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Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) Tablet Review: A budget Samsung tablet with great deficiencies

An enjoyable tablet with restrictions. The Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is a compact Android tablet in the entry-level price segment. However, its affordable pricing means that Samsung has had to make some compromises. You can find out which these are in our review of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)

Samsung advertises its 8 mm (~0.3 in) thin and 345 g (~12.2 oz) Tab A 8.0 (2019) as the ideal companion for using on the go, which should primarily be used for streaming services. In addition, the tablet comes with two months of YouTube Premium and three months of Spotify Premium, free of charge.

The specifications of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) are expected for a tablet at this price. The 8-inch display of the €160 (~$179) has a resolution of just 1,280x800, which Samsung complements with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage. A Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 underpins the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) too.

In addition to the Wi-Fi model that we tested, Samsung also offers a variant with LTE. The latter retails for €230 (~$257).

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 (Galaxy Tab A Series)
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 4 x 2 GHz, Cortex-A53
Graphics adapter
Memory
2048 MB 
Display
8.00 inch 16:10, 1280 x 800 pixel 189 PPI, capacitive touchscreen, TFT, glossy: yes
Storage
32 GB eMMC Flash, 32 GB 
, 21 GB free
Connections
1 USB 2.0, Audio Connections: 3.5 mm jack, Card Reader: microSD (up to 512 GB), Brightness Sensor, Sensors: Accelerometer, micro USB, USB-OTG
Networking
802.11a/b/g/n (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 4.2, GPS
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 8 x 210 x 124.4 ( = 0.31 x 8.27 x 4.9 in)
Battery
5100 mAh Lithium-Polymer
Operating System
Android 9.0 Pie
Camera
Primary Camera: 8 MPix Camera2 API: Level 3
Secondary Camera: 2 MPix
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo speakers, Keyboard: Virtual, micro USB cable, headphones, modular power supply, Samsung UI, 24 Months Warranty, fanless
Weight
345 g ( = 12.17 oz / 0.76 pounds), Power Supply: 45 g ( = 1.59 oz / 0.1 pounds)
Price
150 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Rating
Date
Model
Weight
Height
Size
Resolution
Best Price
79.6 %
01/2020
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
SD 429, Adreno 504
345 g8 mm8.00"1280x800
81 %
01/2020
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Helio A22 MT6762M, PowerVR GE8320
305 g8.2 mm8.00"1280x800
78.7 %
03/2019
Alldocube M8 T801
MT6797X, Mali-T880 MP4
345 g8.48 mm8.00"1920x1200
77.7 %
07/2019
Amazon Fire 7 2019
MT8163 V/B 1.3 GHz, Mali-T720 MP2
286 g9.6 mm7.00"1024x600
78.9 %
12/2019
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
MT8183, Mali-G72 MP3
504 g9.8 mm10.10"1920x1200
80.8 %
09/2018
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
Kirin 659, Mali-T830 MP2
475 g7.7 mm10.10"1920x1200
73.7 %
03/2019
Trekstor SurfTab B10
MT8163 V/A 1.5 GHz, Mali-T720 MP2
505 g9.8 mm10.10"1280x800
75.4 %
12/2019
Lenovo Tab M7
MT8321, Mali-400 MP2
236 g8.2 mm7.00"1024x600

Case - Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) with metal and glass

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) colour variants
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) colour variants

While the entire front of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is covered with glass, the back of the tablet is made of metal. Samsung has given the back of the Tab anon-slip matte finish that, unfortunately, is quite susceptible to fingerprints and is also difficult to clean.

In comparison to the previous model, Samsung has removed the home button and placed its company logo on the back of the tablet. Nevertheless, the bezels around the 8-inch display are very wide, with its screen ratio being correspondingly low at 70%.

In terms of case stability, we have hardly any complaints. Attempts to twist it reveal a certain flexibility, though. Overall, the build quality is at a very good level for a cheap entry-level tablet.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)

Size Comparison

262 mm / 10.3 inch 159 mm / 6.26 inch 9.8 mm / 0.3858 inch 504 g1.111 lbs243 mm / 9.57 inch 172 mm / 6.77 inch 9.8 mm / 0.3858 inch 505 g1.113 lbs243.4 mm / 9.58 inch 162.2 mm / 6.39 inch 7.7 mm / 0.3031 inch 475 g1.047 lbs215 mm / 8.46 inch 122.9 mm / 4.84 inch 8.48 mm / 0.3339 inch 345 g0.761 lbs210 mm / 8.27 inch 124.4 mm / 4.9 inch 8 mm / 0.315 inch 345 g0.761 lbs199 mm / 7.83 inch 129 mm / 5.08 inch 8.2 mm / 0.3228 inch 305 g0.672 lbs192 mm / 7.56 inch 115 mm / 4.53 inch 9.6 mm / 0.378 inch 286 g0.631 lbs176 mm / 6.93 inch 103 mm / 4.06 inch 8.2 mm / 0.3228 inch 236 g0.52 lbs210 mm / 8.27 inch 148 mm / 5.83 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 2.9 g0.00639 lbs

Connectivity - Samsung tablet only with Widevine DRM Level 3

The connectivity of the Samsung tablet is acceptable considering its price. Neither a fingerprint sensor nor a status LED are available; not even always-on functionality. Headphones can, however, be connected via the tablet's 3.5 mm jack. The Tab A 8.0 can wirelessly output video to an external monitor using Miracast too. Due to being Widevine DRM Level 3 though, services such as Amazon Prime Video and Netflix can only be streamed in SD rather than HD.

Charging the tablet's 5,100 mAh battery falls on the device's micro USB port, which sits on the underside of its frame. The port supports USB-OTG for connecting peripherals such as keyboards or USB sticks. It only operates on the USB 2.0 standard, though.

The internal eMMC flash storage has a capacity of just 32 GB, of which a good 20 GB is free upon delivery. A memory expansion of the Tab A 8.0 (2019) is at least possible and can be increased by up to a 512 GB microSD card. Micro SD cards cannot be formatted as internal memory, but the tablet supports the exFAT file system.

Right-hand side: Power button, volume rocker
Right-hand side: Power button, volume rocker
Underside: Speaker grille, microphone, micro USB, speaker grille
Underside: Speaker grille, microphone, micro USB, speaker grille
Left-hand side: Card slot
Left-hand side: Card slot
Topside: Headphone jack
Topside: Headphone jack

Software - Android 9.0 with Samsung One UI 1.1

The One UI user interface of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is based on Android 9.0 Pie, while our review unit has the June 2019 set of security patches installed. Whether an update to the current Android 10 will happen has not been officially confirmed, but reports say that the latest Android iteration will arrive in Q3 2020.

The number of pre-installed third-party apps is limited, but there are several Samsung apps on board that offer numerous additional functions. The Kids Home area can also create a safe environment for children and offers parents the opportunity to monitor the time that their kids spend on the tablet.

Default home screen
Default home screen
Quick Settings
Quick Settings
Recents
Recents
Settings
Settings

Communication & GPS - Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) without NFC

Only the LTE version has mobile connectivity. Its modem supports nine LTE ​​bands and covers almost all LTE frequencies that are relevant to for Germany - at least for the time being. The increasingly more important LTE band 28 is not supported, though. The tablet also only supports Bluetooth 4.2. An NFC chip for near-field communications is not installed though, which precludes - insofar as an 8-inch tablet could be considered as a payment method - via Google Pay.

The integrated Wi-Fi module supports IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n, along with the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks. In daily use, the reception performance of the Wi-Fi module proved good and its signal stable.

The lack of support for MIMO antenna technology for Wi-Fi consigns the Tab to relatively low transmission rates on home networks - here the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) only ranks in the middle in our comparison devices. In conjunction with our Linksys EA8500 reference router, the Samsung tablet achieves average transfer rates of 101 MBit/s. The transmission power is somewhat higher at an average of 115 MBit/s.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
Mali-G72 MP3, MT8183, 32 GB eMMC Flash
299 (279min - 310max) MBit/s +160%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
PowerVR GE8320, Helio A22 MT6762M, 32 GB eMMC Flash
271 (183min - 335max) MBit/s +136%
Alldocube M8 T801
Mali-T880 MP4, MT6797X, 32 GB eMMC Flash
195 MBit/s +70%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
Adreno 504, SD 429, 32 GB eMMC Flash
115 (109min - 121max) MBit/s
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Mali-T720 MP2, MT8163 V/B 1.3 GHz, 16 GB eMMC Flash
91 (44min - 103max) MBit/s -21%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Mali-T720 MP2, MT8163 V/A 1.5 GHz, 32 GB eMMC Flash
86.4 (31min - 99max) MBit/s -25%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
Mali-T830 MP2, Kirin 659, 32 GB eMMC Flash
54.5 MBit/s -53%
Lenovo Tab M7
Mali-400 MP2, MT8321, 16 GB eMMC Flash
48.2 (34min - 61max) MBit/s -58%
iperf3 receive AX12
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
Mali-G72 MP3, MT8183, 32 GB eMMC Flash
321 (302min - 327max) MBit/s +218%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
PowerVR GE8320, Helio A22 MT6762M, 32 GB eMMC Flash
294 (256min - 307max) MBit/s +191%
Alldocube M8 T801
Mali-T880 MP4, MT6797X, 32 GB eMMC Flash
235 MBit/s +133%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
Adreno 504, SD 429, 32 GB eMMC Flash
101 (86min - 107max) MBit/s
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Mali-T720 MP2, MT8163 V/B 1.3 GHz, 16 GB eMMC Flash
97 (20min - 109max) MBit/s -4%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Mali-T720 MP2, MT8163 V/A 1.5 GHz, 32 GB eMMC Flash
86.8 (35min - 106max) MBit/s -14%
Lenovo Tab M7
Mali-400 MP2, MT8321, 16 GB eMMC Flash
59.7 (41min - 56max) MBit/s -41%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
Mali-T830 MP2, Kirin 659, 32 GB eMMC Flash
51.7 MBit/s -49%
0102030405060708090100110120Tooltip
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290; iperf3 receive AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø100.9 (86-107)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290; iperf3 transmit AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø114.4 (109-121)
GPS test: Inside
GPS test: Inside
GPS test: Outdoors
GPS test: Outdoors

In addition to GPS, GLONASS and QZSS, the Tab A 8.0 (2019) also uses the satellite-based supplementary system SBAS for navigation services. Outside, the Samsung tablet quickly detects our current position, but the number of satellites it found during our tests was low. The device cannot find a satellite signal indoors, though.

In practice, a comparison trip with the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) shows an unproblematic total deviation of around 60 metres (~197 ft) compared to the Garmin Edge 500, one of our reference bike computers. However, looking closely reveals that our review unit significantly straightens some routes, which can temporarily lead to a break in satellite contact.

GPS test: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 - Overview
GPS test: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 - Overview
GPS test: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 - Cycling around a lake
GPS test: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 - Cycling around a lake
GPS test: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 - Loop
GPS test: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 - Loop
GPS test: Garmin Edge 500 - Overview
GPS test: Garmin Edge 500 - Overview
GPS test: Garmin Edge 500 - Cycling around a lake
GPS test: Garmin Edge 500 - Cycling around a lake
GPS test: Garmin Edge 500 - Loop
GPS test: Garmin Edge 500 - Loop

Call Quality - Video calls with the Samsung Tab to a limited extent

A likely area of ​​application for the Samsung tablet is videotelephony. With the Skype app installed, we took a closer look at the call quality of the built-in microphone. Our call partners remarked that while our voice sounded clear, it did not sound that loud. The built-in speaker slightly distorts voices too, and does not always sound natural.

Also, the LTE version supports the VoLTE standard for phone calls, according to Samsung.

Cameras - The Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is not a photo miracle

Taking a selfie with the Galaxy Tab A 8.0
Taking a selfie with the Galaxy Tab A 8.0

The 2 MP camera on the front of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) has a resolution of 1,600x1,200 pixels in a 4:3 aspect ratio. The South Korean company does not provide detailed information about the camera module that it has included. However, the quality of the built-in lens is only good enough for video calls, in our opinion.

The 8 MP camera on the back takes better photos, but our test shots can hardly keep up with the photo quality of current entry-level smartphones. In particular, the sensor often struggles with keeping objects in focus. Additionally, our photos have a noticeable red tint to them.

Furthermore, the sensors can record videos in up to Full HD.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)

Image Comparison

Choose a scene and navigate within the first image. One click changes the position on touchscreens. One click on the zoomed-in image opens the original in a new window. The first image shows the scaled photograph of the test device.

Scene 1Scene 2Scene 3

We subjected the 8 MP main camera to further tests under controlled lighting conditions. ColorChecker Passport revealed that the tablet over brightens some colours, with green tones being particularly inaccurately reproduced. Black tones look grey too.

Moreover, our test chart only looks detailed at the centre of the image, as you can see below. Black text at the borders of the chart looks grey and blurry, for instance, while contrast and sharpness visibly drops off towards the edges of the image.

ColorChecker
7 ∆E
7 ∆E
6.7 ∆E
9.4 ∆E
3.7 ∆E
6.1 ∆E
7.1 ∆E
6.7 ∆E
8.2 ∆E
5.9 ∆E
3.8 ∆E
4.8 ∆E
3.9 ∆E
7.8 ∆E
9.8 ∆E
1.7 ∆E
6.2 ∆E
2.7 ∆E
3.9 ∆E
3.6 ∆E
6.1 ∆E
3 ∆E
8.2 ∆E
12.3 ∆E
ColorChecker Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290: 6.06 ∆E min: 1.67 - max: 12.28 ∆E
ColorChecker
29.6 ∆E
54.6 ∆E
39.8 ∆E
34.8 ∆E
45.6 ∆E
62.4 ∆E
53.7 ∆E
36.1 ∆E
44.2 ∆E
29 ∆E
65.1 ∆E
64.1 ∆E
31.5 ∆E
47.7 ∆E
37.8 ∆E
76.4 ∆E
44.6 ∆E
42 ∆E
93.7 ∆E
71 ∆E
52 ∆E
36.9 ∆E
23.8 ∆E
13.3 ∆E
ColorChecker Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290: 47.07 ∆E min: 13.35 - max: 93.69 ∆E
A photo of our test chart
A photo of our test chart
Our test chart in detail
A photo of our test chart in the dark

Accessories & Warranty - A Samsung tablet with headphones

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)

The Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) comes with a 7.8-W power supply (5 V/1.55 A), a USB cable, a set of headphones, along with some safety instructions and legal regulations.

The tablet comes with 24 months manufacturer's warranty. Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies & Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input Devices & Operation - Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) without a fingerprint sensor

The Samsung tablet uses on-screen buttons for navigation. Both the precision and the smoothness of the touchscreen on our review unit gives us no cause for complaint. It is sensitive enough too, and remained accurate even into the corners of the display.

The physical buttons on the right side of the case also have crisp pressure points. Text input is no problem due to the size of the display, either. However, it can sometimes take several seconds for the display to flip from portrait to landscape mode.

Samsung does not offer biometric identification with the Galaxy Tab A 8.0. There is no fingerprint sensor either, nor a facial unlocking system using the front-facing camera.

Using the default keyboard app in portrait mode
Using the default keyboard app in portrait mode
Using the default keyboard app in landscape mode
Using the default keyboard app in landscape mode
Using the default keyboard app in portrait mode
Using the default keyboard app in portrait mode

Display - A solid TFT panel in Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)

Sub-pixel array
Sub-pixel array

The 8-inch display of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) has a resolution of 1,280x800 with a 16:10 aspect ratio. The panel has a pixel density of less than 200 PPI, which is very low and is quite trying in everyday life. Text looks blurry on our review unit, for example.

The TFT panel is not particularly bright either, with a maximum luminosity of 397 cd/m² according to X-Rite i1Pro 2. It is only 87% evenly lit too, while maximum brightness drops even further with the ambient light sensor disabled. We measured an average luminance of 382 cd/m² with the ambient light sensor disabled, for reference. The more realistic APL50 test, which evenly distributes light and dark areas across the screen, yielded an average luminosity of 379 cd/m².

397
cd/m²
364
cd/m²
353
cd/m²
394
cd/m²
377
cd/m²
347
cd/m²
388
cd/m²
382
cd/m²
346
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 397 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 372 cd/m² Minimum: 3.04 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 87 %
Center on Battery: 377 cd/m²
Contrast: 1300:1 (Black: 0.29 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 6.1 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 6.6 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
85.3% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.13
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
TFT, 1280x800, 8.00
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
IPS, 1280x800, 8.00
Alldocube M8 T801
IPS, 1920x1200, 8.00
Amazon Fire 7 2019
IPS, 1024x600, 7.00
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
IPS, 1920x1200, 10.10
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
IPS, 1920x1200, 10.10
Trekstor SurfTab B10
IPS, 1280x800, 10.10
Lenovo Tab M7
IPS, 1024x600, 7.00
Screen
19%
-20%
9%
2%
-26%
-13%
-5%
Brightness middle
377
379
1%
317.5
-16%
391
4%
449
19%
514
36%
223
-41%
447
19%
Brightness
372
346
-7%
320
-14%
385
3%
425
14%
492
32%
211
-43%
449
21%
Brightness Distribution
87
88
1%
94
8%
75
-14%
89
2%
80
-8%
81
-7%
86
-1%
Black Level *
0.29
0.21
28%
0.5
-72%
0.15
48%
0.6
-107%
0.96
-231%
0.22
24%
0.25
14%
Contrast
1300
1805
39%
635
-51%
2607
101%
748
-42%
535
-59%
1014
-22%
1788
38%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
6.1
3.8
38%
6.12
-0%
6.3
-3%
3.1
49%
5.42
11%
6.2
-2%
7.1
-16%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
10.9
7.5
31%
13.72
-26%
19.3
-77%
6.4
41%
9.84
10%
13
-19%
20.6
-89%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
6.6
5
24%
5.8
12%
6.1
8%
3.8
42%
6.5
2%
6.2
6%
8.1
-23%
Gamma
2.13 103%
2.23 99%
2.12 104%
2.22 99%
2.09 105%
2.216 99%
2.17 101%
2.07 106%
CCT
7861 83%
7514 87%
7633 85%
8069 81%
7202 90%
6780 96%
7022 93%
8255 79%

* ... smaller is better

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM not detected

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

The Tab A 8.0 (2019) still has room for improvement when it comes to displaying blacks, but its 0.29 cd/m² black value is acceptable at this price. The black value and low luminosity combine to yield an excellent contrast ratio of 1,300:1. APL 50 records a slightly lower ratio at 1,264:1, but this is because of the 0.30 cd/m² black value that it also recorded.

We measured the colour accuracy of the display with a photo spectrometer and the analysis software CalMAN. The Tab A 8.0 (2019) is colour accurate enough for a tablet in this the price range. In relation to the Lenovo Tab M8 HD, for example, the Delta-E deviations of our review unit are more pronounced in mixed colours and greyscale.

CalMAN: Colour Accuracy - sRGB target colour space
CalMAN: Colour Accuracy - sRGB target colour space
CalMAN: Colour Space - sRGB target colour space
CalMAN: Colour Space - sRGB target colour space
CalMAN: Greyscale - sRGB target colour space
CalMAN: Greyscale - sRGB target colour space
CalMAN: Colour Saturation - sRGB target colour space
CalMAN: Colour Saturation - sRGB target colour space

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
28.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 14 ms rise
↘ 14.8 ms fall
The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 72 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
44.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 20.4 ms rise
↘ 24.4 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 73 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Our review unit is difficult to read outdoors because of its low maximum brightness. While its glossy finish catches reflections too, its good contrast ratio ensures that the display remains readable in bright rooms.

Using the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 outdoors
Using the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 outdoors
Using the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 outdoors
Using the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 outdoors

The viewing angle stability of our review unit is satisfactory, while drops in brightness only occur at acute angles. These are only moderate too.

Viewing Angles
Viewing Angles

Performance - Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) with 2 GB of RAM

The Snapdragon 429 is a Qualcomm SoC from 2018 and contains four ARM Cortex-A53 cores that can clock up to 2.0 GHz. The integrated Qualcomm Adreno 504 GPU supports modern APIs such as Vulkan, OpenGL ES 3.1, OpenCL 2.0 and Direct3D 12.

The UI, despite the display's low pixel density, cannot be operated smoothly for the most part. The lack of performance reserves is particularly noticeable when starting or exiting complex apps, for instance, or when navigating extensive websites. Long waiting times are the rule here, during which the Tab A 8.0 (2019) does not respond to any new inputs or commands.

The Samsung tablet ends up at the back of our comparison field in synthetic benchmarks too. The Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) performed especially poorly in graphics-heavy tests, but it also struggled even in PCMark for Android. Our review unit even falls behind the Lenovo Tab M8 HD and its MediaTek Helio A22 SoC in the system performance benchmark.

Geekbench 5.0
5.0 Single-Core
Average of class Tablet (171 - 1547, n=7, last 2 years)
832 Points +395%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
168 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
168 Points 0%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
161 Points -4%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
5.0 Multi-Core
Average of class Tablet (600 - 7029, n=7, last 2 years)
3033 Points +449%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
552 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
552 Points 0%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
538 Points -3%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
OpenCL Score 5.0
Average of class Tablet (1 - 10935, n=6, last 2 years)
4035 Points +2867%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
136 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
136 Points 0%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Points -100%
PCMark for Android
Work performance score
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
7019 Points +17%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
6284 Points +5%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (5986 - 6227, n=2)
6107 Points +2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
5986 Points
Alldocube M8 T801
5984 Points 0%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
4685 Points -22%
Lenovo Tab M7
2719 Points -55%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
Points -100%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Points -100%
Work 2.0 performance score
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
5056 Points +18%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
4946 Points +16%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
4719 Points +11%
Alldocube M8 T801
4695 Points +10%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (4267 - 4631, n=2)
4449 Points +4%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
4267 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
3361 Points -21%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
3071 Points -28%
Lenovo Tab M7
0 Points -100%
3DMark
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Score
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
19435 Points +147%
Alldocube M8 T801
12895 Points +64%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
11791 Points +50%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
8580 Points +9%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (7879 - 7920, n=2)
7900 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
7879 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
6194 Points -21%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
5761 Points -27%
Lenovo Tab M7
2902 Points -63%
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Graphics Score
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
19615 Points +184%
Alldocube M8 T801
14192 Points +106%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
11419 Points +66%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
7658 Points +11%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
6897 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (6895 - 6897, n=2)
6896 Points 0%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
5562 Points -19%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
5144 Points -25%
Lenovo Tab M7
2468 Points -64%
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Physics
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
18829 Points +20%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (15709 - 16518, n=2)
16114 Points +3%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
15709 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
14822 Points -6%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
13310 Points -15%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
10290 Points -34%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
9926 Points -37%
Alldocube M8 T801
9771 Points -38%
Lenovo Tab M7
7561 Points -52%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0
Average of class Tablet (507 - 8472, n=19, last 2 years)
2878 Points +572%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1610 Points +276%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
484 Points +13%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (428 - 470, n=2)
449 Points +5%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
428 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
210 Points -51%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
125 Points -71%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
101 Points -76%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Graphics
Average of class Tablet (454 - 10759, n=19, last 2 years)
3021 Points +730%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1434 Points +294%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
427 Points +17%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (364 - 399, n=2)
382 Points +5%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
364 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
172 Points -53%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
99 Points -73%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
81 Points -78%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Physics
Average of class Tablet (863 - 4858, n=19, last 2 years)
2901 Points +146%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
2818 Points +139%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1758 Points +49%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1178 - 1235, n=2)
1207 Points +2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1178 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
903 Points -23%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
891 Points -24%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
793 Points -33%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Unlimited
Average of class Tablet (539 - 17675, n=28, last 2 years)
5681 Points +1227%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1641 Points +283%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
701 Points +64%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
517 Points +21%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (428 - 462, n=2)
445 Points +4%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
428 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
242 Points -43%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
233 Points -46%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Unlimited Graphics
Average of class Tablet (485 - 35165, n=28, last 2 years)
8154 Points +2327%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1455 Points +333%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
602 Points +79%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
458 Points +36%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (336 - 393, n=2)
365 Points +9%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
336 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
201 Points -40%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
194 Points -42%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Unlimited Physics
Average of class Tablet (463 - 6449, n=28, last 2 years)
3683 Points +222%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
2963 Points +159%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1648 Points +44%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1145 - 1195, n=2)
1170 Points +2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1145 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
943 Points -18%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
858 Points -25%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
768 Points -33%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1)
Average of class Tablet (361 - 14235, n=49, last 2 years)
2029 Points +968%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1157 Points +509%
Alldocube M8 T801
1092 Points +475%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
279 Points +47%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
241 Points +27%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
190 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (189 - 190, n=2)
189.5 Points 0%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Points -100%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Graphics
Average of class Tablet (290 - 24605, n=49, last 2 years)
2147 Points +1303%
Alldocube M8 T801
995 Points +550%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
990 Points +547%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
233 Points +52%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
193 Points +26%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
153 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (152 - 153, n=2)
152.5 Points 0%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Points -100%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Physics
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
2832 Points +138%
Average of class Tablet (858 - 5751, n=49, last 2 years)
2781 Points +134%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1744 Points +47%
Alldocube M8 T801
1654 Points +39%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1188 - 1207, n=2)
1198 Points +1%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1188 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
903 Points -24%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Points -100%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited
Average of class Tablet (267 - 14235, n=57, last 2 years)
3157 Points +1128%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1158 Points +351%
Alldocube M8 T801
1157 Points +350%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
480 Points +87%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
302 Points +18%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
257 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (257 - 257, n=2)
257 Points 0%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Points -100%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited Graphics
Average of class Tablet (240 - 24605, n=57, last 2 years)
3746 Points +1684%
Alldocube M8 T801
1108 Points +428%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
986 Points +370%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
399 Points +90%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
253 Points +20%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
210 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (210 - 210, n=2)
210 Points 0%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Points -100%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited Physics
Average of class Tablet (441 - 5751, n=57, last 2 years)
3209 Points +178%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
2966 Points +157%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1632 Points +41%
Alldocube M8 T801
1372 Points +19%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1155 - 1233, n=2)
1194 Points +3%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1155 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
939 Points -19%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
Points -100%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (Vulkan) Unlimited
Average of class Tablet (615 - 4741, n=48, last 2 years)
1750 Points +218%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1110 Points +102%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
550 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (260 - 550, n=2)
405 Points -26%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (Vulkan) Unlimited Graphics
Average of class Tablet (521 - 5731, n=48, last 2 years)
1736 Points +277%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
955 Points +108%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
460 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (209 - 460, n=2)
335 Points -27%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Points -100%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (Vulkan) Unlimited Physics
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
2567 Points +44%
Average of class Tablet (1671 - 3199, n=48, last 2 years)
2476 Points +39%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1786 - 1849, n=2)
1818 Points +2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1786 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Points -100%
GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7
T-Rex Onscreen
Average of class Tablet (14 - 120, n=57, last 2 years)
58.3 fps +243%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
37 fps +118%
Alldocube M8 T801
35 fps +106%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
22 fps +29%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
21 fps +24%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
19 fps +12%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
17 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (17 - 17, n=2)
17 fps 0%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
15 fps -12%
Lenovo Tab M7
9.8 fps -42%
1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen
Average of class Tablet (15 - 873, n=57, last 2 years)
144.2 fps +1211%
Alldocube M8 T801
39 fps +255%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
38 fps +245%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
20 fps +82%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
14 fps +27%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
11 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (11 - 11, n=2)
11 fps 0%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
10 fps -9%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
9.3 fps -15%
Lenovo Tab M7
4.4 fps -60%
GFXBench 3.0
on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL
Average of class Tablet (8.1 - 120, n=57, last 2 years)
45 fps +374%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
21 fps +121%
Alldocube M8 T801
19 fps +100%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
12 fps +26%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
12 fps +26%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
9.5 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (8.9 - 9.5, n=2)
9.2 fps -3%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
8.6 fps -9%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
6.9 fps -27%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen
Average of class Tablet (7.3 - 494, n=57, last 2 years)
87.3 fps +1719%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
20 fps +317%
Alldocube M8 T801
19 fps +296%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
8.8 fps +83%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
6.6 fps +38%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
4.8 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (4.7 - 4.8, n=2)
4.75 fps -1%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
3.8 fps -21%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
3.6 fps -25%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
GFXBench 3.1
on screen Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen
Average of class Tablet (4.8 - 118.3, n=57, last 2 years)
33.5 fps +386%
Alldocube M8 T801
12 fps +74%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
12 fps +74%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
8.5 fps +23%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
8.4 fps +22%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
6.9 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (6.7 - 6.9, n=2)
6.8 fps -1%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
5.3 fps -23%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
4.9 fps -29%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen
Average of class Tablet (5 - 340, n=57, last 2 years)
59.9 fps +1772%
Alldocube M8 T801
13 fps +306%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
12 fps +275%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
5.4 fps +69%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
4.3 fps +34%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
3.2 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (3.1 - 3.2, n=2)
3.15 fps -2%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
2.4 fps -25%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
2.2 fps -31%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
GFXBench
on screen Car Chase Onscreen
Average of class Tablet (3.1 - 94.5, n=57, last 2 years)
21.2 fps +458%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
7.4 fps +95%
Alldocube M8 T801
7.3 fps +92%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
3.8 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (3.6 - 3.8, n=2)
3.7 fps -3%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
3.6 fps -5%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
3 fps -21%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
fps -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen
Average of class Tablet (2.2 - 214, n=57, last 2 years)
35.8 fps +1889%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
7.4 fps +311%
Alldocube M8 T801
7.3 fps +306%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
3.2 fps +78%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
1.9 fps +6%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1.8 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1.8 - 1.8, n=2)
1.8 fps 0%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
fps -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
on screen Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen
Average of class Tablet (1.9 - 97.3, n=68, last 2 years)
14.8 fps +640%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
4.3 fps +115%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
2.9 fps +45%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
2 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
2 fps 0%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1.7 fps -15%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
fps -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen
Average of class Tablet (0.9 - 90, n=68, last 2 years)
14 fps +1650%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
2.6 fps +225%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1.1 fps +38%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
0.85 fps +6%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
0.8 fps
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
0.8 fps 0%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
fps -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
on screen Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen
Average of class Tablet (3 - 111, n=68, last 2 years)
21.3 fps +587%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
7.4 fps +139%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
4.6 fps +48%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
3.1 fps
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
2.7 fps -13%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (2 - 3.1, n=2)
2.55 fps -18%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
fps -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
1920x1080 Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen
Average of class Tablet (2.5 - 279, n=68, last 2 years)
37.3 fps +2094%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
7.6 fps +347%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
2.8 fps +65%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
2.3 fps +35%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1.7 - 1.8, n=2)
1.75 fps +3%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1.7 fps
Amazon Fire 7 2019
fps -100%
Lenovo Tab M7
fps -100%
BaseMark OS II
Overall
Average of class Tablet (444 - 8886, n=51, last 2 years)
3569 Points +262%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1903 Points +93%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1389 Points +41%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (987 - 997, n=2)
992 Points +1%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
987 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
891 Points -10%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
681 Points -31%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
213 Points -78%
Lenovo Tab M7
157 Points -84%
System
Average of class Tablet (1103 - 14097, n=51, last 2 years)
6449 Points +232%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
3827 Points +97%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
3080 Points +58%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1945 - 2020, n=2)
1983 Points +2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1945 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
1539 Points -21%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
1225 Points -37%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
1137 Points -42%
Lenovo Tab M7
946 Points -51%
Memory
Average of class Tablet (916 - 8890, n=51, last 2 years)
4229 Points +236%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
2380 Points +89%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
1948 Points +55%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (1258 - 1285, n=2)
1272 Points +1%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
1258 Points
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
1151 Points -9%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
745 Points -41%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
595 Points -53%
Lenovo Tab M7
464 Points -63%
Graphics
Average of class Tablet (580 - 31738, n=51, last 2 years)
6458 Points +1226%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
1550 Points +218%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
836 Points +72%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
487 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (481 - 487, n=2)
484 Points -1%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
472 Points -3%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
338 Points -31%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
309 Points -37%
Lenovo Tab M7
143 Points -71%
Web
Average of class Tablet (10 - 1907, n=51, last 2 years)
1196 Points +48%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
929 Points +15%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
809 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (790 - 809, n=2)
800 Points -1%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
756 Points -7%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
742 Points -8%
Amazon Fire 7 2019
698 Points -14%
Trekstor SurfTab B10
10 Points -99%
Lenovo Tab M7
10 Points -99%
AnTuTu v8
Total Score
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
79125 Points +1%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
78450 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
78450 Points 0%
CPU
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
35288 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
35288 Points 0%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
34075 Points -3%
GPU
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
4783 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
4783 Points 0%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
4118 Points -14%
MEM
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
27445 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
27445 Points 0%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
25641 Points -7%
UX
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
15291 Points +40%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
10934 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429
10934 Points 0%

Legend

 
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 Qualcomm Snapdragon 429, Qualcomm Adreno 504, 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Lenovo Tab M8 HD Mediatek Helio A22 MT6762M, PowerVR GE8320, 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Alldocube M8 T801 MediaTek Helio X27 MT6797X, ARM Mali-T880 MP4, 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Amazon Fire 7 2019 MediaTek MT8163 V/B 1.3 GHz, ARM Mali-T720 MP2, 16 GB eMMC Flash
 
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019 Mediatek MT8183, ARM Mali-G72 MP3, 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite HiSilicon Kirin 659, ARM Mali-T830 MP2, 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Trekstor SurfTab B10 MediaTek MT8163 V/A 1.5 GHz, ARM Mali-T720 MP2, 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Lenovo Tab M7 Mediatek MT8321, ARM Mali-400 MP2, 16 GB eMMC Flash

The picture in browser benchmarks is similar to that of synthetic CPU and GPU benchmarks. Websites load very slowly, while scrolling animations become choppy when the tablet is displaying complex content. You will also find yourself encountering comparatively long wait times when changing the orientation of the screen when web browsing.

Jetstream 2 - Total Score
Average of class Tablet (19.9 - 236, n=59, last 2 years)
85.4 Points +431%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019 (Silk Browser 75.3.60)
25.62 Points +59%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 (Chrome 79)
16.09 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (14.6 - 16.1, n=2)
15.3 Points -5%
Amazon Fire 7 2019 (Silk Browser 70.3.1)
0 Points -100%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Points -100%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Average of class Tablet (57.3 - 436, n=6, last 2 years)
143.8 Points +474%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019 (Silk Browser 75.3.60)
45.74 Points +82%
Alldocube M8 T801 (Chrome 72.0.3626.105)
30.35 Points +21%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite (Chrome 67)
29.6 Points +18%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD (Chrome 79)
25.65 Points +2%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (25.1 - 25.1, n=2)
25.1 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 (Chrome 79)
25.07 Points
Trekstor SurfTab B10 (Chrome 72)
16.7 Points -33%
Amazon Fire 7 2019 (Silk Browser 70.3.1)
16.22 Points -35%
Lenovo Tab M7 (Chrome 79)
11.2 Points -55%
WebXPRT 3 - Overall
Average of class Tablet (34 - 342, n=41, last 2 years)
121.7 Points +280%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019 (Silk Browser 75.3.60)
52 Points +63%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite (Chrome 67)
42 Points +31%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD (Chrome 79)
34 Points +6%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (32 - 36, n=2)
34 Points +6%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 (Chrome 79)
32 Points
Amazon Fire 7 2019
23 Points -28%
Lenovo Tab M7 (Chrome 79)
13 Points -59%
Speedometer 2.0 - Result
Average of class Tablet (14.7 - 376, n=52, last 2 years)
78.6 runs/min +482%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019 (Silk Browser 75.3.60)
27.7 runs/min +105%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD (Chrome 79)
15.49 runs/min +15%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (13.5 - 15.6, n=2)
14.5 runs/min +7%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 (Chrome 79)
13.5 runs/min
Amazon Fire 7 2019 (Silk Browser 70.3.1)
11.11 runs/min -18%
Lenovo Tab M7 (Chrome 79)
5.68 runs/min -58%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Average of class Tablet (2672 - 74614, n=70, last 2 years)
23400 Points +445%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019 (Silk Browser 75.3.60)
8665 Points +102%
Alldocube M8 T801 (Chrome 72.0.3626.105)
5909 Points +38%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite (Chrome 67)
5412 Points +26%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD (Chrome 79)
4378 Points +2%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (4297 - 4392, n=2)
4345 Points +1%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 (Chrome 79)
4297 Points
Trekstor SurfTab B10 (Chrome 72)
2972 Points -31%
Amazon Fire 7 2019 (Silk Browser 70.3.1)
2871 Points -33%
Lenovo Tab M7 (Chrome 79)
1712 Points -60%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Lenovo Tab M7 (Chrome 79)
19212 ms * -80%
Trekstor SurfTab B10 (Chrome 72)
15571 ms * -46%
Amazon Fire 7 2019 (Silk Browser 70.3.1)
13853 ms * -30%
Lenovo Tab M8 HD (Chrome 79)
10894 ms * -2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 (Chrome 79)
10655 ms *
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 (10433 - 10655, n=2)
10544 ms * +1%
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite (Chrome 67)
9249 ms * +13%
Alldocube M8 T801 (Chrome 72.0.3626.105)
7429 ms * +30%
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019 (Silk Browser 75.3.60)
4979 ms * +53%
Average of class Tablet (451 - 34733, n=59, last 2 years)
3204 ms * +70%

* ... smaller is better

The internal eMMC memory is on par with its competitors for sequential read speeds, as well as the reading of small blocks of data. The access rates are correspondingly low depending on the type of memory, though.

We also took a closer look at the performance of the microSD card reader with our Toshiba Exceria Pro M501, a card that can achieve up to 270 MBit/s write speeds and 150 MBit/s read speeds. Our review unit gets nowhere near these speeds, but it is absolutely fine for a tablet at this price.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290Lenovo Tab M8 HDAlldocube M8 T801Amazon Fire 7 2019Amazon Fire HD 10 2019Huawei MediaPad M5 liteTrekstor SurfTab B10Lenovo Tab M7Average 32 GB eMMC FlashAverage of class Tablet
AndroBench 3-5
-2%
-41%
-47%
15%
61%
-39%
-46%
-10%
390%
Sequential Read 256KB
291.9
297.1
2%
142.8
-51%
164.9
-44%
266.2
-9%
308.1
6%
109
-63%
155.7
-47%
242 ?(25.8 - 452, n=247)
-17%
848 ?(163 - 3414, n=65, last 2 years)
191%
Sequential Write 256KB
108.5
79.6
-27%
103
-5%
77.3
-29%
180.1
66%
82.6
-24%
70.5
-35%
53.1
-51%
100.5 ?(14.8 - 196, n=247)
-7%
537 ?(78.2 - 2528, n=65, last 2 years)
395%
Random Read 4KB
57.8
77.4
34%
19.5
-66%
24.98
-57%
75
30%
73.5
27%
16.96
-71%
31.39
-46%
43.2 ?(3.59 - 117.2, n=247)
-25%
166.7 ?(18.4 - 451, n=65, last 2 years)
188%
Random Write 4KB
16.89
15.84
-6%
10.01
-41%
5.83
-65%
23.28
38%
77.3
358%
8.43
-50%
11.96
-29%
22.4 ?(0.75 - 91, n=247)
33%
149.4 ?(8.23 - 503, n=65, last 2 years)
785%
Sequential Read 256KB SDCard
87.1 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
83.8 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
-4%
59.2 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
-32%
77.2 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
-11%
83.7 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
-4%
83.2 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
-4%
38.97 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
-55%
71.8 ?(8.2 - 96.5, n=178)
-18%
Sequential Write 256KB SDCard
69.9 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
64.3 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
-8%
32.05 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
-54%
52 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
-26%
72.8 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
4%
62.5 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
-11%
35.21 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
-50%
52.9 ?(3.4 - 87.1, n=178)
-24%

Games - The Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is not a gaming tablet

The graphics performance of the Adreno 504 is not enough for demanding games such as "Asphalt 9: Legends", for example, even at low details. "PUBG Mobile" will only average around 23 FPS on low graphics too, which we determined by using the GameBench app. Less performance-hungry titles such as "Dead Trigger 2" do not pose any problems, though.

Incidentally, the accelerometer and associated sensors worked perfectly during our gaming tests. The touchscreen also worked precisely too.

PUBG Mobile
PUBG Mobile
Asphalt 9: Legends
Asphalt 9: Legends
PUBG Mobile
0510152025Tooltip
Asphalt 9: Legends
012345678Tooltip

Emissions - Low surface temperatures from the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)

Temperature

The surface temperatures of our review unit are not very pronounced even under load. It is interesting to see whether the Qualcomm chipset throttles under load despite the low waste heat, though.

We determined this by running GFXBench Manhattan, a battery test based on OpenGL ES 3.1. We ran the benchmark thirty times, during which framerates fluctuated slightly. However, this reduction in performance is only minor and does not represent throttling.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019)
Max. Load
 26.5 °C
80 F
26 °C
79 F
31 °C
88 F
 
 27 °C
81 F
25.4 °C
78 F
33.3 °C
92 F
 
 25.5 °C
78 F
26.4 °C
80 F
31.2 °C
88 F
 
Maximum: 33.3 °C = 92 F
Average: 28 °C = 82 F
25.2 °C
77 F
25.2 °C
77 F
25.5 °C
78 F
25.3 °C
78 F
26.7 °C
80 F
26.9 °C
80 F
25.5 °C
78 F
26.4 °C
80 F
26.5 °C
80 F
Maximum: 26.9 °C = 80 F
Average: 25.9 °C = 79 F
Power Supply (max.)  26.5 °C = 80 F | Room Temperature 21.7 °C = 71 F | Voltcraft IR-260
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 28 °C / 82 F, compared to the average of 30 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Tablet.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 33.3 °C / 92 F, compared to the average of 33.8 °C / 93 F, ranging from 20.7 to 53.2 °C for the class Tablet.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 26.9 °C / 80 F, compared to the average of 33.3 °C / 92 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.3 °C / 81 F, compared to the device average of 30 °C / 86 F.
Heatmap of the front of the device under load
Heatmap of the front of the device under load
Heatmap of the back of the device under load
Heatmap of the back of the device under load

Speakers

Pink Noise speaker-test
Pink Noise speaker-test

The two speakers on the underside of the tablet are very powerful and reached 90 dB(A) during our tests. Our measurements also show a linear frequency response for mid-range tones, with super high tones breaking down a bit. We could not make out any bass, either.

Wired audio solutions are available, though. If you do not fancy using the 3.5 mm jack, then you can use Bluetooth for wireless headphones and speakers, which operates up to the 4.2 standard.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2029.832.82525.225.33121.622.64024.7285029.631.86322.529.78025.128.110020.128.312519.931.416020.851.720017.655.425017.662.331517.462.840016.165.950013.965.763014.56880016.172.1100014.574.1125014.473.5160013.670.7200013.973.1250014.574.5315014.477.3400014.881.2500014.783.2630014.884800014.980.71000015.178.7125001566.11600015.156.1SPL26.990.4N0.981.7median 14.9median 72.1Delta1.69.329.83325.226.621.626.924.717.929.625.522.523.925.126.320.125.819.926.920.836.917.641.117.647.417.450.316.153.613.95514.559.216.161.314.56714.471.513.672.113.973.514.576.114.477.814.877.614.776.814.873.614.971.915.170.91562.615.147.426.9860.959.1median 14.9median 62.61.612.5hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseSamsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290Lenovo Tab M8 HD
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (90.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 23.4% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.8% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (3.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 7.9% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (4% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (18.8% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 42% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 50% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 23%, worst was 129%
Compared to all devices tested
» 38% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 55% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Lenovo Tab M8 HD audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (86 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 24.5% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (8.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 6.9% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (6.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 12.3% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (3.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (27.7% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 82% of all tested devices in this class were better, 3% similar, 15% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 23%, worst was 129%
Compared to all devices tested
» 81% of all tested devices were better, 4% similar, 15% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Power Management - Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 with good runtimes

Power Consumption

Users of the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) must to do without fast charging technology. Correspondingly, the 5,100 mAh battery charges very slowly, with our review unit taking a good five hours to reach full charge.

The power consumption of the Samsung tablet is comparatively efficient too.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.01 / 0.16 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 0.62 / 2.68 / 2.7 Watt
Load midlight 3.61 / 4 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
5100 mAh
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
5100 mAh
Alldocube M8 T801
5500 mAh
Amazon Fire 7 2019
2980 mAh
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
6300 mAh
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
7500 mAh
Trekstor SurfTab B10
6000 mAh
Lenovo Tab M7
3500 mAh
Power Consumption
15%
-178%
-30%
-60%
-109%
-136%
1%
Idle Minimum *
0.62
0.66
-6%
3.4
-448%
1.1
-77%
1.14
-84%
2.8
-352%
2.2
-255%
0.85
-37%
Idle Average *
2.68
2.15
20%
5.1
-90%
2.77
-3%
3.71
-38%
3.3
-23%
3.94
-47%
2.4
10%
Idle Maximum *
2.7
2.18
19%
5.3
-96%
2.79
-3%
3.74
-39%
3.9
-44%
4
-48%
2.42
10%
Load Average *
3.61
2.48
31%
6
-66%
4.5
-25%
5.26
-46%
5.2
-44%
9.35
-159%
3.17
12%
Load Maximum *
4
3.49
13%
11.5
-188%
5.61
-40%
7.68
-92%
7.2
-80%
10.92
-173%
3.69
8%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

In our practical battery test with brightness set to 150 cd/m², the Galaxy Tab positions itself at the forefront of our comparison table with a Wi-Fi runtime of almost 14 hours and an H.264 looped video playback runtime of 15.5 hours. The former is clearly beaten by the Lenovo Tab M8 HD, though. Thanks to the low-performance SoC, the Tab A 8.0 (2019) can be used for almost 6 hours even under load.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
52h 12min
WiFi Websurfing
13h 51min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
15h 34min
Load (maximum brightness)
5h 42min
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290
5100 mAh
Lenovo Tab M8 HD
5100 mAh
Alldocube M8 T801
5500 mAh
Amazon Fire 7 2019
2980 mAh
Amazon Fire HD 10 2019
6300 mAh
Huawei MediaPad M5 lite
7500 mAh
Trekstor SurfTab B10
6000 mAh
Lenovo Tab M7
3500 mAh
Battery Runtime
35%
-49%
-52%
-2%
-10%
-38%
-52%
Reader / Idle
3132
3581
14%
1008
-68%
1691
-46%
2162
-31%
H.264
934
1696
82%
536
-43%
1480
58%
934
0%
WiFi v1.3
831
1124
35%
420
-49%
462
-44%
950
14%
852
3%
515
-38%
402
-52%
Load
342
374
9%
169
-51%
228
-33%
299
-13%

Pros

+ good workmanship
+ long battery life
+ accurate GPS
+ a solid TFT panel for the price

Cons

- low-resolution display
- The rear side is difficult to clean
- poor connectivity
- only 32 GB of storage & 2 GB of RAM
- weak system performance
- weak GPU
- quite slow Wi-Fi
- useless cameras
- no USB Type-C

Verdict - The Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) lacks performance

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) tablet review.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) tablet review.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is a rock-solid tablet that offers a suitable overall package for the price of around €150 (~$168). The tablet has decent battery life, impressive speakers and a convincing TFT panel.

The affordable Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) is not a sensible choice for demanding users.

However, our tests also revealed some shortcomings. The security patches of our review unit are not up to date, for instance. While the tablet has slow Wi-Fi performance. RAM and storage is a bit tight too, despite having a microSD card reader on board. In addition, Samsung has included the now outdated micro USB standard on its 8-inch tablet.

Above all, the meagre performance is a heavy burden in everyday life. A Snapdragon 429 SoC combined with 2 GB of RAM struggles in most tasks, which is hardly surprising given how performance-hungry One UI is. The omission of a biometric authentication method on a device released in 2019 is incomprehensible too. Samsung does not even offer simple 2D face recognition using the front camera for the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019). We cannot understand the device to go with Widevine Level 3 certification, either.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 Wifi SM-T290 - 12/30/2019 v7
Marcus Herbrich

Chassis
77 / 98 → 78%
Keyboard
67 / 80 → 84%
Pointing Device
88%
Connectivity
35 / 70 → 50%
Weight
86 / 40-88 → 95%
Battery
90%
Display
80%
Games Performance
3 / 78 → 4%
Application Performance
42 / 92 → 46%
Temperature
95%
Noise
100%
Audio
78 / 91 → 85%
Camera
32 / 85 → 37%
Average
67%
80%
Tablet - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 (2019) Tablet Review: A budget Samsung tablet with great deficiencies
Marcus Herbrich, 2020-01- 2 (Update: 2020-01- 2)