Best Tablet For Reading Books 2021
Are you a bookworm on a budget? Drowning in a sea of expensive tablets, all promising the best reading experience? Fear not, fellow frugal friend! This guide cuts through the marketing fluff to find the best tablet for reading books in 2021, without emptying your wallet.
We're targeting the cost-conscious reader. You prioritize value over brand name and are willing to make informed compromises to get the most bang for your buck.
Why a Dedicated Reading Tablet Matters
Sure, your phone can display an ebook. But small screens strain your eyes during long reading sessions. Tablets offer a larger, more comfortable display for immersive reading.
They also reduce distractions compared to laptops. This helps you focus solely on the story at hand.
The Bargain Hunter's Shortlist: Best Tablets for Reading (2021)
Here's a curated list of tablets that balance price and performance. We considered display quality, battery life, portability, and ebook compatibility.
- Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020): The king of budget tablets.
- Lenovo Tab M8 HD: A solid all-rounder at a reasonable price.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite: A slightly pricier option with Samsung's ecosystem.
Detailed Reviews: Unpacking the Value
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020): The Budget Champion
The Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020) is the clear winner for affordability. Its 8-inch HD display is decent for reading, though not the sharpest. It is more than adequate for standard ebooks.
Battery life is excellent, lasting up to 12 hours. This is perfect for long reading sessions. The Fire OS is geared towards Amazon services, which could be a pro or con depending on your preferences.
The Fire HD 8’s tight integration with the Kindle store is a major advantage for Amazon Prime members.
Lenovo Tab M8 HD: A Reliable Runner-Up
The Lenovo Tab M8 HD offers a more open Android experience than the Fire HD 8. Its 8-inch HD display is comparable in quality. It provides a comfortable reading experience.
The battery life is good, but slightly less than the Fire HD 8. It can last around 10 hours. Its clean Android interface is a plus for users who prefer Google's ecosystem.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite: A Step Up in Quality
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is a more premium option. It offers a sleeker design and a slightly better display than the other two.
It boasts a more responsive processor and better overall performance. The price is higher, but you get a more polished experience and access to Samsung's services.
Side-by-Side Specs: Comparing the Contenders
| Feature | Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020) | Lenovo Tab M8 HD | Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 8" HD (1280x800) | 8" HD (1280x800) | 8.7" HD+ (1340x800) |
| Processor | Quad-Core 2.0 GHz | Quad-Core 2.0 GHz | MediaTek Helio P22T |
| RAM | 2 GB | 2 GB | 3 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB | 32 GB | 32 GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours | Up to 10 hours | Up to 13 hours |
| Operating System | Fire OS | Android | Android |
| Price (approx.) | $89.99 | $99.99 | $149.99 |
| Performance Score (out of 10) | 6 | 7 | 8 |
Customer Satisfaction: What Are Readers Saying?
Online reviews reveal generally positive feedback for all three tablets. Users praise the Fire HD 8's price and battery life. They appreciate the Lenovo Tab M8 HD's clean Android experience. People enjoy the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite's performance and design.
Common complaints include the Fire HD 8's limited app store and the Lenovo Tab M8 HD's slightly sluggish performance. The A7 Lite's price is a barrier for some budget-conscious buyers.
Maintenance Cost Projections
Tablets are generally low-maintenance devices. The most common expense is screen repair. Consider purchasing a screen protector to minimize this risk. The average screen repair costs vary between $50 and $150 depending on the model and repair shop.
Battery replacement is another potential expense. However, with proper charging habits, batteries can last for several years.
Key Considerations and Summary
Choosing the best tablet for reading boils down to your budget and priorities. The Amazon Fire HD 8 is the clear winner for pure affordability. The Lenovo Tab M8 HD offers a balanced experience. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is a step up in performance and design.
Consider display quality, battery life, portability, and ebook compatibility. Also consider customer satisfaction and potential maintenance costs.
Ready to Dive In?
Now that you're armed with the knowledge, it's time to make a decision. Click on the links below to purchase your new reading tablet and get lost in the world of books without breaking the bank!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I read library books on these tablets?
A: Yes! All three tablets support popular ebook formats like EPUB and PDF. You can use apps like Libby to borrow books from your local library.
Q: Is the Fire HD 8's app store limited?
A: Yes, the Fire HD 8 uses Amazon's app store, which has fewer apps than the Google Play Store. However, you can often sideload apps if needed.
Q: Which tablet has the best screen for reading?
A: The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite offers the sharpest and most vibrant display. However, all three tablets provide a comfortable reading experience.
Q: How much storage do I need for ebooks?
A: 32 GB is generally sufficient for a large ebook library. You can also use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to store your books.
