HP Slate8 Pro Comprehensive Review of Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of the HP Slate8 Pro

The HP Slate8 Pro, announced and released in December 2013, was a highly anticipated addition to HP's tablet lineup. With impressive specifications for its time, it sought to combine functionality with dedicated performance for multimedia enthusiasts and business professionals. The device was eventually discontinued, but its legacy remains influential for tablet design.

Design and Build Quality

The HP Slate8 Pro features a sturdy design with dimensions of 220 x 141.5 x 9.9 mm, making it comfortable to hold and carry around. Weighing in at 453.6 g, it has a solid, premium feel without being overly burdensome on the user. Its black and white color options add a touch of elegance and simplicity, catering to different style preferences.

Display Characteristics

The tablet boasts an 8.0-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1200 x 1600 pixels, providing vibrant visuals and excellent clarity. The 4:3 aspect ratio and a pixel density of approximately 250 ppi ensure a pleasant viewing experience for browsing, reading, and multimedia consumption. Additionally, the screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, offering durability against scratches and minor impacts.

Performance and Hardware Specifications

Under the hood, the HP Slate8 Pro is powered by an Nvidia Tegra 4 T40 S chipset and a quad-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A15 processor, making it a powerhouse for its release period. With 1GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, it supports basic multitasking and storage needs. The microSDHC card slot allows for storage expansion, accommodating users with larger media collections.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a single 8 MP autofocus rear camera, the Slate8 Pro delivers decent photo quality for capturing moments on the go. It features an LED flash, which enhances low-light photography. While the lack of a dedicated front-facing camera limits selfie and video calling options, the main camera suffices for casual photography needs.

Audio and Sound Quality

The device comes with stereo speakers, providing clear and immersive audio output. For personal listening, the 3.5mm headphone jack remains a convenient feature for a wide array of audio accessories.

Connectivity Options

Despite lacking cellular connectivity, the Slate8 Pro offers reliable Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band support for fast internet access. Bluetooth 4.0 with low energy (LE) support facilitates efficient file transfers and wireless accessory connectivity. The presence of GPS aids in location services, though the absence of NFC and FM radio might limit some users’ needs.

Battery Life and Efficiency

One of the standout features of the HP Slate8 Pro is its 5680 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery. It offers up to 11 hours and 30 minutes of talk time (multimedia usage), ensuring that users can enjoy extended hours away from power outlets, whether for work or leisure activities.

Operating System and User Experience

Running on Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean), the Slate8 Pro provides a user-friendly interface with access to a myriad of applications through the Google Play Store. While the OS is outdated by modern standards, it offered smooth navigation and sufficient app compatibility during its release era.

Sensors and Additional Features

The device includes essential sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, and compass, enhancing the functionality for various applications including gaming and navigation. These sensors improve the overall interactive experience by providing more responsive and precise controls.

Market Position and Pricing

Upon its launch, the HP Slate8 Pro was priced at around 240 EUR, positioning it as a competitive option in the mid-range tablet market. It offered powerful features for multimedia use and basic productivity at an attractive price point.

Conclusion

Despite being discontinued, the HP Slate8 Pro stands as a notable device in the evolution of tablets, combining powerful hardware with a vibrant display and solid build quality. Though newer devices have surpassed it in terms of raw performance and software support, it remains a valuable piece of technology for those appreciating its specific set of features.