Huawei’s MediaPad tablet series has always been a multimedia powerhouse. Now, the latest MediaPad M5 and M5 Pro are in Malaysia. The narrative is still pretty similar to its predecessor, however, this time around, Huawei is specifically targeting the gamer crowd. Not surprising seeing that mobile devices like Xiaomi’s Black Shark, Razer Phone or ASUS’ ROG Phone are riding the gaming wave.
The new tablets come in two sizes: 8.4-inch for the MediaPad M5 and 10.8-inch for the MediaPad M5 Pro. The display pushes Quad HD+ (2560×1600) resolution and comes in 2.5D glass. ClariVu 5.0 display enhancement technology helps optimise photos and video playback and keep them crisp and clear, at all time.
In terms of audio, Huawei continues to work with Harman Kardon to tune the dual- and quad-speaker setup on the MediaPad M5 and M5 Pro respectively. To complement that, Huawei’s Histen technology brings 3D surround sound for a more immersive audio experience. Audiophiles will be chuffed to know that both tablets support Hi-Res Audio for exceptional sound.
Unfortunately, there’s no headphone jack although Huawei has been kind enough to include a 3.5mm to Type-C adapter in the retail box.
Under the hood, both tablets are powered by the Kirin 960S processor mated to 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Storage is expandable via microSD.
Both tablets pack an 8MP selfie shooter and a 13MP rear shooter.
To keep things running, there’s a 7,500mAh battery on the MediaPad M5 Pro, while its smaller sibling gets a 5,700mAh cell. Huawei says this will deliver up to 12 hours of 1080p video playback.
If you’re low on juice, the tablets will charge up rapidly via USB Type-C thanks to Huawei’s Quick Charge technology. The M5 will charge up fully in just two hours, while the M5 Pro will take under three hours.
Connectivity-wise, there’s 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 as well as 4G LTE connectivity.
The tablets runs Android 8.0 Oreo out-of-the-box with EMUI 8 on top.
So, where does the gaming bit come in? If you’re expecting a purpose-built, ROG Phone-level development from ground up-type of treatment, then you’re going to be disappointed. In fact, you’ll find little or no elements of gaming on the new tablets.
Unless you’re counting the “specifically-tailored” gamepad for the MediaPad M5 that comes bundled with every purchase.
The gamepad is a snap-on accessory that gives you tactile gaming controls ala Nintendo Switch. It’s a little cosmetically-challenged, to be honest, but hey, if it helps you do better in PUBG Mobile, then who cares about looks.
For the MediaPad M5 Pro, you’ll get a flip cover as part of the purchase bundle.
Buyers will also get a six months premium subscription to Viu. Whilst stocks last.
A little stretchy of a positioning as a “gaming tablet” but if anything, it has everything you need out-of-the-box for both play and work.
Pricing and availability
The MediaPad M5 Pro retails for MYR1,899 and comes in Space Gray, while the Media M5 goes for MYR1,499 and is offered in Space Gray and Champagne Gold.
The MediaPad M5 is available for purchase now, while you’ll have to wait till 25 July onwards for the MediaPad M5 Pro.
You can purchase the tablets from all Huawei Experience stores, authorised Huawei retailers and via Huawei’s official store on Lazada Malaysia.
Buy the MediaPad M5 on Lazada Malaysia.
