Be sure to check our other buying guides, like the Best Tablets, Best iPads, and Best Alexa Speakers. Updated January 2023: We’ve updated the Fire HD 8, Fire HD 8 Plus, and Fire HD 8 Kids tablets to the latest models, and added a new section on useful Fire HD accessories. Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com and our print magazine (if you’d like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day. The Fire HD 10 has a larger screen with more pixels (1080p) than its siblings, making it better for watching videos. And, as with the Fire HD 8, you can shout commands at Alexa from across the room. To use Alexa’s Show Mode, swipe down on the notification overlay and check the Show Mode box. After that, you can set your HD 10 on a stand (if you opt for the Plus model, we like the official wireless charging stand) and it essentially becomes an Echo Show. In the past, we’ve recommended avoiding this one because it was underpowered and the small screen makes it less useful. After a few months of testing, it’s become apparent that the processor is actually good enough—not fast, but it’s fine for web browsing and watching video. The screen, on the other hand, remains small. We still think you’re better off spending $40 more for the Fire 8, but if that’s out of your budget, the new Fire 7 will do. Only buy one of the 11th or 12th Generation Fire tablets. We suggest sticking to the models we talk about in this article (also listed here). Older-model Fire tablets won’t get software updates for as long as the current generation will. You’ll also miss out on the faster processor and more RAM in the newer models. A far better idea is to wait for Prime Day or another sale when you can get the new models at 30 to 50 percent off. Short warranties: Only the Fire HD 10 comes with a full one-year warranty. Oddly, the smaller devices come with 90-day warranties.
