The Lenovo Tab M8 series offers affordable tablet options, but choosing between the HD and FHD models can be tricky. Both provide a decent entry point into the tablet world, but significant differences exist under the hood. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which one best suits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Lenovo Tab M8 (FHD) is the clear winner, offering a sharper display, a more powerful processor, and generally better performance. While the (HD) is cheaper, the (FHD)'s improved experience justifies the slightly higher price for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 38, 40 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 19, 20, 38, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 19, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 19, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, September. Released 2019, October | 2019, September. Released 2019, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 199.1 x 121.8 x 8.2 mm (7.84 x 4.80 x 0.32 in) | 198.2 x 122.6 x 8.2 mm (7.80 x 4.83 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 305 g (10.76 oz) | 305 g (10.76 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~189 ppi density) | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~283 ppi density) |
| Size | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~76.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 8.0 inches, 185.6 cm2 (~76.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 350 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core 2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22T (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 13 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p | 1080p |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | 1080p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS - cellular model only | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 5100 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Iron Grey, Platinum Grey | Iron Grey, Platinum Grey |
| Models | TB-8505X, TB-8505F, TB-8505FS | - |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 160 EUR |
Lenovo Tab M8 (HD)
- More affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Decent for basic tasks
- Lower resolution display
- Slower performance
- Less responsive UI
- Basic camera
Lenovo Tab M8 (FHD)
- Sharper FHD display
- Faster Octa-core processor
- Smoother performance
- Better multitasking
- Slightly more expensive
- Still a budget tablet (limited features)
- Basic camera
Display Comparison
The most significant difference lies in the display. The (HD) features a 1280 x 800 resolution, resulting in a noticeably less sharp image compared to the (FHD)'s 1920 x 1200 resolution. The (FHD) offers a much more immersive viewing experience, especially for videos and games. Colors are also generally more vibrant on the FHD model.
Camera Comparison
Neither tablet excels in the camera department. Both feature basic cameras suitable for occasional video calls but not for high-quality photography. Image quality is generally comparable between the two, with both producing grainy and unremarkable results in low light. Expect basic functionality, not impressive image capture.
Performance
The (FHD) boasts a substantial performance advantage thanks to its Octa-core processor versus the (HD)'s Quad-core. The Helio P22T is significantly faster and more efficient, leading to smoother multitasking, quicker app loading times, and a more responsive user interface. The (HD) can feel sluggish at times, particularly when running multiple apps or demanding games.
Battery Life
Battery life is generally similar between the two models, typically offering around 8-10 hours of mixed usage. The (FHD)'s more efficient processor can slightly extend battery life under heavy load, but the difference is not dramatic. Both tablets support standard charging speeds.
Buying Guide
The Lenovo Tab M8 (HD) is ideal for users on a very tight budget who primarily need a tablet for basic tasks like web browsing, reading ebooks, and light media consumption. The Lenovo Tab M8 (FHD) is better suited for those who value a sharper display for video watching and gaming, and appreciate a more responsive overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Lenovo Tab M8 (HD) good for gaming?
The (HD) can handle very basic games, but don't expect a smooth experience with demanding titles. The (FHD) is a better choice for gaming due to its more powerful processor.
❓ What is the storage capacity of each tablet?
Both models typically come in 32GB and 64GB storage options, expandable via microSD card.
