HP 8 Unveiled Specs Prices Pros & Cons Explored

Overview of HP 8 Tablet

The HP 8 Tablet, launched in early 2014, is a compact and affordable option for those looking to purchase a basic Android-powered device. Although it has been discontinued, it remains an interesting piece of tech history due to its unique features and budget-friendly price point.

Design and Build Quality

The HP 8 measures 200.3 x 136.3 x 8 mm, making it a slim and portable choice for those on-the-go. Weighing in at 313 grams, it offers a substantial feel in the hands without being too heavy. The tablet is designed in a sleek silver color, giving it a professional and modern look.

Display

The tablet features a 7.85-inch IPS LCD display, with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 69.9%. The resolution is set at 768 x 1024 pixels with a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is typical for many tablets designed during this era. With a pixel density of 163 ppi, the screen provides adequate clarity for basic tasks such as browsing the web, reading, or casual gaming.

Performance and Processor

Under the hood, the HP 8 comes equipped with an Allwinner A31 chipset. This includes a quad-core Cortex-A7 processor clocked at 1.0 GHz, which was standard for entry-level devices when it was released. Although it may not be suitable for heavy multitasking or resource-intensive applications, it sufficiently handles everyday tasks like checking emails and browsing social media.

Memory and Storage

The device includes 1GB of RAM, which aligns with its position as a budget tablet. This RAM size supports the performance of the tablet for basic operations and usage. For internal storage, the HP 8 provides 16GB, which can be expanded via a microSDHC card slot. This expansion capability offers users flexibility for additional storage, which is necessary for storing media and apps.

Operating System

Running on Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean), the HP 8 provides users with access to the Android ecosystem and apps via the Google Play Store. Although this version of Android is quite dated by modern standards, it still offers the core functionalities that an average user might require.

Camera and Multimedia

The HP 8 is equipped with a 2 MP main camera capable of capturing basic images and videos. While the camera specs are minimal, this is aligned with the tablet’s primary functionality as an entry-level device. For selfies and video calls, a VGA front-facing camera is available. Furthermore, the tablet features stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio needs.

Connectivity

Connectivity options on the HP 8 are limited, as it does not support cellular connectivity. However, it does include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP for connecting to the internet and pairing with other devices. The tablet utilizes a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer but lacks more advanced connectivity features such as NFC or GPS.

Battery Life

Powering the HP 8 is a non-removable 3800 mAh Li-Po battery. On a full charge, it offers up to 7 hours of multimedia time, which adequately supports casual day-to-day usage without frequent recharging.

Sensors and Additional Features

The HP 8 tablet comes equipped with essential sensors like an accelerometer and a gyroscope, which are useful for gaming and other interactive applications. Despite its basic set of features, the tablet delivers a satisfactory user experience for its target audience.

Price and Availability

At launch, the HP 8 was priced around 120 EUR, making it an affordable choice for consumers seeking a functional, entry-level tablet. While the tablet has been discontinued, it remains available in secondary markets for those interested in cost-effective devices for basic use.

Conclusion

In summary, the HP 8 stood as a practical option for consumers in need of a straightforward tablet experience without the luxury features or high cost associated with premium-tier devices. Its compact size, sufficient performance for basic tasks, and affordable price point made it a notable device during its time. Today, while its technology may seem outdated, the HP 8 serves as a reminder of the accessible tech development that caters to a broad range of users.