Fire Tablet 7 Vs 8: Which Is The Better Choice For You? (must-read)

In the realm of affordable tablet technology, Amazon’s Fire tablets have carved out a niche for themselves, offering a budget-friendly alternative to more premium devices. With two popular models – the Fire 7 and Fire 8 – shoppers are often faced with a dilemma: which one is the better choice? This comprehensive comparison guide delves into the intricacies of the Fire 7 vs Fire 8 debate, providing a detailed analysis of their key features, performance, and overall value. Whether you’re a student, a casual user, or an avid reader, this guide will help you make an informed decision and choose the Fire tablet that best suits your needs and preferences.

Specifications and Design

The Fire 7 and Fire 8 share a similar design ethos, featuring a sleek and compact form factor. Both models sport a matte black finish, with rounded corners and a textured back panel for improved grip. However, there are subtle differences in their dimensions. The Fire 7 measures 7.5 x 4.5 x 0.4 inches, while the Fire 8 is slightly larger at 8.3 x 5.3 x 0.3 inches. This translates to a more immersive viewing experience on the Fire 8, but the Fire 7 remains more portable and easier to handle.

Display and Multimedia

The Fire 7 features a 7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 171 PPI. On the other hand, the Fire 8 boasts an 8-inch IPS LCD display with a higher resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, yielding a pixel density of 189 PPI. While both tablets offer decent viewing angles and color reproduction, the Fire 8’s larger display and higher resolution provide a more enjoyable experience for watching videos, playing games, or browsing the web.

Performance and Storage

Under the hood, the Fire 7 and Fire 8 are powered by different processors. The Fire 7 is equipped with a quad-core MediaTek MT8168 processor clocked at 1.3 GHz, while the Fire 8 features a quad-core MediaTek MT8168S processor running at 1.5 GHz. Both tablets come with 1 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and social media. However, users who intend to run more demanding apps or games may experience occasional slowdowns on both devices.

In terms of storage, the Fire 7 offers 16 GB of internal storage, while the Fire 8 comes in two storage options: 16 GB and 32 GB. Both models support microSD card expansion up to 1 TB, allowing users to expand their storage capacity for additional apps, media, and files.

Battery Life and Charging

The Fire 7 and Fire 8 offer comparable battery life, with Amazon claiming up to 7 hours of mixed-use on a single charge. However, real-world usage may vary depending on factors such as screen brightness, Wi-Fi connectivity, and the type of apps being used. Both tablets support standard 5W charging via a micro USB port, which can take several hours to fully charge the devices.

Software and Features

The Fire 7 and Fire 8 run on Amazon’s custom Fire OS, which is based on Android but with a heavily modified user interface. Fire OS offers a range of pre-installed apps and services, including Amazon’s own suite of apps like Prime Video, Prime Music, and Kindle. Users also have access to the Amazon Appstore, which offers a limited selection of apps compared to the Google Play Store.

Both tablets support Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant, allowing users to control their devices, play music, set alarms, and get information using voice commands. Additionally, Fire tablets come with parental control features, making them suitable for families with young children.

Connectivity and Audio

The Fire 7 and Fire 8 offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to access the internet, download apps, and stream content. Both models also support Bluetooth, enabling users to connect wirelessly to external devices like speakers, headphones, and keyboards.

In terms of audio, both tablets feature a single speaker located at the bottom of the device. The speaker quality is adequate for casual listening, but users who demand better audio performance may want to consider using external speakers or headphones.

Camera and Video Recording

Both the Fire 7 and Fire 8 feature a single rear-facing camera with a resolution of 2 megapixels. The camera quality is basic and suitable for taking casual photos or making video calls. However, users who prioritize photography should look for a tablet with a better camera system.

Which Fire Tablet is Right for You?

The choice between the Fire 7 and Fire 8 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and affordable tablet for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and social media, the Fire 7 is a solid option. However, if you value a larger display, higher resolution, and a slightly better performance, the Fire 8 is the better choice.

The Verdict: Fire 7 vs Fire 8

In the battle of the Fire tablets, the Fire 8 emerges as the winner. Its larger display, higher resolution, and slightly better performance make it the more versatile choice for most users. However, the Fire 7 remains a compelling option for those seeking a more compact and budget-friendly tablet.

The Final Say: Choosing the Best Fire Tablet for Your Needs

When choosing between the Fire 7 and Fire 8, consider your primary usage scenarios and budget. If you prioritize portability, basic functionality, and affordability, the Fire 7 is a great choice. However, if you value a larger display, higher resolution, and better performance, the Fire 8 is the way to go.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which Fire tablet has the best display?

A: The Fire 8 has a larger display and higher resolution compared to the Fire 7, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience.

Q: Which Fire tablet is better for gaming?

A: The Fire 8 has a slightly better processor and more RAM compared to the Fire 7, making it the better choice for gaming.

Q: Which Fire tablet has the longest battery life?

A: Both the Fire 7 and Fire 8 offer comparable battery life, with up to 7 hours of mixed-use on a single charge.