Tablets have become essential devices for many people, offering portability without sacrificing functionality. The 8-inch tablet strikes a perfect balance between screen size and mobility. These devices are large enough to enjoy videos and read comfortably but small enough to hold in one hand or slip into a bag.

We find that 8-inch tablets offer versatility for various activities. They work well for reading e-books, browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos. Many models now come with impressive processing power that allows for gaming and productivity tasks too. This size is particularly popular for travel and commuting.

When shopping for an 8-inch tablet, consider the display quality, processing power, battery life, and storage capacity.

The display resolution affects how clear text and images appear. Processing power determines how smoothly apps run and whether multitasking is possible. Battery life is crucial if you plan to use your tablet away from power outlets. Storage capacity matters especially if you download many apps, photos, or videos.

We spent weeks researching and testing numerous 8-inch tablets to find the best options for different needs and budgets.

Best 8-inch Tablets

We’ve thoroughly tested and researched the top 8-inch tablets available today to help you find the perfect balance of portability and functionality. These compact devices offer enough screen space for enjoyable media consumption while remaining lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for reading, browsing, and light productivity tasks.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Tablet

The Amazon Fire HD 8 is a versatile budget tablet that delivers impressive performance and battery life for anyone seeking affordable entertainment on the go.

Pros

• All-day battery life lasts up to 13 hours of mixed use
• Lightweight, durable design that’s comfortable to hold
• Smart tools like web summarizer and email assistant save time

Cons

• No Google Play Store support limits app selection
• Display quality isn’t as sharp as premium tablets
• Basic cameras work but don’t expect amazing photo quality

We spent several days testing the new Fire HD 8, and it’s clear Amazon made meaningful improvements in this 2024 release. The tablet feels snappy with everyday tasks thanks to the upgraded 3GB of RAM—a 50% increase from the previous model.

Web browsing, reading ebooks, and streaming videos all work smoothly without frustrating lag.

Battery life is a standout feature. During our testing, the Fire HD 8 easily lasted through a full day of intermittent use. We streamed videos, checked emails, and read books without needing to hunt for a charger. When it did need power, the USB-C charging was convenient, though faster charging requires buying a separate adapter.

The 8-inch display works well for content consumption. While watching shows on Netflix, colors appeared vibrant enough, though not as crisp as more expensive tablets. The built-in speakers surprised us with decent volume, but we preferred connecting Bluetooth headphones for better sound quality.

Storage is expandable up to 1TB with a microSD card, which is helpful since the base 32GB fills up quickly when downloading movies for offline viewing.

Alexa integration is seamless on this device. We asked for weather updates, controlled smart home devices, and even made video calls through Zoom. The tablet serves as an excellent smart home controller that doubles as an entertainment device.

For families, the Fire HD 8 offers good value. Kids can enjoy games and educational content while parents appreciate the affordable price point. Just remember you’re limited to Amazon’s Appstore rather than Google Play, which means some popular apps may be unavailable or have different versions.

Lenovo Tab M9

The Lenovo Tab M9 delivers impressive battery life and a decent viewing experience at an affordable price point, making it a solid choice for casual users.

Pros

• Exceptional 13-hour battery life
• Lightweight design under a pound
• Includes protective folio case

Cons

• Limited 32GB storage capacity
• Display is only HD, not Full HD
• Performance slows with multiple apps running

We spent several days testing the Lenovo Tab M9, and its portability immediately stood out. Weighing less than a pound, it’s easy to hold for extended periods while reading or watching videos.

The 9-inch HD display provides decent clarity for most content, though you’ll notice some pixelation when viewing high-resolution images.

Battery life lives up to Lenovo’s claims. We streamed videos for nearly 12 hours before needing to recharge, making it perfect for long trips or days away from power outlets. The included USB-C charging is convenient and fairly quick to get back to full power.

The octa-core processor handles basic tasks smoothly, but we noticed some lag when switching between multiple apps or playing more demanding games. For everyday browsing, email, and media consumption, however, it performs admirably. The dual speakers deliver surprisingly clear audio for a budget tablet, though they lack bass depth.

Face unlock works reliably in good lighting conditions, offering a convenient way to access your device.

Android 12 runs cleanly on this device, and we appreciate the inclusion of Google Lens for quick information lookup. The included folio case adds protection without much bulk. While not a powerhouse, the Tab M9 represents good value for casual tablet users who prioritize battery life and portability.

Lenovo Tab M8 Gen 4

This compact 8-inch tablet offers excellent battery life and family-friendly features at an affordable price point, making it a solid choice for casual users and children.

Pros

• Impressive 16-hour battery life for all-day use
• Includes eye-care features and protective case
• Great parental controls with Google Kids Space

Cons

• Limited 2GB RAM affects multitasking performance
• Not suitable for demanding games or applications
• Some users report occasional buffering with HD videos

We recently got our hands on the Lenovo Tab M8 Gen 4, and we’re impressed with how much value it packs into its slim frame.

The 8-inch HD display is crisp enough for reading, browsing, and watching videos. Its pocket-sized design makes it perfect for tossing in a bag or keeping kids entertained on long car rides.

Battery life is a standout feature – we easily got through a full day of mixed use without reaching for a charger. The included folio case with built-in stand is a nice bonus that many manufacturers would charge extra for. Sound quality from the dual speakers is surprisingly good for a tablet in this price range.

For families, this tablet really shines with its kid-friendly features. Google Kids Space offers teacher-approved content, and the parental controls through Family Link let us set screen time limits and content restrictions. The TÜV Eye Care certification gives us peace of mind about blue light exposure during longer sessions.

While it won’t replace a premium tablet for power users, we found it more than capable for everyday tasks like web browsing, e-reading, and casual media consumption.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 8.7″ Tablet

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 offers a solid mix of performance and portability at a budget-friendly price point, making it a good choice for casual users and travelers who need cellular connectivity.

Pros

• Smooth 60Hz display with good brightness even outdoors
• Expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD
• Includes LTE connectivity for on-the-go internet access

Cons

• Not compatible with T-Mobile phone plans (data-only plans work)
• International model without domestic warranty
• Power adapter not included in the box

When we tested the Galaxy Tab A9, we were impressed by how lightweight and portable it felt. At just 8.7 inches with slim bezels, it slides easily into a bag without adding much bulk.

The screen offers surprisingly good visibility even under bright lights, which isn’t always the case with tablets in this price range.

The dual speakers deliver decent audio quality for watching videos or joining calls. We noticed the sound was clear enough for personal use, though you might want headphones in noisy environments.

Battery life held up well during our testing, lasting through a full day of intermittent use without needing a recharge.

Multi-tasking works better than expected thanks to the 4GB RAM. We could split the screen to check emails while browsing or take notes during video calls without frustrating lag.

The cellular connectivity was easy to set up with our AT&T SIM card, giving us internet access anywhere without hunting for Wi-Fi. Just note this is an international model, so carrier compatibility is limited – it won’t work with T-Mobile phone lines.

Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet

The Fire HD 8 Plus is an excellent value tablet that delivers impressive performance and versatility for its modest price point.

Pros

• Faster processor with 3GB RAM makes multitasking smooth
• Wireless charging capability adds convenience
• Extremely durable construction compared to competitors

Cons

• Limited app selection (no Google Play)
• Display resolution could be better
• Software experience feels restrictive

We’ve been testing the Fire HD 8 Plus tablet for several weeks now, and it’s proven itself to be a capable daily driver.

The upgraded hexa-core processor definitely makes a difference compared to previous generations – apps open quickly, and switching between tasks feels snappier. The 3GB of RAM helps keep things running smoothly even with several applications open.

One feature we really appreciate is the wireless charging capability. We placed it on a compatible charging dock at night, and it was ready to go by morning without having to fumble with cables.

Battery life is impressive too – we consistently got close to the advertised 13 hours of mixed use before needing a recharge.

The build quality surprised us. It’s noticeably thinner and lighter than older models, yet the strengthened aluminosilicate glass screen has held up well to daily use without scratches.

The 32GB storage filled up quickly, but we added a microSD card for extra space. While the Amazon app store lacks some popular Google apps, it covers most basics well. For families, the parental controls are excellent and intuitive to set up.

Buying Guide

When shopping for an 8-inch tablet, there are several key factors to consider. We’ve put together this guide to help you make an informed decision.

Display Quality

The screen is what you’ll be looking at all day, so it’s worth paying attention to.

Look for tablets with at least 1920 x 1200 resolution for crisp text and images. IPS panels typically offer better viewing angles and color accuracy.

Performance

A good processor paired with sufficient RAM ensures your tablet runs smoothly.

For basic use, 3GB RAM works fine, but power users should aim for 4GB or more. Storage is also important – 32GB is minimal, while 64GB or 128GB gives you room for apps and media.

Battery Life

Battery performance can make or break your tablet experience.

Look for devices offering at least 8-10 hours of real-world use. Fast charging capability is a nice bonus that saves time.

Build Quality & Design

Weight, thickness, and materials affect how comfortable a tablet feels during extended use.

Premium tablets often use metal bodies, while budget options typically use plastic.

Connectivity Options

Software Support

Consider how long the manufacturer typically provides updates. Longer support means better security and more features over time.

We recommend prioritizing the features that match your specific needs rather than just getting the most expensive option available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right 8-inch tablet involves considering several key factors. These include performance specs, display quality, and special features that match your specific needs.

These common questions address the most important considerations for different use cases.

What are the top features to look for in an 8-inch tablet for professional use?

Professional users should prioritize processing power. Look for at least 6GB of RAM and a recent processor like the Snapdragon 700 series or better.

Battery life is crucial – look for tablets offering 10+ hours of use between charges.

Storage capacity matters significantly. We recommend at least 128GB with expandable storage options for work files and applications.

A high-resolution display (preferably 1920×1200 or higher) ensures clear text and detailed visuals for presentations and documents.

Connectivity options like USB-C, reliable Wi-Fi 6, and optional cellular capability provide flexibility for working in various environments. Security features such as fingerprint readers or facial recognition protect sensitive business information.

Which 8-inch tablets offer the best performance for gaming?

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8.4 delivers impressive gaming performance with its octa-core processor and 4GB RAM. Its display offers vibrant colors and smooth motion handling for action games.

Lenovo Tab M8 (4th Gen) provides solid gaming capabilities at a mid-range price point. The MediaTek Helio processor handles most modern games with reasonable frame rates and minimal heating issues.

For premium gaming, the iPad Mini with its A15 Bionic chip remains the gold standard in this size category. It handles graphically intensive games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile without noticeable lag.

What are the most recommended 8-inch tablets with stylus support for note-taking and drawing?

The iPad Mini with Apple Pencil 2 support offers the most refined drawing experience in this size category. The pressure sensitivity and palm rejection are excellent for detailed sketches and notes.

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab Active series supports the S-Pen with impressive pressure sensitivity levels. The specialized note-taking apps and screen responsiveness make these tablets ideal for students and professionals.

Lenovo Tab P11 (in its smaller variant) works with Lenovo Precision Pen 2, providing a budget-friendly option for digital artists and note-takers. The pressure sensitivity isn’t as refined as premium options but works well for casual use.

How do recent 8-inch Samsung tablets compare to their competitors?

Samsung’s recent 8-inch tablets excel in display quality, featuring vibrant AMOLED screens with deep blacks and rich colors that outperform most competitors in this size range. Their integration with other Samsung devices creates a seamless ecosystem experience.

Battery life in recent Samsung models averages 10-12 hours, comparable to Apple but generally superior to budget competitors. The One UI interface offers useful multitasking features specifically optimized for tablet use.

Where Samsung tablets sometimes fall short is in raw processing power compared to the iPad Mini. However, they typically offer expandable storage and better customization options that appeal to Android users.

What are the reliable 8-inch tablets for those on a budget according to user reviews on Reddit?

The Amazon Fire HD 8 consistently receives praise on Reddit for its value proposition, typically priced under $100. Users highlight its durability and adequate performance for media consumption and basic tasks.

Lenovo Tab M8 earns positive mentions for balancing affordability with decent build quality. Reddit users particularly appreciate its stock Android experience and surprising battery life for the price point.

The Onn 8-inch tablet from Walmart has gained a following for extreme budget users. While performance is limited, Reddit reviews note it handles basic streaming, reading, and web browsing adequately for its sub-$80 price tag.

What are the advantages and limitations of an 8-inch tablet compared to larger or smaller tablets?

The 8-inch form factor excels in portability while maintaining a readable screen size. These tablets easily fit in larger pockets, small bags, and can be comfortably held one-handed for extended reading sessions.

Battery life often exceeds both phones and larger tablets due to the efficient screen size and moderate processing requirements. Many 8-inch models can last 10-12 hours on a single charge with regular use.

The main limitations include reduced screen space for productivity tasks compared to 10-inch+ tablets. Split-screen multitasking feels cramped, and typing on the virtual keyboard can be challenging without an external keyboard.