The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Was My Most Intentional Purchase — And My Favorite

When I lost my legs, everything changed — including how I thought about money.

Being out of work during recovery meant every single purchase had to be intentional, and often uncomfortable to even consider. I spent weeks debating whether I needed something like a tablet. But once I bought the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+, it became one of the most useful, comfort-enhancing decisions I’ve made.

This isn’t a luxury tablet — and that’s exactly why it’s so good. It’s affordable, lightweight, and it’s made my time in bed a little easier, more relaxing, and far more entertaining.

Reading Without Straining (or Squinting)

As someone who reads a lot—especially during recovery—this tablet was a game changer. I didn't want to keep burning out my eyes on a phone screen, and I couldn’t justify the cost of something like an iPad.

The Galaxy Tab A9+ gave me:

• A generous 11” screen for full-page reading in Kindle or Libby

• Easy brightness and night mode controls

• A lightweight frame I could prop up in bed with a cheap stand

• Zero eye strain after hours of reading

If you’re recovering, in bed, or just trying to rest, this is the best budget tablet for reading in bed — hands down.

Quiet Netflix Nights — Without Waking the Whole House

After my amputation, I had to move back in with my parents so I could get the help I needed. (I’ll dive deeper into that experience in a future post — it’s been a mix of gratitude, adjustment, and learning to accept help.)

One of the first things I noticed? I couldn’t just fire up the big TV anymore at night without feeling like I might wake the whole house. I tried using the Roku remote’s private listening feature, but the audio kept cutting out and falling out of sync. After a few nights of that frustration, I knew I needed a better solution.

That’s where the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ came in. Now I just connect my Bluetooth earbuds, launch Netflix, and enjoy drama, comedy, or documentaries without a single glitch. The screen is bright enough to enjoy in the dark, but not so intense that it lights up the room. The audio is clean, and best of all — it just works.

I also paired the tablet with a durable case that includes a built-in stand on the back. I chose it specifically because I knew I’d mostly be using the tablet in bed or on soft surfaces. If it ever slipped or fell, I didn’t want to worry about it shattering. The stand lets me set it up on my nightstand or mattress, hands-free, and the case gives me peace of mind — especially when I’m drowsy and not being careful.

Now, I binge-watch guilt-free, knowing I’m not disturbing anyone — and that little bit of quiet comfort has made recovery feel a lot more manageable.

Mobile Gaming That Doesn’t Lag or Crash

I didn't plan on gaming much — until I realized how long my downtime would be. The Galaxy Tab A9+ became my escape when I needed it most:

• Runs games like Call of Duty Mobile without lag

• Big enough for comfortable controls

• Works great with Bluetooth controllers if I want less screen contact

And again — for a tablet under $200? Shockingly good.

TikTok, But Less Addictive? Yes.

Here’s an unexpected bonus: TikTok became less of a time trap.

Since the Tab A9+ is bigger and harder to scroll with one hand, I’m more intentional with my screen time. I mount it on a stand or use two hands, which makes mindless scrolling just inconvenient enough to stop sooner. That’s been healthier for me, mentally and physically.

A Budget Choice That Didn’t Feel Cheap

I didn’t buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ on impulse — I chose it because I needed something functional, versatile, and affordable while I was healing, jobless, and watching every dollar.

And what I got? A powerful, reliable device that helps me:

• Read comfortably

• Watch videos late at night

• Stay connected

• Avoid boredom-induced doomscrolling

• Feel a little more normal again

Final Thoughts: The Best Tablet for Bed Rest & Recovery

If you’re recovering, living on a budget, or simply want a powerful tablet that won’t empty your wallet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is a perfect fit.

It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly effective — and in a season where I’ve had to rethink every decision, this one was worth it.