Price and specifications of BLU Touchbook M7 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of BLU Touchbook M7

The BLU Touchbook M7 is a budget-friendly Android-based tablet that was announced and released in July 2017. Although it has been discontinued, it remains an interesting option for those looking for an affordable device with basic functionalities. The device was introduced as a versatile solution for consumers seeking a tablet capable of handling everyday tasks at a low cost. Below, we dive into the detailed specifications and features of the BLU Touchbook M7.

Design and Build

The BLU Touchbook M7 features a compact design with dimensions measuring 187.7 x 107.5 x 9.7 mm, which makes it a handy device for on-the-go use. With a weight of 265 grams, it is lightweight, ensuring it is easy to handle for prolonged periods. The device sports a plastic body with a glossy finish available in two color options: black and white. The tablet supports dual SIM functionality with two Micro-SIM slots, allowing users to manage two phone numbers for calling or data usage.

Display

The tablet comes equipped with a 7.0-inch IPS LCD, offering a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 68.3%. The resolution is 600 x 1024 pixels with a 16:9 aspect ratio, providing a pixel density of about 170 ppi. While the display may not deliver high-definition visual experience, it is suitable for basic web browsing and media consumption.

Performance and Platform

Under the hood, the BLU Touchbook M7 is powered by the Mediatek MT8321 chipset, built on a 28 nm process. It operates with a quad-core Cortex-A7 CPU clocked at 1.3 GHz. For graphics, it relies on the Mali-400 GPU. The device runs Android 6.0 Marshmallow, providing users access to essential Android functionalities and a variety of applications via the Google Play Store. However, it should be noted that the operating system is no longer supported with updates, limiting app compatibility and security enhancements.

Memory and Storage

The tablet includes 1GB of RAM, which is modest by today's standards but acceptable for running lightweight applications and multitasking between basic tasks. It offers 8GB of internal storage, a portion of which is used by system files, leaving a limited amount available to the user. Thankfully, the storage capacity can be expanded using a microSDXC card, allowing for more extensive media and app storage.

Camera

On the photography front, the BLU Touchbook M7 is equipped with a 3.15 MP main camera, capable of recording 720p videos at 30fps. For selfies and video calls, the tablet has a 2 MP front-facing camera. While these cameras do not provide high-resolution images, they are adequate for basic photography needs and video conferencing.

Connectivity

The device offers support for GSM and HSPA network technologies, featuring 2G bands for GSM 850/900/1800/1900 and 3G bands for HSDPA 850/1900/2100. The maximum speed achievable on these networks is HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps. In terms of wireless communication, the tablet supports Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct), Bluetooth 4.1 with A2DP and LE, and integrated GPS for location services. However, it lacks NFC capabilities.

Battery Life

The tablet is powered by a 2800 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery, which offers a standby time of up to 190 hours on a 3G network and allows for up to 9 hours of talk time. Given the battery size, it provides sufficient longevity for a full day of moderate use, although more power-intensive tasks may deplete it more quickly.

Audio and Multimedia Features

The BLU Touchbook M7 is fitted with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, offering flexibility for audio output. It includes an FM radio feature for users who enjoy traditional broadcasting. Although it lacks more advanced multimedia features found in high-end devices, it covers basic audio needs effectively.

Sensors and Additional Features

The tablet includes basic sensor functionalities, notably an accelerometer, which is typically used for screen orientation management. It also offers microUSB 2.0 connectivity and supports OTG, allowing users to connect external peripherals such as USB drives and keyboards, enhancing its functionality as a mobile workstation.

Conclusion

The BLU Touchbook M7 was designed as an entry-level tablet providing essential features at an accessible price point. While it may not boast cutting-edge specifications or technology, its simplicity and practicality cater to students, senior citizens, or anyone seeking a fundamental tablet experience. Its discontinued status might make it harder to find, but it remains a noteworthy option for specific use cases where budget constraints are key considerations.