Samsung Galaxy Tab 2

amazon Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 reviews

Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series, released in 2012, played a significant role in the evolution of Android tablets. With two main models, the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 and the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1, Samsung aimed to offer versatile, budget-friendly tablets that could cater to a broad range of users, from casual consumers to business professionals. This in-depth review will cover the design, display, performance, software, battery life, and overall value of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series.

Design and Build Quality

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series maintained a straightforward, practical design that was characteristic of many early Android tablets. The devices featured a plastic body, which kept the weight down but also made them feel less premium compared to metal-clad competitors. The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 measured 193.7 x 122.4 x 10.5 mm and weighed 344 grams, while the larger Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 came in at 256.6 x 175.3 x 9.7 mm and weighed 587 grams.

Both tablets sported a minimalist aesthetic with rounded edges and a matte finish on the back that provided a decent grip. The front of each device was dominated by the display, with a Samsung logo and a small front-facing camera at the top. The bezels were relatively thick by today’s standards but were in line with other devices from that era.

The build quality of the Galaxy Tab 2 series was solid, with no noticeable flex or creaking when handled. The plastic construction, while not as premium-feeling as aluminum, contributed to the tablets’ lightweight and portable nature, making them easy to carry around and use on the go.

The placement of physical buttons and ports was functional and user-friendly. The power button and volume rocker were located on the side of the device for easy access, and the tablets featured a microSD card slot for expandable storage. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and a proprietary Samsung charging port rounded out the connectivity options.

Overall, the design and build quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series were practical and user-focused. While not the most premium devices on the market, they were well-constructed and designed for everyday use.

Display Quality

The display quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series varied between the two models, reflecting their different target audiences and use cases.

The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 featured a 7-inch PLS LCD display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 170 PPI. While this resolution was adequate for basic tasks such as web browsing and reading, it was relatively low by modern standards. The display produced decent colors and brightness, but it lacked the sharpness and vibrancy found in higher-resolution screens. Viewing angles were acceptable, though colors tended to wash out at extreme angles.

The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1, on the other hand, boasted a 10.1-inch PLS TFT display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of around 149 PPI. Despite the lower pixel density compared to the 7-inch model, the larger screen was better suited for media consumption, productivity tasks, and gaming. Colors were more vibrant and the display offered better brightness levels, making it more enjoyable for watching videos and playing games. However, like its smaller sibling, the display’s sharpness was limited, and text and images appeared less crisp compared to higher-resolution competitors.

Both displays featured capacitive touchscreens that were responsive and accurate, making navigation and interaction with the Android interface smooth and intuitive. However, the lower resolution and pixel density of both models meant that users looking for a more immersive visual experience might find the displays lacking.

Overall, the display quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was serviceable for their time, providing adequate visuals for basic tasks and media consumption. However, they were not the standout feature of these tablets and were outshined by higher-resolution screens available in more premium devices.

Performance and Hardware

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was powered by a 1 GHz dual-core TI OMAP 4430 processor, paired with 1 GB of RAM. This hardware configuration was typical for mid-range tablets at the time and provided sufficient performance for basic tasks and casual use.

In everyday use, both the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 and 10.1 handled common activities such as web browsing, email, social media, and media playback reasonably well. Applications like Gmail, Chrome, and YouTube ran without significant issues, though there were occasional slowdowns and stutters, particularly when multitasking or running more demanding apps.

The PowerVR SGX540 GPU provided adequate graphical performance for casual gaming and media consumption. Less demanding games such as Angry Birds and Candy Crush ran smoothly, but more graphically intensive games and applications could struggle, resulting in slower performance and reduced frame rates.

Internal storage options for both models included 8 GB, 16 GB, and 32 GB variants, with a significant portion of that storage taken up by the operating system and pre-installed applications. The inclusion of a microSD card slot was a welcome feature, allowing users to expand the storage capacity by up to 32 GB, which provided additional space for apps, media, and files.

While the performance of the Galaxy Tab 2 series was sufficient for basic tasks, it was clear that these devices were not designed for heavy multitasking or demanding applications. Users seeking a more powerful and responsive tablet experience might find the performance limitations of the Galaxy Tab 2 series restrictive.

Software and User Interface

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series initially shipped with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and later received an update to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. Samsung’s TouchWiz interface was layered on top of the stock Android experience, providing a range of customizations and additional features.

The TouchWiz interface offered a distinctive look and feel, with colorful icons, customizable home screens, and a variety of widgets that allowed users to personalize their tablets. While some users appreciated the added functionality and customization options, others found TouchWiz to be heavy and occasionally laggy compared to a pure Android experience.

One of the standout features of the Galaxy Tab 2 series was Samsung’s suite of pre-installed applications. These included Samsung Apps, a dedicated app store with a curated selection of apps optimized for Samsung devices, and a range of productivity and multimedia apps such as Polaris Office, S Planner, and Video Hub. These applications added value to the overall software experience, providing useful tools for productivity and entertainment.

The tablets also included a range of connectivity features, such as Samsung’s AllShare Play, which allowed users to stream media content to and from other compatible devices, and the ability to use the tablets as a remote control for Samsung smart TVs. These features enhanced the versatility and functionality of the Galaxy Tab 2 series, making them more than just basic media consumption devices.

However, the software experience was not without its drawbacks. The older version of Android meant that users missed out on some of the latest features and security updates found in newer versions. Additionally, the TouchWiz interface, while feature-rich, could sometimes feel bloated and sluggish, particularly on the limited hardware of the Galaxy Tab 2 series.

Overall, the software and user interface of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series offered a range of useful features and customization options. While not as streamlined or up-to-date as newer Android versions, the combination of TouchWiz and Samsung’s suite of applications provided a solid and versatile user experience.

Battery Life

Battery life is a critical factor for any portable device, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series delivered respectable performance in this area.

The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 was equipped with a 4000 mAh battery, while the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 featured a larger 7000 mAh battery. Both models offered decent battery life, with the smaller 7-inch model typically lasting around 7 to 8 hours of mixed-use, including web browsing, video playback, and light gaming. The larger 10.1-inch model could achieve similar battery life, thanks to its larger battery capacity, despite the increased power demands of the bigger screen.

In real-world usage, the battery life of the Galaxy Tab 2 series was sufficient for a full day of moderate use, making them suitable for both personal and professional use. Charging the tablets was straightforward, with the proprietary Samsung charging port providing a reliable connection for recharging the devices. However, the charging speed was relatively slow compared to more modern devices with fast-charging capabilities, meaning users would need to plan ahead to ensure their tablets were fully charged when needed.

Overall, the battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was one of its strong points, providing enough power for a full day of use and making them reliable companions for both work and play.

Camera Quality

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series included basic camera setups that were adequate for casual photography and video calling but were not standout features of the devices.

The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 and 10.1 both featured a 3.15-megapixel rear-facing camera and a VGA front-facing camera. The rear camera included autofocus but lacked an LED flash, limiting its usability in low-light conditions. In good lighting, the rear camera could capture decent photos with acceptable detail and color accuracy. However, the image quality quickly degraded in low-light environments, resulting in grainy and noisy photos.

The front-facing VGA camera was designed primarily for video calls and selfies. It provided basic functionality for applications like Skype and Google Hangouts, but the low resolution meant that images and video appeared grainy and lacked detail. This was particularly noticeable in comparison to the higher-resolution front-facing cameras found on more modern tablets and smartphones.

Both cameras included a range of

settings and features, such as panorama mode, burst shot, and various filters, allowing users to customize their photos and videos. However, the overall camera performance of the Galaxy Tab 2 series was limited by the hardware, making them less suitable for users who prioritize photography.

Overall, while the camera quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was adequate for basic tasks, it was not a strong selling point of these devices. Users looking for high-quality photography and video capabilities would likely find the cameras on these tablets to be lacking.

Audio Quality

The audio quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was another area where the devices delivered solid, if not exceptional, performance.

Both the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 and 10.1 featured stereo speakers located on the sides of the device. The placement of the speakers allowed for a reasonably good stereo effect when watching videos or listening to music in landscape mode. The audio output was clear and loud enough for personal use, though it lacked the depth and richness found in higher-end tablets with more advanced audio systems.

For users who prefer to use headphones, the 3.5mm headphone jack provided a convenient option. The audio quality through headphones was generally good, with clear and detailed sound. This made the Galaxy Tab 2 series suitable for a range of audio-related activities, from listening to music and watching movies to making video calls.

The tablets also included a built-in microphone, which performed adequately for voice recording and video calls. While not as advanced as the microphones found on some modern devices, it was sufficient for basic communication and recording needs.

Overall, the audio quality of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was serviceable for everyday use. While not exceptional, it provided a decent audio experience for a range of activities, making the tablets versatile and functional multimedia devices.

Connectivity

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series offered a comprehensive set of connectivity options, ensuring that users could stay connected and productive.

Both the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 and 10.1 included Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n for wireless internet access, providing reliable and stable connectivity for browsing, streaming, and downloading content. The Wi-Fi performance was generally good, with the devices maintaining strong connections in various environments.

Bluetooth 3.0 was also included, allowing users to connect a range of Bluetooth-enabled devices such as headphones, speakers, keyboards, and mice. This enhanced the versatility of the Galaxy Tab 2 series, making them suitable for a wide range of use cases, from media consumption to productivity.

The inclusion of a microSD card slot was another valuable feature, providing an easy way to expand the device’s storage capacity. Users could insert a microSD card of up to 32 GB, allowing for additional space for apps, media, and files. This was particularly useful for users who needed more storage than the internal 8 GB, 16 GB, or 32 GB could provide.

The Galaxy Tab 2 series also included a proprietary Samsung charging port, which allowed for reliable charging and data transfer. However, the use of a proprietary port instead of a more standard option like micro-USB or USB-C was a drawback, as it limited compatibility with other chargers and accessories.

One of the limitations of the Galaxy Tab 2 series was the lack of built-in cellular connectivity options. While the devices offered Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, there was no built-in support for LTE or other mobile networks. This meant that users would need to rely on Wi-Fi networks or external mobile hotspots to stay connected on the go.

Overall, the connectivity options of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series were sufficient for most users’ needs. The inclusion of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, expandable storage, and a proprietary charging port provided a good balance of features for a range of activities, though the lack of cellular connectivity was a limitation for some users.

Productivity and Multitasking

One of the key selling points of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was its focus on productivity and multitasking. The tablets included several features designed to enhance the user experience for those who needed to work on the go.

The Multi Window feature allowed users to run two applications side by side, making it easy to multitask and switch between tasks without having to constantly open and close apps. This was particularly useful for tasks such as referencing documents while taking notes, browsing the web while watching a video, or managing emails while working on a spreadsheet.

Samsung’s suite of productivity applications, such as Polaris Office, S Planner, and S Memo, provided additional tools for creating and editing documents, managing schedules, and taking notes. These applications were optimized for use on the Galaxy Tab 2 series, making the tablets powerful tools for both creative and productive tasks.

The inclusion of a range of connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and expandable storage, further enhanced the productivity potential of the Galaxy Tab 2 series. Users could easily connect to the internet, pair with peripherals, and expand their storage capacity to suit their needs.

However, the limited hardware capabilities of the Galaxy Tab 2 series meant that they were not as powerful or responsive as more modern tablets. While the devices were sufficient for basic productivity tasks, users who needed to perform more demanding activities or run multiple applications simultaneously might find the performance limitations to be restrictive.

Overall, the productivity and multitasking features of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series made them valuable devices for users who needed to work on the go. The combination of Multi Window, Samsung’s suite of productivity applications, and versatile connectivity options provided a solid platform for a range of tasks.

Entertainment and Media Consumption

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was well-equipped for entertainment and media consumption, thanks to its decent display, stereo speakers, and versatile connectivity options.

The 7-inch and 10.1-inch displays provided good visuals for watching videos, browsing the web, and viewing photos. While not the highest resolution screens available, they offered acceptable color accuracy and brightness for a range of media activities. The larger screen of the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 was particularly well-suited for watching movies and playing games, providing a more immersive experience compared to the smaller 7-inch model.

The stereo speakers on both models delivered clear and reasonably loud audio, enhancing the overall media consumption experience. Whether watching videos, listening to music, or playing games, the speakers provided a satisfactory audio experience for personal use.

The inclusion of a microSD card slot allowed users to store a large library of media content, from movies and TV shows to music and photos. This made it easy to carry a wide range of entertainment options with you wherever you went.

The Galaxy Tab 2 series also supported a range of media formats and codecs, ensuring compatibility with various types of media content. The tablets’ performance was sufficient for streaming HD video content from services like YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu, providing a smooth and enjoyable viewing experience.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 series was a versatile and capable device for entertainment and media consumption. The combination of decent displays, stereo speakers, and expandable storage made them suitable for a range of activities, from watching videos and listening to music to browsing the web and playing games.

where can you get a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 online

Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 (7-Inch, Wi-Fi) 2012 Model: Buy it now

Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 GT-P3113 7-Inch 8BG Tablet (Titanium Silver): Buy it now