Amazon Fire HD 10 2017 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Amazon Fire HD 10 (2017)

The Amazon Fire HD 10 (2017) is a tablet designed to offer a balance between performance, affordability, and access to Amazon's vast digital content ecosystem. Released in October 2017, this device was positioned to cater to consumers looking for a reliable multimedia tablet without breaking the bank.

Design and Build Quality

The first impression of the Amazon Fire HD 10 (2017) revolves around its sturdy design and substantial build. With dimensions of 262 x 159 x 9.8 mm and weighing 500 grams, the tablet feels solid in hand without being overly cumbersome. The body is constructed from durable materials, available in appealing colors such as Black, Marine Blue, and Punch Red, which adds a touch of personalization for users.

Display

The tablet features a 10.1-inch IPS LCD display that offers a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. This provides a clear and vibrant viewing experience suitable for watching videos, reading e-books, and browsing the web. The 16:10 aspect ratio and a pixel density of 224 ppi ensure sharpness and clarity, making media consumption enjoyable on this device.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Fire HD 10 (2017) is equipped with a Mediatek MT8173 chipset, which houses a quad-core CPU (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A72 & 2x1.4 GHz Cortex-A53) and a PowerVR G6250 GPU. While not the most powerful configuration on the market, it is designed to efficiently handle everyday tasks and deliver smooth performance for typical applications. The inclusion of 2GB of RAM is adequate for multitasking between apps.

Storage Options

The tablet comes with two internal storage options: 32GB and 64GB. Additionally, it features a dedicated microSDXC slot, which allows users to expand storage capacity as needed, making it easier to store more content such as apps, music, and videos.

Camera Capabilities

While the camera is often a secondary consideration for tablet users, the Fire HD 10 is equipped with a basic 2 MP rear camera that can record video at 720p, suitable for casual photography and video recording. The VGA front camera offers basic functionality for video calls and selfies, though it does not provide high-resolution results.

Sound and Audio

Audio quality is a strong point for the Fire HD 10. It features stereo speakers that deliver a satisfactory acoustic experience, ideal for media consumption. The presence of a 3.5mm audio jack ensures compatibility with a wide range of headphones and external speakers for those who prefer private listening.

Connectivity

Diversifying its connectivity options, the Fire HD 10 supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac dual-band for stable internet access. Additionally, Bluetooth 4.1 provides seamless connectivity to other devices. However, the tablet does not support cellular connectivity, limiting its use to Wi-Fi environments only.

Operating System and Software

The Fire HD 10 runs on Amazon's customized version of Android 5.1 (Lollipop) known as Fire OS 5.3. This operating system offers an Amazon-centric experience, enhancing access to the Amazon ecosystem including Kindle, Amazon Prime Video, and the Amazon Appstore. The interface is intuitive, focused on delivering content and services efficiently to users.

Battery Life

Powering the device is a non-removable Li-Po 3830 mAh battery, capable of providing up to 10 hours of mixed-use battery life. This longevity allows the tablet to be used throughout the day without frequent recharges, making it suitable for traveling or extended use away from power outlets.

Additional Features

The device includes basic sensors such as an accelerometer. However, it lacks GPS, NFC, and radio features which might limit some advanced functionalities. The microUSB 2.0 port is the primary method for charging and data transfer.

Conclusion

In summary, the Amazon Fire HD 10 (2017) is an excellent choice for users who are deeply integrated into the Amazon ecosystem, offering a seamless way to enjoy digital content with its large display and competent performance. Despite its limitations in camera quality and lack of cellular connectivity, it serves well as a multimedia device due to its sound quality, affordable price, and robust battery life.