Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, released in September 2025, is a statement piece: a massive 14.6-inch tablet aimed at power users and creatives. While it delivers impressive battery life and includes a stylus, its performance falls short of expectations for a device in this price range—starting at $1,319.99. This review breaks down what makes the S11 Ultra stand out, and where it lags behind competitors like Apple’s iPad Pro.
Key Specs and Pricing
The S11 Ultra isn’t cheap. At $1,319.99, it represents a significant investment compared to the smaller, 11-inch Galaxy Tab S11 ($979.99). Here’s a quick look at the core specs:
- Memory: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB options
- Processor: Octa-Core
- Cameras: 13MP + 8MP rear, 12MP front, 4K video
- Display: Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 2960 x 1848 resolution
- Ports: USB-C
Why this matters: Samsung has positioned the S11 Ultra as a premium alternative to Apple’s dominance in the high-end tablet market. The price point reflects this ambition, but the execution doesn’t fully match the cost.
Immersive Display, Useful Multitasking
The sheer size of the S11 Ultra’s screen is its most immediate advantage. The 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display is vibrant and sharp, making everything from streaming video to editing documents a pleasure. The large surface area allows for effective split-screen multitasking: you can comfortably run two demanding apps side-by-side without feeling cramped.
Real-world use: Imagine drafting emails while watching a 4K movie or sketching artwork alongside reference materials. The tablet handles this workload smoothly, though not flawlessly (more on that later).
Performance: Good, Not Great
Despite its size, the S11 Ultra’s performance is surprisingly average. While it handles everyday tasks like browsing and streaming with ease, it struggles to compete with top-tier tablets in raw processing power. Geekbench 6 tests confirm this: the S11 Ultra scores 8,797 in multi-core tests, which is decent but lags far behind the iPad Pro (over 16,000) and even the iPad Air (10,498).
The gap matters: For professionals who rely on demanding applications (video editing, 3D modeling, complex gaming), the S11 Ultra’s performance deficit is noticeable. The iPad Pro remains the benchmark for speed and efficiency.
Battery Life: A Standout Feature
The S11 Ultra excels in battery endurance. In Mashable’s standard test (looping a 1080p video at 50% brightness/volume), the tablet lasted an impressive 16 hours and 6 minutes. This rivals the longevity of many high-end laptops, making it ideal for long flights or extended work sessions away from an outlet.
Included S Pen: A Value Add
Unlike Apple, Samsung includes the S Pen stylus with the S11 Ultra. The hexagonal design mimics a traditional pencil, providing a comfortable writing and drawing experience. The stylus magnetically attaches to the tablet, though the connection isn’t particularly strong.
Why this is useful: The S Pen adds significant value for artists, note-takers, and anyone who prefers handwriting over typing.
Size and Ergonomics: A Double-Edged Sword
The S11 Ultra’s massive size is both its strength and weakness. While the screen is immersive, the tablet is awkward to hold for extended periods. It’s wider than many laptops, making it cumbersome to use on a plane or in tight spaces. A keyboard cover is highly recommended for productivity, but even then, it remains unwieldy.
The Verdict: Niche Appeal
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is a capable tablet with a stunning display and exceptional battery life. However, its performance doesn’t justify its high price tag, especially when compared to alternatives like the Apple iPad Pro or Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3.
Bottom line: The S11 Ultra is best suited for professionals and creatives who prioritize screen size and battery endurance over raw power. For most users, there are better options available at a lower cost.
