Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Review: A Powerful But Incremental Update

Samsung has unveiled its latest flagship Android tablets. The Galaxy Tab S11 series, including the high-end Tab S11 Ultra, launched in early 2025. These devices aim to solidify Samsung’s position in the premium tablet market.The new models feature a refined design and top-tier displays. However, some key changes have sparked debate among tech enthusiasts and potential buyers.

Design and Display: A Mixed Bag of Upgrades

The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra presents a sleeker profile than its predecessor. It is noticeably thinner and lighter. The bezels around the screen have been significantly reduced.According to Reuters, the device maintains a premium build quality. The most controversial design choice is the removal of the glass back panel. This change eliminates the need for wireless S Pen charging.The tablet’s display is once again a major highlight. It offers incredible color accuracy and sharpness. This visual excellence was also a hallmark of the previous Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, making the upgrade less pronounced for existing users.

Performance and Market Position

The tablet is powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset. Performance is smooth for multitasking and demanding applications. The device is positioned as a potential laptop replacement.This ambition faces significant challenges. To truly compete with laptops, tablets need PC-like performance. Apple has made notable strides in this area with its professional iPad models.Samsung appears to be holding back. The new Ultra model does not fully bridge the performance gap with traditional computers. This leaves the device in a niche between consumption and serious productivity.The decision to remove Bluetooth from the S Pen is a key example. It simplifies the stylus but removes advanced features. This trade-off may not satisfy all professional users.

Long-Term Impact and Consumer Choice

For owners of the Galaxy Tab S9 series, the S11 Ultra is a substantial upgrade. The improvements in design and raw power are significant. It represents a clear generational leap from two-year-old models.The value proposition is less clear for Tab S10 Ultra users. The core experience remains largely similar. This incremental update raises questions about the innovation cycle in the high-end tablet segment.The market for flagship Android tablets is relatively small. Samsung continues to be the dominant player. Its strategy with the Tab S11 Ultra suggests a focus on refining a proven formula rather than pioneering new ground.

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The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is a capable and polished device. It excels in display quality and general performance. However, its status as an incremental update makes it a cautious recommendation for most buyers looking at this premium tablet segment.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the biggest change in the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra design?

The tablet is thinner and lighter with much slimmer bezels. Samsung also removed the glass back panel, which changes how the S Pen functions.

Does the S Pen still have Bluetooth features?

No, the S Pen for the Tab S11 Ultra has lost its Bluetooth capabilities. This means it no longer needs wireless charging, but also can’t perform remote actions.

Is the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra a good laptop replacement?

It offers strong performance for a tablet, but falls short of delivering a full PC-like experience. The device is better suited as a powerful companion device rather than a direct laptop substitute.

Who should upgrade to the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra?

It is a significant upgrade for anyone with a Galaxy Tab S9 or older model. For current Tab S10 Ultra users, the improvements may not justify the cost.

Why did Samsung remove the glass back?

Removing the glass back likely contributed to making the tablet thinner and lighter. Since the S Pen no longer requires wireless charging, a glass panel was unnecessary.