Archos 80 G9 (512MB + 250GB) Review | 168 Data compared

The Archos 80 G9 review by evad on MoDaCo highlights the tablet as a high-value device delivering a "pure" Android Honeycomb experience at a budget price point. Key advantages include strong 1080p multimedia performance, a functional built-in kickstand, and a "deep sleep" mode that enhances battery life. However, the device features a "cheap" feeling plastic chassis prone to bending and suffers from noticeable lag due to the inclusion of only 512MB of RAM. Despite these compromises, the review recommends the tablet for its 3G expandability, GPS functionality, and overall value.

The SlashGear review highlights the Archos 80 G9 as a competitive, mid-range Android tablet featuring an 8-inch, 4:3 aspect ratio display that excels in browsing and video playback. While the device lacks a premium build, it boasts sturdy construction, a built-in kickstand, and a unique rear slot for an optional 3G USB stick. Performance is driven by a capable dual-core processor running vanilla Android, offering solid value for users. Pros include extensive connectivity with mini HDMI and micro SD, robust video capabilities, and high-speed processing. Cons center on the budget-feeling plastic build, limited viewing angles, and a display that requires high brightness, along with reported sub-optimal Wi-Fi performance.

The Coolsmartphone review of the Archos 80 G9 highlights it as a budget-friendly Android Honeycomb tablet, offering high-end features like a dual-core processor and optional 3G stick for roughly £199. Performance is generally a pro, with smooth 1080p playback and a practical kickstand, although, as a con, heavy web browsing can introduce significant lag. While the, at times, cheap-feeling plastic build and lack of a rear camera are drawbacks, the device’s "deep sleep" mode impressively extends battery life.

The Archos 80 G9, as reviewed by MoDaCo, stands out as a pioneering, budget-friendly 8-inch tablet (1024×768 4:3 display) that brought Android 3.2 Honeycomb to market for under £200. Key pros include a unique 3G USB stick expansion, an integrated kickstand, and solid 1080p video playback capabilities. Performance is largely driven by a quick processor and an efficient "deep sleep" mode for improved battery life. However, the device features only 512MB of RAM, which serves as a major limitation, resulting in performance hits when running demanding applications. Physically, the tablet is described as having a "cheap and plasticky" build quality, a notable con compared to more expensive rivals. While lacking a rear camera, the Archos 80 G9 was deemed an unbeatable value proposition for users prioritizing cost over premium materials.

The TechCrunch review describes the Archos 80 G9 as an affordable, budget-friendly Android Honeycomb tablet ($299) optimized for basic tasks like browsing and media consumption. While offering a solid 1GHz dual-core processor, a built-in kickstand, and optional 3G connectivity, the device is explicitly positioned as a midrange, value-focused alternative rather than a premium slate. Pros include the competitive price point, acceptable performance for light usage, and good portability, with notable hardware features like a microSD slot. However, the tablet is heavily criticized for its "ugly," cheap plastic build quality and poor display viewing angles. Further cons include sluggish performance under heavy multitasking due to limited 512MB RAM and subpar Wi-Fi, making it a functional but unrefined device.

The Archos 80 G9 is positioned as an affordable $300 Android 3.2 Honeycomb tablet featuring strong 1080p video playback, a convenient built-in kickstand, and a unique 3G-ready upgrade slot. However, the device suffers from build quality issues, including a plastic chassis with rough edges, limited viewing angles on the 8-inch display, and poor camera quality. While the TI OMAP 4 processor provides snappy performance, the tablet is hindered by a loose USB charging connection and, despite its value, is described as feeling rushed to market.

The Archos 80 G9 and 101 G9 tablets aimed to provide an affordable Android 3.2 Honeycomb experience, featuring a practical built-in kickstand and support for 1080p video playback. Key pros included unique connectivity options, such as a mini-HDMI port and a specialized slot for an optional 3G USB stick, offering flexibility in cellular data usage. However, the devices suffered from poor build quality, characterized by a flimsy plastic chassis and, specifically on the 80 G9, uncomfortable sharp edges, according to the CNET review. The screens also faced criticism for limited viewing angles, with the 80 G9 exhibiting a noticeable "ripple effect" when the casing was held. Performance issues and unpolished hardware, including a low-quality front camera and loose USB charging ports, further limited the appeal of the tablets. CNET concluded that the design flaws and "buggy" software made them hard to recommend over higher-quality alternatives available at the time. Copy

Engadget's 2011 hands-on with the Archos 80 G9 and 101 G9 identified them as budget-friendly Android 3.2 tablets powered by fast 1.5GHz OMAP 4 processors, enabling smooth 1080p playback and featuring unique, affordable 3G stick integration. While offering high-capacity 250GB hard drive options, the tablets suffered from a "chunky" design, excessive heat generation, and unpolished, buggy software experiences. Despite these drawbacks, the devices were presented as functional, value-driven alternatives for media consumers compared to high-end rivals.