Samsung Galaxy Tab S4: A Thorough Evaluation

　　An Android Tablet That Aims for Mobile Productivity

　　Price: $650

　　Pros:

　　Gorgeous displaySolid build qualityImpressive battery lifeIncluded stylus with extensive features

　　Cons:

　　Dated specificationsLack of fingerprint readerOptional keyboard cover lacks a touchpadPricey compared to alternativesDespite my initial skepticism, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 proved to be a capable and flexible device during my hands-on experience. However, it faces stiff competition in the tablet market, particularly regarding its price and operating system.

　　Design and Build Quality:

　　The Tab S4 sports a solid build, resembling Samsung's recent Galaxy phones. It features a rounded metal band encasing a glass front and back. The device feels sturdy and well-crafted, although it shares a similar design to its predecessor, the Tab S3, with minimal changes.

　　Display:

　　The Tab S4 boasts a stunning 10.5-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. Colors are vibrant, and the display is sharp and detailed. It's a pleasure to watch movies, browse the web, or work on documents with such a high-quality display.

　　Performance and Software:

　　The Tab S4 runs on Android 8 with Samsung's custom UI overlay. The performance is generally smooth, but the device is powered by the Snapdragon 835 processor, which is outdated compared to the latest flagship smartphones. With 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, the Tab S4 handles everyday tasks adequately but may struggle with demanding applications.

　　Dex Mode and Stylus:

　　One of the key features of the Tab S4 is Dex mode, Samsung's custom desktop UI. When connected to the optional keyboard dock, the Tab S4 transforms into a more PC-like experience. The included stylus also enhances productivity, allowing users to take notes, sketch, and interact with the device precisely.

　　Battery Life:

　　The Tab S4's 7,300 mAh battery provides impressive longevity. It can easily last a full day of moderate to heavy use on a single charge. This is a significant advantage over many competing tablets.

　　Keyboard Cover and Accessories:

　　The optional keyboard cover is a useful accessory, but it lacks a touchpad, which can be inconvenient for productivity tasks. Additionally, the stylus holder on the keyboard dock is prone to detaching easily, which can be frustrating.

　　Price and Competition:

　　The Tab S4's price tag of $650 (excluding the keyboard cover) is relatively high compared to its competitors. For a similar price, one could purchase the Microsoft Surface Go or Samsung's own Chromebook Plus V2, both of which offer better productivity features and comparable performance.

　　Conclusion:

　　The Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 is a well-built tablet with a gorgeous display, impressive battery life, and a versatile stylus. However, its outdated specifications, lack of a fingerprint reader, and high price make it a less compelling choice compared to its rivals. While the Tab S4 is capable of handling various tasks, it may not be the best option for those seeking a premium multi-purpose tablet with optimal productivity and value for money.