[Linjeakel]

I bought a 7" Fire HD when they came out here back in September 2012. Now they've finally released the 8.9" version. BUT there's no 4G option here (yet?), only wi-fi.

So. Is it worth trading up to the larger version? I mostly use it for streaming videos - which surprises me greatly as I thought that would be the last thing I would use it for. So a larger screen with better resolution would seem like an advantage. The disadvantage is the extra weight - I tend to watch holding the device in my hands. Any other advantages?

Of course, as a Mod (Junior Grade), I really should have access to all the different Kindle devices, so it's kind of my duty really ..... 

Those of you who've used both sizes - are the improvements worth spending £270 (about US$410) for? (The same model would cost $314 in the US - don't get me started...  )

 

[Ann in Arlington]

The larger screen will be nicer for Videos -- whether it's as much nicer as the additional cost is hard to say.  The HD7 has a pretty darn good screen and if you're the only one watching it. . . . .

Honestly, except that as Mod(JG) you need to have access to all the technology, I'd say to skip it.  I splurged for my HD8.9/4G but if I was only allowed to have one, I'd probably choose the HD7.

Sacrilege, I know.  

The larger screen is definitely better for large format Fire optimized magazines -- you don't need to do as much zooming to read things or put it in 'article' mode.  Also better for web pages, for the same reason. 

 

[Guest]

LinJeakel

The difference in screen between HD 8.9" and HD 7" is much less than between HD 7" and non-HD Tablets.

It's not really worth the update.

Bigger screen and higher resolution will be good for movies. Also for websurfing etc. However, the device will be harder to hold.

You can just wait a month or two.

iPad Mini or perhaps the economy seems to be really hammering large tablet sales (including iPad and Nook HD+ and Fire HD 8.9"). WOuldn't be a suprice to see more price cuts soon.

 

[Linjeakel]

Thanks, Ann & abhi.

I don't think I'm likely to go down the Apple route again. I do have the original iPad but hardly ever used it - certainly not enough to justify the whopping price tag, but I find I use the Fire all the time.

In fact, I've been happy with the 7" Fire HD, using it a lot more than I thought I would - whether that's because the smaller size suits me better, I'm not sure.

Hmmm. I think, on balance, I'll try to keep my itchy trigger finger under control and not be tempted to give in and 'one click' my way to an 8.9" - maybe wait and see what the next generation of Fires bring. 

 

[Cyanide5000]

It's totally worth the upgrade if your watching a lot of video and playing a lot of games! but for just straight up reading....  the 7 is fine

 

[Seamonkey]

I would at least wait for a price reduction, OR the addition of 4G AND a price reduction.  And I do own an 8.9" HD 4G (but not the 7"HD.. I had the original 7" and that is now gifted to a friend, though still on my account).