Samsung Galaxy Book 8s

Basic Information

Information for a specific "Samsung Galaxy Book 8s" model is not widely available. This article details the "Samsung Galaxy Book S," a distinct model within the Samsung Galaxy Book series, which shares a similar naming convention and represents a key offering in Samsung's ultra-portable laptop line.

• Model: Samsung Galaxy Book S (available with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx or Intel Lakefield processors)
• Release Date: The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx version was announced in August 2019, with shipping beginning January 31, 2020, and wider availability in February 2020. An Intel version was released in 2020.
• Minimum Requirements: Not explicitly detailed, but operates on Windows 10/11.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 (specifically Windows on ARM for the Snapdragon variant), with an upgrade path to Windows 11.
• Latest Stable Version: Refers to the operating system, currently Windows 11.
• End of Support Date: Not specified for this particular model; software updates are managed through Microsoft and Samsung.
• End of Life Date: Not specified.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not specified.
• License Type: Windows Home.
• Deployment Model: Primarily a consumer-oriented ultra-portable laptop.

Technical Specifications

The following specifications are for the Samsung Galaxy Book S (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx variant), a model closely related in naming convention.

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Compute Platform, featuring an 8-core Qualcomm Kryo 495 CPU clocked up to 2.84 GHz.
• RAM: 8 GB LPDDR4X SDRAM.
• Storage: Available with 256 GB or 512 GB UFS 3.0 internal storage, expandable up to 1 TB via a microSD card slot.
• Display: 13.3-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) TFT LCD touchscreen with a 16:9 aspect ratio and 10-point multi-touch support.
• Graphics: Qualcomm Adreno 680 GPU.
• Ports: Includes two USB-C ports, an audio jack, a SIM card slot for LTE connectivity, and a microSD card slot.
• Operating System: Ships with Windows 10 (Windows on ARM) and is upgradeable to Windows 11.
• Dimensions: Approximately 305.2 mm (width) x 203.2 mm (height) x 6.2-11.8 mm (depth).
• Weight: Approximately 0.96 kg (2.12 lbs).
• Battery: Features a 42 Wh battery, providing up to 23-25 hours of video playback and 16-20 hours of mixed real-world use.
• Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0, and 4G LTE (Gigabit LTE).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Samsung Galaxy Book S prioritizes extreme portability and extended battery life, making it suitable for users requiring a highly mobile computing solution. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx processor delivers efficient performance for everyday tasks, web browsing, and productivity applications. However, its ARM-based architecture means that while it runs Windows 10/11, performance for demanding applications, such as high-end gaming or intensive creative software, may not match that of traditional Intel or AMD x86-based laptops. The generous battery capacity is a significant highlight, offering exceptional endurance for all-day use. The inclusion of 4G LTE ensures always-on connectivity, enhancing its utility for mobile professionals. The touchscreen display adds versatility, though its reflectivity can be a minor drawback in bright environments.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The device supports the latest available Windows operating system, including Windows 11.
• OS Support: Fully compatible with Windows 10 (Windows on ARM) and Windows 11.
• End of Support Date: No specific end-of-support date is provided for the model itself. Software and security updates are delivered through Microsoft's Windows Update and Samsung's firmware releases.
• Localization: Samsung provides global support for its products, with localization typically handled by the operating system.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are primarily managed through Windows Update. For the Galaxy Book S, the Samsung Update application is not supported; users should rely on Windows Update for driver and software updates. Drivers can also be found on the Samsung Download Center.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The Samsung Galaxy Book S benefits from the robust update ecosystem of Microsoft Windows, ensuring ongoing OS and security patches. While Samsung provides firmware updates, the reliance on Windows Update for drivers simplifies the process for users, eliminating the need to manage multiple update utilities. This approach ensures broad compatibility with Windows applications, though performance can vary for non-ARM-native software. The absence of specific end-of-support dates for the hardware implies that support longevity is largely tied to Microsoft's Windows lifecycle.

Security Status

• Security Features: The Galaxy Book S incorporates a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and a fingerprint reader for secure authentication. It leverages Windows Security features, including Firewall, network protection, app and browser control, device security (Core isolation, Secure boot), and device performance and health monitoring. Samsung also integrates its Knox security platform, offering defense-grade protection, secure boot processes, BIOS authentication with password-less public key cryptography, and SMI Guard for System Management Mode (SMM) protection. Additional Samsung Security features include Privacy Folder, Secret Screen, and Security Cam.
• Known Vulnerabilities: General Samsung device vulnerabilities, such as CVE-2023-21433-21434 (Galaxy Store) and CVE-2021-25337 (Text-to-Speech app), have been identified and subsequently patched. A UEFI firmware vulnerability (CVE-2023-30738) affecting Galaxy Book series was addressed with an October 2023 firmware update. A critical zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2025-21042) in Samsung's image processing library was exploited to deploy spyware on Galaxy devices, but a patch was released in April 2025.
• Blacklist Status: No specific blacklist status is reported for this asset.
• Certifications: Samsung Galaxy Book series devices often feature Secured-Core PC protection, indicating adherence to advanced security standards. The device also holds Wi-Fi Alliance certification.
• Encryption Support: Supports BitLocker for data encryption. Newer Samsung devices also feature Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) for on-device privacy.
• Authentication Methods: Users can authenticate via fingerprint reader (Windows Hello), PIN, or password. Samsung Pass facilitates secure autofill. The Knox Authentication Manager offers manual, PIN-only, and PIN+Face authentication options. BIOS authentication can also utilize password-less public key cryptography.
• General Recommendations: Users are advised to regularly install software and firmware updates to mitigate potential security risks.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The Samsung Galaxy Book S offers a strong security posture, combining Microsoft's comprehensive Windows security features with Samsung's proprietary Knox platform. This dual-layer approach provides protection from the hardware level (TPM, secure boot, fingerprint reader) up to the operating system and application layers. The integration of Knox, with its defense-grade security and advanced BIOS protection mechanisms, significantly enhances the device's resilience against sophisticated attacks. While past vulnerabilities have been identified, Samsung's consistent release of patches demonstrates a commitment to maintaining device security. Regular updates remain critical for safeguarding against evolving threats.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores for the Galaxy Book S are not extensively detailed in public search results. However, the Snapdragon 8cx processor is noted to offer improved performance over previous Snapdragon SoCs for laptops and is generally compared to an Intel Core i5-8250U.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: The device performs well for general productivity tasks, web browsing, and light office work. Performance is notably enhanced when using ARM-native applications, such as the Firefox browser. It is not designed for intensive tasks like gaming or professional creative applications.
• Power Consumption: A key strength is its low power consumption, enabling an exceptional battery life of 16 to 20 hours in mixed real-world usage, and up to 23-25 hours for video playback.
• Carbon Footprint: Samsung is committed to sustainability, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. The Galaxy Book series, including the S model, incorporates greener materials and packaging. Samsung has also received Product Carbon Footprint certification for some of its appliances, reflecting a broader environmental commitment.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The Galaxy Book S excels in battery life and portability, often doubling the endurance of many competing laptops. However, its raw processing power for demanding applications typically falls short compared to similarly priced Intel or AMD x86-based systems.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The Samsung Galaxy Book S delivers excellent performance for its intended use case: ultra-portable, always-connected productivity. Its strength lies in its remarkable battery life and efficient handling of everyday computing tasks. While it may not compete with high-performance laptops in terms of raw processing power for intensive applications, its capabilities are well-suited for mobile professionals and users prioritizing endurance and portability. The device's environmental impact is positively influenced by Samsung's corporate sustainability initiatives.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the Samsung Galaxy Book S highlight its strengths in portability and battery life, while acknowledging limitations in raw performance.

• Strengths: Users frequently praise its slim and lightweight design, making it ideal for travel. The built-in 4G LTE connectivity is a significant advantage for staying connected on the go. Its exceptional battery life, often reaching 16-20 hours in practical use, is a standout feature. The device is well-regarded for general productivity, web browsing, and instant boot-up times. The overall design is often described as aesthetically pleasing.
• Weaknesses: A common point of feedback is its relatively high price compared to its performance for demanding tasks. Users note that it struggles with intensive applications, such as gaming or professional creative software. The initial Windows on ARM architecture had limitations with x86-based applications (primarily 32-bit support), leading to some compatibility and performance issues for certain software. Some users experienced noticeable lag with specific applications and reported battery drain even when the device was asleep. The screen's reflectivity can also be an issue in bright environments. Early models also faced criticisms regarding a limited number of USB ports and occasional keyboard/touchpad glitches or screen issues.
• Recommended Use Cases: The Galaxy Book S is highly recommended for frequent travelers, students, and mobile professionals who require a lightweight, long-lasting device for light office work, web-based tasks, and media consumption. It serves as an excellent secondary device for those who need constant connectivity and portability.

Summary

The Samsung Galaxy Book S emerges as a highly specialized ultra-portable laptop designed for exceptional mobility and endurance. Its primary strengths lie in its incredibly lightweight and slim design, outstanding battery life (up to 25 hours of video playback), and integrated 4G LTE connectivity, making it an ideal companion for users constantly on the move. The device handles everyday productivity tasks, web browsing, and media consumption with efficiency, especially when utilizing ARM-native applications. Security is robust, integrating both Windows' native protections and Samsung's Knox platform, offering hardware-level safeguards and advanced authentication methods.

However, the Galaxy Book S has notable weaknesses. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx processor, while efficient, does not deliver the raw computational power required for demanding applications like high-end gaming or intensive creative software, often falling short of similarly priced x86-based competitors. Early versions also faced compatibility challenges with some x86 Windows applications. User feedback highlights its premium price point relative to its performance limitations for power users, along with minor issues like screen reflectivity and occasional software glitches.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Book S is an excellent choice for users prioritizing portability, battery life, and constant connectivity for light to moderate computing tasks. It is less suited for those who require a powerhouse machine for processor-intensive workloads. Its security features are comprehensive, providing peace of mind for sensitive data. For the right user, its blend of mobility and endurance makes it a compelling device.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.