Amazon Fire 7 Comprehensive Guide to Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Amazon Fire 7 Overview

The Amazon Fire 7, launched in 2015, is an affordable tablet that seeks to provide a functional multimedia experience for a wide audience. It operates on a customized version of Android OS, specifically Fire OS 5, and offers basic features suitable for everyday activities like reading, browsing, and streaming media.

Display and Design

Sporting a 7.0-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 600 x 1024 pixels, the Amazon Fire 7 provides decent display quality at a budget-friendly price. The tablet’s body dimensions measure 191 x 115 x 10.6 mm, and it weighs about 313 grams. This compact size makes it easy to hold and carry, suitable for users who prefer a lightweight device.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Fire 7 is powered by a Mediatek MT8127 chipset, featuring a Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and a Mali-450MP4 GPU. With 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, the tablet supports basic multitasking and can handle standard applications. Users can expand the storage capacity through a microSDXC slot, allowing ample space for personal data.

Camera Capabilities

The tablet features a 2MP rear camera capable of 720p video recording, suitable for occasional snapshots and video content. The VGA front-facing camera caters to basic video calling needs, making it appropriate for casual users who do not prioritize high-quality photography.

Software Experience

The Amazon Fire 7 runs Fire OS 5, a customized Android 5.1 Lollipop that offers a unique user experience tailored towards Amazon's ecosystem. It provides easy access to Amazon’s content, such as Kindle eBooks, Prime Video, and the Amazon Appstore, creating a centralized hub for users in the Amazon ecosystem.

Connectivity and Extras

The tablet supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and comes with Bluetooth 4.0. However, it lacks cellular connectivity. Additionally, it does not include features such as GPS, NFC, or a radio. It does offer a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and incorporates an accelerometer sensor.

Battery Life

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 2980 mAh battery, the Amazon Fire 7 boasts a battery life of up to 7 hours of mixed-use. The battery life is adequate for a day’s worth of light-to-moderate usage, such as internet browsing, reading, and watching videos.

Price and Value

With an initial price tag of around 50 EUR, the Fire 7 positions itself as a highly affordable option in the tablet market. Its value proposition lies in its cost-efficiency, providing essential functionalities without the price tag of more premium devices. It is particularly appealing to budget-conscious users and those looking for their first tablet or an additional device for basic tasks.

Conclusion

The Amazon Fire 7 is a competent budget tablet that satisfies basic computing tasks. Its simplified Fire OS interface, manageable design, and access to Amazon’s broad range of digital content make it an appealing choice for those new to tablets or users within the Amazon ecosystem. While lacking some advanced features found in higher-end models, it remains an accessible and practical option for everyday use.