Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2 review

So, how does the Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2 compare to other similarly priced tablets like the iPad Air? Or other tablets in the 12-inch category like the Microsoft Surface Pro 3? The short answer is it does a fantastic job, but not enough to be crowd champion.

The Tab Pro 12.2 tablet sits at the top of the Samsung Tab Pro tree with the Tab Pro 10.1 and Tab Pro 8.4 beneath it. The slightly high price tag of £549, $545 (around AU$995) is justifiable - for the 12-inch screen alone. However, the cheap build quality may make you think twice before purchasing.

We Liked

The screen is big, and bright, and beautiful. It does not have the same pixel density that other tablets on the market have, but its still should be more than enough for casual videos and games.

The battery life on the Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2 is rather impressive. With light to medium use you should be able to get two days usage from one charge, which is a massive plus for those on the move who do not necessarily have access to a power point throughout their working day.

The Multi Window feature is not exclusive to the Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2, although it definitely is one of the better devices from Samsung to use this feature on. The large 12-inch screen, along with the eight-core processor, makes Multi Screen really clear to view and easy to operate without any lag or stutter.

We Disliked

As fantastic as the 12-inch screen is, it is not enough to establish it as the best tablet on the market. The processing power of the device is nothing to be sniffed at, and for a device with a screen this size Samsung has admirably managed to keep the tablets weight down.

However with all these positives, the device does not feel premium enough. In my opinion, the Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2 does not warrant the price tag based on the design alone.

The imitation leather exterior certainly does not tick my boxes, but there will be many people who like it. The texture of the case adds grip, but looks awful. Also, the fact the device creaks under its own weight when picked up is disconcerting.

Verdict

If you're looking for a super-sized tablet your options are fairly limited, yet Samsung offers up two with the Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2 being joined by the incredibly similar Note Pro 12.2.

The latter has the advantage of the S Pen stylus which is useful on screens this size, yet the Tab Pro 12.2 makes do without and it fails to really excite.

Yes it has a big screen and a whole lot of power, but build quality could be better and the sheer size of the Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2 makes it a little cumbersome to hold.

If you're desperate for the 12-inch slate then it's certainly worth considering, but if you just want a big tablet take a look at the 10.1-inch options, or even the iPad Air if you're willing to drop a large amount of cash.