The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet: A Comprehensive Review
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet emerges as a compelling option in the crowded tablet market, blending affordability with a surprisingly robust feature set. Positioned as a device for entertainment, productivity, and seamless integration with the Amazon ecosystem, the Fire HD 8 Plus aims to cater to a wide range of users. This review delves into the key aspects of the tablet, exploring its design, performance, display, battery life, software, and overall value proposition.
Design and Portability
The Fire HD 8 Plus has undergone a design refinement compared to its predecessors, resulting in a thinner and lighter profile. This enhanced portability is a significant advantage for users who are constantly on the move. The tablet’s dimensions, at 7.94 inches by 5.40 inches, make it comfortable to hold for extended periods, whether reading, watching videos, or browsing the web. The 0.37-inch thickness contributes to its sleek feel and ease of slipping into a bag or backpack.
While the tablet’s construction primarily utilizes plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy. The build quality is reassuring, indicating that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The rounded edges and smooth finish contribute to a comfortable grip. The button placement is intuitive, with the power and volume controls readily accessible.
Display Quality
The 8-inch high-definition touchscreen is a focal point of the Fire HD 8 Plus. With a resolution of 1280 x 800, it delivers clear and vibrant visuals, suitable for a variety of content. While it may not match the pixel density of higher-end tablets, the display provides a satisfying viewing experience for streaming movies, TV shows, and playing games. The strengthened glass adds a layer of durability, protecting the screen from scratches and minor impacts.
The color accuracy is decent, rendering colors realistically without excessive saturation. The brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, but the display may struggle in direct sunlight. The viewing angles are reasonably wide, allowing multiple people to comfortably view the screen simultaneously.
Performance and Multitasking
The Fire HD 8 Plus is equipped with a hexa-core processor and 3 GB of RAM, a combination that contributes to smooth multitasking and responsive performance. Apps open quickly, and navigating the user interface is generally fluid. The processor handles everyday tasks with ease, such as browsing the web, checking email, and using social media apps.
While it may not be a powerhouse for demanding games or graphically intensive applications, the Fire HD 8 Plus can handle casual gaming without significant lag or stuttering. The split-screen functionality is a welcome addition, allowing users to run two apps side-by-side for increased productivity. This feature is particularly useful for tasks such as referencing documents while writing emails or watching videos while taking notes.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Fire HD 8 Plus is its impressive battery life. Amazon claims up to 13 hours of usage on a single charge, and real-world testing suggests that this is a realistic estimate. Users can comfortably stream movies, read books, or browse the web for extended periods without worrying about running out of power.
The tablet supports USB-C charging, which is a welcome upgrade from previous models. The charging time is reasonable, allowing users to quickly top up the battery when needed. The long battery life makes the Fire HD 8 Plus an ideal companion for travel, long commutes, or simply relaxing at home.
Software and Alexa Integration
The Fire HD 8 Plus runs on Amazon’s Fire OS, which is based on Android. While it may not offer the same level of customization as stock Android, Fire OS is user-friendly and provides access to a vast library of apps through the Amazon Appstore. The interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate and find what you’re looking for.
The integration with Alexa is seamless and adds significant value to the tablet. Users can access Alexa by voice or touch, allowing them to control smart home devices, play music, set timers, check the weather, and much more. Alexa can also read out loud on-screen content, making the tablet accessible to users with visual impairments.
Storage and Expandability
The Fire HD 8 Plus is available in 32 GB or 64 GB storage options. While this may be sufficient for some users, the tablet also offers the option to expand storage via a microSD card. This allows users to add up to 1 TB of additional storage, providing ample space for storing photos, videos, music, and other files.
Privacy Features
Amazon emphasizes privacy with the Fire HD 8 Plus. Users have control over their voice recordings and can delete them at any time. The Alexa Hands-Free Mode can be toggled on or off, allowing users to disable voice activation when desired.
Value Proposition
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet offers excellent value for money. It provides a compelling combination of features, performance, and battery life at an affordable price point. The tablet is particularly well-suited for users who are looking for a device for entertainment, casual gaming, and basic productivity tasks. The integration with Alexa and the Amazon ecosystem further enhances its appeal. The current discount makes it an even more attractive option, representing a significant savings compared to other tablets on the market.
Conclusion
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet is a well-rounded device that delivers a satisfying user experience. Its portability, display quality, performance, battery life, and Alexa integration make it a compelling choice for a wide range of users. While it may not be the most powerful or feature-rich tablet on the market, its affordability and overall value proposition make it a standout option in its class. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet that can handle everyday tasks with ease and provide hours of entertainment, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is definitely worth considering. Don’t miss out on the current deal, which makes it an even more irresistible purchase. This tablet is truly perfect for personal use and entertainment on the go.
