Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro review – Long-lasting tablet with 8 years of updates and a replaceable battery

Anyone who deals with tough conditions at work or during leisure will appreciate a device like the Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro. It can withstand drops, puddles, and frequent disinfection without issue.

Samsung’s rugged tablet also offers fast internet connectivity, accurate location tracking, usable cameras, and a display without PWM flickering. Performance is solid for everyday tasks, and the dual battery setup with a combined capacity of over 10,000 mAh ensures very long battery life.

The inclusion of two removable batteries is a smart move. However, it is unusual that the tablet only functions when both batteries are inserted or when running entirely without batteries. On the positive side, these are the same battery models used in the standard Galaxy Tab Active5.

Samsung’s decision to bundle a case with stylus and to offer 8 years of software updates is a major advantage, ensuring long-term support and security for the investment.

Support for SAP software adds value for enterprise customers. Additionally, the Tab Active5 Pro is one of the few tablets with NFC, allowing it to function as a payment terminal without requiring extra hardware.

Overall, this rugged tablet has been thoughtfully designed and could also be a strong choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a durable, long-lasting device.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro has a list price of around 800 euros.

However, at the time of testing, it was already available for significantly less from online retailers such as playox.de.

The dimensions have changed compared to the predecessor, the Tab Active4 Pro, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro is a few grams heavier. This is acceptable given the significantly larger battery capacity.

The device is not particularly slim, and its design is functional rather than stylish — intentionally so, as the focus is on durability. The Tab Active5 Pro features a slightly raised frame that helps protect the display, which is covered with Gorilla Glass Victus+ for enhanced resistance against damage.

With IP68 certification, the tablet is well-suited for use in dusty environments and can also withstand exposure to water.

The back cover is removable, though it can be somewhat difficult to open without tools. Once removed, it provides access to the SIM and microSD slots, as well as the two removable batteries.

Samsung now offers 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. This configuration still falls within the mid-range segment.

The Tab Active5 Pro is one of the few tablets equipped with NFC, which even functions on the front of the device. This allows it to be used for wireless payments or for syncing access cards and tickets.

A docking port enables convenient charging of multiple units via a charging station and allows connection of additional accessories. The USB-C port supports USB 3.2 Gen 1, allowing data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbit/s and support for video output. With Samsung DeX, the tablet can also be used in a desktop-like interface for increased productivity.

OneUI 7.0 is the installed operating system, based on Android 15. The tablet includes minimal pre-installed software but is designed to allow easy integration with SAP services, which is a key requirement for many businesses.

Samsung promises software updates until 2033, offering 8 years of support from the tablet’s release date.

Samsung does not disclose the CO2 footprint of the Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro. However, the packaging is at least plastic-free.

The material composition is less impressive: only a small percentage of recycled materials is used, and the device itself is only minimally recyclable.

On the positive side, the batteries are removable and can be replaced at a relatively low cost.

The Tab Active5 Pro supports WiFi 6E and delivers high transfer speeds that remain stable even when data rates fluctuate.

Every Tab Active5 Pro also includes a 5G modem, with support for a wide range of frequency bands. This makes it suitable for reliable mobile internet access, even while traveling.

Satellite-based positioning is also available and works with high accuracy, allowing the rugged tablet to function effectively as a navigation device.

It is a positive detail that Samsung includes a thickly padded protective cover with the tablet. The cover also features a slot for storing the stylus.

The manufacturer provides a 24-month warranty for the device.

The 10.1-inch touchscreen supports up to 120 Hz and responds well to input from bare fingers, the included stylus, or even gloved hands. All input methods function reliably.

Below the display are three physical hardware buttons, with the fingerprint sensor integrated into the center button. Once registered, it unlocks the tablet quickly and reliably, though it does not function when wearing gloves. Face recognition using the front-facing camera is also supported.

The standby button and the color-highlighted active key can be configured to launch apps or trigger specific actions, allowing for user-defined shortcuts.

Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, the Tab Active5 Pro delivers strong performance for its class. Most competitors struggle to match its processing power. Overall, it offers reliable mid-range performance that should be sufficient for the majority of everyday applications.

Graphics performance is also strong, enabling smooth rendering of 3D models. The tablet is suitable for gaming outside of work hours, as long as high-end performance is not expected.

Web browsing on the Tab Active5 Pro is smooth and responsive, with fast page loading and fluid scrolling.

With its UFS 2.2 storage, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro does not match the performance of high-end devices. However, the storage speed is adequate for fast data transfers and relatively short app loading times.

Thanks to the relatively large case, the SoC has no difficulty dissipating heat. As a result, the tablet shows only minimal warming on the exterior, even after extended periods under load.

In the 3DMark stress tests, there are no signs of thermal throttling during prolonged use.

The Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro is relatively power-hungry, with a peak consumption of up to 12.7 watts.

Charging is limited to a maximum of 15 watts. Fully charging the battery takes up to 3 hours and 30 minutes. However, the removable batteries can be easily replaced if needed.

The tablet can also operate without a battery installed. This requires enabling a dedicated mode in the settings and connecting a compatible power source that supports Power Delivery 2.0 or higher.

With two replaceable EB-BX306GBY batteries, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro offers a total capacity of 10,100 mAh. This allows for excellent battery life—22 hours and 36 minutes in the WLAN test—easily covering a full workday.

However, a drawback is the lack of hot-swap support. It is not possible to remove one battery while the tablet is running, even if the second battery still has sufficient charge. The device shuts down immediately when either battery is removed.