okay now. I rarely pick my MBP out, except when I have to do a presentation through zoom meeting next time.
How does the zoom layout look in gallery view? Can you pin and spot light people like on real laptop? This is the only thing holding me back from purchasing.
@@phoebetorres715 you can only view 9 people at a time for the gallery view. And yes, you can pin/spotlight someone with the tab.
@@dylancandra4500 thank you
@@phoebetorres715 well it was a long time ago, but you’re welcome though
@@dylancandra4500 just figured out how to check my messages. Don't judge. Lol 🤣
I liked your review very much, but @ 10:52, as you were discussing storage & RAM, you forgot to mention that it has expandable storage via micro SD for up to an additional terabyte (1TB). This is hugely significant for those of us who don't like/trust “the cloud” to store our stuff. Again, thank you for sharing this with us!
Thought the S8 doesn't have it
Yes, I agree, I honestly think the cloud literally loses a file here and there, but physical storage keeps everything for years to come.
@@kind2de Exactly! Plus I don't like folks being able to snoop through all my stuff.
@@kind2de physical storage can still corrupt, just like data on the cloud, all the cloud is, its just a giant server farm
@@Wertyhappy27 They both are vulnerable to being corrupt, what we don't want is compromised privacy, which servers are publicly controlled by other people.
If Microsoft remake their apps info full size apps, it's perfect laptop replacement. As office worker, I like using tab for working, but when I must do more than typing for my documents, the apps can't do that.
I agree. If Dex gave you a different set of apps that ran more like desktop apps, this would really be a much easier question to answer
I don't think Microsoft would want it to replace a laptop despite their partnership with samsung. Even samsung themselves make laptops. Will affect their sales
It will affect Dell and Hp laptop sales.
@@lollymanna I agree, but as a customer who has been pay for the service of Office 365, we want same experience across device.
Exactly
Use google docs and sheets on browser with DeX instead
Ports aren't an issue when a mouse and headphones are connected via Bluetooth. Loving mine!!
S7FE owner here. I have the exact opinions you have. My take on the software problem is that Google doesn't have as tight control over their store as Apple has on theirs...and developers are lazy, only developing the basics and not following the rest of the spec because "they don't care". This is why many apps are portrait-only. I could be wrong but it sure seems that way to me. Good review!
Do you like the s7fe? I bought the 4/64 for only 265 and I'm considering trading it in for the Samsung tab 8 +
My home machine is a Chromebook hooked up to two 32" TVs - Most of my work involves hunting for data, making spreadsheets with what I find, then writing a document or making a presentation.
Frankly, it's pretty great.
However, when out and about I like small and portable, something Samsung tablets do very nicely. I can happily edit my work and, using a USB C to everything but a coffee machine dongle, do everything I need when I'm mobile.
So do you prefer the Tablet over the Chromebook?
There's so much old tut written on this subject that it was refreshing to watch this video. From my experience I find the speakers better on the Tab than on any laptop that I've ever owned but I've not heard them all so.. Otherwise, this was quality.. thank you .
This is always one of my favorite videos that you do. I enjoy how much detail you include and how in-depth your test is. I have a Galaxy Tab S7+ and it's one of my favorite purchases of all time. Not quite a full laptop but I get so much use out of it. S Pens will change your life!
Plus they're free lol
I have s7 fe and i use it as a computer, right now writing this in dex mode and no problem. I dont do what other people here do on their computers and for what i do this works well. I have my samsung smartphone and this and thats all i have, i dont have another device/computer. Plus he was wrong about the size of computers in this video. I remember that I had a computer back in 2015 or 16 from samsung with a smaller screen than s7+/s7 fe, plus they are close in size to the common 13 inch screen computers these days, not everyone has or wants to buy a 15 plus inch screen computer, i once had a 17 inch computer which was not convenient when it came to portability or just general everyday handling
@@dreamthedream8929 I agree. My laptop broke and I’ve been using my Samsung galaxy tab s7+ as a replacement. It’s so great! And the chip is better than most computers. Only downfall is I need Adobe Creative Cloud. However, you can always remote a virtual desktop using AWS workspaces. And I more so blame Adobe, because they call it creative “cloud” but make it software. New design softwares like Figma and Canva are completely online to cater to the new wave of devices
@@ckay8191 does pinterest work for you properly? I want to do some work there but i cannot seem to get a proper desktop version of it, it does not appear like in the videos that im watching. What internet browser are you using?
@Dream TheDream89 I actually use the pinterest app and found that it works good. However, I don't do a lot of work in pinteresr. You could also click "desktop version" in chrome when viewing sites. I also heard samsung interenet was pretty good.
I don't game or edit photos other than basic tweaks, so this would be great for me! It's pricey and Sammy charge a buttload of money for the keyboard folio, but great stuff. Thanks for your excellent review Mike!
Fold 3 user here, personally I think this paired with a portable monitor is the sweet spot. I use my Fold 3 as my everything device. It's my phone, tablet and PC all in one. Love gaming with GeForce Now over 5G. Magic Dosbox comes in clutch for all my retro gaming needs as well. Termux with a debian proot distro gives me access to some desktop class Linux apps like Firefox and Gimp. Increasingly finding a pc less necessary these days. If I really needed one, there's also Shadow PC service although a tad pricey at $30 a month with no annual plan.
Having a Fold 3 (And now 4), just pushed me into buying the Tab S8+
Sure, the Fold is the "All rounder", but for example if i want to use it as a secondary screen for my laptop, it's just too small, if i want to check something in azure, it's too small, if i want to write something i'm studying, it's too small, sure, for normal phone use it's great, but for those more productive focused things, i think the tablet it's the way to go
Nice review Mike, I think it's a pretty "down to earth" one. I bought the Tab S8 Ultra a few days ago, hoping it fulfill my PC requirements, at least, I'm not a editor or anything like that... So far, I think it is doing a great job. Hope that some day they do some improvement in Dex.
In a lot of cases yes. In my profession no. I need ports and specific programs that I need to use. For everyday stuff like email, web browsing, photo/video editing, TH-cam yes it can. TH-camrs seem to think computers and laptops are used for basic stuff.
It has SD Card expansion! You can click and drag text. Attach a Bluetooth mouse.
As a STEM major, this tablet is great to use in a laboratory.
As a long-time Samsung android tablet user, I would really recommend using the SAMSUNG INTERNET BROWSER. That thing is a game-changer and makes the experience even more like a DESKTOP experience as it has an option to load sites IN DESKTOP versions ALL THE TIME, this is important because you won't be presented with weird mobile layout pages on such a huge screen (of course, Chrome browser can do this too, but you have to set to desktop mode FOR EACH tab every time which is a little cumbersome to me.).
I'm saying this because the Samsung Internet browser is underrated and not getting the right acknowledgment it deserves. Most of my daily work tasks can be done through a browser (answering emails, google services such as spreadsheets and docs, Jira, etc) but some can only work best when being viewed in desktop mode (ahem, google services!) as the mobile version won't cut it.
There are also subtle things that makes the Samsung browser able to almost PURELY emulate from the desktop browsing experience. One good example is the ability to hover on web items like menu drop downs, when you're giving reaction to a facebook posts, when you need to hover a video on youtube so you can see a short teaser etc. There are lots of things a simple mouseover can do that completes the desktop-like browsing experience. I don't think that works perfectly in chrome mobile. The video assistant is amazing too.
Bottom line, I like for a mobile browser to load the desktop versions of the sites I'm visiting especially on a tablet with a screen this big (14.6 inches). It makes more sense. :)
Just tried that, its awsome, thankyou
I use it as the default on my Tab S8 Ultra and it works better than the other Android browsers, but it could be user friendlier. One feature it has that makes it preferable to every other Android browser is that it has a favorites bar, an underrated feature most tablet browsers don’t have. I thought Chrome would have it since it exists on their desktop browsers, but no, it isn’t there in the mobile browsers.
Don't forget ad block extensions.
How come they haven't made a legit laptop keyboard dock with hinge to turn this into a laptop. They could even put a larger battery in the keyboard to extend the battery life. Guess every accessory adds to the cost and eventually an actual laptop looks like the better option.
10:50
Remember it has expandable SD Storage of up to 1TB. :)
Aside from Dex which is great you can actually run Windows 11 on the Galaxy Tab using Windows 365, works well provided your connection is good
i honestly tried with my Samsung Tab S7+. but laptop is still strongly preferred due to a more polished software especially with Office apps like Excel
Biggest issue is how the Bluetooth forces a refresh of the whole screen and any running apps when ever pairing or unpairing or if it goes idle.
Never happens on iOS. I’m really trying to go tablet only but some serious 🧐 but small things that need changing.
The thing about a laptop is - you can choose Windows or Linux. You can also load programs of your choice.
Once you choose Android, you are severely limited in software choices. This can be considered a security feature, BUT that's small consolation if the software you want isn't available (or the Android version has bugs).
The primary difference is in software and apps and programs. There are few fullscale fully functional apps on Android. Multitasking on Android is very restrictive. Windows allows access to multiple programs at once in full view. If this were a Windows tablet, I'd snap it up. Those are the most significant points to making a buying decision.
Congratulations you just spoke enough shit to convince people you don't own one of these devices and clearly have no clue what you're talking about 🤭🤭
I had the galaxy tab s6 light, and a tab s7 (11 inch) . I traded them both in for the tab s8+, and I use it as a second computer. I love my s8+, it does most of what I need. I have an ipad air 4, and its fast and sleek, I just dont like to use it as another computer. Samsung Dex is amazing. I can understand why it may not work for other peoples for use case.
There are far too many things that just don't work on a tablet. Full versions of many key applications, for starters.
One thing I wish reviewers would do is inform us what the pc equivalent of the latest mobile chips are so we can get a good understanding of how they are progressing.
This looks like spam ☝️
Different architecture, impossible.
Different architecture true, but everything these days has a speed test.
As I understand much of what you use in tablets and cellphones require internet or the cloud to work and process with focus in social media., in order to be light. If they are getting more powerful it seems it is to play Genshin impact or to get more functions in WhatsApp or Instagram. DeX mode is great, I use it, but still is not the same as a laptop. They aren't comparable because they have different ways to work.
@@ReinoldFZ funny that you just replied. I just watched a video on abilities of s8 ultra and while it won't handle heavy loads it seems to excel in the lighter loads way better than my galaxy book One.
Maybe I'd see more similar sharing functionality if i also had more Samsung devices.
The flash on a tablet is for searching the lost pen under the Sofa. I use it multiple times a week
The point about apps being optimized for mobile devices cannot be stressed enough. For example take excel, the functionality you get on the app is about 25% of the computer version. The Apple version is much better than android, but a higher end user would find excel lacking the functionality required to do many tasks on either platform’s tablets. If you have some apps that are deal breakers as far as replacing a laptop, I would look to confirm the app you are interested in performs the same as on a laptop or you may regret your purchase.
Really good video! I'm not a typical user. I transitioned directly from phones to tablets and bypassed laptops for some reason. I first used a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2. It was underwhelming. Then I got a Droid Xyboard 10.1 (sweet stereo speakers and surprisingly good camera) with ICS and it was much more user friendly with some tablet optimized apps. Then a Nexus 10 (dope front firing stereo speakers and screen) then a Nexus 7 (2013) LTE that was the bomb! I used it for 4 years until it wasn't viable anymore. I then got a Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 which as served me well. I never missed a Windows laptop and their excellent photo editing apps and such and I'm not a big gamer, so this 14.8" Samsung slab looks like it could be perfect for me. Thanks for this video. It's very beneficial for an atypical user like myself.
Good points not sure why here in the geek world we think most people are power users .....they are not . Heck the ultra can replace a TV ☺️
Great review, and well timed as my laptop is near the end of its life.
I think this is the ideal do it all machine for me and having seen it in the flesh I can say the screen is just incredible. I have found in my search for a new laptop a massive disparity with screen and build quality between brands. Pretty sure with my wireless keyboard and mouse this will be incredible to use.
If u had some time to use the device you would see that Android is not optimized for keyboard and mouse. I would strongly advice to try to find some way to try using some tablet in that way - it ain't the greatest experience.
@@miljantrajkovic1862 brilliant thanks, have decided not go for a surface laptop, should be a much better experience all round. Still love the idea of the S8 ultra as a laptop
@@stuofthepots But i would recommend u Surface because it has Windows, which is optimized for touch and keyboard&mouse. But S8 sure looks beautiful.
@@stuofthepots I work on the Tab S7+ as a writer and can definitely confirm it works very well with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse
@@gao1812 brilliant thanks 😊
Short answer -YES for majority of people.
I'm just a bit perplexed by your notion about the speakers.
The speakers on this thing are absolutely TROUNCING 99% of laptops. They're fantastic.
Also, what's the story with the text highlighting? On my Tab s6 touchpad, left klick does it automatically just like on laptop.
As for your video editing .. all this could be done easily on Kinemaster or Power Director.
There's one you tuber (Shirosuki) with almost 700k subs and he does all his editing on Kinemaster and Samsung tablet, and the vids are much more edit heavy.
I recently bought s8 plus and your feedback is spot on.
Honestly, the tablet market to replace the laptop would be great, the only thing stopping it is the OS, Android is a mobile OS while a laptop tends to be using more of a regular desktop OS, what we need is a hybrid OS. the Chrome OS could actually be something great for the tablet market as it can use the full-blown Desktop OS type of OS while also being able to use the mobile apps like on android thus being a hybrid OS. But even then Chrome OS still has a drawback in the sense that it focuses more on cloud computing which means that there are a lot of apps/features that won't be developed due to amount of versions of the app that needs to be supported, therefore hurts compatibility.
The software limitations are really frustrating, Google docs is not really the same thing on dex, even with mouse and keyboard. Things like selecting, right clicking, copy paste are almost impossible. I think Samsung could have done something about this with a little effort... But I don't expect them to focus in these details
Google docs does not belong to samsung.
Google should improve it.
@@lollymanna yes, but the ux belongs to Samsung. They could for example override the right click of the mouse, that in Android is set to be the back button, to do what the long press does (open contextual menu).
for lightweight computing the answer is: absolutely, especially with DEX (while saving a buck or two in energy consumption)
I agree. It can replace a laptop but that depends on the user and what their needs might be. I would venture to say for most people it can replace a laptop but for a smaller group right now the answer is still no.
This isn't about Mike but It's disappointing to me that most reviewers don't take the time to explore apps or really fully use the device. The things they miss indicate to me that they haven't done all their homework. They'd find that most users will have everything they need and the app situation is not as it used to be. Tech reviewers are a specific use case.
I completely agree. Most people can definitely get everything they need out of this tablet! Maybe I should phrase it based on the laptop style people purchase. For example, anyone considering buying a laptop with an intel i3 would probably be fine with this, as they are not likely to be doing high demand tasks. Anyone seeking an intel i7 is likely to have specific software needs that would not be met with this device.
I like desktops.
I like cell phones.
I love laptops.
I love tablets very much.
Merging laptops and tablets as the one thing to work on it, I hate the concept.
Totally.
Thanks Mike for the great review. It really helps me in considering buying a Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra. By the way, I have no problem using Chrome in my current S7+. it works well..
Unfortunately i can not replace my laptop with a tablet because i am a software developer student and all the software i need is only optimized for windows
For basic needs Id say yes because most folks that aren't using creative or professional apps don't tend to use their laptops much. If you have a specific set of needs like 3d rendering, adobe stuff etc. then absolutely not.
I think samsung is one of the few companies that is trying to reduce that gap. The pro 2 360 is a good example. I think that's the way to go. Laptops replacing tablets.
lol absolutely not
I like the SUV, pickup truck analogy. It really gives you a visual to grasp onto. And the fact that I own a suburban and have a trailer to tow motorcycles and bigger items. I guess the trailer would be my USB dongle lol. Great video
I'm afraid since the ultra is no longer on pre-order. I feel like a lot of Samsungs laptops are more competitive as value. But ironically the screen on the ultra is actually more amazing than any of Samsung's current laptops. But they are releasing new version of a laptops soon and it may equal but I hope the company knows what they're doing. Because without the pre-order you can't justify $1,500 for a tablet and a keyboard book cover. During the pre-order, Samsung offered me $500 towards the S7 tab. But if you look right now that has been reduced to $200. Yikes.
You are right. The biggest competitor is the new Galaxy Book2 Pro 360. It has "only" FHD resolution, but besides that, it has the same brightness, has the S Pen and with its keyboard it is lighter than Tab S8 Ultra with its book cover, if you go for the 13" model. But even the 15.6" model is not really heavier than the Tab S8 ultra with the book cover.
It is really hard to decide between them!
@@arvandvarahram and that's one reason why I'm looking at what other competitors are building. In fact you can get a good rog laptop for a decent price for school if you wanted to. Or even a legion laptop as well. But in my opinion if you're going to buy anything laptop like, you need to see it in the store first because sometimes you think it's a good deal and you find out the screen is not even IPS and the viewing angles bad. I saw like a $800 Samsung laptop but the screen on it was horrible. And his older gentleman with his wife even noticed it and the Best buy associate tried to sell it to them lol. Bruh lol. Sometimes I feel like Samsung focuses mostly on screen and everything else second. But you need a overall good product. One of the things I did at the store was I was taking pictures and of the price tag as well and go home and compare. But in conclusion I think I might end up keeping my pre-order for the ultra tablet. Because it will fix the touchpad and I have a bigger screen where I won't have to squint when doing homework. I have a 26-in BenQ eye Care monitor hooked up to my PC. It's weird that you go from a big screen to a small screen lol. I don't necessarily need Windows because Microsoft has their apps for Android. I did look at the Microsoft surface products but the portable ones are too small. So if I had to go pick a laptop today, probably would be that Asus rog, legion, or the Microsoft surface laptop. And they seem to be decent overall. I was surprised you get a 3050 mobile GPU in the legion for $1,200 lol
On my tab s7 plus they offered me $675 and $375 for my note 10 plus which was renewed.
Nice video, thanks for that. Will watch your Tab 8 / Tab 8+ video as well as I am interested in considering a tab right now. I just got my S22 Ultra few days ago and am not really interested in the Tab 8 Ultra (mainly because of the HUGE size) but might be willing to shell out money for either of the other 2 variants.
As a very casual user who uses laptop / phone mostly for media consumption & browsing the web, there is not much of a difference between a laptop and a high-end tablet but since I am used to Windows as the OS on laptops, if I were to replace a laptop with a tablet, it would be really uncomfortable at first because of the different UI, that's the only gripe that I have.
@Bihungsar Narzary Yes I know about that but haven't tried it yet, will definitely give it a go
I've been using DEX on my S7+ for the past few weeks, since my Alienware 17R3 died. There are very few downsides and more upsides to using the tablet. When used with a USB-C monitor for everyday use, the tablet is really pleasant to use, even for online 3D modelling. Runs silent and fast. You do have to get used to doing things differently to how you might on a Windows laptop, but most peripherals seem reasonably supported. This is a long way from being a gimmick. It is important to use Good Lock and also search for hidden features that help with productivity.
Ports will be my deal breaker. 3.5mm and HDMI at a minimum. At least one type A port for a Logitech dongle and I'd be set. I would love to have the battery life and fancy screen, and I'd largely use it as a thin client to a windows VM for my hard hitting productivity concerns.
Most Logitech mice and keyboards support Bluetooth. You can use USB-C to HDMI dongle or USB-C cable to USB-C monitor/TV.
My pre-ordered s8 ultra is arriving in 2 days. Can't wait. I love s7+ but ultra is another level.
Original iPad was $500 and went up from there.
I think that in the future some tablets can replace laptops like these Samsung tablets they are good in my opinion right now but if apps were optimized for tablets I think they have a far better chance of being more useful and used more often but that's how I see it.
He'll if that's your only concern then I'd just get shadow pc to turn it into a windows tab.
Apple and Samsung have lost their freaking minds making a keyboard cover that costs $350
In Samsung devices you also have something called Samsung flow, that lets you share files not only between android devices but also between your Samsung smartphone/tablet and any Windows laptop! It even supports the drag and drop functionality
In the meantime, there are better options.
DeX for Windows works just fine: you work literally on two difference computers using the same screen, mouse and keyboard.
In case of Galaxy phones, you should simply use Link to Windows: the drag and drop is the least spectacular feature in this case😊 And of course access to all your files, photos and notifications is there, too. But what makes it really incredible is that you can stream 5 apps simultaneously from your phone on your Windows laptop, and if you prefer just use your laptop touch screen as if you were using your phone’s touch screens. And to start the Apps, just add them to your Windows task-bar as if they were native Windows Apps.
@@arvandvarahram Yeah but android apps still don't run as smoothly as they should on windows! U can use an emulator, but it's not native so the experience doesn't feel so smooth! Just recently android apps were integrated on win11, and they now run natively through the amazon store, but it's really clunky!
In the meantime we have dex for android that is just better
I picked up the s8+ through my mobile carrier, and works just fine as a laptop replacement. If I ever need some heavy lifting, which isn't that often, I can just use my desktop.
For the regular work like reading e-mails, spreadsheets, documents and surfing the web, you can replace it for a laptop. But it will cost almost the same for a Macbook Air.
You deserve million subs for sure! Thank you for sharing this with us for free!
As a long time Samsung tab users I have just one gripe. Google chrome is still second best as you can't get the full version with bookmarks and so on. You can get the full versions of Sheets, Docs, and Slides by going to the site and hitting 'Desktop site', but these tablets are bigger than many laptops so they really need the full version of Chrome - even if it's only in DeX.
If they do that they'll basically be cannibalizing Chromebooks. And they're not ready to do that yet.
Depends on the use. In some cases it's a clear yes. If all you use a laptop for is watching TH-cam, or even basic office use, tablets can easily fill that void. If however you are needing something with more power and are doing 4k video editing or high resolution 3d rendering, OR even programming a laptop would be a better choice. Now that's not to say you can't use a tablet for those tasks as well. But it's a question of the BEST tool. I know as a high end gamer I could not replace my gaming laptop with my tablet (Samsung Tab S7+). While it's a nice tablet it just can't compete with even a midrange laptop for many tasks.
Now, on to the video!
Probably the only gripe I have is the processing power - wish Qualcomm could make chips like the M1 👀
Best Buy barely have any deals compared to other retailers, especially Amazon 2 day shipping
Honestly one of the best reviews of that tablet. Thanks for that!
A thing which I noticed you forgot to add was that the ipad does go to 2tb but the tab s8 ultra also has expandable storage other than those 512 gb
Like someone said in a different video. A great laptop can sorta be a half decent tablet when it needs to, and a fantastic tablet, can be a decent laptop when it's needed. Depends on what you're needs are. For me, my tab s7+ is irreplaceable. It's a tablet when it needs to be and when I need to serious tasks done, words documents, Excel, emails, push that dex button and you have a perfect laptop replacement. I wouldn't recommend the ipad to be a laptop replacement over the Samsung, because it lacks features, and I wouldn't recommend the Samsung over the ipad if you need to do hardcore video and photo editing because it lacks the hi end "pro" apps.
Loved you post so much saying both are great. iPad and Samsung tab for different needs, different jobs and different careers if you are a student.
I think the iPad is the better tablet if you are sure you only need a great tablet and don’t care to make it a laptop replacement. The iPad has more optimized apps but the Samsung looks like it does better the job of being a two in one.
Now the iPad Pro looks great for designers, an architect or even doctors but for let’s say a lawyer or business man or woman the Samsung looks like the better choice.
So u're saying that you can work on your reseach or presentations etc.. on your tablet using word , excel and powerpoint right? And is it good for a student because i am looking forward to buy it but i am a little bit confused
I really don't know about the video editing people say that but I currently have power director and I love this app for editing and I don't have lagging issues either on the Tab s7+ there's supposed to be an even better video editing app coming on the Tab S8 ultra and I can't really even complain. Can't wait for mine to come in.
For photo editing or drawing on android USE KRITA.
It's free and better than any paid program.
@@Gatitasecsii Can Krita on android animate at the moment?
The only problem for me is the lack of Office Android Apps features
The problem with the Samsung tab S8 ultra is it’s really thin and under a lot of pressure in a bag I can imagine it will bend
It's actually incredibly tough.. but on appearance alone, I know exactly what you mean.
When did it go from a camera flash to a flashlight? I own the Tab S7 5G and for my use it easily replaced my laptop especially with the keyboard and dex. It's also a very powerful device for my art.
Honestly it is all in what your needs are. If you are not a "power user" you can absolutely get away with it. Most people only need web browsing and media consumption with some light productivity.
It's very nice to have but I've always found tablets to be more passive productivity wise and simply not as useful. The single port is a big no-no for a laptop replacement, it's the first thing I look for. Great review, but I'm still undecided, and that price...
I'd love a device like the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra but with Windows 11 on ARM with M1 performance and multi-day battery life.....I don't think thats asking for too much is it? 😂
sadly, There's no equivalent M1 chip by AMD/Intel/Qualcomm/Nvidia.
Two, Windows on Arm is still lacking and there's no Rosetta for windows.
Laptops these days are just more powerful tablets with keyboards. Especially with touchscreen support.
Not being able to use the desktop version of Google chrome kills it for me. I wanna be able to add extensions etc. I guess I'm sticking with my surface pro.
Yea this thing sucks way overpriced.
this clip is great, thanks! i'm planning to buy Tab S8 to replace my fone and laptop. I use my fone usually to browse the net and media consumption while I use laptop for work with basic tasks using MS office but it's too heavy and large to carry around. Viola! came the S8! it woul be weird answering calls though if no galaxy buds or something haha >.
I'm a remote contractor. 90% of my work is done on a computer. I have Surface Pro and a Samsung Tab A. They're more than enough and do a great job for me, with much more versatility than a laptop. 👍😊❤️
I don't really think of any of these device formats as a replacement for any other, i just think of them all as additional options
Best buy may be better in having this in stock but you can't deny Samsung has the best trade in value
Regarding storage, I think the s8 series beats the ipad...yes only up to 512gb but did you mention it has expandable storage? Value is way better compared to dropping $$$$ for 2tb on an iPad
Important info : He said we cant use chrome extensions.
(Thanks for the detailed review Mark love ya )
He said it. I just want to highlight it. I think it is so important whonis going to buy a tablet instead of a laptop ( like me )
You can with other chromium based browsers available in play store
It's just a awesome "tablet" that can be use as laptop ! It's just secondary option to use as laptop
I don't need a tablet to replace a laptop. A tablet provides an entirely different type of utility.
To add with file sharing on Samsung, if Apple has Airdrop, Samsung has Quick Share. Compatible to all Samsung gadgets and much more convenient and fast than nearby share.
If you have a PC, this can be used as a second screen for when you do adobe premier,davinci. I have a network share that i save my files to. I have also installed vpn software, remote desktop for when i need to remote in to work and its great. I use it in the same way as my surface book. As far as storage, have the capaability to install a sd card for cheap.
We are facing the same problem here as Apple with Ipads: Despite the major improvement of hardware over the years, the bottleneck is now the software.
Ios and Android are still catching up to use the full otential of the hardware offered.
Which will end up with a big dilemma: Should they use a full operating system like MacOs or Windows in Tablets? And how would this impact laptops?
No tablet will replace a laptop until it can run Chrome browser with extensions to allow AdBlock. Periodt.
A really great video. This is the first time I saw a reviewer having really tried DeX in depth.
I have two questions though.
In which App did you fail to click and mark? In my case (DeX running on Fold 3) it works in Samsung Internet, in Chrome, but also in Samsung Notes or in Hancome Office. Unfortunatly I could not figure out which App you were using in your video.
Which App does not rotate? Actually, I could not find even one App that cannot be freely resized. Even Instagram can be freely resized. You would have just to activate "Multi Window for all Apps". If not available in standard options on Tab S8 series, just do it via Good Lock Multistar App from Samsung, which is actually almost a native way to activate it.
Yeah..i am user for Tab S6 & currently just bought a Tab S8+, Click & mark working too..
There is a "Labs" utility on board that enables you to minimise any/every window/app.. it comes with the usual labs disclaimer but to date, I've not had any issues.
What kind of stand do you suggest for this Tablet?
Have one, loooove it. I replaced my old laptop with a desktop last year, and carry a note 20 ultra for on the go stuff. Although it did everything I needed for work, I was missing some ability to do more detailed technical drawings while on a customer site. With this tab ultra, I'm far ahead of my old laptop, and much better equipped to handle any task necessary for me and my line of work. I couldn't be more pleased, ok well I COULD be...if we had a keyboard case comparable to the ipad... just saying, do it somebody please, lol. For now I have the Samsung one while on the go, and a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse for at the office.
it did for me, and I was pretty satisfied with it. Wit my tab S7 paired with a 17 inch external monitor (portable) I get my job done. Easy...
At the price point we are talking, get a laptop, pure and simple. The s8 is Impressive. No one is denying it. But a similarly priced laptop from reputed oems like dell, hp will provide better value.
Love your content man, keep it up