Samsung Galaxy TabPro S Review: A Premium, Ultra-Thin Windows Convertible
The TabPro S User Experience and Software
As a standalone tablet, the Galaxy TabPro S is a sleek, easy-to-handle device – that is, as much as any 12-inch tablet can be. Even as light as the tablet is without its keyboard case, the Galaxy TabPro S is heavy enough that holding it in one hand quickly became uncomfortable. That’s not my experience with smaller tablets, which I can usually hold comfortably without needing the extra support of my forearm or chest.
Although I like the keyboard cover overall, I should point out that it is a little weak as a stand for the tablet in certain circumstances. When the tablet sits on a desk, the magnet that holds the case in place is fine. But if you jostle the tablet, the magnet might break contact and the tablet can fall backwards. When I used the tablet on my lap, I accidentally knocked it over this way a few times.
Unsurprisingly, the Galaxy TabPro S is an excellent entertainment device. I fired up Netflix and watch a few shows, including Daredevil, which has loads of moody, shadow-filled scenes. The display handled it fine, producing inky shadows in the darkest scenes and bright colors in other TV shows. The speakers provide reasonable-quality sound for watching video and are loud enough to fill a small office, but didn’t hold up well in noisier settings.
As for software, the Galaxy TabPro S arrives clean and ready for business. Microsoft Office came fully installed and available as a trial on our review unit. You can buy a key to activate the software. PC makers often toss in their own utilities to improve on Windows’ built-in tools, but Samsung keeps things light here, which we really appreciate. Its Galaxy Settings tool focuses mostly on color profiles for its AMOLED display.
Although I like the keyboard cover overall, I should point out that it is a little weak as a stand for the tablet in certain circumstances. When the tablet sits on a desk, the magnet that holds the case in place is fine. But if you jostle the tablet, the magnet might break contact and the tablet can fall backwards. When I used the tablet on my lap, I accidentally knocked it over this way a few times.
Unsurprisingly, the Galaxy TabPro S is an excellent entertainment device. I fired up Netflix and watch a few shows, including Daredevil, which has loads of moody, shadow-filled scenes. The display handled it fine, producing inky shadows in the darkest scenes and bright colors in other TV shows. The speakers provide reasonable-quality sound for watching video and are loud enough to fill a small office, but didn’t hold up well in noisier settings.
As for software, the Galaxy TabPro S arrives clean and ready for business. Microsoft Office came fully installed and available as a trial on our review unit. You can buy a key to activate the software. PC makers often toss in their own utilities to improve on Windows’ built-in tools, but Samsung keeps things light here, which we really appreciate. Its Galaxy Settings tool focuses mostly on color profiles for its AMOLED display.
