The Alexa Tablet 12 Pro stands out with its stunning 12-inch display, boasting a resolution of 2800 x 1840 pixels. Amazon has introduced a unique technology called “Nanomatte,” designed to minimize glare while enhancing the tactile experience of the screen. This tablet, priced at 9.99, is one of four new models in the Alexa Tablet series, which ranges from an affordable 9.99 8-inch version to the premium 12 Pro model. Each device promises solid build quality and access to the expansive world of Android apps via the Play Store, albeit with a significant amount of Amazon’s own software pre-installed.
Display and Performance
The Nanomatte technology truly shines, effectively reducing glare without compromising image sharpness. Users will appreciate the minimal reflection, even in bright outdoor settings, making it a pleasure to use for various activities. While the display is impressive, it does have some drawbacks. The anti-glare finish can create a slight shimmer, particularly noticeable with light text on dark backgrounds. Additionally, while the blacks on the Alexa Tablet are decent, they do not match the depth of an iPad’s OLED display. Nevertheless, the tablet offers several display modes that enhance reading and viewing experiences, although some features are limited to specific apps like Kindle.
Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 8400 processor delivers adequate performance for everyday tasks, though it lags behind the latest iPad models in benchmark tests. Users may notice minor slowdowns in certain scenarios, but overall, the tablet handles gaming, streaming, and productivity tasks without significant issues. The audio quality from the four speakers is satisfactory, and while the cameras are functional for video calls, they may not impress in terms of color accuracy.
Software Experience
One of the most significant improvements in the Alexa Tablet is its transition to full Android, moving away from the proprietary operating system of previous Fire tablets. This shift allows users to access the Play Store and enjoy a more refined interface. However, Amazon’s heavy-handed integration of its services can be off-putting. The presence of non-removable widgets promoting Amazon products feels intrusive, especially for users who prefer a cleaner interface. Fortunately, the flexibility of Android allows for customization through third-party launchers, enabling users to tailor their experience.
While Alexa Plus offers some shopping capabilities, it falls short as a robust assistant, often struggling with complex queries. Users are encouraged to switch to Google’s Gemini assistant for a more efficient experience. Once the tablet is customized to reduce Amazon’s influence, it reveals itself as a capable Android device, ideal for media consumption and casual use.
Final Thoughts
In the competitive tablet market, the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro presents a compelling option, particularly for those who prioritize display quality and access to a wide range of apps. While it faces stiff competition from the iPad, which offers superior software and app support, the allure of the Alexa Tablet’s vibrant screen and functionality cannot be overlooked. For users seeking a visually appealing device for reading and streaming, the Alexa Tablet 12 Pro is a strong contender, despite its quirks and limitations.
