Balancing affordability and functionality in tablets can be quite the challenge. With inflation and other costs rising exponentially, it’s crucial to be diligent in our spending habits. Fortunately, brands like HONOR are stepping up with devices like the HONOR Pad X8a, offering solid features without sacrificing what we typically seek in a tablet.
Launched at an introductory price of PHP 7,999, it remains a strong contender under PHP 10,000. With features designed to make it versatile for everyday use, this tablet caught our eye for its potential to support students, parents, and content creators who don’t want to break the bank. After spending two weeks with the HONOR Pad X8a, here’s an honest look at what it brings and how it fares in everyday use.
Design and Build
At first glance, the HONOR Pad X8a impresses with its slim, minimalistic design. Weighing just around 460 grams, it’s easy to carry around, making it convenient for students and parents to manage a busy day. The aluminum body feels durable yet stylish, with a slim 7.55 mm profile that adds a premium touch—proof that a budget device doesn’t have to feel budget.
Display Quality
One of the most attractive features is the 10.1-inch FullView display, which offers a Full HD experience with an 80% screen-to-body ratio. Whether for watching videos or reading, this display strikes a good balance between clarity and comfort. HONOR has even incorporated TÜV Rheinland-certified blue light reduction, which could be a perk for those who spend long hours on their devices. The display quality might not rival high-end tablets, but it’s clear, colorful, and comfortable for everyday use.
Performance and Usability
This tablet is powered by an 8-core MediaTek processor with 4GB of RAM. It’s not the fastest, but it smoothly handles typical tasks like streaming, browsing, and even light gaming. Switching between apps felt responsive enough, making it suitable for students working on assignments or parents using educational apps. While it’s not geared for heavy gaming, its performance meets basic to moderate use expectations, showing it’s more than capable as a daily companion.
Battery Life
One of the pivotal things I look for any gadget is the battery life. I’m a certified digital momma and so I would need a tablet that I can take with me, anywhere, anytime.
Having said that, the battery life is another area where the HONOR Pad X8a shines. A 5100mAh battery promises up to 12 hours of use on a single charge. This feature will likely appeal to those who don’t want to be tethered to an outlet for a full day of classes or on-the-go entertainment. Charging from zero to full takes around three hours, which is reasonable, considering the lasting power it offers in return.
Sound and Entertainment
Entertainment seekers like me will appreciate the audio quality here. The HONOR Pad X8a has dual speakers featuring HONOR Histen audio technology, delivering decent clarity and depth. While the speakers won’t match a dedicated sound system, they create a pleasant audio experience during movie marathons, music streaming, or casual gaming.
Software and Interface
The tablet runs on HONOR’s Magic UI, a clean and straightforward Android-based operating system. Magic UI offers valuable features like split-screen and app cloning, which are handy for multitasking. The interface is intuitive, with minimal bloatware, meaning users can dive into their apps without navigating unnecessary pre-installed programs. This simplicity makes it accessible to users of all ages, from young students to parents.
Camera Performance
The HONOR Pad X8a has a primary 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera for photography. While the cameras are not designed to replace your smartphone for high-quality shots, they serve well for video calls or quick snapshots in well-lit environments. Parents and students will find the front camera suitable for online classes or virtual meetups, while casual users can manage quick photos and videos without too much trouble.
Who’s This Tablet For?
At a price below PHP 10,000, the HONOR Pad X8a is ideal for those who need a reliable, affordable tablet without the extras of a high-end model. Students looking for an efficient study companion, parents who want a functional tablet for the household, and content creators looking for a secondary device might all find something to like here. It’s an accessible tablet that does the basics well and won’t weigh down your wallet.
Final Thoughts:
The HONOR Pad X8a is a budget-friendly device that covers all the essentials with a few surprising extras. It won’t win awards for power or advanced features, but it offers an easy and enjoyable experience for anyone looking for a dependable, everyday tablet. This is for those interested in the tablet without committing to a premium price.
If you’re in the market for an affordable, reliable tablet, the HONOR Pad X8a could be a practical option that delivers quality and functionality without overstepping its budget-friendly promise.