Apple iPhone 15 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date September 22, 2023 October 16, 2023
Release Year 2023 2023

Physical

Volume 85.9 cm³ 343.94 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.26 "/g 1.98 "/g
Weight 187 g 627 g
Height 146.6 mm 285.4 mm
Width 70.6 mm 185.4 mm
Thickness 8.3 mm 6.5 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Black Titanium
  • White Titanium
  • Blue Titanium
  • Natural Titanium
  • Silver
  • Gray
  • Mint
  • Lavender

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 12.4 "
Resolution 1179 x 2556 1600 x 2560
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 16:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 88.2 % 84.3 %
Pixel Density 461 PPI 243 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness 1000 nits N/A
HBM Brightness 2000 nits N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 87.99 mAh/in² 65.62 mAh/in²
Battery Density 38.11 mAh/cm³ 29.34 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3274 mAh 10090 mAh
NFC Support Yes No
Chipset Apple A17 Pro (3 nm) Exynos 1380 (5 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x3.78 GHz + 4x2.11 GHz) Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Apple GPU (6-core graphics) Mali-G68 MP5

Connectivity

USB Version 3.2 2.0
OTG Support
DisplayPort 1
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.2, Gen 2, DisplayPort USB Type-C 2.0, Magnetic Connector

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 17 13
Maximum OS Version 18 17

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureApple iPhone 15 ProSamsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+Practical Impact
Design
Dimensions146.6 x 70.6 x 8.3 mm285.4 x 185.4 x 6.5 mmiPhone 15 Pro is a significantly smaller, pocketable phone; Tab S9 FE+ is a large tablet.
Weight187g627giPhone 15 Pro is much lighter and easier to hold for extended periods; Tab S9 FE+ is heavier and more suitable for desk/lap use.
BuildTitanium frameAluminum frameTitanium offers improved durability and scratch resistance compared to aluminum.
Display
Size6.1 inches12.4 inchesLarger display of the Tab S9 FE+ provides more immersive content consumption but reduced portability.
TypeLTPO Super Retina XDR OLEDIPS LCDiPhone's OLED offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and HDR support, resulting in a more vibrant picture. Tab S9 FE+'s LCD may appear washed out in comparison.
Resolution1179 x 25561600 x 2560Similar pixel density despite size difference, meaning sharpness is comparable.
Refresh Rate120Hz90HziPhone 15 Pro's 120Hz provides smoother scrolling and animations compared to the Tab S9 FE+'s 90Hz.
Performance
ChipsetApple A17 Pro (3nm)Exynos 1380 (5nm)A17 Pro is expected to significantly outperform the Exynos 1380 in processing power and graphics performance based on Apple's track record and the more advanced manufacturing process.
RAM8GB12GBWhile the Tab S9 FE+ has more RAM, the superior efficiency of iOS and the A17 Pro likely negate this advantage in real-world multitasking scenarios.
Storage256GB, 512GB, 1TB256GBiPhone offers more storage options.
Battery
Capacity3274 mAh10090 mAhThe Tab S9 FE+ has a much larger battery capacity due to its size, expecting significantly longer battery life.
Other
OSiOS 17Android 13Different operating systems cater to different user preferences and ecosystems.
PriceHighMediumSignificant price difference reflects the premium features and performance of the iPhone.

2. Key Differences Analysis

iPhone 15 Pro Advantages:

  • Significantly more powerful: The A17 Pro chip offers a substantial performance advantage for demanding tasks and gaming.
  • Superior display: OLED technology delivers a more vibrant and immersive visual experience.
  • Premium build and design: Titanium frame offers enhanced durability.
  • More compact and portable: Easier to carry and use one-handed.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Advantages:

  • Much larger display: Better for media consumption, multitasking, and creative work.
  • Significantly longer battery life: Suitable for extended use without recharging.
  • Lower price: More affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

iPhone 15 Pro: Ideal for users who prioritize performance, portability, a premium experience, and are within a higher budget. Excellent for:

  • Power users: Demanding apps, gaming, and multitasking.
  • Content creators: On-the-go photo and video editing.
  • Users seeking a premium, compact device: Value build quality, design, and a seamless user experience.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+: Suitable for users who prioritize a large screen for media consumption, productivity, and prefer a more budget-friendly option. Excellent for:

  • Students: Note-taking, reading, research.
  • Media consumers: Watching movies, browsing the web, reading e-books.
  • Casual gamers: Less demanding mobile games.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. What is your budget? The iPhone 15 Pro is significantly more expensive.
  2. What screen size do you prefer? A large tablet or a compact phone?
  3. What are your primary use cases? (e.g., gaming, media consumption, productivity).

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Limited budget, prioritize large screen for entertainment: Tab S9 FE+
  • Prioritize performance, portability, and premium experience: iPhone 15 Pro
  • Student needing a device for note-taking and media consumption: Tab S9 FE+

My Choice: Apple iPhone 15 Pro

While the Tab S9 FE+ offers a compelling value proposition with its large screen and lower price, I would choose the iPhone 15 Pro. The significant performance advantage of the A17 Pro chip, coupled with the superior OLED display and premium build quality, outweighs the benefits of the larger screen and longer battery life of the Tab S9 FE+ for my personal needs. I prioritize a smooth, powerful, and portable device for everyday use, and the iPhone 15 Pro better fits that profile. The compact form factor is crucial for me, and I'm willing to pay the premium for the superior overall experience. I also value being within the Apple ecosystem. While the battery life might be a concern, I prioritize performance and portability over having the longest possible battery life.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.