Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3
Verdict
An extremely sturdy and practical tablet designed for rugged environments and work-related tasks.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“This tough tablet isn't bad by any means - and it totally delivers on its rugged promise - but it's just kind-of retro looking and somewhat lost for purpose in its consumer context. It's really one for the workforce, so we're not sure the Galaxy name need apply.”
“The Tab Active 3 is an affordable tablet that is optimized for the mobile workforce. It doesn't have high capacity RAM, but I have yet to see it stumble with any task I've thrown at it. It has external storage capacity and the ability to extend its functionality with POGO pins too. The S Pen doesn't require charging, works wonderfully on the display, and has great size and weight. I preferred using the S Pen on the Tab Active 3 compared to the thin S Pen found in the Note smartphones.”
“The Galaxy Tab Active 3 is the very definition of a niche device, and one that lacks the performance and refinement for most people. For those who value robustness above all else, however, it’s a pretty tough tablet to beat.”
“The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active3 should be near the top of your list of rugged Android devices if you’re looking for one. It brings together everything that you’d expect from a durable tablet and a slew of compelling features like Samsung Dex, the removable battery and physical buttons.”
Watch before you decide
In Depth
Design
The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 impresses with its rugged, durable design. Its reinforced corners and robust construction are perfect for handling harsh environments. With its military-grade protection and IP68 water and dust resistance, you won’t worry about drops or spills.
“The design enables the device to excel at its main goal: durability,” “Android Authority” highlights. The included shock-absorption case enhances protection, easily surviving falls up to 1.5 meters.
Physical home buttons and a high-touch sensitive mode let you use it while wearing gloves, making it practical for frontline workers. Although some might find the large bezels outdated, they add to the tablet’s solid build, providing you with secure handling.
Display(s)
The display on the Galaxy Tab Active 3 might not be an AMOLED, but it still delivers bright and vivid colors that stand out. You’ll appreciate the crispness and clarity of text and images, whether you’re indoors or outside.
Experts found that despite the thick bezels, the screen maintains good visibility, which is ideal for various work environments, especially for those wearing gloves.
Personalizing touch sensitivity is simple, allowing seamless use with gloves for added convenience in colder settings or specific work conditions.
Performance
The tablet’s Exynos 9810 processor, though not the newest, handles daily tasks with ease. You’ll find switching between apps smooth and responsive, making multitasking stress-free.
For work on the go, the device supports features like barcode scanning and augmented reality. Reviewers at Android Authority noted, “The three-year-old Exynos 9810 CPU shows its age when you have multiple tabs on the go but it’s a perfectly capable performer for everyday tasks.”
If you’re in a profession requiring rugged wear, the tablet’s performance fits well for both productivity apps and casual mobile gaming without lag.
Software & Storage
The interface builds on Android’s ease of use and adds handy features like the Edge panel. You can set this up to have quick access to your frequently used apps. Just swipe a thin bar on the right side of the display to launch your apps of choice.
Field workers and business users benefit from Samsung’s Knox software that comes with enhanced security features. Plus, you can use augmented reality for training, thanks to ARCore support.
Some apps are only through the Galaxy Store, which can slightly confuse users looking for apps in the default Google Play Store.
Cameras
The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3’s 13MP rear camera is great for taking quick outdoor photos with clarity. While it handles natural lighting well, shots indoors without flash can vary in quality, as noted by reviewers.
“Photos turned out pretty decently outside,” reports Techaeris, yet you might find the absence of an indoor flash challenging. Switching to 8x digital zoom mode tends to compromise the picture clarity, so sticking to regular modes is wise.
The 5MP front camera works well for video calls but doesn’t offer the quality most selfie enthusiasts seek.
Battery
The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3’s 5,050mAh battery promises endurance, keeping you powered through typical daily tasks. This feature appeals if you find yourself frequently on the go, using your tablet for work or study.
“With the tablet, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power,” remarked TechRadar. The ease of swapping a depleted battery for a charged one provides continuous usage in demanding environments.
Charging options are just as flexible. Connect to a power outlet using the USB-C port for quick 15W fast charging, or use the POGO connectors for a more streamlined experience. Experts appreciate the versatility this offers for busy users requiring seamless function throughout their day.
Audio
The Galaxy Tab Active 3 features a single speaker that can get quite loud. Unfortunately, it has limited bass, which is common among devices in this category.
When using the tablet for entertainment purposes, such as watching movies or playing games, you might notice some sound distortion. “The speakers… are underwhelming, both quieter and with less bass than even most smartphone speakers,” reviewers commented.
For calling, the audio quality is reliable, but using the headset jack or connecting a Bluetooth device is recommended for a better experience, especially in noisy environments.
The Bottom Line
This tablet meets the needs of frontline workers with its military-grade protection and water resistance. In particular, it suits those who work outside or in demanding conditions.
Its removable battery and glove-friendly touch support keep you productive with no downtime. The programmable key offers quick access to your crucial apps, enhancing efficiency.
Though it isn’t the most powerful device, its durability and practical features make it a solid choice for specific use cases. As Android Authority mentions, “the design enables the device to excel at its main objectives: durability and productivity.”
What people actually want to know
When was the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 released?
The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 was released on October 7, 2020.
How long does the battery last on the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3?
The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 has a 5,050 mAh battery.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 water resistant?
The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 carries an IP68 rating.
Note: water resistance degrades over time and manufacturer warranties typically don't cover liquid damage.
Does the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 support wireless charging?
No, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 does not support wireless charging.
Does the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 have a headphone jack?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 has a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Does the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 have NFC?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 has NFC. You can use Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and tap-to-pair with Bluetooth accessories.
Where can I get support for the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3?
Visit Samsung's official support page for warranty info, repairs, and troubleshooting.
Where can I download the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 manual?
You can view and download the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 manual on our dedicated manual page.
Questions & answers
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