At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, Samsung unveiled new Pro series tablets: the Galaxy NotePro and Galaxy TabPro. All four tablets share a number of common features like a high resolution (WQXGA) 2560 x 1600 pixel TFT LCD display, 8 megapixel rear camera, and Android 4.4 (KitKat). So which of these tablets is the right one for you, the Galaxy NotePro or the Galaxy TabPro? Here’s a breakdown of some of the key differences between the two and the target market for each.

When you release four different tablets in two distinct product lines with considerable specification overlap, there’s room for confusion. In the case of the Samsung Galaxy NotePro and Galaxy TabPro, where each offers a 12.2-inch model with virtually identical specs, it may be tough to pick one over the other. By the way, the displays on these 12.2-inch tablets were a big hit at CES 2014, with over 4 million pixels and their physical size making them category standouts.

The difference between the two —and the TabPro and NotePro lines in general— is the target market.

Galaxy TabPro = Typical Tablet Consumer User

If you’re a typical tablet user —someone who uses the device for casual entertainment like web browsing, watching videos or gaming and maybe the occasional bit of light work— and you want a premium experience, the Galaxy TabPro is the tablet line for you.

 

There are three different size options, reflecting different preferences and budgets.

Want something portable and compact? There’s an 8-inch version. Want to make the most of the big-screen experience to watch movies, read digital magazines or even have four windows open simultaneously? The 12.2-inch TabPro is just what you need. For those who aren’t sure they need something quite that large, there’s a 10.1-inch version positioned in between.

All of the Galaxy TabPro models feature that incredible WQXGA display and they all pack wickedly fast processors (a 2.3 GHz quad-core Snapdragon on the 8-inch, and Xynos 5 Octa-core to drive the larger versions). They are fully equipped with front and rear cameras, a full complement of sensors, microSD card storage expansion and infrared port (for controlling your TV), and they all ship with KitKat, the newest version of Android.

Want to view a Galaxy TabPro movie or video game on an even bigger screen? No problem! Each of these tablets supports Samsung’s AllShare Cast feature that lets you wirelessly stream content to a Samsung Smart TV. Samsung also offers an AllShare Cast wireless hub that makes any HDTV compatible. If wireless isn’t your thing, you can also plug an optional HDMI adapter into the microUSB port and connect physically.

 

Galaxy NotePro = Power Tablet User or Business


With the Galaxy NotePro, Samsung is clearly targeting the tablet power or business user. There’s only one size offered —the big 12.2-inch tablet— and the Galaxy NotePro also includes Samsung’s innovative S Pen Stylus.

Why is the Galaxy NotePro ideal for professional and power users?

Big display, a full-sized virtual keyboard, heavy duty processing power, lots of storage (that’s also expandable), 4-pane window multitasking, S Pen support (great for taking notes and diagramming), KNOX security and pre-installed business-friendly applications like WebEx Meetings. With Remote PC, users can remotely access and control a PC, swapping files or even performing keyboard and mouse actions.

Power users even have the ability to add optional accessories like a Bluetooth keyboard, wireless S Action mouse or a USB ethernet LAN adapter to transform the Galaxy NotePro into a full-fledged laptop alternative. 

Galaxy NotePro or GalaxyTabPro, Everyone Wins

Whether you choose a Galaxy NotePro or Galaxy TabPro, you can count on a light weight, high performance tablet with a class-leading display, long-life battery, premium appearance, wide range of accessories and a full feature set, not to mention Samsung’s new Magazine user interface and Android 4.4 (KitKat). 

In other words, casual user, prosumer, professional or enterprise, everyone wins.

Brad Moon
Editor Computing solutions
I’m a long-time electronics and gadget geek who’s been fortunate enough to enjoy a career that lets me indulge this interest. I have been writing about technology for several decades for a wide range of outlets including Wired, Gizmodo, Lifehacker, MSN, About.com, Kiplinger, and GeekDad. I’m in my 10th year as a senior contributor for Forbes with a focus on reviewing music-related tech, Apple gear, battery power stations and other consumer electronics. My day job is with the Malware Research Center at AI-native cybersecurity pioneer CrowdStrike.