The Amazon Fire HD 8 is a perennial favorite for budget-conscious tablet buyers. But with a new 2022 model released, is it worth upgrading from the 2020 version? We'll dive deep into the specs, performance, and features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Fire HD 8 (2022) offers a noticeable performance boost thanks to its hexa-core processor and improved charging speed. While the 2020 model remains a solid budget option, the 2022 version is the clear winner for those seeking a smoother, more responsive experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | N/A |
| EDGE | N/A | No |
| GPRS | N/A | No |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 21 | 2020, March 13. Released 2020, June 03 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 21 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 201.9 x 137.4 x 9.6 mm (7.95 x 5.41 x 0.38 in) | 202 x 137 x 9.7 mm (7.95 x 5.39 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 337 g (11.89 oz) | 355 g (12.52 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) |
| Size | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~66.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~67.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Hexa-core (6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT8169A | Mediatek MT8168 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 2EE MC2 | Mali-G52 MC1 |
| OS | Android 11, Fire OS 8 | Android 9.0 (Pie), Fire OS 7 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 1080p | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| | Alexa natural language commands
Text-to-Speech English-language content reader | Alexa natural language commands
Text-to-Speech English-language content reader |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | - |
| Talk time | Up to 13 h | Up to 12 h |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Denim, Rose | White, Black, Twilight Blue, Plum |
| Models | KFRAWI | KFONWI |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 80 EUR |
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2022)
- Improved Performance (Hexa-core CPU)
- Faster Charging (15W)
- Slightly Better Display
- Improved Front-Facing Camera
- Still a basic display
- Limited camera capabilities
- Amazon's Fire OS can be restrictive
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020)
- Affordable Price
- Decent for Basic Tasks
- Good Battery Life
- Slower Performance (Quad-core CPU)
- Slower Charging
- Less Responsive
- Outdated Processor
Display Comparison
Both the 2020 and 2022 Fire HD 8 feature an 8-inch HD (1280 x 800) IPS display. While the resolution is the same, the 2022 model boasts slightly improved brightness and color accuracy, resulting in a marginally better viewing experience. However, the difference is subtle and unlikely to be a deal-breaker for most users.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both models is unremarkable, as is typical for budget tablets. Both feature a 2MP front and 5MP rear camera. Image quality is adequate for video calls but not suitable for serious photography. The 2022 model has a slightly improved front-facing camera for better video conferencing.
Performance
This is where the 2022 model shines. The Mediatek MT8169A hexa-core processor is a significant upgrade over the 2020's MT8168 quad-core chip. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved overall responsiveness. The 2020 can feel sluggish at times, especially with multiple apps open.
Battery Life
Amazon claims similar battery life for both models (around 12 hours). In real-world usage, the 2022 model's improved efficiency helps it maintain performance without draining the battery as quickly. The 15W wired charging on the 2022 is a significant improvement over the 2020's slower charging speed.
Buying Guide
The Fire HD 8 (2022) is ideal for users who prioritize performance and faster charging, such as those who enjoy gaming or multitasking. The 2020 model is a great choice for basic tasks like browsing, reading, and video streaming, especially if you're on a tight budget and don't need the latest features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Fire HD 8 (2022) worth the upgrade from the 2020?
Yes, if you value performance and faster charging. The 2022 model offers a noticeable improvement in speed and responsiveness.
❓ What operating system do these tablets use?
Both tablets run Amazon's Fire OS, which is based on Android but heavily customized with Amazon's services and apps.
❓ Can I install Google Play Store apps on these tablets?
Officially, no. However, there are workarounds to sideload the Google Play Store, but this is not officially supported and may void your warranty.
❓ What is the storage capacity of each tablet?
Both are available in 32GB and 64GB storage options, expandable via microSD card.
