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- Best overall: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite
- Best budget: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray
- Best premium: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite
- Best for travel: Apple iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra pairs a 14.6-inch, 120Hz display with an included S Pen for large-screen creative work.
- Apple Pencil (2nd generation) works with select iPad models, not Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is a value-focused large-screen pick with an included S Pen and 12.4-inch display.
- Apple iPad Air (5th generation) and Apple iPad mini (6th generation) support Apple Pencil (2nd generation).
The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a stylus, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is a tablet with an S Pen included, so the direct comparison is between two different kinds of products. For Black Friday 2026, the key choice is whether you want a pencil for a compatible iPad or an Android tablet-and-stylus package.
I’m Marcus Reed, and we researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify which products suit note-taking, drawing, travel and large-screen work. My pick for most people is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ for its 12.4-inch, 120Hz display and included S Pen. Apple Pencil (2nd generation) remains a smart accessory choice for people already using a compatible iPad.
How We Picked
- Compared stylus compatibility, charging and included accessories.
- Reviewed display size, resolution and refresh rate for reading, drawing and video.
- Considered portability, battery capacity and useful durability features.
- Prioritized products with clear differences in ecosystem, screen size and intended use.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Display (in.) | Refresh rate | Stylus included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Pencil (2nd generation) | Compatible iPad owners | Accessory | N/A | Yes, stylus only |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite | Large-screen creative work | 14.6 | 120Hz | Yes, S Pen |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite | Everyday work and entertainment | 12.4 | 120Hz | Yes, S Pen |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite | Portable Android productivity | 11 | 120Hz | Yes, S Pen |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray | Large-screen value | 12.4 | 90Hz | Yes, S Pen |
| Apple iPad Air (5th generation) 10.9-inch Wi-Fi 64GB | Apple Pencil 2 compatibility | 10.9 | 60Hz | No |
| Apple iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB | Travel and reading | 8.3 | 60Hz | No |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is the best stylus upgrade for iPad owners who want magnetic attachment, wireless pairing and pressure-sensitive drawing. The 2nd-generation design adds double-tap tool switching, but compatibility is limited to select iPads.
Best for: Compatible iPad owners
- Generation
- 2nd
- Charging
- Magnetic wireless
- Controls
- Double-tap
- Pressure and tilt sensitivity
- Attaches and charges magnetically
- Double-tap shortcut
- Not compatible with Samsung tablets
- Requires a compatible iPad
Is the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a strong choice for compatible iPad owners who draw, annotate or take handwritten notes. Magnetic charging and double-tap controls keep everyday use convenient, but the stylus does not work with Samsung Galaxy Tab devices.
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#2
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite is the best premium tablet for artists and multitaskers who want an expansive screen with an S Pen included. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite's 14.6-inch, 120Hz AMOLED display offers generous room for drawing and split-screen work.
Best for: Large-screen creative work
- Display
- 14.6-inch AMOLED
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- Storage
- 256GB
- Battery
- 11,200mAh
- S Pen included
- Large, vivid AMOLED screen
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Large size is less portable
- Premium-tier feature set
Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite suits users who want a large 14.6-inch display, an included S Pen and room for demanding creative or multitasking workflows. Choose a smaller Galaxy Tab S9 model for easier carrying.
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#3 · Top pick
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite is the best all-around tablet for people who want a roomy screen without the Ultra’s extra size. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite's 12.4-inch, 120Hz AMOLED display and included S Pen balance drawing, entertainment and productivity.
Best for: Everyday work and entertainment
- Display
- 12.4-inch AMOLED
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- Storage
- 256GB
- Battery
- 10,090mAh
- S Pen included
- Sharp 120Hz display
- More manageable than Ultra
- Still larger than compact tablets
- Android app workflows differ from iPadOS
Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite is a versatile pick for streaming, handwritten notes and creative work, with a 12.4-inch 120Hz AMOLED screen and included S Pen. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite's size is a practical middle ground in the Tab S9 lineup.
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#4
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite is the best compact Android tablet for users who want a premium display and an included S Pen. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite's 11-inch, 120Hz AMOLED screen keeps the tablet easier to carry than the S9+ and Ultra.
Best for: Portable Android productivity
- Display
- 11-inch AMOLED
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- Storage
- 256GB
- Battery
- 8,400mAh
- S Pen included
- Compact 11-inch size
- 120Hz AMOLED display
- Less drawing space than larger models
- Smaller battery than S9+
Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite is a good fit for portable note-taking, drawing and media, and the included S Pen avoids a separate stylus purchase. The 11-inch screen is easier to carry but offers less canvas than larger models.
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#5
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray is the best value-oriented large tablet for students and note-takers who want a bundled stylus. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray's 12.4-inch display and included S Pen give users ample space for notes, documents and sketches.
Best for: Large-screen value
- Display
- 12.4-inch LCD
- Refresh rate
- 90Hz
- Storage
- 128GB
- Battery
- 10,090mAh
- S Pen included
- Large screen for notes
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- LCD rather than AMOLED
- 90Hz refresh rate
Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray offers a large 12.4-inch screen and included S Pen for school, work and casual drawing. The LCD panel and 90Hz refresh rate make it a more practical pick than a premium display-focused tablet.
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#6
Apple iPad Air (5th generation) 10.9-inch Wi-Fi 64GB
The Apple iPad Air (5th generation) 10.9-inch Wi-Fi 64GB is the best Apple tablet match for Apple Pencil (2nd generation) users seeking a versatile screen. The 10.9-inch display supports Pencil drawing and notes, while the M1 chip handles everyday creative and productivity tasks.
Best for: Apple Pencil 2 compatibility
- Display
- 10.9-inch
- Chip
- M1
- Storage
- 64GB
- Supports Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- Portable 10.9-inch display
- M1 processor
- Apple Pencil sold separately
- 64GB storage is limited for large libraries
Is the Apple iPad Air (5th generation) 10.9-inch Wi-Fi 64GB worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Apple iPad Air (5th generation) 10.9-inch Wi-Fi 64GB is a capable match for Apple Pencil (2nd generation), with a portable screen and M1 performance. Account for the separate stylus purchase and choose more storage if you keep large files offline.
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#7
Apple iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB
The Apple iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB is the best small tablet for readers and travelers who want Apple Pencil (2nd generation) support. The Apple iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB's 8.3-inch display makes handwritten notes and quick sketches possible in a highly portable form.
Best for: Travel and reading
- Display
- 8.3-inch
- Chip
- A15 Bionic
- Storage
- 64GB
- Supports Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- Small, travel-friendly design
- A15 Bionic processor
- Small canvas for detailed art
- Apple Pencil sold separately
Is the Apple iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Apple iPad mini (6th generation) Wi-Fi 64GB is a compact pick for reading, travel and quick notes with Apple Pencil (2nd generation). The 8.3-inch display is convenient to carry, but artists who need a broad canvas should consider a larger iPad.
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Which is better: Apple Pencil (2nd generation) or Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra?
Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a stylus, and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is a tablet, so the right choice depends on your device ecosystem. Apple Pencil (2nd generation) pairs with select iPads, while Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra includes an S Pen for drawing, handwriting and navigation.
Choose Apple Pencil (2nd generation) if you already own a compatible iPad and want a dedicated accessory. Choose Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra if you need a complete Android tablet package with a 14.6-inch screen. Skip it if you need a small device for a commute: the Ultra’s large display is better suited to desk or couch use.
Does Apple Pencil (2nd generation) work with Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets?
Apple Pencil (2nd generation) does not work with Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets; Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 models use the included S Pen. The two styluses belong to separate device ecosystems and do not share pairing or charging support.
For an Apple Pencil (2nd generation) setup, consider Apple iPad Air (5th generation) or Apple iPad mini (6th generation). For Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ or Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, use the S Pen supplied with the tablet. Check the exact tablet model before buying any replacement stylus.
Which Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 model is best for drawing?
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra offers the largest drawing surface at 14.6 inches, while Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ balances a generous 12.4-inch screen with easier handling. Both have 120Hz AMOLED displays and include an S Pen.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is a more portable drawing option with an 11-inch AMOLED screen. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ keeps the large 12.4-inch canvas and bundled S Pen, but uses an LCD panel with a 90Hz refresh rate. Match screen area and display type to your drawing style.
Which tablet is the best value for Black Friday 2026?
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB Wi-Fi Gray is the best value-oriented large-screen pick because it includes an S Pen and has a 12.4-inch display. That combination covers notes, web browsing and casual sketching without requiring a separate stylus.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 256GB Wi-Fi Graphite suits shoppers who want an AMOLED screen and 120Hz refresh rate in a smaller size. Apple iPad mini (6th generation) is a compact alternative for Apple users, but Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a separate accessory. Compare the complete setup, not just the tablet.
What should you know about Black Friday 2026 stylus compatibility?
Apple Pencil (2nd generation) works with compatible iPads, including Apple iPad Air (5th generation) and Apple iPad mini (6th generation), but not Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 products in this guide include an S Pen.
Check the exact tablet generation and stylus model before purchasing, since Apple Pencil compatibility varies across iPads. Consider whether magnetic charging, pressure-sensitive drawing or included accessories matter to your daily use. A bundled S Pen makes the Samsung setup simple, while an Apple Pencil 2 setup requires a compatible iPad.
Buying Guide
Start with your tablet ecosystem
Choose Apple Pencil (2nd generation) only for a compatible iPad. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets use an S Pen, so the Apple stylus is not a substitute.
Pick a screen size for your routine
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra has a 14.6-inch display for broad canvases. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is 11 inches, and Apple iPad mini (6th generation) is 8.3 inches for travel.
Compare display priorities
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 and S9+ offer 120Hz AMOLED screens. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ uses a 90Hz LCD, while the listed iPads use 60Hz displays.
Account for the stylus in the setup
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 models include an S Pen. Apple iPad Air (5th generation) and Apple iPad mini (6th generation) support Apple Pencil (2nd generation), sold separately.
Match storage to your files
Choose more capacity for offline video, large art projects and downloaded documents. The 64GB iPad configurations suit lighter use better than large local libraries.
FAQ
Which is better for drawing, Apple Pencil (2nd generation) or Samsung S Pen?
Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a good drawing tool for compatible iPads, with pressure and tilt sensitivity. Samsung S Pen is the practical choice for Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets and is included with the tablet. Pick the stylus that matches your device.
Does Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra come with an S Pen?
Yes. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra includes an S Pen, so buyers have a compatible stylus for handwriting, drawing and navigation in the box. Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is not compatible with Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra.
Which iPads support Apple Pencil (2nd generation)?
Apple iPad Air (5th generation) and Apple iPad mini (6th generation) support Apple Pencil (2nd generation). Compatibility depends on the exact iPad model, so confirm the generation before buying. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets use an S Pen instead.
Is Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ good for note-taking?
Yes. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ has a 12.4-inch screen and includes an S Pen, making it suitable for handwritten notes, reading documents and casual sketches. Its 90Hz LCD is less premium than the 120Hz AMOLED screens on Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 and S9+.
Should I choose Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra or Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+?
Choose Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra for its 14.6-inch display and maximum workspace. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ has a 12.4-inch 120Hz AMOLED screen and is easier to handle. Both include an S Pen, so screen size is the main distinction.
Is Apple Pencil (2nd generation) included with Apple iPad Air (5th generation)?
No. Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is a separate accessory for Apple iPad Air (5th generation). The iPad supports the stylus, but buyers should account for both items when planning a complete drawing or note-taking setup.