If you are wondering what the difference is between Amazon Fire HD 10 and Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus and which one is best for you, then this is the article for you.
Both of these tablets are some of the most affordable 10-inch tablets available on the market. In this Amazon Fire HD 10 and HD 10 Plus review, we will explain how they differ in terms of specs and finally help you understand the one that will give you the best value for your money.
The two tablets are very similar in specifications but still maintain some simple differences. These 2021 tablet models pack great features compared to older versions. Below is a detailed comparison.
Screen and Resolution
The Amazon Fire HD 10 and HD 10 Plus both feature a 10.1-inch screen with a 1920 x 1200 pixel resolution. Compared to earlier Amazon Fire versions, the screen is 10% brighter, but you will hardly notice the difference.
The screen on both tablets is bright and easily used in outdoor environments. However, in high-sunlight conditions, you will have difficulty viewing.
The Amazon Fire 10 HD comes with 410 Nits of brightness, while the Fire 10 HD Plus comes at 500 Nits. Again, you will hardly tell the difference.
Compared to premium tablets like the iPad Pro, which have over 1000 to 1600 nits, their brightness and resolution are quite low. For their very affordable price, this brightness is quite decent.
Power and performance
Amazon Fire HD 10 vs. Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus are not considered to be ideal for professional tasks or good gaming tablets. They will both play basic games but lag when running heavier games like Asphalt 9.
Their operating system and RAM are best suited for streaming and watching media files. Both tablets come with a MediaTek MT8183 octa-core processor with 3 GB and 4 GB of RAM.
These specifications and processing power are as good as the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7, which is a similar product from a different brand. So if you want a similar tablet but from Samsung, choose this one.
To save files, they have a 32 GB or 64 GB storage space option, which is low for pro tasks. However, it is perfect for streaming and media consumption.
If this size is too small for you, you might consider the expansion option using an external MicroSD slot up to 1 TB. Unfortunately, you will have to buy the card separately.
One main improvement on the two tablets is the ability to multitask with a side-by-side on-screen view of different programs. It was impossible to do this on older Amazon Fire tablets.
Common software such as Chrome, YouTube, and Netflix will run perfectly without issues.
Operating System
The operating system on both Amazon Fire HD 10 and Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus is one of the main disadvantages.
They both feature a Fire OS operating system that is based on Android 9. Although they have regular updates on the operating system, the Android version is not Google-based.
This means you may have compatibility challenges with some Google Play applications. On purchase, however, you can install Google Play and enjoy the main features.
As an Amazon product, it is compatible with Amazon products such as Alexa and Amazon Prime. Instead of Google Play, you will get applications from the Amazon App Store.
You will have simple Voice assistant and Show Mode that helps with navigation. This feature was available on older versions and has been repeated on these versions too.
Keyboard and battery life
Both tablets can be used as laptop alternatives thanks to their easy compatibility with the Fintie Bluetooth Keyboard. You will however have to buy the keyboard separately.
Battery life is another standout feature, with between 10 and 12 hours of battery life on both. Combined with the light weight of the tablets, their long battery life makes them easily portable and ideal for college students.
Build quality
Amazon Fire HD 10 and Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus were released in 2021. Compared to older versions, the body is sleek, smooth, and features well-rounded corners.
To add to this modern look, you have slim bezels all around the screen, which makes the tablets seem minimalistic and modern.
The body on both tablets is made of sturdy plastic that does not easily break. The Amazon Fire HD Plus is made of slightly more expensive plastic compared to the Fire HD. This makes it more durable.
On the back of the tablet, you will have a 5-megapixel rear camera, which is quite low quality.
The front 2 MP camera webcam is ok for video conferencing and basic photography. However, overall, the cameras are not very good.
If the camera is an important aspect for you, we recommend the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 with an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera.
This will take better photos and videos than both the Amazon Fire HD 10 and the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus.
Conclusion
If you want the most affordable 10-inch tablets, these two are a perfect consideration. However, you will have to forgo some features, such as smooth Google Play compatibility or high-resolution cameras.
For those who like Amazon products, you will not have a problem with Amazon App Store applications or Alexa.
Overall, the main difference between the two tablets is the material used to make the body of the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus, which features thicker and more durable plastic.
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, we recommend the Lenovo Duet Chromebook. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is slightly more expensive but will give better value for your money.
Related: YouTube on Amazon Fire Tablet
Amazon Fire HD 10 vs. Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus specs
Amazon Fire HD 10 Specs
- Screen size: 10.1 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1200 pixels
- Brightness: 410 Nits
- Processor: MediaTek
- RAM: 3 / 4 GB RAM
- Battery Life: 10 hours
- OS: Amazon Fire OS
- Storage: 32 or 64 GB, expandable to 1 TB
- Price: 150$
- Camera: 2 MP front
- Rear: 5 MP
Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus Specs
- Screen size: 10.1 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1200 pixels
- Brightness: 500 Nits
- Processor: MediaTek
- RAM: 3 / 4 GB RAM
- Battery Life: 12 hours
- OS: Amazon Fire OS
- Storage: 32 or 64 GB, expandable to 1 TB
- Price: 200$
- Front Camera: 2 MP front
- Rear Camera: 5 MP
Pros
- Long battery life
- Excellent Full HD 10 inch display
- Sturdy Build
- Powerful processor
- Affordable Price
- Expandable storage
- Works with a keyboard
- Easily compatible with Amazon Store products
Cons
- Features compatibility issues with Google Play applications.
- Full Plastic build.
- They are very similar to each other.
Frequently asked Questions
Differences between an Amazon Fire HD 10 vs. Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus?
Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus has a brighter screen at 500 nits compared to 410 nits on the Fire HD 10. It features a slightly longer 12 hours battery life compared to 10 hours on the Fire HD 10. Finally, Fire HD 10 is cheaper than the Fire HD 10 Plus.