The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet has been making waves with its impressive specs and affordability. With its 8-inch HD display, 32 GB storage, and a 30% faster processor, it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers.
In this review, we’ll explore the key features, performance, and user experiences to help you decide if the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is the right tablet for you.
When comparing the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus to other tablets, such as the Lenovo Chrome tablet, the Fire HD 8 Plus stands out with its responsive screen and high-quality speakers. The Amazon Appstore may not be as extensive as Google Play Store, but the ability to load APK files is a significant advantage.
The setup process is straightforward, and the device is easy to use. The build quality is excellent, with a durable design and a dimpled texture on the back for a comfortable grip. The screen quality is impressive, and the cameras perform well in natural light.
Design and Durability
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet features a new design that is both thinner and lighter than its previous generation. The screen is made with strengthened aluminosilicate glass, making it twice as durable as the Apple iPad mini (2021) according to tumble tests. This makes it a great choice for those who need a robust and long-lasting device for everyday use.
Performance
Equipped with an enhanced hexa-core processor, the Fire HD 8 Plus offers a 30% faster performance compared to its predecessor. This ensures a smooth experience when checking emails, browsing the web, and running applications. With 3 GB of RAM, the tablet can handle multitasking efficiently, making it a reliable device for both work and leisure.
Battery Life and Charging
The Fire HD 8 Plus boasts up to 13 hours of battery life, allowing for extended use without the need for frequent recharging. It also supports hassle-free wireless charging with a dock that is sold separately. This feature adds convenience, especially for users who are always on the go and prefer a clutter-free setup.
Entertainment Options
The tablet provides access to a wide range of entertainment options through the Amazon Appstore. Users can enjoy content from popular platforms like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Disney+, and more. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy streaming videos, browsing social media, and playing games.
Camera Quality
The Fire HD 8 Plus comes with a 2 MP front-facing and a 5 MP rear-facing camera. These cameras are adequate for video calls, taking photos, and recording videos. While they may not offer the highest resolution, they perform well in natural daylight and provide decent quality images and videos.
Family-Friendly Features
Amazon Kids offers easy-to-use parental controls on the Fire HD 8 Plus, making it a great choice for families. With a subscription to Amazon Kids+, children can access thousands of books, apps, games, videos, songs, and Audible books. This ensures a safe and educational environment for younger users.
App Availability
One notable limitation of the Fire HD 8 Plus is the lack of support for the Google Play Store. Some popular apps may not be available through the Amazon Appstore, which could be a drawback for users who rely on specific Google services. However, the ability to load APK files can somewhat mitigate this issue.
User Experience
The tablet offers a smooth and responsive user experience thanks to its optimized Silk browser and the option to disable Alexa. This makes it less obtrusive compared to other operating systems, providing a more streamlined and user-friendly interface. The setup process is straightforward, making it easy to get started with the device.
Audio and Video Quality
The Fire HD 8 Plus delivers good audio and video quality, making it suitable for watching movies and listening to music. The speakers provide clear sound, and the screen offers sharp and crisp images. This makes it a great device for entertainment purposes, whether at home or while traveling.
Value for Money
Priced at £119.99, the Fire HD 8 Plus offers excellent value for money. It provides a range of features that are usually found in more expensive tablets, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious buyers. The positive reviews and high ratings further attest to its quality and performance.
Pros:
- Fast and responsive with a 30% faster processor
- Durable with strengthened aluminosilicate glass
- Offers wireless charging and up to 13 hours of battery life
Cons:
- Google Play Store is not supported
- Charging is not very fast
- Screen size may be too small for some users
Conclusion
Overall, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is a fantastic tablet for its price. It offers a range of features, including wireless charging, a faster processor, and ample storage, making it a great option for everyday use.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is worth considering. Its combination of quality, features, and affordability makes it a standout choice in the mid-sized tablet market.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Does this tablet support Google Play Store?
Answer: No, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus does not support the Google Play Store.
Question: How long does the battery last?
Answer: The battery lasts up to 13 hours with normal usage including reading, browsing the web, watching videos, and listening to music.
Question: Is the tablet compatible with wireless chargers?
Answer: Yes, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is compatible with wireless chargers, though the wireless charging dock is sold separately.
