Fire Hd 8 Vs Samsung Tab 7: Which Budget Tablet Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- The Fire HD 8 boasts an 8-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 189 PPI.
- The Samsung Tab 7, on the other hand, features a 7-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, delivering a pixel density of 216 PPI.
- For those willing to spend more, the Apple iPad offers a premium experience with a powerful processor, a stunning display, and a vast selection of apps.
In the realm of budget tablets, two giants stand tall: the Amazon Fire HD 8 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7. Both devices offer a plethora of features and capabilities at an affordable price, making them ideal for students, casual users, and budget-conscious consumers. But which one is the better choice? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Fire HD 8 vs. Samsung Tab 7 to help you make an informed decision.
Display: A Visual Feast or a Pixelated Disappointment?
The Fire HD 8 boasts an 8-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 189 PPI. While the display is adequate for basic tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and reading e-books, it falls short in terms of sharpness and vibrancy. The Samsung Tab 7, on the other hand, features a 7-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, delivering a pixel density of 216 PPI. The higher pixel density ensures crisper visuals, more vivid colors, and a more immersive viewing experience.
Performance: Powerhouse or Pocket-Sized Lag-Fest?
The Fire HD 8 is powered by a MediaTek MT8168 processor, coupled with 2GB of RAM. This combination provides decent performance for everyday tasks, but it can struggle with demanding applications and multitasking. The Samsung Tab 7, in contrast, is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor and 3GB of RAM. This more powerful hardware setup results in smoother performance, faster app loading times, and better multitasking capabilities.
Storage: How Much Can You Carry?
The Fire HD 8 comes in two storage variants: 32GB and 64GB. Both options can be expanded via a microSD card slot, allowing you to add up to 1TB of additional storage. The Samsung Tab 7, on the other hand, offers 32GB and 64GB storage options as well, but it lacks a microSD card slot. This means you’re stuck with the built-in storage, which may not be sufficient for users who store a lot of media files or apps.
Battery Life: Marathon Runner or Quick Drainer?
The Fire HD 8 is known for its impressive battery life, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge with mixed usage. This makes it an excellent choice for long trips, commutes, or extended periods away from an outlet. The Samsung Tab 7, while still offering decent battery life, falls short of the Fire HD 8. It can provide up to 8 hours of battery life with mixed usage, which is still respectable but may not be enough for heavy users.
Features: What’s in the Bag?
The Fire HD 8 runs on Amazon’s Fire OS, which is a heavily customized version of Android. It offers a user-friendly interface, access to the Amazon Appstore, and integration with Amazon’s services like Prime Video, Kindle, and Audible. The Samsung Tab 7, on the other hand, runs on Android 11, providing a more versatile and customizable experience. It has access to the Google Play Store, a wider selection of apps, and more customization options.
Price: The Ultimate Deciding Factor?
The Fire HD 8 starts at a budget-friendly price of $89.99 for the 32GB model, making it an incredibly affordable option. The Samsung Tab 7, while still relatively affordable, starts at a slightly higher price of $119.99 for the 32GB model. The price difference may not seem significant, but it can be a deciding factor for budget-conscious consumers.
Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Fire HD 8 and the Samsung Tab 7 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable tablet with long battery life and access to Amazon’s services, the Fire HD 8 is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize performance, a more versatile operating system, and a better display, the Samsung Tab 7 is the way to go.
Alternatives: More Options to Consider
In addition to the Fire HD 8 and Samsung Tab 7, there are several other budget tablets worth considering:
- Apple iPad: For those willing to spend more, the Apple iPad offers a premium experience with a powerful processor, a stunning display, and a vast selection of apps.
- Lenovo Tab M8: The Lenovo Tab M8 is another affordable option with a compact 8-inch display, decent performance, and a long battery life.
- Huawei MediaPad T5: The Huawei MediaPad T5 offers a large 10.1-inch display, a solid processor, and a sleek design at a budget-friendly price.
Popular Questions
1. Which tablet has a better camera?
The Samsung Tab 7 has a better camera system compared to the Fire HD 8. It features an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, while the Fire HD 8 has a 2MP rear camera and a 0.3MP front camera.
2. Can I use Microsoft Office apps on either tablet?
Yes, both the Fire HD 8 and Samsung Tab 7 support Microsoft Office apps. You can download and install them from the Amazon Appstore or Google Play Store, respectively.
3. Which tablet is better for gaming?
The Samsung Tab 7 is the better choice for gaming due to its more powerful processor and graphics capabilities. It can handle more demanding games smoothly, while the Fire HD 8 may struggle with some games.
