Amazon offers a wide range of Fire tablets, including both the standard line as well as the Kids line. With a range of prices and various features, it’s difficult to decide which one is the right fit for you. Even if it’s for a child, for example, is it worth getting one of the Kids’ models or should you opt for a standard Fire tablet?
Here, I’ll look at four popular models in the new line: the Amazon Fire 7, Amazon Fire HD 8, Amazon Fire 7 Kids, and Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids to help you make the right decision.
Amazon Fire 7 and Amazon Fire HD 8
First, we’ll look at the standard Amazon Fire 7 and Amazon Fire HD 8 tablets. These are regular tablets that can be used by adults and kids, alike. While they aren’t designed specifically for kids, they have features that might sway you towards them instead of the Kids-specific models, especially for older children.
How do they compare in specs?
There are a few differences between these two tablets when it comes to specs beyond just the screen size.
Amazon Fire 7 tablet
The Amazon Fire 7 tablet, which comes in black or Denim, has a 7-inch 1,024 x 600-pixel touchscreen and comes with 16GB or 32GB of storage, though you can expand this to up to 1TB with an optional microSD card. Sporting a 10-hour battery life (it recharges via USB-C with the included cable and power brick), it boasts up to 30% faster performance than the previous generation model thanks to the quad-core processor and 2GB RAM.
With this tablet, you can access the web, including popular streaming services like Netflix, social sites like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others. Note they have to be downloaded through Amazon’s Appstore since Google Play is not supported. Alexa is not available on this tablet, or any other Fire tablets, sold in Canada.
You can also access software like Zoom for video calls and do things like update shopping lists, set reminders, and listen to podcasts. It comes with 2MP front- and rear-facing cameras that can also capture 720p HD video.
You can use Amazon Kids for robust parental control for monitoring things like time spent online, what content is being used, setting limits, and more. Amazon Kids+, which is available for a subscription fee, is a kid-specific portal with curated and age-appropriate content. The experience includes access to thousands of books, apps and games, videos, songs, and other kid-friendly content.
Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet
By comparison, the slightly more expensive Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet, which comes in black, pink, or Denim, has a larger 8-inch touchscreen that also boasts higher resolution at 1,280 x 800 and is made from strengthened aluminosilicate glass that makes it extra durable. Storage is also expandable up to 1TB but it comes with either 32GB or 64GB out of the box.
The processor is 2GHz as well, but it’s hexa-core versus quad-core, which should result in snappier performance, including 30% faster than the previous-gen Fire HD 8. Battery life is also improved at up to 13 hours per charge via the included USB-C cable and power brick.
Also with 2MP front- and rear-facing cameras that can capture 720p HD video, you can access all the same streaming services and apps, again, through the Amazon Appstore, as well as Amazon Kids+.
Using these two tablets
I enlisted my almost 11-year-old son to help me review these four tablets. He first started playing with the Fire HD 7 and Fire HD 8. We downloaded a few video streaming apps along with some games and, of course, Roblox.
He loved the ease at which he could use two hands to play on the Amazon Fire 7, which is slightly bigger than a large-sized phone but much smaller than his 10-inch tablet. He noticed that the screen left a bit to be desired and remarked that it was slower than his usual tablet. But overall, he was able to play with ease.
He had some trouble accessing Roblox on the Fire HD 8, even after installing the latest software update. The same game would continuously shut down. We did not figure out the reason why, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re considering these tablets for a lot of Roblox play.
The difference in screen resolution is noticeable, with more vivid colours and better detail on the Amazon Fire HD 8. For example, while watching Yellowstone on Amazon Prime Video, the image of a horse on the back of a character’s jacket was visible with more detail in this model versus the Fire 7.
The cameras leave something to be desired: you can take fun snapshots but nothing that will be worth sharing beyond the odd social media post.
For whom are these tablets best suited?
Both these tablets are a great option for older kids (aged 8 and up) who want to access services like Roblox, social media, games, streaming video, and more. It allows parents to set up robust parental controls to ensure they are only accessing age-appropriate content.
But they still function as viable tablets for adults, too. This would be a secondary tablet, something to use on the go when you don’t want to take an expensive iPad with you, for example, on a long road trip or flight. But even for sitting back on the couch and enjoying a second-screen experience, both these tablets do the trick with a screen larger than your phone.
Which one should you get?
Given the nominal price difference, most people will be better off with the Amazon Fire HD 8. It not only has a larger and higher-res screen but it’s also more durable, which makes it a viable option for a child, ideally aged 7 and older. They will be able to access the content they couldn’t on one of the dedicated Kids’ tablets that offer a more limited experience (more on those below), which are better suited to younger kids. They’ll enjoy better clarity with videos and processing power with games. The extra few hours of battery life is worth the price of entry alone.
With that said, if you are on a tight budget, the Amazon Fire 7 is still a viable option, especially as a secondary family tablet or one for older kids who want to complete simple tasks, like web browsing, watching videos, playing games, and reading eBooks.
Amazon Fire 7 Kids and Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids
The Amazon Fire 7 Kids and Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids are, as the name implies, designed specifically for use by younger children. Both come wrapped in a kid-proof bumper case that protects it against bumps and drops and has a built-in kickstand for easy, hands-free viewing and use. They also include a two-year worry-free warranty: if it breaks during that time, you can return the tablet for a free replacement.
These tablets not only provide access to Amazon Kids+, but both also come with a one-year free trial for trying out the apps, games, books, videos, and content from sources like Disney, PBS Kids, and HOMER. The parental controls are included here as well, all managed through the Parent Dashboard. After the 12 months, parents can cancel or Amazon Kids+ will auto-renew at $5.99/mo.
How do they compare in specs?
As with the Amazon Fire tablets, these two Fire Kids tablets have some slight differences when it comes to specs.
Amazon Fire 7 Kids
Available with a blue or purple case, the Amazon Fire 7 Kids has a 7-inch 1,024 x 600 display and affords access to a hand-picked selection of websites via the web browser. Suitable for kids from about 3-7, it comes with 16GB or 32GB storage, expandable up to 512GB via an optional microSD card.
Powered by a quad-core 2GHz processor with 2GB RAM, it charges via USB-C and affords up to 10 hours of battery life. It comes equipped with 2MP front- and rear-facing cameras that can capture both stills and 720p HD videos.
Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids
Also available with either a blue or purple case, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids ups the ante in a few ways. First, it has a larger 8-inch, 1,280 x 800 display, 32GB or 64GB, expandable up to 1TB, hexa-core 2GHz processor 2GB RAM, and up to 13 hours battery life per charge via USB-C.
Use the 2MP front- and rear-facing cameras to capture photos and 720p HD videos.
Using these two tablets
Both these tablets are designed for younger kids, aged 3-7 (or so, depending on the individual child.) They offer a curated selection of apps, books, and websites that can be visited, though parents can add access for more. For example, I was able to add the Prodigy Math Game app my son loves, Spotify music, and even Zoom for video chats with grandparents and others.
The bumper case is a wonderful addition that makes the tablets both easy to grip and prop up thanks to the built-in kickstand with adjustable angles.
With faster processing speeds and a high-res screen, the Amazon Fire HD 8 indeed offers a more pleasing-to-the-eyes experience, and kids who love to flip back and forth among apps, stream video, and more, will appreciate both. However, you’ll find both of these slower than the standard Fire tablets, so it’s worth keeping that in mind.
Both tablets offer a similar experience and features, so the decision really comes down to price point and size. For smaller kids, the Amazon Fire 7 Kids is a nice size they’ll be able to comfortably hold in two hands to play games and do other activities. The Amazon Fire HD 8 is slightly bigger, but with even young kids today pretty familiar with mobile devices like tablets, it should work just fine for any age. The faster processor still doesn’t rival the standard non-Kids tablets, but it might be worth opting for that one to ensure a seamless experience with faster load times and switching among apps.
For whom are these tablets best suited?
As noted, both tablets are ideal for kids anywhere from 3 up to 7. The decision between them comes down to price, screen size, and how much and what activity you believe the child will be doing on it.
Given the limited web browsing and apps, these tablets aren’t suited for older kids who are potentially given a bit more freedom to browse and access other apps. But for younger kids, the parental controls and the inclusion of the one-year Amazon Kids+ subscription, make them both a worthwhile investment as a first tablet.
Which one should you get?
Even if it’s a small jump in price (both are often on sale), it’s worth it to get the Amazon HD 8 Kids over the Amazon 7 Kids. You get a larger screen with the same bumper case so it’s still easy and comfortable to hold. And the more powerful processing speeds, higher-res screen, and longer battery life are three major reasons to spend a bit more on the upgraded option.
With that said, if this is something for a 3-year-old who will simply be enjoying some cartoons, apps, educational books, and websites, will an HD screen matter when they’ll probably have their dirty, grubby fingers all over it anyway? For occasional use, the battery life won’t be a dealbreaker, nor will be processing speed if they’re doing one thing for a short period of screen time per day and that’s it. In that case, if you find the Amazon 7 Kids for a killer deal, it might be worth grabbing. But keep in mind that you’ll likely want to upgrade to something else by the time they turn 6, 7, or 8 (or hand this one down to a younger sibling, friend, or family member).
Deciding among these four tablets
When it comes to these four tablets, the Amazon Fire 7 Kids and Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids are both ideal for kids aged 3-7, and even 7 is pushing it: I’d say it’s closer to 3-6 for these ones, though it will depend on the individual child. These have a tailored experience for young kids with cartoons, books, and other content that is suited to preschoolers and kindergarteners.
Once a child gets older, you’re better off opting for the Amazon Fire 7 or Fire HD 8. They offer access to a better experience for games they’ll want to play, like Roblox and Minecraft. They are easy to hold in the hand, and you can still buy a protective case if you want another layer of protection. What’s more, they can function as family tablets with older siblings and parents able to use them as well for the occasional web browsing, video viewing, and more.
In both cases, I’d opt for the slighter larger screened Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids and Amazon Fire HD 8 simply for the increase in specs that justify the small jump in price. You’ll notice an improvement in screen resolution, processing power, and battery life. Those three facets alone make it worthwhile to go for the larger ones.
With that said, if you’re looking for a nice, compact tablet for a younger or older kid to use on the road, take to school when they are permitted special screen time days, to use while traveling, or for monitoring usage, the Amazon Fire 7 is actually an adorably compact yet powerful tablet. If you can find it for a killer deal, it’s a fun alternative to a larger, more expensive tablet. And it’s suitable for all ages.
Find the Amazon Fire 7, Fire HD 8, Fire 7 Kids, and Fire HD 8 Kids all at Best Buy Online.
I like that the Fire HD 8 has long battery life.
longer battery life with the Fire HD8 would be great for when we are off the grid, across the lake, or on a road trip
The fact the Fire HD 8 has a larger 8-inch touchscreen that also boasts higher resolution at 1,280 x 800 is the most useful feature for myself since I would use it for streaming TV and both the quality and screen size are important when watching my favourite shows 🙂
I like that the Fire HD 8 has long battery life.
Fire hd 8 because of large screen and battery life.
the fact that the screen is larger than on a phone is a great feature and the longer battery life too of the FIRE HD 8
From my perspective, the larger and higher-res screen of the Fire HD 8 are the most useful features
FireHD 8 – The long battery life is definitely a bonus!!!
The kid proof bumper would be a lifesaver for using on road trips or while travelling.
i like that the Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet has a larger 8-inch touchscreen that also boasts higher resolution and is made from strengthened aluminosilicate glass that makes it extra durable.
Improved battery life is a great feature
I like the fact that the Fire HD 8 has a long battery life.
I like the fact that the Fire HD 8 has a long battery life. Down time for charging should not be a issue with the Fire HD 8.
I like that the Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet has a larger 8-inch touchscreen that also boasts higher resolution
Fire HD 8 – I like the longer battery life so I can read my books. I also appreciate the larger screen. Good for my weary eyes.
I like the long battery life because I can read for long periods of time without having to charge it.
Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Because of the larger 8 inch screen size
FireHD 8 – The long battery life would be a plus.
For us would have to say the Fire HD 8 with the larger 8-inch touchscreen and the expandable storage capacity up to 1TB. My Mom and I both have vision issues so the larger screen is better for us. Plus I tend to download a lot of free books from all over the web due to being on a lot of email mailing lists with authors so the larger storage would be great.
Expandable to 1TB to store all my stuff
Long battery life is a very useful feature.
Based on the review I feel the Fire HD 8 would be best overall for the family to enjoy a larger screen size with a longer battery life to watch movies/videos.
Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet battery life at up to 13 hours is great when you are away on trips.
The Fire HD 8 because of the larger screen size and longer life of the battery. I need pampering.
The larger 8-inch touchscreen that also boasts higher resolution for watching movies when travelling.
I like the long battery life because I can read for long periods of time without having to charge it.
I like having up to 13 hours of battery life with the Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet so I could use it for most of the day and just recharge at night.
The long battery life is the most useful feature to me. There is nothing worse than the battery failing when you need it/want it the most!
The quad-core processor and 2GB RAM is most useful because I hate lag, especially while shopping. LOL
I like that the Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet has a larger 8-inch touchscreen that also boasts higher resolution at 1,280 x 800 for better viewing and is made from strengthened aluminosilicate glass that makes it extra durable.
Love the amount of storage would be great at the trailer in the summer and also great for travelling
I like the long battery life because I can read for long periods of time without having to charge it.
Affordable price: The Fire tablet is an affordable alternative to other tablets on the market, making it a popular option for those on a budget.
Portability: Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around. (and I will)
Alexa integration: With Alexa built-in, I can control my smart home devices, check the news, and control music playback with my voice.
Decent display: The Fire tablet has a high-resolution display, making it great for me to watch videos, read eBooks, and browsing the web.
Good luck to me! 😉
Good size options. Fan of the Fire HD 8 and it’s long battery life especially for long days at the hospital when you can’t find a plug.
I like the fact that the Fire HD 8 has a long battery life. Down time for charging should not be a issue with the Fire HD 8.
i prefer Fire HD 8 Kids tablet over the 7 inch option. the HD clarity is better for young eyes than a more basic kids tablet screen. so it makes learning and understanding better for visuial clarity and for speed it is faast enough that young learners wont get bored with lagging out , tis perfect for a prize i would choose if i could and gift it to my grandchild.
I love that storage is also expandable up to 1TB on the Fire HD8 because it would be the perfect travel companion for storing photos on the go
The longer battery life and larger screen are both features that would be most useful to me.
The bumper case and long battery life would be perfect for my child. We have a lot of family and friends who live far away and a tablet like this would help to keep my child entertained while we are driving for a long time!
My favourite feature on the Fire HD 8 has to be the longer battery life (almost 13 hours between charges). Thanks for the opportunity.
I like the Fire HD 8 for its long battery !
The long battery life on the Fire HD 8 is key because the tablet could be used for musical performances and other on-stage arts.
The larger screen
The larger 8-inch touchscreen that also boasts higher resolution for watching movies when travelling.
The hexa-core processor of the Fire HD 8 is the best feature. Too many tablets out there are slow and can’t keep up with the increasing performance demands from websites and apps.
Definitely the longer battery life is mandatory for me as I wont have to worry about charging it too often.. (sometimes I forget)
Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet battery life at up to 13 hours is great when you are away on trips.
The longer battery life on te Fire HD8 is key for me- it’s perfect for taking on the go (road trips, work, etc), without having to worry about charging along the way!
Fire HD 8 – I like the longer battery life so I can read my books. I also appreciate the larger screen. Good for my weery eyes.
The Fire HD 8 because of the larger screen size and longer life of the battery.
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