The Nextbook Ares 8 was once a popular budget tablet option, aiming to provide basic functionality at an affordable price point. But in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, where new tablets emerge constantly, it’s crucial to re-evaluate older models and determine if they still hold up. This comprehensive review will delve into the Nextbook Ares 8’s specifications, performance, user experience, and ultimately, whether it’s a worthwhile purchase in the current market.
Nextbook Ares 8: Unpacking The Specifications
Understanding the technical specifications is the foundation for evaluating any device. The Ares 8, at its core, is an entry-level tablet. Let’s examine its key components.
Display And Design
The Nextbook Ares 8 features an 8-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1280×800 pixels. This resolution translates to a pixel density that might appear somewhat dated compared to modern high-resolution displays. The screen’s sharpness is acceptable for basic tasks like browsing and reading, but it may not be ideal for viewing detailed images or videos.
The design is fairly standard for a budget tablet. It’s primarily constructed of plastic, which contributes to its light weight but also makes it feel less premium than more expensive devices. The bezels surrounding the screen are relatively thick, which is a common characteristic of tablets in this price range.
Processing Power And Memory
At the heart of the Ares 8 is a quad-core Intel Atom processor. While sufficient for basic tasks, this processor is not designed for demanding applications or heavy multitasking. It’s typically paired with 1GB of RAM, which is a significant limitation in today’s multitasking environment. Expect to experience slowdowns and lag when running multiple apps simultaneously or when browsing websites with numerous images or scripts.
Storage Capacity
The tablet typically comes with 16GB of internal storage. A portion of this storage is occupied by the operating system and pre-installed apps, leaving limited space for user files. Fortunately, the Ares 8 includes a microSD card slot, allowing users to expand storage capacity and store photos, videos, and other files.
Operating System
The Nextbook Ares 8 often ships with an older version of Android. This is a significant drawback, as older operating systems may lack the latest security patches, features, and app compatibility. Furthermore, the manufacturer may not provide updates to newer Android versions, leaving users vulnerable and missing out on improvements.
Camera Capabilities
The Ares 8 includes front and rear-facing cameras. However, the image quality is generally poor. The cameras are primarily intended for basic video calls and quick snapshots, and they are not suitable for capturing high-quality photos or videos.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor for any mobile device. The Nextbook Ares 8 typically offers moderate battery performance. Depending on usage patterns, you can expect to get several hours of use on a single charge. However, demanding tasks like gaming or video streaming will drain the battery more quickly.
Performance In Real-World Scenarios
Specifications only tell part of the story. It’s essential to examine how the Nextbook Ares 8 performs in everyday situations.
Web Browsing And Email
For basic web browsing and email, the Ares 8 is generally adequate. However, loading times can be slow, especially on websites with heavy graphics or scripts. The limited RAM can also cause tabs to reload frequently, disrupting the browsing experience.
Video Playback
The Ares 8 can handle standard definition video playback without significant issues. However, high-resolution videos may stutter or lag, especially if other apps are running in the background. The screen’s resolution may also detract from the viewing experience compared to higher-resolution displays.
Gaming
Gaming on the Nextbook Ares 8 is limited to simple, less demanding titles. More graphically intensive games will likely experience significant lag and low frame rates, making them unplayable. The limited RAM and processing power are simply not sufficient for modern mobile games.
Productivity Tasks
While the Ares 8 can be used for basic productivity tasks like document editing and spreadsheet creation, it’s not ideal. The small screen size and limited processing power can make these tasks cumbersome. Using a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse can improve the experience, but it still falls short of a dedicated productivity device.
The User Experience: Pros And Cons
Beyond performance, the overall user experience is a vital consideration.
Pros
- Affordable Price: The primary advantage of the Nextbook Ares 8 is its low cost. It’s one of the most budget-friendly tablets available.
- Lightweight Design: Its plastic construction makes it lightweight and easy to carry around.
- Expandable Storage: The microSD card slot allows users to expand storage capacity.
- Decent Battery Life (for basic use): For light usage, the battery life is adequate.
Cons
- Outdated Operating System: Running an older version of Android is a major drawback.
- Limited Performance: The processor and RAM are insufficient for demanding tasks.
- Low-Resolution Display: The screen resolution is low compared to modern tablets.
- Poor Camera Quality: The cameras are not suitable for capturing high-quality photos or videos.
- Build Quality: The plastic construction feels cheap and flimsy.
Alternatives To The Nextbook Ares 8
Given the limitations of the Nextbook Ares 8, it’s crucial to consider alternative tablets in the same price range. There are other budget-friendly options that offer better performance, features, and user experience. Some popular alternatives include tablets from Amazon Fire and Lenovo, which frequently offer deals that make their products very competitive in the budget sector. These alternatives often have newer operating systems and more powerful processors than the Ares 8.
The Verdict: Is The Nextbook Ares 8 A Good Tablet In Today’s Market?
In conclusion, the Nextbook Ares 8 is difficult to recommend in today’s market. While its low price is appealing, the outdated operating system, limited performance, low-resolution display, and poor camera quality make it a poor choice compared to other budget-friendly tablets.
Even for basic tasks, the Ares 8 struggles to deliver a smooth and responsive experience. The limited RAM and processing power result in lag and slowdowns, while the older operating system lacks the latest features and security updates.
For a slightly higher price, you can find tablets from reputable brands that offer significantly better performance, features, and overall user experience. Investing in a more capable tablet will ultimately provide a more satisfying and productive experience. Therefore, unless you are on an extremely tight budget and only need a tablet for the most basic tasks, it’s advisable to consider alternative options. The technology advancements in recent years have created better options that offer better value for your money.
What Are The Key Specifications Of The Nextbook Ares 8 Tablet?
The Nextbook Ares 8 features an 8-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1280×800 pixels. It’s powered by a quad-core Intel Atom Z3735G processor clocked at 1.83 GHz, coupled with 1 GB of RAM. It includes 16 GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card slot. In terms of connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0. It also has a microUSB port for charging and data transfer.
The tablet also comes equipped with a 2-megapixel rear camera and a 0.3-megapixel front-facing camera. It runs on Android 5.0 Lollipop, a relatively outdated operating system. Battery life is estimated to be around 5-6 hours with typical usage, which includes web browsing and video playback. It’s important to note that these specifications are quite basic by today’s standards.
What Are The Biggest Limitations Of Using The Nextbook Ares 8 In 2024?
One of the most significant drawbacks of the Nextbook Ares 8 is its outdated operating system, Android 5.0 Lollipop. This older version lacks many of the security updates and features found in more modern Android versions. Consequently, users may encounter compatibility issues with newer apps, leaving them unable to access certain services or functionalities. Furthermore, security vulnerabilities associated with older operating systems pose a risk to user data and privacy.
The tablet’s limited RAM (1 GB) and processing power can also lead to slow performance and lag, especially when running multiple apps or engaging in demanding tasks such as gaming or video editing. While the expandable storage is a plus, the base 16 GB of internal storage might be insufficient for users who require a lot of space for apps, media, and files. The low-resolution cameras are also unlikely to provide satisfactory image quality by modern standards.
How Does The Nextbook Ares 8’s Display Compare To Current Tablet Offerings?
The Nextbook Ares 8’s 8-inch IPS display with a 1280×800 resolution offers decent viewing angles and color reproduction, but it falls short when compared to modern tablet displays. The resolution is relatively low, resulting in lower pixel density and potentially less sharp image quality than what is commonly found in current tablets. Many modern tablets offer resolutions of 1920×1200 or higher, leading to a much sharper and more detailed viewing experience.
Furthermore, modern displays often feature additional technologies such as anti-glare coatings, higher brightness levels, and wider color gamuts, all of which contribute to a superior visual experience. The Nextbook Ares 8 lacks these advanced features, making its display appear somewhat dated in comparison. Therefore, for users who prioritize display quality, the Nextbook Ares 8 might not be a suitable choice.
What Kind Of Performance Can I Expect From The Nextbook Ares 8 For Basic Tasks?
For very basic tasks such as reading ebooks, browsing simple websites, and checking emails, the Nextbook Ares 8 can still function adequately. However, even these basic tasks might experience occasional slowdowns due to the limited RAM and processor. Users need to be mindful of running too many applications simultaneously, as this can quickly lead to performance issues.
When it comes to more demanding tasks like streaming videos, playing games, or using productivity apps, the Nextbook Ares 8 is likely to struggle. Expect longer loading times, occasional stuttering, and potentially even app crashes. It’s important to manage expectations and understand that this tablet is not designed for anything beyond the most basic level of use.
What Are Some Potential Uses For The Nextbook Ares 8 In 2024?
Despite its limitations, the Nextbook Ares 8 could still be useful for specific, undemanding tasks. For example, it could serve as a dedicated ereader or a basic media player for audiobooks or podcasts. Due to its low price point (if purchased used), it might also be suitable as a “throwaway” device for travel or situations where a more expensive tablet could be at risk of damage or theft.
Another potential use case is as a simple digital photo frame or a basic remote control for smart home devices. However, it’s crucial to remember that its performance limitations and outdated operating system will restrict its versatility. Furthermore, ensuring app compatibility and security might present challenges, especially with apps that receive frequent updates.
What Are Some Better Alternatives To The Nextbook Ares 8 In Today’s Market?
Considering the Nextbook Ares 8’s age and limitations, there are numerous better alternatives available in today’s market at various price points. For budget-conscious consumers, options like the Amazon Fire HD 8 or Lenovo Tab M8 offer significantly improved performance, updated operating systems, and better display quality for a similar or slightly higher price.
For users seeking a more premium experience, tablets like the Apple iPad (9th generation or newer) or the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 provide vastly superior performance, better cameras, and access to a wider range of apps and features. These tablets also benefit from ongoing software updates and enhanced security, making them a more future-proof investment. While these premium options come at a higher cost, the overall value and user experience are significantly improved.
Is It Worth Buying A Used Nextbook Ares 8 In 2024?
In most cases, it’s not recommended to buy a used Nextbook Ares 8 in 2024, even if it’s available at a very low price. The tablet’s age means it has outdated hardware, a limited operating system, and potential battery degradation. The performance limitations and lack of software updates will likely lead to a frustrating user experience.
Instead of investing in a used Nextbook Ares 8, it’s generally a better option to save up for a newer, more capable budget tablet. Modern budget tablets offer significantly improved performance, better features, and longer lifespans, providing a much better return on investment in the long run. The potential for frustration and limited functionality make a used Nextbook Ares 8 a questionable purchase in today’s market.