The Honor Pad X8a NDL-W09, in Space Grey, arrived on my desk promising an immersive 11-inch display, powerful performance, and long battery life. Having spent several weeks putting it through its paces, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review of this budget-friendly Android tablet.

The Honor Pad X8a boasts a vibrant 11-inch TFT LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and 400 nits of brightness. This made watching videos and playing games a truly enjoyable experience. The 6nm Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 octa-core processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, handled multitasking with surprising ease. While not a powerhouse, it comfortably handled most everyday tasks and lighter gaming. The 5100 mAh battery easily lasted a full day on a single charge, even with extended use. The included flip cover adds a nice touch of protection and functionality.

Audio quality was also surprisingly good, thanks to the stereo speakers featuring 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless Audio support. The sound was clear and full, even at higher volumes. The build quality felt solid, with a sleek aluminum frame and back, and the overall weight of 495g made it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The 5MP rear and front cameras are adequate for video calls and casual snapshots but lack the sophistication for professional photography.

In daily use, the Honor Pad X8a performed admirably. Browsing the web was smooth and responsive, and switching between multiple apps was seamless. While demanding games might show some occasional lag, less graphically intensive titles ran smoothly. The 90Hz refresh rate on the display made scrolling through menus and browsing websites a noticeably smoother experience compared to tablets with lower refresh rates. Battery life consistently exceeded my expectations, often lasting well into the next day on a single charge. This makes it ideal for travel or extended usage without needing to constantly search for power outlets.

The lack of expandable storage could be a limiting factor for users who store a large number of files or apps. However, the 128GB of internal storage is sufficient for many users. I found the absence of cellular connectivity somewhat limiting, but for Wi-Fi-centric users, this isn’t a major drawback. The Android operating system provided a user-friendly experience.

Pros:

• Vibrant 11-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate
• Smooth performance for everyday tasks and lighter gaming
• Excellent battery life
• Good audio quality
• Sleek and lightweight design
• Includes a free flip cover

Cons:

• No expandable memory
• No cellular connectivity
• Cameras are average quality

The Honor Pad X8a NDL-W09 offers excellent value for its price. The combination of a stunning display, smooth performance, and long-lasting battery makes it a compelling option for users seeking a budget-friendly 11-inch Android tablet. While it has a few limitations, such as the lack of expandable storage and average camera quality, these drawbacks are outweighed by its numerous strengths. If you’re looking for a reliable tablet for media consumption, casual gaming, and everyday tasks, the Honor Pad X8a is a solid choice. I would recommend this tablet to those with modest budgets who seek functionality in a well-built package.