Amazon Fire HD 8 (10th Generation): A Review in 2024

The Amazon Fire HD 8 (10th Generation), released in 2020, is a budget-friendly tablet that prioritizes affordability and entertainment. While it may not be the most powerful device on the market, it offers a good balance of features and price for casual users. Let's delve into the specs, pros, cons, and who this tablet might be a good fit for in 2024.

Specs at a Glance:

• Display: 8" HD (1280 x 800) IPS screen
• Processor: 2.0 GHz quad-core processor
• RAM: 2 GB RAM
• Storage: 32 GB or 64 GB (expandable up to 1 TB with microSD card)
• Battery: Up to 12 hours of battery life
• Rear Camera: 2 MP
• Front Camera: 2 MP
• Operating System: Fire OS (based on Android 11)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi only

Pros:

• Affordable: The Fire HD 8 is a great option for those looking for a tablet that won't break the bank. You can often find it for under $100.

• Long Battery Life: With up to 12 hours of battery life, you can enjoy movies, games, and ebooks on the go without worrying about constantly recharging.
• Expandable Storage: The microSD card slot allows you to add up to 1 TB of additional storage, perfect for storing movies, music, and games.
• Access to Amazon Content: Fire OS provides easy access to Amazon apps like Prime Video, Kindle, and Audible, making it a great choice for consuming Amazon's vast library of content.

Cons:

• Limited App Selection: Fire OS uses a custom app store with a smaller app selection compared to Google Play Store found on most Android tablets.
• Weaker Performance: The 2 GB RAM and quad-core processor can struggle with multitasking or demanding games.
• No Google Services: Since it uses Fire OS, you won't have access to popular Google apps like Gmail, YouTube (unless accessed through a web browser), or Google Maps.

Who Should Get the Amazon Fire HD 8 (10th Generation)?

• Casual Users: This tablet is perfect for browsing the web, reading ebooks, watching videos, and playing light games.
• Amazon Prime Members: If you already subscribe to Amazon Prime, the Fire HD 8 grants easy access to all your Prime Video benefits and extensive library.
• Budget-Conscious Consumers: If you're looking for a tablet for basic tasks and entertainment without spending a lot, the Fire HD 8 is a strong contender.

Alternatives to Consider:

• Amazon Fire HD 8 (Latest Generation): If you can spare a bit more, consider the latest generation Fire HD 8 which may offer slight improvements in performance and features.

• Samsung Galaxy Tab A Series: For users who prioritize a wider app selection and access to Google Play Store, Samsung Galaxy Tab A series offers a good alternative.

The Verdict:

The Amazon Fire HD 8 (10th Generation) is a solid choice for budget-minded users who prioritize entertainment and Amazon's ecosystem. While its processing power and app selection may not be the strongest, it offers a good balance of features for casual users at an affordable price. However, if you crave more performance or a wider app selection, you might want to consider a more powerful tablet or one that uses the Google Play Store.