Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet - 32GB or 64GB
Category: Kids and Family
Key Features
- 8" HD Display (1280 x 800 resolution)
- Enhanced Hexa-core Processor
- 3GB RAM
- 32GB or 64GB Internal Storage (expandable up to 1TB via microSD)
- Up to 13 Hours of Battery Life
- Wireless Charging Compatible
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi
- 5MP Rear Camera, 2MP Front Camera
- Amazon Kids Parental Controls
Overview and First Impressions
The Fire HD 8 Plus presents a solid balance of features and affordability. Right out of the box, it feels well-built and modern with its slim design. The display is bright and responsive, making it enjoyable for consuming content and general web browsing.
Design and Build Quality
The Fire HD 8 Plus boasts a sleek and lightweight design. It's noticeably thinner and lighter than previous generations, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The back panel has a textured finish that provides a good grip, and the bezels are thin enough to enhance the screen-to-body ratio.
Display
The 8" HD display offers decent resolution (1280 x 800) with vibrant colors and good viewing angles. While it's not a high refresh rate panel, it's perfectly adequate for everyday tasks and media consumption. The IPS technology ensures consistent color accuracy across the entire screen.
Performance and Hardware
The Fire HD 8 Plus is powered by an enhanced hexa-core processor that delivers noticeable performance improvements over previous models. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is smooth, and even light gaming experiences are enjoyable. The 3GB of RAM helps to keep things running efficiently.
Battery Life
Amazon claims up to 13 hours of battery life on a single charge, and in our testing, it consistently delivered solid performance. You can easily get through a full day of moderate use without needing to recharge.
Connectivity and Ports
The tablet supports dual-band Wi-Fi for reliable internet connectivity. It also features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, along with a microSD card slot for expanding storage capacity.
Camera
While not its primary focus, the Fire HD 8 Plus has a decent 5MP rear camera for capturing everyday photos and videos. The front-facing 2MP camera is sufficient for video calls.
Software Experience
The Fire HD 8 Plus runs Amazon's Fire OS, which is a heavily customized version of Android. It provides access to the Amazon Appstore, as well as various Amazon services like Prime Video, Kindle, and Audible. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.
Accessibility Features
Amazon has made significant strides in accessibility features on the Fire HD 8 Plus. It includes VoiceView screen reader, Screen Magnifier, Tap to Alexa, Switch Access, and more, making it usable for a wide range of individuals.
Price and Value
The Fire HD 8 Plus is competitively priced in the mid-range tablet market. It offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and battery life at an affordable price point.
Target Audience
This tablet is ideal for users who prioritize media consumption, general web browsing, light gaming, and access to Amazon's services. Its affordability and solid performance make it a great choice for students, casual users, and families.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Sleek and lightweight design
- Bright and responsive display
- Decent performance
- Long battery life
- Expandable storage
- Strong accessibility features
Cons
- Not the most powerful processor
- Limited to Amazon Appstore
- Cameras are average
Conclusion
The Fire HD 8 Plus is a well-rounded tablet that delivers an enjoyable user experience at an attractive price. Its sleek design, bright display, decent performance, and long battery life make it a worthwhile option for those seeking a versatile and affordable device.
Buy on Amazon