The Amazon Fire Max 11 was one of my favorite Android tablets released in recent memory. It’s well-priced, portable, and has a good selection of accessories. With a bit of patience, you can add Google Play to make it more usable. However, after revisiting the Fire Max 11 a year later, one glaring issue immediately stood out: its 60Hz refresh rate.
In a world where even budget Android smartphones boast higher refresh rates of 90Hz, 120Hz, or even 144Hz, the Fire Max 11’s 60Hz display feels like a step back in time. Scrolling through web pages in Chrome or Amazon’s Silk Browser reveals a noticeable blurriness as text struggles to keep up with the scrolling motion. While users coming from a 60Hz screen might not notice the difference, anyone accustomed to higher refresh rates will find it hard to go back. Higher refresh rates enhance the visual experience, making content appear smoother and more comfortable to view for extended periods. In mid-2024, it’s a feature that’s becoming increasingly essential, and the Fire Max 11’s lack of it is a significant drawback.
The outdated three-button Android control system was another initial annoyance, further adding to the dated feel of the tablet. Thankfully, after software updates, Android gesture controls arrived, finally addressing this shortcoming. However, the 60Hz refresh rate remains a major hurdle, making the Fire Max 11 feel significantly older than its release date.
Beyond the screen and software quirks, the Fire Max 11’s easily-fitted keyboard stands out as a significant advantage. It transforms the tablet into a surprisingly capable work companion. The keyboard offers a pleasant typing experience with well-spaced keys and decent travel, allowing for quick and comfortable typing. However, the clicky touchpad lacks accuracy, and the small Enter key requires some adjustment. The keyboard’s magnetic attachment also makes it a bit wobbly when used on a lap, although it provides a sturdy base for desk usage.
Overall, the Fire Max 11’s keyboard enhances its productivity potential, but its wobbly nature on a lap and the outdated screen technology somewhat detract from its overall experience.
At $330 for the tablet, keyboard, and stylus, the Fire Max 11 remains a compelling value proposition. It excels at watching Amazon videos, reading Kindle books, and shopping on the Amazon store. It can also handle casual gaming without any issues. While it’s not a performance powerhouse like the iPad Pro M4, it’s not meant to be.
The Fire Max 11’s biggest caveat is its reliance on Amazon’s customized version of Android and the Amazon App Store. The software feels dated and lacks visual appeal. The App Store is sparsely populated compared to Google Play, and ads are prevalent throughout the system. The Silk Browser is a pale imitation of Chrome or other modern browsers.
To maximize the Fire Max 11’s potential, installing Google Play is essential. It’s a straightforward process and unlocks the full capabilities of the tablet, allowing users to access a wider range of apps and services. Without Google Play, the Fire Max 11 loses much of its utility, especially for productivity tasks.
Despite its limitations, the Fire Max 11 remains a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a versatile tablet for entertainment and everyday tasks. It’s a solid choice for users who can live with Amazon’s software and prioritize affordability over the latest features. While the 60Hz screen is a major drawback, the tablet’s overall value proposition and its compatibility with Google Play make it a worthy contender in the crowded tablet market.
