Hotwav R7 Tablet review: a robust continuation of a rugged legacy

The Hotwav R7 tablet arrives as the latest installment in a series of robust, protected devices designed to withstand the rigors of active usage. Known for their resilience, the Hotwav series has previously impressed with models R5 and R6 Pro, and the R7 aims to raise the bar even further.

Design and durability

True to its predecessors, the R7 retains the rugged exterior that has become synonymous with the Hotwav line. Despite its familiar look, the R7 incorporates several notable enhancements in its internal hardware, suggesting a subtle yet significant evolution. The device sports a sturdy body with rubberized edges tailored to absorb shocks, and it's perfectly capable of surviving the occasional dip under water, thanks to its reliable dust and waterproofing.

Display

The Hotwav R7 features a 10.1-inch S-IPS display, boasting a resolution of 1280x800 pixels. While the display sticks to a 60 Hz refresh rate—standard for budget-friendly tablets—it supports multi-touch input for up to ten fingers, which enhances its usability in various outdoor conditions, even with gloves on.

Performance

Under the hood, the Hotwav R7 is powered by the Unisoc T606 processor, a modest chipset that handles everyday tasks with competence. The tablet is equipped with 6 GB of RAM and offers the flexibility to expand this up to 12 GB, a feature that’s particularly handy for users who multitask frequently. Storage is generous, with 256 GB onboard, expandable up to a hefty 2 TB via microSD, ensuring plenty of space for all your apps and media.

Camera and Multimedia

Photography isn’t typically the focus of rugged tablets, and the R7 fits this trend. Both the front and rear cameras are equipped with 16 MP sensors, which perform adequately in good lighting conditions but won’t replace your primary camera. The rear camera setup includes LED flash and autofocus, enhancing its utility for quick shots on the go.

Battery and connectivity

One of the R7’s standout features is its massive 15600 mAh battery, supporting prolonged usage that can extend over a day and a half without needing a recharge. The battery also supports 20W fast charging, which is a nice touch for such a large capacity. The device includes modern necessities such as NFC and comprehensive GPS connectivity options, ensuring you stay connected wherever your adventures take you.

Conclusion

The Hotwav R7 is not just a tablet; it's a reliable companion for those who demand durability without compromising on performance. With its significant battery life and robust build, it continues to uphold the rugged legacy of the Hotwav series, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone in need of a device that can take a beating. Initially priced just over $170 at the start of 2024, the tablet has seen a slight price reduction, making it an even more appealing option in the budget tablet market.

A Historical Overview: Shenzhen Hotwonder Electronic Technology's journey from MP3 players to smartphones

Shenzhen Hotwonder Electronic Technology Co., Ltd, founded in 2008 in Shenzhen, originally started by manufacturing simple digital electronics like MP3 and MP4 players. The company later expanded its product range to include tablet computers and eventually smartphones. Despite starting with basic devices, Hotwav began selling smartphones under its own brand around 2015, focusing on entry-level models.

Hotwonder's main market focus has been on Southeast Asia and South America, serving lesser-known brands such as Maxwest, Xion, SKK, Ecopover, Vitel, and Vicini. Interestingly, Maxwest has occasionally appeared in some CIS countries' markets. Despite its modest size of about 500 employees, Hotwonder maintains its headquarters in Shenzhen and manages to operate an R&D department, though it does not have international offices.