As budget tablets continue to dominate the entry-level market, two devices frequently come up in conversation: the Amazon Fire HD 8 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab E. Both are marketed toward casual users—students, seniors, or families looking for a simple way to stream videos, browse the web, or read ebooks. But with evolving software ecosystems and shifting user expectations in 2024, the question remains: is it still worth switching from Android-based Samsung hardware to Amazon’s Fire OS? The answer depends on your priorities, usage habits, and tolerance for trade-offs.
Design and Build Quality: Simplicity vs Familiarity
The Fire HD 8 and Galaxy Tab E both use plastic builds and modest materials, but their design philosophies differ. The Fire HD 8 has evolved into a sleeker, more modern device over recent generations, featuring thinner bezels and a lightweight profile that makes one-handed use possible. It weighs just under 350 grams and comes in multiple color options, giving it a slightly more consumer-friendly appeal.
In contrast, the Galaxy Tab E feels dated even by 2024 standards. Released years ago and only minimally updated, it retains thick bezels, a bulky frame, and a utilitarian look. While durable, its 9.6-inch display makes it less portable than the Fire HD 8’s compact 8.7-inch screen. For users prioritizing portability and aesthetics, the Fire HD 8 wins by default.
Performance and Hardware Comparison
Under the hood, the Fire HD 8 (2022/2023 models) runs on a MediaTek processor with 3GB or 4GB of RAM, depending on the variant. This allows smooth multitasking, quick app launches, and reliable streaming performance—even when running third-party apps sideloaded via APK.
The Galaxy Tab E, however, typically ships with an older Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 and only 1.5GB or 2GB of RAM. This results in sluggish navigation, frequent app reloads, and noticeable lag when switching between tabs or apps. In 2024, this level of performance is borderline unusable for anything beyond basic YouTube playback or light web browsing.
Battery life is another area where Amazon pulls ahead. The Fire HD 8 delivers up to 12 hours of mixed usage thanks to its optimized OS and efficient power management. The Galaxy Tab E manages around 6–7 hours under similar conditions, limiting its usefulness during long trips or extended reading sessions.
“Budget tablets should balance cost and capability. The Fire HD 8 hits that sweet spot; the Tab E feels like a relic.” — Raj Mehta, Senior Analyst at TechPulse Insights
Ecosystem and Software Experience
This is where the decision becomes nuanced. The Fire HD 8 runs Fire OS, a heavily customized fork of Android that prioritizes Amazon’s ecosystem—Prime Video, Kindle, Audible, and shopping. Google services are absent by default, which can be a dealbreaker for users invested in Gmail, Drive, Maps, or YouTube.
However, tech-savvy users can sideload the Amazon Appstore, Aurora Store, or even full Google Play Services. Once configured, the Fire HD 8 functions surprisingly well as a de facto Android tablet. Updates are regular, with Amazon pushing security patches every few months and major OS upgrades every 1–2 years.
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab E runs full Android—but often stuck on outdated versions like Android 8.1 Oreo, with no path to updates. This poses real security risks in 2024, especially if used for banking, email, or social media. Additionally, pre-installed bloatware from Samsung and carriers eats into storage and slows performance further.
| Feature | Fire HD 8 (2023) | Galaxy Tab E (LTE Model) |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size & Resolution | 8.7” @ 1920x1200 (WUXGA) | 9.6” @ 1280x800 (WSVGA) |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio A22 / P22 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 |
| RAM | 3GB or 4GB | 1.5GB or 2GB |
| Storage | 32GB / 64GB (expandable via microSD) | 16GB / 32GB (expandable) |
| OS | Fire OS 8 (based on Android 11) | Android 8.1 Oreo (no updates) |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours | 6–7 hours |
| Google Apps Support | Requires sideloading | Native support |
| Price (Current Market) | $89.99 (with ads), $109.99 (ad-free) | $149+ (refurbished only) |
Real-World Use Case: A Grandparent's Tablet Upgrade
Maria, a 72-year-old retiree in Florida, had been using her Galaxy Tab E since 2018. She mainly watched Christian sermons on YouTube, video-called her grandchildren, and browsed Facebook. Over time, the device became slower—videos buffered constantly, calls dropped, and the home screen took minutes to load.
Her grandson helped her switch to a Fire HD 8. He sideloaded YouTube and Facebook, set up her Amazon account, and disabled ads through her Prime membership. The difference was immediate: videos loaded faster, calls stayed stable, and the interface felt snappier. After a week, Maria said, “It’s like I have a new brain. Everything works now.”
This scenario illustrates a key point: for non-technical users, ease of setup matters. With a little help upfront, the Fire HD 8 can outperform older Android tablets significantly—even if it requires workarounds.
Is It Worth Switching to Amazon in 2024?
The answer hinges on what you value most:
- If you want simplicity, longevity, and media-first functionality, the Fire HD 8 is the better choice. Its optimized interface, longer battery, and consistent updates make it ideal for entertainment and light tasks.
- If you rely on Google services daily—Gmail, Calendar, Chrome sync, Classroom, etc.—the lack of native Google integration may frustrate you. Sideloaded apps can break after updates and don’t always support background syncing.
- If you need a child-safe device, Amazon’s parental controls and FreeTime subscription offer unmatched supervision features compared to Samsung’s basic Kids Mode.
- If you're using it for education or productivity, such as taking notes or accessing Google Docs, the Galaxy Tab E’s limitations in processing power and software support make it impractical today.
Checklist: Should You Switch?
- Are you primarily using the tablet for video, music, or reading? → Yes favors Fire HD 8
- Do you use Google apps daily? → Yes may require sideloading effort
- Is performance lagging on your current Tab E? → Fire HD 8 will feel dramatically faster
- Do you want built-in parental controls? → Fire HD 8 excels here
- Are you comfortable installing apps outside official stores? → Necessary for full functionality
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install Netflix and YouTube on the Fire HD 8?
Yes. Both apps are available directly from the Amazon Appstore. YouTube works well, though background play requires Premium. No sideloading needed for core streaming services.
Will my old accessories work with the Fire HD 8?
Unlikely. The Galaxy Tab E uses a micro-USB port, while the Fire HD 8 uses USB-C. Cases and chargers won’t be compatible unless specifically designed for cross-model use.
Is the Fire HD 8 secure for online banking?
With proper precautions—updated software, strong passwords, and avoiding risky downloads—it’s safe. However, avoid saving sensitive data locally. Consider using browser-based access rather than standalone banking apps if concerned.
Final Verdict: Time to Make the Switch?
In 2024, the Galaxy Tab E no longer represents good value. Even at discounted prices, its outdated hardware, poor performance, and unsupported operating system place it far behind modern alternatives. The Fire HD 8, meanwhile, continues to deliver where it counts: media playback, battery life, and everyday reliability.
Switching to Amazon means embracing a walled garden, but for millions of users, that trade-off is worthwhile. The ecosystem lock-in ensures smoother integration across devices, seamless content purchasing, and lower total cost of ownership—especially with ad-supported models starting under $90.
If your needs center around entertainment, family use, or digital simplicity, upgrading from a Galaxy Tab E to a Fire HD 8 isn’t just worth it—it’s overdue.
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