Released in different eras of the budget Android tablet market, the Asus Google Nexus 7 (Cellular) and the HP 7 Plus represent distinct approaches to affordability. The Nexus 7, backed by Google, aimed for a premium experience at a mid-range price, while the HP 7 Plus focused on delivering the lowest possible price point. This comparison dissects their core differences, focusing on performance, display quality, and overall value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance and a better display, the Asus Google Nexus 7 Cellular is the clear winner. Its Nvidia Tegra 3 chipset provides a significantly smoother experience. However, the HP 7 Plus remains a viable option for those on an extremely tight budget who primarily need basic tablet functionality.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | N/A |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100 | - |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | - |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012, October. Released 2012, November | 2014, May. Released 2014, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 198.5 x 120 x 10.5 mm (7.81 x 4.72 x 0.41 in) | 192.5 x 121.9 x 8.1 mm (7.58 x 4.80 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | No |
| Weight | 347 g (12.24 oz) | 294.8 g (10.37 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | - |
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~216 ppi density) | 600 x 1024 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~170 ppi density) |
| Size | 7.0 inches, 142.1 cm2 (~59.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 7.0 inches, 137.9 cm2 (~58.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | LED-backlit IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9 | Quad-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Nvidia Tegra 3 | Allwinner A31 |
| GPU | ULP GeForce | - |
| OS | Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean), upgradable to 5.1.1 (Lollipop) | Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM | 8GB 1GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 1.2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 3.0 | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 300 h | - |
| Talk time | Up to 9 h (multimedia) | Up to 5 h 30 min (multimedia) |
| Type | Li-Ion 4325 mAh, non-removable (16 Wh) | Li-Po 2800 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Silver |
| Price | About 230 EUR | About 70 EUR |
Asus Google Nexus 7 Cellular
- Superior performance thanks to the Nvidia Tegra 3 chipset.
- Better display quality with a higher contrast ratio.
- Google's software support and updates (at the time of release).
- Likely higher price point compared to the HP 7 Plus.
- Older device, potentially limited software support now.
HP 7 Plus
- Extremely affordable price point.
- Lower power consumption potentially leading to longer battery life during basic tasks.
- Lightweight and portable design.
- Significantly lower performance compared to the Nexus 7.
- Likely inferior display quality.
- Limited software support and updates.
Display Comparison
The Asus Nexus 7 boasts a contrast ratio of 908:1, indicating a noticeably richer and more vibrant image compared to what the HP 7 Plus likely offers (HP's display specs are unavailable, but generally, tablets in this price bracket utilize lower-quality panels). While resolution isn't specified for either, the Nexus 7's superior contrast suggests a more enjoyable viewing experience for media consumption. The HP 7 Plus, aiming for cost reduction, likely compromises on panel quality and color accuracy.
Camera Comparison
Given the age and market segment of both devices, camera performance isn't a primary focus. Neither device is expected to deliver exceptional image quality. Without specific camera specs for the HP 7 Plus, it's reasonable to assume it utilizes a lower-resolution sensor and lacks features like optical image stabilization (OIS) found in higher-end tablets. The Nexus 7, while not a photography powerhouse, likely offers slightly better image quality due to its more powerful image signal processor (ISP) integrated within the Tegra 3.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Nexus 7's Nvidia Tegra 3, with its quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9 processors, represents a more mature and powerful architecture than the HP 7 Plus's Allwinner A31 and its quad-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 processors. The Cortex-A9 is known for its higher IPC (Instructions Per Clock) compared to the Cortex-A7, meaning the Nexus 7 can execute more instructions per clock cycle, resulting in faster performance. This translates to snappier app launches, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience. The A31 in the HP 7 Plus is designed for extreme cost-effectiveness, sacrificing performance for lower power consumption and price.
Battery Life
Battery life will heavily depend on usage patterns. While mAh ratings are unavailable for both devices, the Allwinner A31 in the HP 7 Plus is designed for lower power consumption, potentially offering slightly longer battery life during basic tasks like reading or web browsing. However, the Tegra 3 in the Nexus 7, despite being more powerful, includes power-saving features. The HP 7 Plus likely charges slower due to its lower-wattage charger, while the Nexus 7 may support faster charging, though specific wattage is unknown.
Buying Guide
Buy the Asus Google Nexus 7 Cellular if you need a tablet capable of handling more demanding tasks like gaming and video playback, and if display quality is important to you. Buy the HP 7 Plus if you prioritize absolute affordability and only require basic functionality like web browsing, email, and light media consumption. The HP 7 Plus is best suited for users who view a tablet as a secondary device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Asus Nexus 7 Cellular still receive software updates in 2024?
Unfortunately, no. Google officially ended support for the 2012 Nexus 7 several years ago. While custom ROMs are available, official security updates are no longer provided, making it less secure for online activities.
❓ Is the performance difference between the Tegra 3 and Allwinner A31 noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the difference is quite noticeable. The Tegra 3 in the Nexus 7 handles multitasking, app launches, and web browsing with significantly more fluidity. The Allwinner A31 in the HP 7 Plus may exhibit lag and slowdowns, especially when running multiple apps simultaneously.
❓ Can the HP 7 Plus handle basic Android games?
The HP 7 Plus can run some basic Android games, but performance will be limited. Expect lower frame rates, longer loading times, and potential graphical compromises. More demanding games may be unplayable.
❓ Does the cellular connectivity on the Nexus 7 still work with modern mobile networks?
Cellular connectivity may be limited depending on your carrier and region. The Nexus 7 supports older cellular standards, and compatibility with newer 4G and 5G networks is unlikely. It may only be able to connect to 2G or 3G networks, if available.
