Amazon Fire HD 8 plus Tablet

The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is a standout tablet in Amazon’s Fire lineup, known for offering a robust blend of performance, affordability, and utility, particularly for content consumption. This device is a compelling choice for users who are deeply embedded in Amazon's ecosystem or those looking for a cost-effective tablet for everyday tasks. In this piece, we will dive deep into the specifications, features, performance, and overall value proposition of the Fire HD 8 Plus, with a focus on how it benefits content providers and consumers alike.

Overview of the Fire HD 8 Plus

Released as an enhanced version of the standard Fire HD 8, the Fire HD 8 Plus offers several improvements that make it an attractive option for users looking for a bit more power and functionality. Priced competitively, it is a middle-ground between Amazon’s entry-level tablets and the more premium models.

The Fire HD 8 Plus comes with an 8-inch HD display, a quad-core processor, 3GB of RAM (1GB more than the standard Fire HD 8), and offers both 32GB and 64GB storage options, expandable via microSD up to 1TB. It runs on Amazon’s Fire OS, which is based on Android but is heavily customized to integrate seamlessly with Amazon services.

Key Specifications

• Display: 8-inch HD (1280 x 800) display with 189 PPI.
• Processor: Quad-core 2.0 GHz processor.
• RAM: 3GB.
• Storage: 32GB or 64GB, expandable up to 1TB with microSD.
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours of mixed-use.
• Charging: USB-C with support for wireless charging.
• Operating System: Fire OS, with access to Amazon App store.
• Camera: 2 MP front and rear-facing cameras with 720p HD video recording.

Display and Design

The Fire HD 8 Plus sports an 8-inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, which equates to a pixel density of 189 pixels per inch (PPI). While this is not the sharpest display on the market, it is sufficient for most activities like watching videos, reading eBooks, or browsing the web. The screen is bright and colorful enough to make media consumption enjoyable, though it may struggle in direct sunlight due to limited brightness.

The tablet’s design is functional rather than flashy. It is built from durable plastic, which helps in keeping the price down while ensuring it can withstand everyday wear and tear. The Fire HD 8 Plus is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods, which is a plus for content consumption and creation on the go.

Performance

One of the main upgrades in the Fire HD 8 Plus over the regular Fire HD 8 is the increase in RAM from 2GB to 3GB. This additional memory provides a noticeable boost in performance, especially when multitasking or using more demanding apps. The quad-core 2.0 GHz processor, while not cutting-edge, is capable enough to handle most tasks smoothly, from streaming videos to casual gaming.

For content providers, the Fire HD 8 Plus offers a stable platform for creating and managing content. It may not be powerful enough for intensive tasks like video editing or running high-end graphic design software, but it handles basic content creation tasks such as writing, managing social media, and light photo editing with ease. The additional RAM also means that switching between apps is relatively smooth, which is crucial for users who need to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Software and Ecosystem

The Fire HD 8 Plus runs on Fire OS, Amazon’s custom operating system that is based on Android. This OS is heavily centered around Amazon’s ecosystem, giving users quick access to Amazon Prime Video, Kindle, Audible, and the Amazon App store. While it does not come with Google Play Store out of the box, savvy users can sideload it to expand their app options.

For content providers who are invested in Amazon’s ecosystem, this integration is incredibly beneficial. For instance, Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) authors can manage their book sales, check reports, and even read their own publications directly on the device. Amazon Prime members will find that the tablet offers an optimized experience for consuming Amazon’s vast library of movies, TV shows, and music.

The device also includes hands-free Alexa support, allowing users to control smart home devices, check the weather, or even manage their schedule with just their voice. This feature can be particularly useful for multitasking content creators who need to manage their work while keeping their hands free for other tasks.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is one of the strong suits of the Fire HD 8 Plus. With up to 12 hours of mixed-use, the tablet can easily last through a full day of content consumption, reading, or light work. The inclusion of USB-C for charging is a welcome upgrade, providing faster charging times and more convenience compared to the outdated micro-USB standard found in older models.

Another standout feature of the Fire HD 8 Plus is its support for wireless charging, a feature not commonly found in tablets within this price range. This makes it even more convenient to keep the device charged, particularly for users who already use wireless charging pads for their other devices.

Camera and Audio

The camera setup on the Fire HD 8 Plus is basic, with a 2MP front-facing and rear-facing camera. These are not high-quality cameras by any means, but they are sufficient for video calls and taking quick photos. For content providers, these cameras might not be suitable for professional photography or video work, but they are adequate for casual use.

The tablet features dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, providing decent audio quality for watching videos or listening to music. While the audio is not as rich or full-bodied as what you might find on higher-end tablets, it is more than adequate for everyday use and content consumption.

 Is the Fire HD 8 Plus Worth It?

The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is a well-rounded tablet that offers a lot of value for its price. It is particularly well-suited for users who are deeply embedded in Amazon’s ecosystem or those looking for an affordable, reliable device for everyday use. While it may not have the raw power or premium features of higher-end tablets, it makes up for this with its solid performance, excellent battery life, and seamless integration with Amazon services.

For content providers, the Fire HD 8 Plus can serve as a handy secondary device for managing content on the go, consuming media, and staying connected with audiences. Its affordability also makes it an attractive option for those who want a tablet without breaking the bank.