What are the Key Differences Between the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 and Tab Active 5?

What are the Key Differences Between the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 and Tab Active 5?

Written by: Strike Group Australia

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Time to read 2 min

The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 and Tab Active 5 are both designed for rugged use in challenging environments, but several key differences highlight the advancements in the newer model.

Performance and Hardware

  • Processor and RAM : The Tab Active 5 features the more advanced Exynos 1380 processor, which is based on a 5nm process, compared to the 10nm Exynos 9810 in the Tab Active 3. The newer model comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, whereas the Active 3 is limited to 4GB.
  • Storage : Both tablets offer 128GB of internal storage, but the Tab Active 5 also supports an optional 256GB configuration.

Display and Design

  • Screen : The Active 5 boasts an 8-inch WUXGA TFT LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, enhancing the user experience with smoother animations and better responsiveness, especially when using the S Pen. The Active 3, on the other hand, has an 8-inch WXGA PLS TFT LCD screen with a 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Durability : Both tablets have IP68 dust and water resistance and MIL-STD-810H certification, but the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 includes Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for improved scratch resistance and can withstand drops from 1.8 meters compared to 1.5 meters for the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3.

Battery and Connectivity

  • Battery : Both models feature a 5,050mAh removable battery, offering flexibility for extended use. However, the overall battery performance is similar between the two models.
  • Connectivity : The Tab Active 5 includes Bluetooth 5.3 and optional 5G support, whereas the Tab Active 3 is limited to Bluetooth 5.0 and LTE. This makes the newer model better suited for faster data communication and future-proofing in terms of connectivity.

Software and Features

  • Operating System : The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 ships with Android 14 and One UI 6, guaranteeing longer software support, including four major OS upgrades and five years of security updates. The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3, however, supports up to Android 12 with One UI 4.1.
  • S Pen : Both models include an IP68-rated S Pen, but the enhanced screen on the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 makes it more responsive and precise, especially with the higher refresh rate display.

Use Case Enhancements

  • Enterprise Features : Both tablets are designed with enterprise use in mind, featuring PTT (Push To Talk) and an Active Key. The newer Tab Active 5 also brings enhancements such as better firmware support and more rugged construction for even more demanding environments.

Strike: Your Trusted Partner for Samsung Accessories

At  Strike Group, we are proud to be a worldwide Samsung accessory partner. We offer a wide range of mounts, holders, and charging bays specifically designed for the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 and Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5. Our products are engineered to provide secure and reliable solutions for using these tablets in various environments, ensuring they are always ready for action.


Our accessories are in stock and ready to ship, allowing you to equip your devices without delay. Whether you need a robust mount for a fleet vehicle or a convenient charging bay for your workspace, Strike has the solutions to meet your needs.


Feature Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3
Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5
Processor
Exynos 9810 (10nm)
Exynos 1380 (5nm)
RAM
4GB
6GB or 8GB
Storage
128GB
128GB or 256GB
Screen
8-inch WXGA PLS TFT LCD (60Hz)
8-inch WUXGA TFT LCD (120Hz)
Durability
IP68, MIL-STD-810H, Gorilla Glass (1.5m)
IP68, MIL-STD-810H, Gorilla Glass 5 (1.8m)
Battery
5,050mAh (removable)
5,050mAh (removable)
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.0, LTE
Bluetooth 5.3, 5G (optional)
Operating System
Android 12 (One UI 4.1)
Android 14 (One UI 6)
S Pen
IP68-rated S Pen
IP68-rated S Pen (enhanced)
Enterprise Features
PTT, Active Key
PTT, Active Key, better firmware support, and more rugged construction

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