Samsung has always understood that for a premium tablet, the stylus isn’t just an accessory—it’s an extension of the creative mind. With the launch of the new Galaxy Tab S11 series, the company has taken a bold swing at reinventing its most iconic tool: the S Pen. The result is a stylus that is simultaneously brilliant in its function and controversial in its form, sparking debates among artists, note-takers, and tech enthusiasts alike.
We got our hands on the new S Pen alongside the sleek new Galaxy Tab S11 and S11 Ultra (with prices starting from $899), and after extensive testing, one thing is clear: this is far from a simple incremental update.
A Welcome Inclusion in the Box
Before we even get to the design, it’s crucial to highlight a key differentiator that continues to win Samsung favor: the S Pen is still proudly included in the box. In an era where competitors like Apple expect users to shell out an extra $129 for the Apple Pencil Pro, Samsung’s commitment to bundling the core creative tool with its premium tablets is a significant value proposition. From the moment you unbox the Tab S11, you have a complete creative and productivity suite ready to go.
The Hexagonal Controversy: Form vs. Feeling?
The most immediate and talked-about change is the new hexagonal barrel design. Inspired by the classic wooden pencil, it’s a dramatic departure from the rounded, cylindrical pens of the past. Samsung’s intent is clear: to prevent the S Pen from rolling off tables and to provide a familiar, grippy feel.
In practice, the new design does indeed sit securely in the hand. However, the shift has proven to be a point of personal preference. Compared to the more ergonomic, semi-circular shape of its predecessor or the rounded Honor Magic Pencil 3, this new angular profile feels distinctly different. Our initial impression is that the S Pen also appears more compact and thinner. While this is a boon for portability and users with smaller hands, those with larger grips might find the hexagonal edges less comfortable during extended use and the overall casing somewhat undersized.
Feather-Light, But Is That a Good Thing?
Weighing in at a mere 8 grams, the new S Pen is incredibly light. To put that into perspective, the Apple Pencil Pro tips the scales at over twice that weight. This featherlight nature is a double-edged sword.
The Argument For: The reduced weight is undeniably comfortable for long writing or drawing sessions. It minimizes hand fatigue and feels almost effortless to wield, making it ideal for students taking lecture notes or anyone engaged in lengthy tasks.
The Argument Against: A lighter tool can sometimes feel less substantial and, to some, less premium. The heft of a stylus like the Apple Pencil can convey a sense of quality and durability that the new S Pen consciously sacrifices for comfort.
Where the New S Pen Truly Shines: Unmatched Writing Feel
Where any skepticism about the design fades away is the moment you put the tip to the screen. This is where Samsung’s engineering genius becomes apparent. The pen tip measures a precise 1 millimeter and is noticeably softer than the competition. This combination creates a writing and drawing experience that is remarkably natural, with a subtle give that mimics the feel of a real pen on paper.
Furthermore, the S Pen operates in near silence. The frustrating tap-tap-tap sound common with other hard-tipped styluses is virtually eliminated, making it a dream to use in quiet environments like libraries or meetings.
On the technical front, the S Pen boasts 4,096 pressure levels and impressively fast response times. While Samsung remains quiet on the exact latency figures, and competitors sometimes tout higher pressure sensitivity counts, we found zero perceptible lag or disadvantage in everyday use. From quick sketches to detailed note-taking, the performance is flawless.
That said, for the most demanding professional artists who rely on the most granular pressure control for nuanced brush strokes, the lower pressure sensitivity compared to some dedicated drawing tablets could be a limiting factor. For the vast majority of users, however, it is more than capable.
A Deeper Look at the Full Package
To truly understand the S Pen's role, you have to see it as part of the whole Galaxy Tab S11 experience. The synergy between the stylus and the tablet's vibrant, high-refresh-rate display is what creates that signature "wow" factor. For a comprehensive breakdown of how the tablet itself performs, from its processing power to battery life, be sure to check out the in-depth review from our colleagues at Notebookcheck.
The Verdict: A Calculated Gamble
The new Samsung S Pen is a statement. It’s a daring, opinionated redesign that prioritizes function and a natural writing feel over conventional ergonomics. Its hexagonal shape will be loved by some and questioned by others. Its lightweight build is either a comfort-focused masterstroke or a compromise on premium feel.
But by keeping it in the box, making it IP68-rated for dust and water resistance, and refining the tip technology to near perfection, Samsung has given users powerful reasons to adapt. It may not be the stylus for everyone, but for those who value a silent, paper-like writing experience and the convenience of an all-in-one package, it is, without a doubt, an awesome tool.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 series, starting at $899, is available now. You can find the latest offers and check availability at Amazon.
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