So far, most of our articles have focused on the ZenFone2. We want to expand upon that and give everyone a look at other devices from the Zen family. Specifically, this article will highlight the ZenPad 8.0, a lightweight Android tablet with a crisp, responsive screen, and made for those who want a device that gives them a great experience at incredible value.

UNBOX THERAPY

Opening up the box we’re greeted by the sealed ZenPad (I love just peeling away all that protective film!), charging brick rated at 1.35A, microUSB cable, and documentation. Immediately lifting up the device, I was pleasantly surprised how lightweight, yet sturdy, it felt. It doesn’t feel toy-like at all. Looking around the ZenPad, I also noticed how clean the lines were – this is a sexy-looking tablet!

SPECS

• Android 5.0 (Lollipop)
• 8” IPS Panel WXGA (1280×800 Resolution)
• 1GB Memory
• 16GB Storage + 100GB of Google Drive space for 2 years FREE
• .3MP Front Camera and 2MP Rear Camera
• Front-Facing Speaker with DTS HD Premium Sound
• MicroUSB, Audio/Headphone Jack, and MicroSD Card Reader up to 64GB
• Up to 9hrs of Battery Life
• .77 lbs

OVERVIEW

I’ve had the whole weekend to play with this device and feel like it’s a tablet that anyone can use because of its ability to handle multi-tasking well, its bright and clear screen, and how portable the device is. It can definitely be used for simple browsing, light work, and play.

Design-wise, the ZenPad 8.0 looks and feels awesome. It’s a good size for someone who wants it for reading ebooks or just to browse. The weight was never an issue to begin with and the texture on the back cover, which is replaceable, was actually welcomed. The ZenPad 8.0 comes in three colors: Black, Metallic, and White. There hasn’t been any word from HQ regarding the availability of back cover accessories, but stay tuned!

Despite only have 1GB of memory, the ZenPad handles normal tasks with ease. To test the CPU, and graphics, I played Sonic Dash and Asphalt 8: Airborne. Both were playable and with Asphalt, I did notice dropped framerates, which is quite understandable since the game is much more taxing.

While watching YouTube videos, playing games and browsing, the ZenPad 8.0 delivered a pleasant experience visually and audibly. The front-facing speaker was clear and didn’t sound very tinny either which was awesome.The 8” display’s brightness and clarity was also a good experience as well. Text on websites looked clean and the responsiveness of the digitizer made it easy to navigate through windows, pinch-zoom, and play.

In all, the tablet was a lot of fun to use! Though it won’t be able to handle the most demanding games that require more power and speed, it can handle daily tasks like writing emails, and enjoying your movies and shows on Netflix, and browsing for your favorite recipes. At a mere $129, this tablet offers amazing value given the specs and performance. It definitely won’t break the bank, and you’ll be able to have all your entertainment in the palm of your hands.

Buy one today