The Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 model stands out as an excellent value proposition, offering a significantly improved experience over its predecessors, especially for those deeply integrated into Amazon’s ecosystem.

While it won’t dethrone high-end tablets like an iPad Pro, it absolutely nails the brief for an affordable media consumption device, casual gaming, and basic productivity.

Its upgraded RAM, wireless charging capability, and a brighter display make it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a reliable and budget-friendly tablet that handles streaming, reading, and light tasks with aplomb.

It’s not a powerhouse, but it’s undeniably a smart investment for its price point.

Feature/Product	Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021	Samsung Galaxy Tab S8	Apple iPad Air 5th Gen	Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2	Microsoft Surface Go 3	Kindle Paperwhite 11th Gen	Blink Mini Camera
Primary Use	Media, Smart Home Control	Productivity, Creative Work	Creative Work, Education	Media, Productivity	Light Productivity, Browsing	E-reading	Home Security
Operating System	Fire OS Android-based	Android	iPadOS	Android	Windows 11 Home	Proprietary Linux-based	N/A App controlled
Display Size Inches	10.1	11	10.9	11.2	10.5	6.8	N/A
RAM GB	4	8/12	8	6/8	4/8	N/A	N/A
Storage GB	32/64 expandable	128/256	64/256	128/256	64/128	8/16	N/A
Stylus Support	Basic	S Pen included	Apple Pencil 2nd Gen	Precision Pen 3	Surface Pen compatible	No	No
Price Range	$150-$200	$600-$800	$550-$750	$350-$500	$400-$600	$140-$190	$30-$40
Key Differentiator	Wireless Charging, Alexa Integration	High-end Android Performance	M1 Chip, Premium Ecosystem	OLED Display, Great for Media	Full Windows Experience	E-Ink Display, Waterproof	Compact, Affordable Security

Table of Contents

Design and Build Quality: A Solid, Unassuming Tablet

When you unbox the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021, the first thing you’ll notice is its familiar, unassuming design. It’s not trying to be a sleek, premium slab of aluminum and glass like an iPad. Instead, Amazon opts for a more pragmatic approach with a plastic build that feels durable and grippy. This isn’t a bad thing. in fact, it makes the tablet feel more resilient to the inevitable bumps and drops of daily life, especially if you’re planning on handing it over to kids or using it around the house.

The Tactile Experience and Port Placement

Dimensions and Weight: Portability and Ergonomics

At 10.1 inches, the Fire HD 10 Plus strikes a good balance between screen real estate and portability.

It weighs around 468 grams approximately 1.03 pounds, which is light enough for extended reading or streaming sessions without causing arm fatigue.

Its dimensions make it easy to hold in one hand, though two hands are generally preferred for typing or gaming. Samsung Galaxy Buds Fe Review

Compared to some heavier competitors, its weight is a definite advantage for casual users.

Display: Brighter and Better for Media Consumption

The display is arguably one of the most crucial components of any tablet, and Amazon made some welcome improvements to the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021’s screen. It still features a 10.1-inch IPS LCD panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, which translates to a pixel density of 224 pixels per inch ppi. While not as sharp as an OLED display or a Retina display, it’s perfectly adequate for reading, browsing, and streaming video in Full HD.

Brightness and Color Accuracy: Stepping Up the Game

The “Plus” in its name isn’t just for show. Amazon claims a 10% increase in brightness compared to the standard Fire HD 10. In real-world use, this translates to a more vibrant and readable screen, especially in brighter environments. While it won’t stand up to direct sunlight like a specialized e-reader like the Kindle Paperwhite 11th Gen, it’s a noticeable improvement for indoor and shaded outdoor use. Color reproduction is decent, if not exceptional. It’s calibrated for a generally pleasing viewing experience, leaning towards natural tones rather than oversaturated ones. This is crucial for video streaming, ensuring that movies and TV shows look as intended.

Reading and Streaming Experience

For reading, the resolution and brightness are more than sufficient. Text appears clear, and the larger screen size is a blessing for digital magazines or graphic novels. When it comes to streaming content from services like Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney+, the 10.1-inch display truly shines. The 16:10 aspect ratio is well-suited for widescreen content, minimizing black bars. The increased brightness helps bring out details in darker scenes, enhancing the overall viewing experience. This makes the Fire HD 10 Plus a formidable, budget-friendly media consumption powerhouse.

Performance: A Noteworthy Bump for Everyday Use

Under the hood, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 received a significant upgrade that directly impacts its everyday performance: an increase in RAM. While the processor remains the same MediaTek Helio P60T octa-core chip clocked at 2.0 GHz, the jump from 2GB to 4GB of RAM is a must. This might not sound like much in a world of 8GB or 12GB tablets, but for Fire OS, it makes a substantial difference.

Multitasking and App Responsiveness

The additional RAM allows for much smoother multitasking.

Switching between apps is snappier, and you’ll notice fewer app relaunches when you jump back to a previously opened application.

Browsing multiple tabs in the Silk browser feels less sluggish, and background processes are managed more efficiently.

For users who typically keep a few apps open—say, Kindle, YouTube, and an email client—the experience is considerably more fluid.

It’s not going to rival the raw power of an Apple iPad Air 5th Gen with its M1 chip, but it’s a big leap for a budget tablet. Strikingly Review

Gaming and Productivity: Realistic Expectations

When it comes to gaming, the Fire HD 10 Plus can handle casual games from the Amazon Appstore with ease. Think Candy Crush, Roblox, or simple puzzle games. More graphically intensive titles like Asphalt 9 or Genshin Impact will run, but you’ll likely experience frame drops and longer load times, especially on higher graphics settings. This tablet isn’t designed for hardcore mobile gaming, and setting realistic expectations here is key.

For productivity, while Fire OS isn’t a desktop replacement, the 4GB RAM helps with basic tasks. Working on documents in Microsoft Office apps Word, Excel, PowerPoint available through the Appstore is manageable, and the tablet pairs well with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse for light typing. It’s perfect for quick email replies, document edits, or managing your smart home devices through the Alexa app.

Software and Ecosystem: Fire OS and Amazon’s Embrace

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 runs on Fire OS, Amazon’s highly customized version of Android. If you’re new to Fire tablets, it’s important to understand that Fire OS is designed to push Amazon’s content and services front and center. This isn’t a bad thing if you’re already deeply invested in the Amazon ecosystem, but it can be a significant adjustment if you’re coming from a pure Android device or an iPad.

Content-First User Interface

The Fire OS interface is streamlined and content-focused. The home screen features various content carousels for Prime Video, Kindle books, Audible audiobooks, and the Amazon Appstore. Everything is geared towards helping you discover and consume content purchased or streamed from Amazon. This deep integration is a double-edged sword: it’s incredibly convenient if you’re a Prime subscriber, but less so if you prefer Google services or third-party app stores. Google Play Store is not natively supported, although there are workarounds to sideload it, which can be complex and are not officially sanctioned.

Alexa Integration: A Smart Home Hub

One of the standout features of Fire OS is its deep integration with Alexa. The Fire HD 10 Plus can act as a powerful smart home hub. You can use voice commands to control compatible smart lights, thermostats, security cameras like the Blink Mini Camera, and other devices. In “Show Mode,” the tablet transforms into an Echo Show-like device, displaying visual responses to Alexa queries and allowing you to view camera feeds or control smart devices with a tap. This functionality significantly enhances the tablet’s utility, making it more than just a media player but a central control point for your connected home.

App Availability and Limitations

The Amazon Appstore, while growing, still doesn’t have the breadth and depth of the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Most major streaming services Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max are available, as are popular social media apps Facebook, TikTok and productivity tools Microsoft Office suite. However, you might find certain niche apps or the latest games missing.

For many users, especially those focused on media consumption, the available selection is more than sufficient.

Battery Life and Charging: Endurance and New Convenience

Battery life is always a critical factor for a portable device, and the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 delivers solid performance. Amazon claims up to 12 hours of mixed-use battery life, and in real-world testing, it generally lives up to that promise. For continuous video playback, you can expect to get around 10-11 hours, which is excellent for long flights, road trips, or simply binge-watching your favorite series around the house. For lighter use like reading or occasional browsing, it can easily last for several days on a single charge.

USB-C Charging and Included Charger

The Fire HD 10 Plus uses a USB-C port for charging, which is a welcome modern standard. It comes with a 9W power adapter in the box. While 9W isn’t lightning fast, it’s sufficient to fully charge the tablet in approximately 4 hours. It’s not the fastest charging experience, but given the tablet’s primary use cases, it’s generally not a deal-breaker. Most users will charge it overnight or during breaks. 11 Ionos Web Hosting Review

Wireless Charging: The “Plus” Advantage

The most significant upgrade in the charging department for the Fire HD 10 Plus is the inclusion of wireless charging. This feature is a rarity in budget tablets and truly elevates the convenience factor. The tablet supports Qi wireless charging, meaning it can be placed on any compatible wireless charging pad. This is particularly useful for setting it up on a nightstand or kitchen counter, allowing it to seamlessly transition into Show Mode while charging.

For an even more integrated experience, Amazon offers a Wireless Charging Dock specifically designed for the Fire HD 10 Plus. When docked, the tablet automatically enters Show Mode, transforming it into an Echo Show-like smart display. This is a brilliant synergy that makes the tablet an even more versatile smart home device, always charged and ready to go. The wireless charging capability significantly enhances the “Plus” experience, justifying its slightly higher price over the standard Fire HD 10.

Cameras: Functional for Video Calls, Not for Photography

Let’s be upfront: the cameras on the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 are not its strong suit. This is typical for budget tablets, where camera quality is often sacrificed to keep costs down. The tablet features a 2MP front-facing camera and a 5MP rear-facing camera.

Front-Facing Camera: Video Calls and Selfies

The 2MP front camera is adequate for video calls on Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet. In well-lit conditions, your image will be clear enough for family chats or virtual meetings. However, don’t expect stunning clarity or detail. Low-light performance is poor, and images will quickly become grainy. For casual selfies, it’s usable, but your smartphone will almost certainly produce better results. The camera’s primary purpose is functional communication, and for that, it serves its purpose.

Rear-Facing Camera: Basic Utility

The 5MP rear camera is equally basic.

It can capture photos and videos, but the quality is generally unimpressive.

Images lack detail, dynamic range is limited, and colors can appear washed out.

It might be useful for quickly scanning a document, taking a photo of a whiteboard, or capturing a quick reference shot, but it’s not designed for serious photography.

Think of it as a utility camera rather than a creative tool.

For anything beyond very casual snaps, stick to your smartphone. Tamron 17 50Mm F4 Di Iii Vxd Review

Accessories and Value Proposition: Enhancing the Experience

Amazon typically offers a range of accessories for its Fire tablets, and the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is no exception.

These accessories can significantly enhance the tablet’s functionality and protect your investment, often providing better value when purchased in bundles.

Official Accessories: Cases and Keyboards

Protective Cases: Amazon sells official cases that offer full body protection and often double as stands. These are generally well-designed and fit snugly. Third-party options are also widely available.
Keyboard Cases: For those looking to use the tablet for more productivity-focused tasks, Amazon offers a Made for Amazon Keyboard Case. This transforms the tablet into a pseudo-laptop, making typing emails or drafting documents much more comfortable. It connects via Bluetooth and provides a tactile typing experience. While not a full laptop replacement, it significantly boosts the tablet’s utility for light work.
Wireless Charging Dock: As mentioned earlier, the Wireless Charging Dock is a standout accessory. It not only charges the tablet wirelessly but also automatically puts it into Show Mode, making it a permanent fixture for your smart home setup. This greatly enhances the tablet’s always-on Alexa capabilities.

Value for Money: Where the Fire HD 10 Plus Shines

The core appeal of the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 lies in its exceptional value for money. At its price point, it delivers a solid 10-inch Full HD display, respectable performance for media and light tasks, and the convenience of wireless charging and deep Alexa integration. While it doesn’t compete with premium tablets in terms of raw power or app ecosystem flexibility like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8, it outpaces many other budget alternatives by offering a more polished user experience and a robust content ecosystem.

It’s ideal for:

Media Consumption: Streaming movies, TV shows, reading e-books, listening to audiobooks.
Smart Home Control: Using Alexa to manage smart devices, view camera feeds.
Casual Browsing and Social Media: Keeping up with news, checking Facebook, TikTok.
Basic Productivity: Light email, document viewing/editing.
Children: A durable and affordable device for educational apps and games.

Considering its features, especially the 4GB RAM and wireless charging, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 offers a compelling package for anyone looking for a capable and affordable tablet that punches above its weight in terms of value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 good for watching movies?

Yes, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is excellent for watching movies due to its 10.1-inch Full HD 1920×1200 display, which provides sharp images and vibrant colors, and its 16:10 aspect ratio ideal for widescreen content.

Does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 support wireless charging?

Yes, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is the first Fire tablet to support Qi wireless charging, making it very convenient to power up.

How much RAM does the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 have?

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 comes with 4GB of RAM, which is an upgrade from the standard Fire HD 10 and contributes to smoother multitasking.

Can I install Google Play Store on Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

No, the Google Play Store is not natively supported on the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 or any Fire tablet. While there are unofficial workarounds to sideload it, these are not supported by Amazon and may have stability issues.

What is the battery life of the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 offers up to 12 hours of mixed-use battery life, including reading, browsing, and video streaming. Tcl 40 X 5G Review

Is the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 suitable for gaming?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is suitable for casual games and many popular titles from the Amazon Appstore.

For graphically intensive games, you might experience lower frame rates and longer load times.

What is Show Mode on the Fire HD 10 Plus?

Show Mode transforms the Fire HD 10 Plus into an Echo Show-like smart display, allowing you to use Alexa voice commands, view visual responses, and control smart home devices when docked or idle.

Does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 come with a charger?

Yes, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 comes with a 9W USB-C power adapter in the box.

Can I use a stylus with the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

Yes, you can use a universal capacitive stylus with the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 for basic navigation and drawing, but it does not support active styluses like the Apple Pencil or S Pen with pressure sensitivity.

What storage options are available for the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is available with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, both of which are expandable up to 1TB via a microSD card.

Is the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 good for reading e-books?

Yes, with its 10.1-inch Full HD display and decent brightness, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is excellent for reading e-books, digital magazines, and graphic novels, offering more screen real estate than a dedicated e-reader.

What is the difference between Fire HD 10 and Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

The main differences between the Fire HD 10 and Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 are that the Plus model has 4GB of RAM vs. 3GB, supports wireless charging, and has a slightly brighter display.

Does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 have a headphone jack?

Yes, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 features a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing you to use wired headphones.

Can I connect a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse to the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

Yes, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily pair a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse for improved productivity. Brother Mfc L3780Cdw Review

What kind of processor does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 use?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is powered by a MediaTek Helio P60T octa-core processor clocked at 2.0 GHz.

Are popular streaming apps available on the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

Yes, most major streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and of course, Prime Video, are available and function well on the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 through the Amazon Appstore.

Is the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 waterproof?

No, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is not waterproof and does not have any official IP rating for water or dust resistance.

What is the camera quality like on the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 features a 2MP front-facing camera and a 5MP rear-facing camera.

They are suitable for video calls and basic utility but are not designed for high-quality photography.

Can I use the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 for online schooling or video conferences?

Yes, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 can be used for online schooling and video conferences with apps like Zoom or Google Meet, though the 2MP front camera provides basic quality.

Does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 support screen mirroring?

Yes, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 supports Miracast for screen mirroring to compatible smart TVs or display receivers.

How much does the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 cost?

The price of the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 typically ranges from $150 to $200, depending on the storage configuration and whether it includes ads.

Is the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 durable for kids?

While not specifically ruggedized, its plastic build makes it reasonably durable for kids, especially when paired with a protective case.

Amazon also offers a Kids Edition with a robust case and warranty. Msi Nvidia Geforce Gtx 1630 Aero Itx 4G Oc Review

Can I access Microsoft Office apps on the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

Yes, Microsoft Office apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are available for download from the Amazon Appstore and function well for light productivity tasks.

What is the resolution of the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 display?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 features a 10.1-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels Full HD.

Does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 have an ambient light sensor?

Yes, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 has an ambient light sensor, allowing the screen brightness to automatically adjust to your environment.

Can I use Alexa hands-free on the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

Yes, with the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021, you can use Alexa hands-free, simply by saying the wake word “Alexa” even when the screen is off or the tablet is in Show Mode.

Is the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 good for browsing the web?

Yes, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is good for web browsing, thanks to its 4GB of RAM and the Silk browser, providing a relatively smooth experience for general use.

Does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 come with ads?

Like other Fire tablets, the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is typically sold with “Special Offers,” which display ads on the lock screen.

You can pay a bit extra to get the ad-free version.

What is the maximum expandable storage for the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 supports microSD cards up to 1TB for expandable storage.

How does the Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 compare to an iPad?

The Fire HD 10 Plus 2021 is a budget-friendly tablet primarily for media consumption and Amazon’s ecosystem, while an iPad like the Apple iPad Air 5th Gen offers significantly more power, a wider app selection, and a premium build quality at a much higher price point.undefined

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