HP Slate7 Plus Comprehensive Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of HP Slate7 Plus

The HP Slate7 Plus was introduced in December 2013 as a budget-friendly tablet option. Targeting users who desired a functional yet accessible device, HP incorporated notable specifications to enhance the user experience. Despite its discontinuation, the HP Slate7 Plus remains a representative example of early efforts to blend performance with affordability in the tablet market.

Design and Build Quality

The HP Slate7 Plus showcases a solid design with dimensions of 194.7 x 122.7 x 10.7 mm and weighing in at 340.2 grams. Its compact build is convenient for portability, making it suitable for on-the-go usage. The matte black and silver finish offers a clean, professional look, while its slightly curved edges provide comfort when held.

Display Features

The device features a 7.0-inch IPS LCD display. Though not considered large by today's standards, the display size is adequate for reading, browsing, and viewing multimedia. With a resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels and a pixel density of approximately 216 ppi, the screen provides clear and vivid visuals suitable for various tasks. The 16:10 aspect ratio is also optimal for media consumption, making movie watching a pleasant experience.

Performance and Hardware

At the heart of the HP Slate7 Plus lies the Nvidia Tegra 3 chipset, featuring a Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU. This setup delivered competitive performance at the time, capable of handling everyday tasks such as browsing, media playback, and light gaming. The 1GB RAM, though modest in capacity, supports the device's operations, while the 8GB internal storage, expandable via a microSDHC slot, provides extra room for personal files, apps, and media.

Operating System and User Experience

Shipped with Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, the HP Slate7 Plus offered users a smooth and user-friendly interface upon its release. Though not the latest version today, Jelly Bean brought important features and optimizations, enhancing usability with improved notifications, widgets, and Google Now integration. The software allowed for moderate levels of multitasking and customization, catering to the user's preferences and needs.

Camera Capabilities

The device supports a 5 MP autofocus main camera that permits capturing photos and videos at 720p resolution. While not a powerhouse in photography, the camera serves adequately for taking casual snapshots and video recording. The VGA front camera meets basic needs for video calling, providing another level of communication for users.

Audio and Multimedia

The HP Slate7 Plus includes stereo speakers that deliver a decent audio experience, complemented by a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening. Combining this with its display, the device is well-suited for multimedia use, supporting activities like movie viewing and music playback. The inclusion of standard audio components means users can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is facilitated through Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, ensuring consistent wireless internet access. Bluetooth 3.0 allows for connecting peripherals and sharing files, while GPS enables utilization of location-based services. Despite lacking cellular connectivity, NFC, and radio, the tablet's microUSB 2.0 port supports charging and data transfer functions.

Battery Life and Efficiency

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Po 4000 mAh battery, the HP Slate7 Plus provides usage times of up to 7 hours and 30 minutes for multimedia activities. This level of battery life is aligned with daily use patterns, accommodating casual web browsing and video consumption. The efficiency of the Tegra 3 chipset adds an advantage by maximizing battery performance.

Sensors and Additional Features

The device comes with built-in sensors including an accelerometer and a compass, enhancing the functionality of applications that require such features. Whether used in map navigation, gaming, or accelerometer-based apps, these sensors contribute to a more dynamic user experience.

Final Thoughts

The HP Slate7 Plus serves as an entry-level tablet that fulfills the essential needs of its users with a blend of satisfactory performance, decent battery life, and a functional design. Aimed at those seeking an affordable yet capable device, it provides a reliable platform for media consumption, light productivity, and connectivity within its specifications. Although it has been discontinued, its legacy remains in highlighting the advancements and iterations of tablet technology from its era, providing valuable insights into consumer electronics trends.