Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022)
Verdict
This tablet offers essential features and affordability but falls short in performance and versatility.
Key specs
Critic consensus
“A minor upgrade from the Fire HD 8, the Amazon Fire HD Plus (2022) isn't the best tablet around. While it does have an okay camera and wireless charging support (that you need to buy separately), it really lacks in most areas. If you're just looking for a budget tablet and nothing else, this will do just fine.”
“The Fire HD 8 Plus is affordable, but its slow and clunky operating system paired with its limited app access hold it back from being truly worth it for many users.”
“The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is an affordable tablet for people who love Amazon services, but it comes with some serious caveats.”
“Overall, the Fire HD 8 Plus is a nifty little tablet, but you’ll really only find a use for it if you’re subscribed to Amazon Prime. At $119.99, you can think of it as a souped-up remote control for Alexa that comes with a few perks, like quick access to streaming, ebooks, and podcasts through Amazon’s ecosystem. It’s the perfect balance between the cheaper Amazon Fire 7 and Fire HD 10 tablets and, in my opinion, makes the most sense both price and feature-wise.”
In Depth
Design
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) sports a sturdy build with a backside made from 35% recycled plastic, which gives it a light yet durable feel. Dense frames around the screen add a slightly outdated look, but reviewers appreciated the secure grip and ease of handling.
Reviewers noted the tablet’s 342g weight makes it easy to carry around. The design may not feel premium due to the use of plastic, but it offers peace of mind against drops and damage. “The tablet doesn’t feel premium in any way,” one review from experts highlighted, “but you’ll be glad to carry it without worry.”
The position of the ports, like the volume and power buttons on one side and the charging port on top, supports an accessible user experience. Some experts suggested that another color option would be nice, but the tablet remains practical with its current setup, considering cost and utility savings.
Display(s)
The display has a resolution of 1,280 x 800 and 189 pixels per inch, which might feel “fuzzy” compared to newer smartphones, as noted by experts.
It covers 82.6% of the standard color spectrum, but the accuracy is lacking. Reviewers point out that the colors aren’t as accurate as they should be.
The screen brightness reaches a respectful peak, making it usable outdoors but not as sharp as brighter devices.
Performance
The Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) features a hexa-core processor and 3GB of RAM, providing a slight performance bump over its predecessor. As reviewers noted, “the tablet is not powerful enough for much gaming; it’s too slow for a lot of quick scrolling” (Digital Camera World).
While everyday tasks like web browsing and watching videos are manageable, expect lags with heavier apps or multitasking. It’s ideal for light entertainment and basic tasks, but not for power users with demanding needs.
Software & Storage
The interface provides a central hub for Amazon services, making it handy if you use Kindle, Prime Video or Music.
However, its reliance on Amazon’s store instead of Google Play is a sticking point for many, as they note missing popular apps like YouTube. Reviewers from Trusted Reviews explain, “The limited library means you may find apps from your phone aren’t available here.”
This setup suits users embedded in the Amazon ecosystem but could frustrate those seeking wider app options.
Cameras
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) features a modest camera setup, including a 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera. These cameras allow for basic photography but lack the quality expected for more professional use.
“The cameras are a complete waste of space,” expressed a review, explaining the low expectations for photography needs, and emphasizing that “not everything needs a camera.” Focus on using your phone for better-quality photos.
While fine for video calls or QR code scanning, the front camera’s 2MP quality may underperform for detailed video chat sessions.
Battery
With the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus, you get the convenience of wireless charging, a first for this model lineup. You won’t need to plug and unplug cables constantly, making it more user-friendly in a busy home environment.
Experts highlight the tablet’s battery life, which Amazon rates at 13 hours. This means it can handle a day full of activities like reading, streaming, and games without needing frequent recharges. “For general use, such as web browsing and streaming, I was able to get just under a week of use from a single charge,” one review shared.
However, charging isn’t the tablet’s strong suit. With the provided 9W charger, it takes about three hours to fully charge, which is longer than other models in the market. While this might be adequate for overnight charging, it falls short for those needing a quick top-up during the day.
Audio
This tablet offers Dolby Atmos-certified speakers. Reviewers note that they “are underwhelming in depth while still getting plenty loud,” making them suitable for casual viewing and light gaming.
Calls may suffer slightly in noisy environments, as experts mention the microphones don’t prioritize sharpness.
For entertainment, the sound works well enough but doesn’t impress audiophiles. It’s best suited for easy listening, simple games, or watching short videos.
The Bottom Line
This tablet suits casual users seeking budget-friendly entertainment, offering reasonable performance for basic tasks like reading and streaming.
The design is sturdy and portable, making it a good option for on-the-go use; however, its performance may feel outdated compared to other options in the market.
“The screen resolution and overall performance are just adequate,” notes Digital Camera World, highlighting limitations in sharpness and app variety.
What people actually want to know
When was the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) released?
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) was released on October 19, 2022.
Does the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) support wireless charging?
Yes, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) supports wireless charging.
Does the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) have a headphone jack?
Yes, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) has a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Does the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) have NFC?
No, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) does not have NFC. Contactless payments and tap-to-pair will not be available.
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