Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra vs Apple iPad Pro: Here’s how they stack up
Samsung's new Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Apple's M5 iPad Pro represent two contrasting approaches to premium tablets in 2026. Samsung emphasises screen size (14.6 inches), battery endurance and bundled accessories, whilst Apple prioritises raw processing power, display precision and ecosystem integration. For professionals and power users weighing these devices, which start at $1,199 to $1,499, the choice reflects fundamentally different philosophies about tablet value.
The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra starts at $1,399.99 with a 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display reaching 1,600 nits peak brightness, and proved remarkably durable in testing with 19 hours 39 minutes of real-world battery life. Apple's iPad Pro M5 ranges from $1,199 for the 11-inch model to $1,499 for the 13-inch version, and features an Ultra Retina XDR display rated for 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness, with particular strengths in colour accuracy for professional creative work. The decision between them depends on priorities: Samsung offers a larger canvas for multitasking and productivity, whilst Apple appeals to creatives already integrated into its ecosystem and requiring professional colour management.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 prioritises screen and battery; iPad Pro prioritises processing and colour.
- Tab S12 achieved 19 hours of battery; iPad Pro M5 starts at $1,199 or $1,399.99.
- Choose Samsung for larger screen and battery; Apple for colour accuracy and creative work.
New here? Start with this
Premium tablets have become sophisticated devices used by professionals for creative work and productivity, and two technology giants have released competing new models. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Apple's latest iPad Pro both launch at similar price points but represent different philosophies about what a top-tier tablet should prioritise. For people considering a substantial investment in either device, understanding these different approaches is important.
Samsung and Apple have taken contrasting paths with their latest tablets. Samsung emphasises a larger screen, long-lasting battery and included accessories to give users maximum space and endurance for work, whilst Apple focuses on powerful processing capabilities, advanced display technology and deep integration with other Apple devices and software. The two companies are targeting the same professional and power-user audience, but offering different solutions.
Someone choosing between these tablets should consider how they work. Those who value screen real estate and all-day battery life without recharging may prefer Samsung's approach, while people creating visual content or already using other Apple products might find the iPad Pro more suited to their workflow. Neither device is objectively better; the decision comes down to personal priorities and existing technology habits.