Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE vs Samsung Galaxy M15 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date October 16, 2023 April 5, 2024
Release Year 2023 2024

Physical

Volume 274.06 cm³ 114.35 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 2.08 "/g 3 "/g
Weight 523 g 217 g
Height 254.3 mm 160.1 mm
Width 165.8 mm 76.8 mm
Thickness 6.5 mm 9.3 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Silver
  • Gray
  • Mint
  • Lavender
  • Gray
  • Light Blue
  • Dark Blue

Display

Screen Size 10.9 " 6.5 "
Resolution 1440 x 2304 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 16:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 81.7 % 84.3 %
Pixel Density 249 PPI 396 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 800 nits
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 67.33 mAh/in² 142.01 mAh/in²
Battery Density 29.19 mAh/cm³ 52.47 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 8000 mAh 6000 mAh
NFC Support No Yes
Chipset Exynos 1380 (5 nm) Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm)
CPU Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Mali-G68 MP5 Mali-G57 MC2

Connectivity

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

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 13 14
Maximum OS Version 17

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy Tab S9 FESamsung Galaxy M15Practical Impact
Design
Dimensions254.3 x 165.8 x 6.5 mm160.1 x 76.8 x 9.3 mmTab S9 FE is significantly larger, indicating a tablet form factor. M15 is a standard smartphone size.
Weight523g217gTab S9 FE is much heavier, less portable for one-handed use.
BuildMaterial information missing for both devices, limiting comparison.
Display
Size10.9"6.5"Tab S9 FE offers a much larger screen for media consumption and multitasking.
TypeIPS LCD, 90HzSuper AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM)M15 likely offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and higher brightness for outdoor visibility due to AMOLED technology.
Resolution1440 x 23041080 x 2340Tab S9 FE has a higher resolution, resulting in sharper images and text, especially noticeable on a larger screen.
PPI249396M15 has a higher pixel density, meaning sharper images on a smaller display. Difference might be less noticeable in real-world usage due to Tab S9 FE's larger screen size and higher resolution.
Performance
ChipsetExynos 1380 (5nm)Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm)Both are mid-range chipsets. Performance differences might exist but require benchmark comparisons for accurate assessment.
CPUOcta-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)Slight architectural differences in CPU cores. Real-world performance difference needs further benchmarking.
GPUMali-G68 MP5Mali-G57 MC2Tab S9 FE likely has a more powerful GPU, benefiting gaming and graphically demanding tasks.
RAM8GB6GBTab S9 FE offers more RAM for smoother multitasking and app switching.
Storage256GB128GBTab S9 FE provides double the storage.
Battery
Capacity8000 mAh6000 mAhTab S9 FE has a larger battery, expected to provide longer battery life given its larger screen size.
Other
OSAndroid 13Android 14M15 comes with a newer Android version out of the box, potentially offering newer features and longer software support.
NFCNoYesM15 supports contactless payments and data transfer via NFC.
USBUSB Type-C 2.0, magnetic connectorUSB Type-C 2.0Both have USB Type-C, but the Tab S9 FE's magnetic connector could be more convenient for charging and accessory connection.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Tab S9 FE Advantages:

  • Larger Display: Better for media consumption, multitasking, and creative tasks.
  • Higher Resolution: Sharper visuals on the larger display.
  • More RAM and Storage: Smoother multitasking and ample space for files.
  • Larger Battery: Potentially longer battery life.
  • Magnetic Connector: Potentially more convenient charging.

M15 Advantages:

  • More Portable: Smaller and lighter, easier for one-handed use.
  • Super AMOLED Display: Superior contrast, deeper blacks, and brighter outdoors.
  • Newer Android Version: Access to the latest features and potentially longer software updates.
  • NFC: Enables contactless payments.
  • Lower Price (Inferred): Smaller storage and less powerful specs suggest a potential lower price point, although specific pricing isn't provided.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Tab S9 FE: Ideal for users who prioritize a large screen for entertainment, productivity (note-taking, drawing), and multitasking. Suitable for students, artists, and those who consume a lot of media.

M15: Suitable for users who prefer a compact and portable phone for everyday communication, social media, and light tasks. Good for users who value a bright display and NFC functionality.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. What is your primary use case? (Media consumption, productivity, communication)
  2. How important is portability? (One-handed use vs. larger screen)
  3. What is your budget? (Consider the expected price difference)

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Student needing a device for note-taking and media consumption: Tab S9 FE
  • Commuter wanting a compact phone for social media and calls: M15
  • Artist needing a large canvas for digital drawing: Tab S9 FE

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE

While the M15 offers a compelling package with its AMOLED display and portability, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE. The significantly larger display and higher resolution are crucial for my workflow, which involves a lot of reading, research, and multimedia consumption. The extra RAM and storage are also beneficial for multitasking and keeping my files organized. While I acknowledge the portability advantage of the M15, the Tab S9 FE's benefits outweigh this for my specific needs. The lack of NFC is a minor inconvenience I can overcome. Finally, the magnetic connector appeals to me for ease of charging and potential accessory use. This decision reflects my personal prioritization of screen real estate and performance over ultimate portability.

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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