By skyforbes 
A Lightweight Tablet with a Stunning Display and Everyday Practicality
There has never been a sleeker tablet, like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4, with an impressive ability to deliver high-resolution visuals and smooth performance in such a lightweight frame.
If you’re a tablet lover like me, or you’re new to tablets and looking for the perfect balance between portability and power, the Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is an excellent choice.
Here’s a quick review of this device. I’ll share everything you need to know and my experience using it for the first time.
Overview
My first real introduction to Samsung tablets was when my brother gifted me the Galaxy Tab 4 as a surprise. It was love at first use, slim, convenient, and a perfect everyday companion. I practically carried it everywhere, from coffee shops to long train rides.
After months of using it, I wanted something more powerful, and my excitement skyrocketed when I found the Samsung Tab S 8.4 series. Even though newer models existed, the 8.4 caught my attention with its slim design, vibrant Super AMOLED display, and balance between affordability and performance.
Buying and Design
Buying it was simple. I ordered directly from the Amazon store, and within a week, it was in my hands. Setting it up was effortless. This device was clearly designed for both beginners and intermediate users like me, who want something stylish and functional without feeling overwhelmed.
The Tab S 8.4 feels tailor-made for travel, work, and entertainment. Its ultra-lightweight design makes it easy to slip into a small bag or even hold comfortably in one hand. Its sharp display and responsive performance are ideal for watching movies, reading eBooks, taking notes, or even light gaming.
Samsung positioned this tablet as a step-up from the older Tab 4 while still keeping it accessible for everyday users. For me, the Tab S 8.4 brought that perfect blend of quality and convenience I had been craving.
When I purchased mine, I went for the Wi-Fi model with 16GB storage, but there are multiple options available depending on your needs:
- Wi-Fi Only Model Great for home or office use.
- LTE Model Perfect if you want to stay connected anywhere.
- Expanded Storage Model With support for microSD cards for those who want extra space for media and files.
Inside the box, I received:
- The Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4
- A charging adapter and USB cable
- A pair of Samsung earbuds
- Quick start guide and manual
Each item was neatly packaged, making the unboxing feel smooth and premium.
The Galaxy Tab S 8.4 isn’t just another tablet; it feels like an upgrade to your daily routine one that blends portability, performance, and style into a single device.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 feels like that perfect “in-between” device more capable than a phone, way lighter than a laptop. It’s not the newest kid on the block, but it still holds its own.
Strengths:
- Gorgeous AMOLED screen
- Light and comfortable to hold
- Expandable storage
- Surprisingly good performance for everyday use
Weaknesses:
- Not ideal for heavy gaming or pro-level work
- Speakers could’ve been louder
- Software feels dated without updates
Design & Build Quality
The first thing I noticed? It’s insanely thin and light. At under 300 grams, it’s lighter than most paperbacks I own. Holding it with one hand while sipping coffee wasn’t a strain at all. The metal frame feels solid, and while the back is plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap.
Oh, and the Super AMOLED display? Jaw-dropping. Colors are so vibrant it almost feels unreal. Watching Netflix or scrolling through photos was just… fun. I didn’t even realize how dull my laptop screen looked until I compared them side by side.
Performance & Everyday Use
Now, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it: this isn’t a gaming powerhouse by today’s standards. But for Netflix, browsing, ebooks, emails, and even editing Google Docs? It handles it effortlessly. I tested some multitasking — Spotify in the background, Chrome with 6 tabs, and a Zoom call — and it kept up without freezing.
Battery life was another pleasant surprise. Samsung claims up to 12 hours, but realistically, I got about 10 hours of mixed use. That’s still plenty for a full day, even on trips.
Quick Tips for Shopping
Before diving into the actual review, here are a few things I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) about buying tablets online:
- Check the screen resolution A lot of tablets boast “HD,” but you’ll notice pixels if you read or watch a lot.
- Battery claims aren’t always reality Look for real-world testing, not just spec sheet numbers.
- Weight matters You don’t realize how heavy some devices feel after an hour of holding them.
- Software updates are key A tablet can feel “old” fast if it doesn’t get updates.
- Know your use case Don’t overpay for power you’ll never use (or underpay and regret it later).
Quick Picks Section
If you’re considering the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4, here’s how I’d break it down:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 For its balance of size, performance, and display.
- Budget Alternative: Older Galaxy Tab models (like the Tab A series) Decent for basic use.
- Premium Pick: Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 or S8 If you want pen support, faster chips, and future-proofing.
Sound & Media Experience
Let’s talk sound. The dual speakers on the bottom aren’t the loudest, but with headphones, the sound quality is impressive — clear, balanced, and not tinny like cheaper tablets. Pair this with that Super AMOLED screen, and it’s a mini home theater in your bag.
Who It’s For (Benefits)
- Students: Lightweight for carrying around campus, great for note-taking and reading.
- Travelers: Fits in a small bag, long battery life makes it ideal for flights.
- Work-from-home folks: Great for video calls, emails, and light productivity.
- Entertainment lovers: Streaming, gaming (casual), and reading without eye strain.
FAQs
Q1: Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, if you want an affordable, lightweight tablet for entertainment, reading, or basic productivity. But don’t expect it to match the speed of new flagships.
Q2: Can I use this tablet for gaming?
Casual games? Absolutely. But if you’re into graphics-heavy titles like Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile at max settings, it’ll struggle.
Q3: How good is the camera?
It’s fine for video calls and casual snaps, but let’s be real — your phone probably takes much better photos.
Q4: Can I still buy it on Amazon?
Yes, you’ll usually find it through third-party sellers or renewed/refurbished listings. Keep an eye out for discounts or sales — it often drops below $200.
Conclusion
After weeks of daily use, I can confidently say the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is still a solid choice for those who want portability without giving up too much power. It’s definitely not flawless outdated software and weaker speakers hold it back but the screen, battery, and overall comfort make it a fantastic everyday tablet.
If you’re after the latest bells and whistles, you might lean toward the newer Galaxy Tab S models. But if you just want something reliable, light, and fun to use without breaking the bank, this one is definately worth considering.
Oh, and if you do grab it from Amazon, shipping is usually quick, and sometimes you’ll catch sales with nice discounts. Just don’t forget it’s an older model, so stock can run out.
Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the blog running and allows me to keep testing and reviewing gadgets like this one.
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