Review: HP Mesquite Android Tablet

Retailing for less than $100, the HP Mesquite 7 stands out as a premier budget-friendly Android device. While Hewlett-Packard has previously offered heavily discounted hardware during clearance events, this model represents the company’s first intentional move into the sub-$100 market.

**Design and Build**
While HP offers several affordable tablets, the Mesquite—also identified as the HP 7 (Model 1800)—is unique for featuring an Intel processor. Internally, the device utilizes a 1.6GHz Intel Atom Z2460 chip supported by 1GB of RAM and 5.1GB of onboard storage, which can be expanded via a microSD slot. Hardware features include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, a microphone, and a basic VGA front-facing camera.

The physical design consists of a matte white back that is prone to smudges and a standard glossy black front. The exterior is minimalist; the front is dominated by the display and a centered webcam, while the curved rear houses the speaker and memory card expansion. Connectivity ports and controls are located on the left and upper-left edges. Despite its low price, the build quality feels substantial with tight seams and smooth edges. However, its weight makes it slightly cumbersome for extended one-handed use, such as e-reading, without an accessory for better grip.

**Display**
The 7-inch screen features a 1024 x 600 resolution, matching the original Kindle Fire. Color reproduction is surprisingly vibrant for this price tier, avoiding the washed-out look common in competitors. The backlight offers a broad range of dimness, though it lacks the high-end luminosity of more expensive tablets. While horizontal viewing angles are wide enough for group viewing, vertical angles are limited, with colors shifting significantly if tilted more than 20 degrees.

**Camera and Battery Life**
The tablet includes a single VGA camera, which provides poor image quality and is largely’unsuitable for serious photography. Battery performance, however, is a highlight. While many budget tablets struggle to last more than two hours, the Mesquite reaches its advertised five-hour mark even during high-resolution video playback. Standby time is approximately two to three days. Users might further optimize longevity by installing third-party power management tools.

**Software and Performance**
The device operates on a nearly stock version of Android 4.1. This operating system is several versions behind current standards but remains functional and stable. HP has included its ePrint app for wireless printing, though users may prefer the more comprehensive HP All-in-One app available on the Play Store. One minor software drawback is the lack of a comprehensive quick-settings menu, though this can be addressed with third-party apps.

On paper, the single-core Intel Atom CPU might seem inferior to the multi-core ARM chips found in rival devices. Real-world testing tells a different story; the x86 architecture proves efficient, earning an Antutu score of 11,120. In practice, the tablet is responsive, handles casual gaming like Angry Birds with ease, and features a reliable touchscreen.

**Media Experience**
Audio and video performance are somewhat inconsistent. While the internal player successfully rendered high-definition video files with synced audio, the interface is extremely sparse. Furthermore, the pre-installed YouTube app exhibited sluggish loading times and required a manual cache clear to function correctly. These software quirks suggest that while the hardware is capable, the out-of-the-box media experience is unpolished.

**Final Verdict**
The HP Mesquite sacrifices certain features, such as HDMI ports or additional USB connectivity, and runs an older version of Android. Nevertheless, it remains a compelling choice due to its durable construction, reliable performance, and respectable battery life. For consumers seeking a functional tablet under $100, it remains one of the more dependable options available.