Review: Asus Memo Pad 8 (ME181C)
Given the last few Apple events, you’d be forgiven if you think that the only tablets out there come from Apple. But Asus is a legitimate player in this market and the Memo Pad 8 is a good example of this. The ASUS MeMO Pad 8 features a nice design. The tablet has rounded corners and a matte-plastic, soft-touch finish over a subtle criss-cross pattern. It’s easy to hold, but if you want to hold it with one hand, you might have a problem if you have small hands. Asus sent me a review unit in black, but shoppers looking for a little color can choose from white, purple and gold as well. One thing I really like is fingerprints on the back don’t exist. However you will see fingerprints are on the screen. Speaking of the screen, it’s a 8-inch, 1280 x 800 IPS display with LED backlighting, providing wide viewing angles and a wonderfully bright screen.
In terms of specs, you get the following:
- 1.33 GHz Intel Atom CPU
- 1GB of RAM
- 16 GB of flash storage expandable to 64GB via MicroSD
- Android KitKat 4.4
- 802.11 B/G/N
- Bluetooth 4.0
The Memo Pad 8 brings a combination of Android KitKat 4.4 and a custom skin by Asus called ZenUI. Android basics such as swiping down from the top for notifications are still there, but ZenUI features a modern graphic design and the ability to quickly move between a customized list of quick settings and the notifications tab. It works very well. Performance is pretty good as well. I couldn’t get it to trip up over itself which means that you’ll be happy using this tablet every day.
The MeMO Pad 8 features a 5MP rear-camera and a 2MP front-shooter. The 5MP camera can also capture 1080p, 30 fps video. Now to test the rear camera, I headed to Pearson Airport in Toronto. First, here’s the still picture. Click to see it in full resolution:
The quality is not bad. Now here’s the video. Set it to full screen and 1080p:
The video quality isn’t bad. Though it did have autofocus issues. Also the microphone was overwhelmed by the slight breeze.
Battery life is outstanding. Asus says you should get about 9 hours. I got 10 when I tested it by surfing and playing YouTube videos. That’s one thing that may make you want to run out to get this tablet. Another thing that may make you want to get this tablet is the price. It’s $299 CDN or $200 US. That’s a great price for what you get. One thing to consider is that Asus makes a 7″ Memo Pad with the same specs that goes for about $50 less money. If it were me, I’d spring for the Memo Pad 8 as it’s only a nominal price difference that’s very much worth it. The Memo Pad 8 is very much worth checking out if you’re in the market for an Android tablet.
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