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Are you in the market for an affordable tablet but can’t decide between the Amazon Fire 7 and the Fire 8? Choosing the right tablet can be tricky, especially when budget and features are in the mix. This comparison will break down the key differences to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Both the Amazon Fire 7 and the Fire 8 offer a gateway into the world of entertainment and productivity, but with distinct characteristics. We’ll delve into the specs, performance, and overall user experience to highlight the strengths of each device. Prepare to discover which Amazon Fire tablet best suits your lifestyle.
From screen size to processing power, every detail matters when selecting your next tablet. This detailed comparison of the Amazon Fire 7 vs 8 will help you navigate the features and make an informed decision. Let’s find out which tablet deserves a spot in your tech arsenal.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Fire 7 | Fire 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 7 inches | 8 inches |
| Resolution | 1024 x 600 | 1280 x 800 |
| Processor | Quad-core 2.0 GHz | Quad-core 2.0 GHz |
| RAM | 2 GB | 2 GB |
| Storage Options | 16/32 GB | 32/64 GB |
| Expandable Storage | Yes (up to 512 GB) | Yes (up to 1 TB) |
| Front Camera | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Rear Camera | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 10 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac |
| Operating System | Fire OS | Fire OS |
| Weight | 282 g | 337 g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Screen Size
- Amazon Fire 7: Features a 7-inch display, making it compact and portable. However, the smaller screen size may feel cramped for some users, especially for media consumption. It’s great for reading and basic tasks.
- 8: Boasts an 8-inch display, offering a more spacious viewing experience compared to the Fire 7. This is beneficial for watching videos, browsing the web, and reading. The larger size can impact portability slightly.
- Winner: 8
Resolution
- Amazon Fire 7: Often has a lower resolution screen, which might not appear as sharp. This can affect the clarity of images and text, particularly noticeable in detailed content.
- 8: Generally offers a higher resolution, leading to a crisper and more detailed image. This enhances the overall viewing experience, making content more enjoyable to consume.
- Winner: 8
Processing Power
- Amazon Fire 7: Typically equipped with a less powerful processor, which can lead to slower performance when running demanding apps or multitasking. It’s suitable for basic tasks.
- 8: Usually includes a more powerful processor, resulting in smoother performance, faster app loading times, and better multitasking capabilities. This is essential for a more responsive user experience.
- Winner: 8
Storage Options
- Amazon Fire 7: Offers various storage options, often starting with a smaller base storage. While expandable via microSD, you might need to manage storage more carefully depending on your usage.
- 8: Provides similar storage options, with potentially a higher base storage capacity on some models. The microSD card slot adds flexibility for storing media files.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Amazon Fire 7: Battery life varies but is typically decent for everyday use. Actual battery performance depends on usage patterns, such as video streaming or gaming.
- 8: Battery life is usually comparable to or slightly better than the Fire 7. Factors like display size and processor efficiency influence the overall endurance.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Amazon Fire 7: Generally the more affordable option, making it a budget-friendly choice. Its lower price point makes it an excellent entry-level tablet.
- 8: Typically priced higher than the Fire 7, reflecting its improved features. Still a competitively priced tablet, but it’s a bit of an investment.
- Winner: amazon fire 7
Camera Quality
- Amazon Fire 7: Typically has basic front and rear cameras, adequate for video calls and casual snapshots. Don’t expect high-quality photos.
- 8: May offer slightly improved camera performance compared to the Fire 7, but still not a primary focus. The quality is suitable for basic needs.
- Winner: 8
Operating System & Ecosystem
- Amazon Fire 7: Runs on Fire OS, a modified version of Android, providing access to Amazon’s ecosystem of apps and services. Limited access to the Google Play Store.
- 8: Runs on Fire OS, offering the same Amazon ecosystem integration. While it’s optimized for Amazon services, it offers a user-friendly experience for those heavily invested in the Amazon ecosystem.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Value | Fire 7 |
| Display Quality | Fire 8 |
| Performance | Fire 8 |
| Portability | Fire 7 |
| Battery Life | Fire 8 |
| Storage Options | Fire 8 |
What They Have in Common:
- Operating System: Both tablets run on Amazon’s Fire OS, providing a user-friendly interface optimized for Amazon services.
- Amazon Ecosystem: They both seamlessly integrate with Amazon’s ecosystem, offering easy access to Prime Video, Kindle books, and other Amazon services.
- Parental Controls: Both devices offer robust parental control features, allowing parents to manage content access and set time limits.
- Alexa Integration: Both tablets come with built-in Alexa, enabling voice control for various tasks, from playing music to controlling smart home devices.
- Microsd Card Support: Both support microSD cards for expandable storage, letting users increase their storage capacity for media and files.
Amazon Fire 7 vs 8 Buying Guide
Screen Size and Resolution
The screen size is a primary differentiator. The Fire 7 boasts a 7-inch display, ideal for portability and one-handed use. However, its resolution is lower, leading to less sharp visuals. The Fire 8, with its 8-inch screen, offers a larger viewing area, making it better for media consumption and reading. Its higher resolution also translates to crisper images and text. Consider how you primarily plan to use the tablet – for on-the-go entertainment or more immersive experiences – when deciding.
Performance and Speed
While both tablets are budget-friendly, the Fire 8 generally edges out the Fire 7 in terms of performance. It usually features a more powerful processor and more RAM, resulting in smoother multitasking and faster app loading times. The Fire 7 can sometimes feel sluggish, especially when switching between apps or playing graphically intensive games. If speed is a priority, the Fire 8 offers a noticeably improved user experience. The difference is most apparent when using multiple apps simultaneously.
Battery Life Comparison
Battery life is a crucial factor for mobile devices. Both the Fire 7 and Fire 8 offer decent battery life, but they do have differences. The Fire 7 usually provides around 7 hours of mixed usage, while the Fire 8 typically lasts longer, often reaching 10-12 hours. This extended battery life is especially valuable for long flights or extended periods away from a power outlet. Consider your typical usage patterns and how often you’ll have access to charging when making your choice.
Storage and Expandability
Both tablets come in different storage options, typically starting at 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. However, the available storage might not be enough for all your apps, media, and ebooks. Fortunately, both the Fire 7 and Fire 8 support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add hundreds of gigabytes of extra storage. This feature is especially important if you plan to download a lot of movies, music, or large games. Check the maximum microSD card size supported by each model.
Price and Value for Money
The price is one of the most attractive aspects of both Fire tablets. The Fire 7 is generally the more affordable option, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers or those who need a basic tablet for children. The Fire 8, while slightly more expensive, offers a better value proposition due to its improved performance, larger screen, and extended battery life. Consider your budget and the features you need when comparing the two models. The Fire 8 provides more overall features.
Software and Ecosystem
Both tablets run on Amazon’s Fire OS, a modified version of Android. Fire OS provides access to the Amazon ecosystem, including the Amazon Appstore, Prime Video, Kindle books, and Alexa voice assistant. However, the Amazon Appstore has a smaller selection of apps compared to the Google Play Store. The Fire 8, however, offers a more refined user experience due to its faster processor and larger screen. If you’re heavily invested in the Amazon ecosystem or need a tablet primarily for media consumption, these are great choices.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Fire 7 If…
- You’re on a tight budget and want the most affordable option.
- You primarily need a tablet for basic tasks like browsing the web, reading, and watching videos.
- Portability is a priority, as the Fire 7 is more compact and lightweight.
Buy Fire 8 If…
- You want a larger, more immersive display for watching videos and reading.
- You need more storage capacity for apps, games, and media.
- You prefer a slightly better overall performance for a smoother user experience.
- You want a longer battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Fire 7 and Fire 8?
The primary differences lie in screen size, performance, and price. The Fire 8 has a larger 8-inch display, a more powerful processor, and usually more RAM, leading to a faster and more responsive experience. It is often more expensive than the Fire 7. The Fire 7, with its 7-inch screen, is more compact and budget-friendly, making it ideal for portability.
Which tablet has a better screen?
The Fire 8 has a superior screen. While both tablets have decent displays, the Fire 8 offers a higher resolution and a larger screen size. This results in sharper images, clearer text, and a more immersive viewing experience, especially when watching videos or reading. The Fire 7 screen is smaller and less sharp.
Does the Fire 7 have a microSD card slot?
Yes, both the Fire 7 and Fire 8 support microSD card expansion. This allows you to add extra storage to your tablet, which is particularly useful if you plan to download a lot of movies, music, or ebooks. You can expand the storage capacity significantly beyond the built-in storage options. Check the maximum microSD card size supported by the specific model.
Which tablet is better for gaming?
The Fire 8 is generally better for gaming. Its more powerful processor and extra RAM result in smoother gameplay and faster loading times. While both tablets can run games, the Fire 8 provides a more enjoyable experience, especially for graphically intensive games. The larger screen also enhances the gaming experience compared to the Fire 7.
Which tablet has longer battery life?
The Fire 8 typically has longer battery life than the Fire 7. The Fire 8 can usually last around 10-12 hours on a single charge with mixed usage, while the Fire 7 usually lasts around 7 hours. This makes the Fire 8 a better choice if you need a tablet that can last longer without needing to be plugged in.
Can I use Google apps on either tablet?
While the Fire tablets run on a modified version of Android (Fire OS), they do not come with Google apps pre-installed. You can sideload some Google apps, but it can be a bit tricky and functionality may be limited. However, both tablets fully support Amazon’s ecosystem of apps and services, including Prime Video and Kindle books.
Which tablet is best for kids?
Both tablets can be suitable for kids, but the Fire 7 is often a more budget-friendly option, making it a good choice if you’re concerned about potential damage. Both offer parental controls through Amazon’s FreeTime service. The larger screen and better performance of the Fire 8 might be preferred by older children or those who will be using the tablet for more demanding tasks.
Final Verdict
The Amazon Fire 8 emerges as the superior choice due to its larger, higher-resolution display, improved performance, and longer battery life. While the Fire 7 remains a viable budget option, the Fire 8 offers a more enjoyable and versatile user experience for a relatively small price increase. The enhanced features, particularly the superior screen and faster processor, make the Fire 8 a better value overall.
Winner: Amazon Fire 8