Anyone here used the Asus Zenfone 2 Laser ZE551K? What is your opinion on it? Is it good value for what you paid? Or is it full of problems and not worth the trouble?
It is a good phone but the ZE551ML is better. The ZE551KL is currently 229 at B&H Photo but the 4GB/64GB ZE551ML is just 249. If you go with the gray or red versions you get a ZenPower battery pack and a ZenFlash for free; the black one comes with a free ZenPower pack.
I am currently using a ZE551KL while my ZE551ML is off on RMA so I speak from experience. The ZE551KL does not measure up to the ZE551ML: no fast charge, no NFC, less storage, less RAM, worse battery life, slower CPU. I am not saying the ZE551KL is not a good phone by any means, just that for 30 more you can have a much better one.
Hold off for the zenfone 3. I'm using a 551kl right now running unofficial cyanogen 13. And it's pretty smooth. With the right apps installed. But the new line of zenfones are far beyond these ones. They should be on the market soon.
But really...for the money you can't get much better than either variants of the zenfone 2. They're solid units.
Sent from my ASUS_Z00TD using XDA-Developers mobile app
Trotter516 said:
It is a good phone but the ZE551ML is better. The ZE551KL is currently 229 at B&H Photo but the 4GB/64GB ZE551ML is just 249. If you go with the gray or red versions you get a ZenPower battery pack and a ZenFlash for free; the black one comes with a free ZenPower pack.
I am currently using a ZE551KL while my ZE551ML is off on RMA so I speak from experience. The ZE551KL does not measure up to the ZE551ML: no fast charge, no NFC, less storage, less RAM, worse battery life, slower CPU. I am not saying the ZE551KL is not a good phone by any means, just that for 30 more you can have a much better one.
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Yes, the ZE551ML is slightly faster, but the ZE551KL is often 199 at Amazon and other places.
Some minor ZE551KL advantages over ZE551ML:
- The camera module on the ZE551KL is the same as the ZE551ML, except the ZE551KL focuses much faster because of the laser autofocus.
- Gorilla Glass 4 as opposed to 3. (although, that probably doesn't matter much as both phones will readily shatter if they land face down and take a hit near the edge of the glass)
- The battery on the ZE551KL is replaceable
- If you drop the phone and need to replace the glass and display module (~30 dollars on ebay) the process is easier on the ZE551KL due to the user removable battery and single mainboard architecture
Just my personal opinion, but I think the ZE551KL will also get Marshmallow sooner. A model identical except for the RAM already got the update. Since they are dealing with Intel hardware on the ZE551ML, I presume that will give them the most trouble. They even saw fit to change the release date from "Q2 2016" to "starting Q2 2016".
argblah said:
Yes, the ZE551ML is slightly faster, but the ZE551KL is often 199 at Amazon and other places.
Some minor ZE551KL advantages over ZE551ML:
- The camera module on the ZE551KL is the same as the ZE551ML, except the ZE551KL focuses much faster because of the laser autofocus.
- Gorilla Glass 4 as opposed to 3. (although, that probably doesn't matter much as both phones will readily shatter if they land face down and take a hit near the edge of the glass)
- The battery on the ZE551KL is replaceable
- If you drop the phone and need to replace the glass and display module (~30 dollars on ebay) the process is easier on the ZE551KL due to the user removable battery and single mainboard architecture
Just my personal opinion, but I think the ZE551KL will also get Marshmallow sooner. A model identical except for the RAM already got the update. Since they are dealing with Intel hardware on the ZE551ML, I presume that will give them the most trouble. They even saw fit to change the release date from "Q2 2016" to "starting Q2 2016".
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I would not say slightly faster. There is a big difference in performance between the phones. I think it is a shame that Intel has dropped out of the mobile CPU business as their chips are real powerhouses.
- I have not found the ZE551KL to focus any faster in my experience. I seem to get more blurred shots with it than my ZE551ML.
- You are correct. I use tempered glass screen protectors on any phone I have so it is not a big matter to me. Any version of GG is better than none.
- I do like the removable battery but it is not an issue to me. If I seldom stay with a phone long enough for the battery to become an issue.
- I can see that one. My ZE551ML was RMAed due to the glass/display module developing a silver outline from the glue separating/leaking. Had I been smart I would have replaced it myself or had it done locally; after a month without my phone and me emailing and raising some hell Asus has finally offered to give me a replacement as they said they were having trouble getting the parts for mine.
Hold off buying Asus phones in general. Slow to nothing software development from Asus.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
jose makalolot said:
Hold off buying Asus phones in general. Slow to nothing software development from Asus.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
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This is trashdroid, phones get slow or no software updates unless it's Nexus but then you're going to pay much more and lose features like msim or SDcard slot.
Tbh for $200 you can't get better device ( unless it's some xiaomi from China lol ) also if you don't care about warranty you can just go for CM which works rather well on this phone.
I agree with the slow to no software development from Asus. And I have to disagree on the CM alternative: it's only nightlies and some crucial phone functionality are either a hit or miss (e.g. I gave up on it bc my mic wouldnt work properly when using loud speaker).
So, in software terms, it's very bad. But you can live with stock if you root or with CM if you dont need stability.
Hardware wise, it's a good bang for the buck.
danannn said:
I agree with the slow to no software development from Asus. And I have to disagree on the CM alternative: it's only nightlies and some crucial phone functionality are either a hit or miss (e.g. I gave up on it bc my mic wouldnt work properly when using loud speaker).
So, in software terms, it's very bad. But you can live with stock if you root or with CM if you dont need stability.
Hardware wise, it's a good bang for the buck.
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> I gave up on it bc my mic wouldnt work properly when using loud speaker
If you meant low volume then I fixed that some time ago.
Sent from my ASUS_Z00TD using XDA Labs
I have owned both the ML and the KL and I can say without the slightest hesitation that the KL is better overall.
got the 6.0.1 update from asus today for my ze551kl.
beenkenobee said:
got the 6.0.1 update from asus today for my ze551kl.
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9 months after its release
My friend decided to give the ZF2 laser a try. I hope it works well for her. :good:
CCHIPSS said:
My friend decided to give the ZF2 laser a try. I hope it works well for her. :good:
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I'm sure she will be happy with it. I'm using one as well as my ZE551ML and I think it is a pretty good device for $280.00 Canadian. Not quite as fast, but pretty darn good for the value.
Sent from my ASUS_Z00TD using XDA-Developers mobile app
Oh well, just as I posted that MM update was released.
LuK1337 said:
> I gave up on it bc my mic wouldnt work properly when using loud speaker
If you meant low volume then I fixed that some time ago.
Sent from my ASUS_Z00TD using XDA Labs
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Great! I'll give it another shot soon.
Does this phone actually support a 256GB micro SD (as per GSMArena)? Or should her buy a smaller size SD card? =)
Sent from my MT2L03 using XDA-Developers mobile app
CCHIPSS said:
Does this phone actually support a 256GB micro SD (as per GSMArena)? Or should her buy a smaller size SD card? =)
Sent from my MT2L03 using XDA-Developers mobile app
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I don't think you'll find many people who tried 256G sdcard on this device.
CCHIPSS said:
Does this phone actually support a 256GB micro SD (as per GSMArena)? Or should her buy a smaller size SD card? =)
Sent from my MT2L03 using XDA-Developers mobile app
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This phone supports SDXC (like any phone above the 32GB limit SD card size), thus can handle capacities up to 2TB, as long as it is formatted exFAT (for example, at least not FAT32). 256GB is the limit only so far as it is reasonable to barely find 256GB cards out there this year, as 128GB was the limit for the ZE551ML last year. They are just using sizes that would be accessible to consumers.
I wouldn't worry about getting the highest capacity card, unless there is a use case for it. 256GB is a lot of media. I use 64GB MicroSD, and for day-to-day use (not storing TWRP backups), it is plenty.
FWIW, I have both the 551ML (2GB RAM/16GB ROM version) and the 551KL (3/16), although is a tad slower than the former, the latter makes up for it in battery life (which is mostly just a symptom of a "fresh phone", since the 5551ML would have worn down a bit in the past year), although in their prime either could get three days of charge (551KL still seems to edge out, in that the battery is easily replaceable).
BTW, just got the 6.0.1 update.
Related
Lets compare zenfone 2 with one plus one ...
Does zenfone2 oustands oneplus one? ( the 2014 flagship killer)
Or still lags behind the oneplus one which the older 32 bit hardware.
They're both as powerful but ZenFone 2 as ZenUI. And this make the difference for me.
However, if I had to judge the company, OnePlus will be far away ahead of Asus.
Because, let's face it, OnePlus has built an awesome phone wich is still a year later a flagship killer, whereas Asus, for the same price, build a phone that has the same specs and an Intel processor... They failed, and I don't think they will sell as many Zenfone 2 ZE551ML as Oneplus sold OnePlus One
well to each his own haha.. personally i prefer the intel chip for its better web performance.. not to mention the zf2 is cheaper than the OPO
the thing im missing here is the lack of CM and custom roms.. but hopefully its just a matter of time
Neo_N5 said:
They're both as powerful but ZenFone 2 as ZenUI. And this make the difference for me.
However, if I had to judge the company, OnePlus will be far away ahead of Asus.
Because, let's face it, OnePlus has built an awesome phone wich is still a year later a flagship killer, whereas Asus, for the same price, build a phone that has the same specs and an Intel processor... They failed, and I don't think they will sell as many Zenfone 2 ZE551ML as Oneplus sold OnePlus One
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Well asus is a trusted brand and oneplus is new
Asus has a good support here in india just like samsung...
Oneplus has the poorest service in india
I sold my OPO... Very happy with Zf2!
lyeith said:
well to each his own haha.. personally i prefer the intel chip for its better web performance.. not to mention the zf2 is cheaper than the OPO
the thing im missing here is the lack of CM and custom roms.. but hopefully its just a matter of time
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Click to collapse
Intel is good and fast and as relaible as qualcomm
The missing thing is core managent .. As all cores are always online .. .
And yess custom roms should not be much away. .
But the doubt arises when we look at the previous models like zf5 or zf6 which do not have a xda forum as well...
I hope there is developmnt ... Bcoz i cant live with zenui all the time ...
I lovee tweaking the romz
aj7400 said:
Intel is good and fast and as relaible as qualcomm
But the doubt arises when we look at the previous models like zf5 or zf6 which do not have a xda forum as well...
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Intel is fine but has a x86 architecture which makes it harder to have custom ROMS. And ZF5 and 6 were not as powerful as the ZenFone 2
---------- Post added at 09:16 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:58 AM ----------
aj7400 said:
Well asus is a trusted brand and oneplus is new
Asus has a good support here in india just like samsung...
Oneplus has the poorest service in india
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Yes of course but first, I really love the Never Settle mind from OnePlus whereas Asus is just a company like others...
And then in France, ZenFone 2 was announced on March 31th, and it was immediately available for sale. However, shipments really started on April 20th and only in Silver and Red. Black and Gold ZF2 have been delayed.
So I bought on April 12th a black ZenFone 2 on the Asus eShop
1) It was written at this time "shipped before May 6th"
2) Asus Shop didn't give me any information. All I got was coming from French Asus CM on Twitter, and very often, his informations were wrong and incomplete
3) Finally, after more than 1 month waiting, on May 18th, they send me an email telling me that they were unable to send me the black ZE551ML and that they will give my money back. The solution they gave me was to buy a new one in Silver and they gave me an indemnification which was a View FlipCover Deluxe that I already have.
4)I asked them for an another indemnification and they told me Sorry not possible. But they could have known it because I ordred the cover at their store.
5) Finally, I ordered the new one on May 20th, on May 21st I received an email to tell me that the Black so the first one was shipped. So what do I do ? Should I cancel my order ? Then I will loose the poor indemnification...
6)For each email that I send them, it need 1-2 working days to get an answer, and their phone number is charged !
So, with all that stuff, I think that I can say that Asus and particularly their eShop is just incompetent, and I think that if I ordered a OnePlus One I would have already received it.
Moreover, my previous phone was a Nexus 5 and Google support was great.
Neo_N5 said:
Intel is fine but has a x86 architecture which makes it harder to have custom ROMS. And ZF5 and 6 were not as powerful as the ZenFone 2
---------- Post added at 09:16 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:58 AM ----------
Yes of course but first, I really love the Never Settle mind from OnePlus whereas Asus is just a company like others...
And then in France, ZenFone 2 was announced on March 31th, and it was immediately available for sale. However, shipments really started on April 20th and only in Silver and Red. Black and Gold ZF2 have been delayed.
So I bought on April 12th a black ZenFone 2 on the Asus eShop
1) It was written at this time "shipped before May 6th"
2) Asus Shop didn't give me any information. All I got was coming from French Asus CM on Twitter, and very often, his informations were wrong and incomplete
3) Finally, after more than 1 month waiting, on May 18th, they send me an email telling me that they were unable to send me the black ZE551ML and that they will give my money back. The solution they gave me was to buy a new one in Silver and they gave me an indemnification which was a View FlipCover Deluxe that I already have.
4)I asked them for an another indemnification and they told me Sorry not possible. But they could have known it because I ordred the cover at their store.
5) Finally, I ordered the new one on May 20th, on May 21st I received an email to tell me that the Black so the first one was shipped. So what do I do ? Should I cancel my order ? Then I will loose the poor indemnification...
6)For each email that I send them, it need 1-2 working days to get an answer, and their phone number is charged !
So, with all that stuff, I think that I can say that Asus and particularly their eShop is just incompetent, and I think that if I ordered a OnePlus One I would have already received it.
Moreover, my previous phone was a Nexus 5 and Google support was great.
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Bro u dont know how bad the service of oneplus one is in india ...
A minor defect needs 3 months at service centre ...
And a broken screen costs more than 70% of amount of oneplus one ..
So i think going with asus is a better option for people in india
And soon i think devs will start developing roms for zf2 and it could do wonders ..
More over samsung in one of its tablets to be released in futured has used a high end. Intel chipset...
aj7400 said:
Bro u dont know how bad the service of oneplus one is in india ...
A minor defect needs 3 months at service centre ...
And a broken screen costs more than 70% of amount of oneplus one ..
So i think going with asus is a better option for people in india
And soon i think devs will start developing roms for zf2 and it could do wonders ..
More over samsung in one of its tablets to be released in futured has used a high end. Intel chipset...
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Indeed I hope that we will receive developpers attention, maybe CM !!! :fingers-crossed:
I would like to add that when the OPO was launched, it was nearly impossible to get one. Just few people managed to get invitations and buy one. And it makes only one month since we can buy it without an invitation.
The Zenfone 2 had some problems to be launched because of the big demand, but all people who pre-ordered it before 10 april (day of the official launch) received it one month after their order. But It was a way easier to get than the OPO.
Moreover i'd like to point out that according to rumors about the OnePlus 2, the Asus Zenfone 2 is quite the same product, because (again according to rumors) the OP2 is the same as the OPO except the processor.
In my opinion, the Zenfone 2 is a way better product than the OnePlus One.
I came from OnePlus... and I don't regret my decision...
OnePlus has the worst customer service department.
coolmaster121 said:
OnePlus has the worst customer service department.
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Yes thats what i mentioned earlier ...
Thats the only thing that stopped me to buy oneplus 2 months back
Neo_N5 said:
They're both as powerful but ZenFone 2 as ZenUI. And this make the difference for me.
However, if I had to judge the company, OnePlus will be far away ahead of Asus.
Because, let's face it, OnePlus has built an awesome phone wich is still a year later a flagship killer, whereas Asus, for the same price, build a phone that has the same specs and an Intel processor... They failed, and I don't think they will sell as many Zenfone 2 ZE551ML as Oneplus sold OnePlus One
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OnePlus was great with marketing and built a powerful phone, but that's it. It took forever for it to actually be available.
Zenfone 2 will smoke OnePlus One in sales. It won't even be close as Asus is available retail internationally and actually have the clout, presence nd wherewithal to supply the demand.
As to custom ROMs etc... These will come. Zenfone 2 is barely out the gate.
Chinaphonearena said:
OnePlus was great with marketing and built a powerful phone, but that's it. It took forever for it to actually be available.
Zenfone 2 will smoke OnePlus One in sales. It won't even be close as Asus is available retail internationally and actually have the clout, presence nd wherewithal to supply the demand.
As to custom ROMs etc... These will come. Zenfone 2 is barely out the gate.
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Click to collapse
ASUS announced at the 5/19 that sales were at 10MM. OPO sold about a million as of a few months ago.
I had touchscreen problem with OPO since the day I got the phone and their customer service is beyond horrible so IMO Zf2 is already miles ahead of OnePlus.
I've had both since before either launch... And I can say that honestly it's a matter of preference.
They both perform really well, and they're both great phones.
There's no way to say that one flat-out beats the other. Specs are great and all, but the user experience is different, but can be changed based on which ROM/launcher is used.
Harfainx said:
I've had both since before either launch... And I can say that honestly it's a matter of preference.
They both perform really well, and they're both great phones.
There's no way to say that one flat-out beats the other. Specs are great and all, but the user experience is different, but can be changed based on which ROM/launcher is used.
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As long as you get an OPO without lemon touchscreen, the experience is largely comparable.
Battery life and performance are extremely similar.
OPO Pros:
- capacitive keys light up
- better power button placement
- much better developer support
- better display
- louder speakers
- better brightness range
Zf2 pros:
- DSDA
- cheaper
- Quick charging
- Better accessories
- expandable storage
- extra gig of RAM
- better digitizer
The camera quality is a wash. They're quite similar and OPO technically has the better quality sensor but the overall camera software and experience is probably Zf2.
Performance and hardware... Again, largely a wash. The Zf2 technically has the slightly better and faster hardware and more RAM but in practice I imagine the greater ARM optimization due to familiarity levels things.
The quality of the display is better in the OPO and the brightness range is greater but the digitizer tech on that phone completely blows. Very outdated, one crack renders the whole panel useless.
The OPO dual speaker (but still mono) setup gets appreciably louder than Zf2 but since both speakers face the same direction, a holding hand can muffle the sound somewhat more easily than Zf2 back facing speaker.
The capacitive buttons on OPO light up, which is very useful. And the developer support is the best available on Android outside of Nexus devices.
I'm not sure why but the Zf2 is more comfortable to hold in hand than the OPO. I can easily use both one handed but for some reason the slightly shorter (yet slightly thicker and wider) Zf2 is more comfortable than OPO in hand.
OPO feels slightly more premium to me (faux aluminum band I s'pose). Both lack barometers and wireless charging. Zf2 charges a helluva lot faster.
In practice, I've found the Zf2 a better daily driver simply because it's more reliable from a hardware standpoint (I had so many problems with touch recognition on my OPO and typing was a pain) and its thermal performance is much, much, much better. OPO would heat up and throttle often. Zf2 performs in the summer temp and sun much better, throttling far less.
Unless the software experience of open device like OPO is must have, I would definitely recommend Zf2 over it ten times out of ten.
I have both devices.
Zenfone 2 is nice. Love the screen. 4GB of RAM is alright with me!
64GB of storage is plenty for my needs and the price is right at $299 USD.
So far as far as performance they both seem to be about neck and neck.
Camera in my humble "opinion" seems better on the Zenfone 2.
Custom ROMs/bleeding edge ROMs on the OPO is nice and seems to have a nice amount of development.
ZenUI is just OK to me. Google Now launcher went on my Zenfone 2 right away.
Either phone is a great deal for their respective prices.
Win + Win = Win
Customer service from OnePlus has proven a challenge in the past but seems to be getting better daily.
I really don't think either phone is any better than the other. It really is just a matter of taste. For $50 more for the OPO I wouldn't feel hurt spending that over the Zenfone 2 it is still a great phone and has been my daily driver since last July.
I'm still "test driving" the Zenfone 2 and I am impressed with it so far. Only trivial complaint I have is the Asus software/bloat included. It isn't offensive since the phone is easily rooted and Titanium Backup freezes stuff just fine!
Edit:
Don't believe the hype about 5.5" screen on a 5" frame.... This 5.5" phone is actually a little bit bigger than the OnePlus One although you wouldn't notice it unless holding them side by side
OnePlus One battery life totally wins hands down.. No matter what ROM I use, stock, custom etc. Battery life is fairly weak on the Zenfone 2 considering the size of the battery. Thank god for speedy charging
rlaw said:
Both lack barometers and wireless charging. Zf2 charges a helluva lot faster.
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The Zf2 has NFC but lacks wireless charging?
There are several rumors making their rounds where the ram is now being quoted as being 5 or 6 Gb?? can anyone from Asus comment over this?
5-6gb for what :lol: You want your phone to be a supercomputer or something? Planning to play 'Shadow of Mordor' on your phone?
95% (even 99%) people not using upto 4GB. 4GB is more than enough at least for now.
What we really need/want is better battery life and user experience like better camera, better software, better performance, blah blah...
What I want to see Zenfone 3 is 2 (or even 3) days battery life with a 3000mah (or more) battery, 7-10h screen on time. Not 6GB RAM for nothing and 1.5-2h screen on-time.
@ Archmage1809 ... Completely agree on your point...Most of the smartphones who boast on better processors/ram/software sucks in terms of battery.. Lenovo / Gionee are launching phones with 5000mAh...what is the use of a smartphone if it doesnt give better battery backup.
hey now... why should I NOT get to play 'Shadow of Mordor' on my phone given the chance??... just think... you plug your phone with any bigger screen and boom ... every game you ever wanted is right there!!! OTG to connect a mouse and keyboard and you are all set to go ... no need to buy or carry gaming laptops anymore!! ohh the things I could get done if only this comes along! if you can get a replacement of your laptop/tablet/gaming console ...in a neat all in one package ... why the heck not!!
there are other options for better battery life if anyone wants them ... but for 350~400 $ I get an alternative for 1000$ on a minimum..
What is the use of the phone that allows you to play any game you want but in a few hours you have to keep it for charging ?
Yes, No doubt its a great thing that we might get that much amount of ram in some time but without fixing the battery issue which is a necessity that much amount of ram does not make any sense to me.
If they or for that matter any Smartphone manufacturer want to get something right for now that is battery life. If they do and then give us 5/6 gb of ram it would be awesome.
Asus Zenfone 2 4gb model is giving me only 4h screen on time which is not great at all. If you compare it with other phones in the market right now its the worst out of the lot. Battery is the Achilles Heel for this phone.
King_huzi52 said:
What is the use of the phone that allows you to play any game you want but in a few hours you have to keep it for charging ?
Yes, No doubt its a great thing that we might get that much amount of ram in some time but without fixing the battery issue which is a necessity that much amount of ram does not make any sense to me.
If they or for that matter any Smartphone manufacturer want to get something right for now that is battery life. If they do and then give us 5/6 gb of ram it would be awesome.
Asus Zenfone 2 4gb model is giving me only 4h screen on time which is not great at all. If you compare it with other phones in the market right now its the worst out of the lot. Battery is the Achilles Heel for this phone.
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Agree to this and everyone who says battery is a priority.
@op remember why phones were made. To communicate is the first priority, business application, navigation, news, social media and portable camera. The gaming is just at the end of their priority. Why not buy a device solely made and designed for gaming??? A phone is a phone regardless old tech or smartphone, remember why it was built for in the first place.
King_huzi52 said:
What is the use of the phone that allows you to play any game you want but in a few hours you have to keep it for charging ?
Yes, No doubt its a great thing that we might get that much amount of ram in some time but without fixing the battery issue which is a necessity that much amount of ram does not make any sense to me.
If they or for that matter any Smartphone manufacturer want to get something right for now that is battery life. If they do and then give us 5/6 gb of ram it would be awesome.
Asus Zenfone 2 4gb model is giving me only 4h screen on time which is not great at all. If you compare it with other phones in the market right now its the worst out of the lot. Battery is the Achilles Heel for this phone.
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Click to collapse
I get around 4.5 to 5 hours SOT with power nap, greenify, amplify, project T kernal and superZen debloated... With around 18 to 20 standby... You can track my earlier posts here for screenshots as well... So you CAN get more juice if you twist it right... Check that out first...
livewire168 said:
Agree to this and everyone who says battery is a priority.
@op remember why phones were made. To communicate is the first priority, business application, navigation, news, social media and portable camera. The gaming is just at the end of their priority. Why not buy a device solely made and designed for gaming??? A phone is a phone regardless old tech or smartphone, remember why it was built for in the first place.
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Click to collapse
Why buy a phone with 4gb when 1gb versions do all that you wrote above... It's a niche market and and should cater to different people.. Let's say they roll out different versions... One with 6gb ram and the other with 6000mah bat.... Everyone is happy..
Capitalism at it's finest..
SBFarooq said:
Why buy a phone with 4gb when 1gb versions do all that you wrote above... It's a niche market and and should cater to different people.. Let's say they roll out different versions... One with 6gb ram and the other with 6000mah bat.... Everyone is happy..
Capitalism at it's finest..
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Fragmentation is why.
We were lucky that Z00A encompassed so many variants, that the same ROM can be used across the board. Z008, ZF 2E, Laser, Selfie, et cetera, weren't so lucky. That group by and large lost out to the developer treats afforded to Z00A.
Bigger battery -> different form factor -> different model.
To say everyone will happy by having more models, is a misunderstanding. The current dumping of models upset a lot of people when they realized they would be left out this time around.
Rather than upping the obvious eyecatchers like RAM that don't really add much to the phone at this point, I'd rather see a Zenfone 2.1 or whatever they want to call it:
Keep the 4GB and the Z3580 (or go Z3590 if they must)
Do something (anything) to improve battery life
Improve the speaker to match the awesomeness-suggesting grill on the back
Include a higher quality camera module that works well in any app, not just ASUS' own
The current CPU and especially RAM should mean it's pretty futureproof, and by keeping the specs roughly the same custom ROMs for the Z00A can be used. ASUS would save on development costs yet produce a cracking phone that could, for the right price, get ASUS' name out there, which would mean a true Zenfone 3 will have to be good when the time comes if they remain serious about the mobile market.
Well I have my hopes up for a plug and play beast... This phone pushed me into learning about Android and Linux on a programming level.. And thanks to Udemy ..I would be ready for something around next year... Thanks for letting me learn something new.. Especially the information about form factors... Really got a different perspective now... But still.. 6gig would be a hellovathing...
SBFarooq said:
I get around 4.5 to 5 hours SOT with power nap, greenify, amplify, project T kernal and superZen debloated... With around 18 to 20 standby... You can track my earlier posts here for screenshots as well... So you CAN get more juice if you twist it right... Check that out first...
Capitalism at it's finest..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont want to Hijack this thread for an issue I am facing with this phone. But I have tried every possible thing without rooting (as I dont want to void my warranty just yet) But if you have any posts which helps out please advise that I would like to go through it.
Apart from that staying on the topic. No one can make everyone happy. Hence requirements are different for everyone. My priority is Battery as everything else is available in this phone. There are some Gimmicky things which other phones are giving and Asus Zenfone 2 does not have that but I am fine with that.
There are three things which I consider as Cons for this awesome phone..
1. Battery
2. No backlight for capacitive buttons
3. Display is not that bright when at maximum... Check White to Contrast ratio when max.
Bdw as per the NEWS Asus Zenfone 3 would still have 2/4 gb ram not more.
I'd be down for bigger battery but 5gb ram? Don't think we need that in our phones yet.
Frankenberrie said:
I'd be down for bigger battery but 5gb ram? Don't think we need that in our phones yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, 20% more battery life is 10x better than 20% more RAM.
Will PM you later when free..
4gb ddr3 to 4gb ddr4
22nm to 14nm
Is the best way to go
]
SBFarooq said:
Why buy a phone with 4gb when 1gb versions do all that you wrote above... It's a niche market and and should cater to different people.. Let's say they roll out different versions... One with 6gb ram and the other with 6000mah bat.... Everyone is happy..
Capitalism at it's finest..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What your asking is not a niche but a bespoke phone and Asus marketing strategy focuses on mass general market which does not need a bespoke 6gb and 6000mah battery combo. Their lineup and variants with their prices range should have been a dead give away. Maybe try Samsung or HTC which caters to the higher price range and closer to bespoke market.
2GB is fairly sufficient. I have a Huawei Ascend mate 2 with only 16gb internal, 2gb of RAM and a 128gb micro SD and it's more than enough. I did order this device in the 64gb, 4gb ram version and am anxious to see how it is. It's arriving today. If anyone on here has unlocked their bootloader and rooted, would you mind sharing your expierences and or the simplest way to go about this?
MikeyLee said:
2GBis fairly sufficient. I have a Huawei Ascend mate 2 with only 16gb internal, 2gb of RAM and a 128gb micro SD and it's more than enough. I did order this device in the 64gb, 4gb ram version and am anxious to see how it is. It's arriving today. If anyone on here has unlocked their bootloader and rooted, would you mind sharing your expierences and or the simplest way to go about this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't install custom rom yet by unlocking your bootloader. Asus so far has been improving their firmwares almost twice a month if I'm not mistaken and it's getting better as it is. There are rumors that the new fw v2.20.40.127 might be coming out this week with a hefty 123mb more or less file size.
But if the current fw and os does not satisfy you, might I suggest the cm12.1 for zf2 nightly which is one of the most popular roms here and in zentalk and so far as per several user comment the most stable of them all for the zf2 x86 device.
SBFarooq said:
There are several rumors making their rounds where the ram is now being quoted as being 5 or 6 Gb?? can anyone from Asus comment over this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How about 6000 mAh battery? ASUS you feel me?
Here's the link to the USA LeEco Phones. The lesser model looks just like the Max 2, but with crappier internals. Prices seem pretty reasonable, especially for the Pro Model.
http://us.lemall.com/us/leeco_phone/index.html
xphyle1971 said:
Here's the link to the USA LeEco Phones. The lesser model looks just like the Max 2, but with crappier internals. Prices seem pretty reasonable, especially for the Pro Model.
http://us.lemall.com/us/leeco_phone/index.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These are the exact same as the Chinese version of the Le 3S and Le 3 Pro that is much lower priced. The CPU is higher than the LeMax 2 but not by much, camera is also not good due to no OIS but it is a decent camera regardless, and no 2K screen, but their rear camera is supposedly protected by Sapphire glass instead of the cheap plastic lens on the Le Max 2 that cracks super easily.
Le Pro 3 is mostly an improvement over our Le Max 2 (2.5D glass, dual speakers, bigger battery, SD821, larger pixel size for the camera). But for me the bigger, brighter 2K screen, much higher pixel count camera, OIS (not that it does much) and of course cheaper price of the Le Max 2 are more important.
Choosing between importing a Max 2 or just getting the Pro 3 (I'm in the USA) is not an easy decision. I want the slightly bigger screen, and I REALLY want the 2k display, but FHD is enough, realistically, and the way bigger battery and better processor, plus stereo speakers... it's such a tough decision.
HopelesRomantc91 said:
Choosing between importing a Max 2 or just getting the Pro 3 (I'm in the USA) is not an easy decision. I want the slightly bigger screen, and I REALLY want the 2k display, but FHD is enough, realistically, and the way bigger battery and better processor, plus stereo speakers... it's such a tough decision.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the USA and couldn't be happier with the Max 2. Hardware is a beast. Software has some annoying bugs, but I downloaded and installed a rom this weekend (I'm a newb at that stuff) and that fixed EVERY issue I had with it. Couldn't be happier. Not to mention that even with these impressive specs, I'm getting 5-6 hours screen on time every single day without any modifications other than using greenify.
xphyle1971 said:
I'm in the USA and couldn't be happier with the Max 2. Hardware is a beast. Software has some annoying bugs, but I downloaded and installed a rom this weekend (I'm a newb at that stuff) and that fixed EVERY issue I had with it. Couldn't be happier. Not to mention that even with these impressive specs, I'm getting 5-6 hours screen on time every single day without any modifications other than using greenify.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for saying that. Which carrier are you on, and which ROM did you install?
HopelesRomantc91 said:
Thanks for saying that. Which carrier are you on, and which ROM did you install?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Currently using AT&T. No issues whatsoever. Photo autoconfigs as soon as you put the sim card in. The rom I installed was this one:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/le-max-2/development/s18-s19-remix-eui-russa-china-t3470677
Everything that is broken with the factory installed rom (even using the most recent update) is working just fine with this rom. I don't see myself ever changing it.
Xphyle
xphyle1971 said:
I'm in the USA and couldn't be happier with the Max 2. Hardware is a beast. Software has some annoying bugs, but I downloaded and installed a rom this weekend (I'm a newb at that stuff) and that fixed EVERY issue I had with it. Couldn't be happier. Not to mention that even with these impressive specs, I'm getting 5-6 hours screen on time every single day without any modifications other than using greenify.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about the screen on time with stock rom? and the screen on time without using greenify?
Are you having any fingerprint issues?
Screen on time with either rom seems to be about the same. I've not run into any fingerprint issues but many are saying the newer updates from LeEco fixes those issues.
xphyle1971 said:
Here's the link to the USA LeEco Phones. The lesser model looks just like the Max 2, but with crappier internals. Prices seem pretty reasonable, especially for the Pro Model.
http://us.lemall.com/us/leeco_phone/index.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the link. Signed up for the flash sale. Hopefully there are some devs who buy these devices.....
No to decide which model to pull the trigger on . $149 seams like a steal though.
I see there are a few different models of the Max 2 do you have the x821?
I waited too long for the 6GB variant but my patience is at the end now. I recently got the Real Me 1 6GB/128 and that phone is pure bull**** in terms of software (kinda love stock os), crappy iOS looks, bad features like can't see battery sot, no unlock bootloader option for OPPO phones etc. I returned it back to Amazon.
I'm still waiting for the 6GB variant, I already had Redmi Note 5 pro so I wouldn't get that same device again, tired of miui and flashing roms so gave it to my bro.
Should I wait or get the 4GB? 6GB phone launch timeline was Mid June but I don't see it in next sale too. I know nobody knows that in real but I'm desperate to get a new phone. Help or suggestions please? Next phone is Mi A2 which will also be stock Android but no idea when it will be released.
I'm waiting too for the 6gb variant, read somewhere that they started production of the 6gb variant after announcing it, so I guess will take a while, I'm going for the 4gb variant this Thursday because can't wait any longer now!
kewlest22 said:
I'm waiting too for the 6gb variant, read somewhere that they started production of the 6gb variant after announcing it, so I guess will take a while, I'm going for the 4gb variant this Thursday because can't wait any longer now!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I can't wait anymore too. I'm sure I'll regret getting the 4GB model and later will get the 6GB at a loss of selling the older one. Still trying to control myself.
I wish we had more such phones on stock Android.
Daruwalla said:
I think I can't wait anymore too. I'm sure I'll regret getting the 4GB model and later will get the 6GB at a loss of selling the older one. Still trying to control myself.
I wish we had more such phones on stock Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
agreed, I'd have taken realme1 in a heartbeat had it have unlockable bootloader or stock android out of the box.
I too know I'll regret not going for the high end model because the processor is weak and I'm coming from a snapdragon 820 so it'll feel slow for sure, atleast 6gb ram would be a good thing if I could get it
kewlest22 said:
agreed, I'd have taken realme1 in a heartbeat had it have unlockable bootloader or stock android out of the box.
I too know I'll regret not going for the high end model because the processor is weak and I'm coming from a snapdragon 820 so it'll feel slow for sure, atleast 6gb ram would be a good thing if I could get it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's hope we could get one each in the upcoming sale. Good luck.
Daruwalla said:
Let's hope we could get one each in the upcoming sale. Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait for the 6GB version. I have a 3 GB version and am regretting the buy. The software is down right pathetic and buggy. There are stutters all over,its super laggy. I mean, its to the point of being disgusting. The cameras are beyond pathetic. I heard they have a different module on the 6gb version. Also the battery is crappy. The launcher is ****load of crap. And their official forum "zentalk" is well....crap!! I mean, spend your money some where else if you can or wait for the release of Lenovo z5 or Mi8 SE. Telling you guys, dont buy this piece of junk.
Also, My main driver is the OP6, so I suppose this brick's performance comes out even ****tier. Sad part is cashify does not give on offer for this paper weight and for selling on ebay, you require GSTIN. My two cents......Stay away from ASUS only.
mehtasu said:
Wait for the 6GB version. I have a 3 GB version and am regretting the buy. The software is down right pathetic and buggy. There are stutters all over,its super laggy. I mean, its to the point of being disgusting. The cameras are beyond pathetic. I heard they have a different module on the 6gb version. Also the battery is crappy. The launcher is ****load of crap. And their official forum "zentalk" is well....crap!! I mean, spend your money some where else if you can or wait for the release of Lenovo z5 or Mi8 SE. Telling you guys, dont buy this piece of junk.
Also, My main driver is the OP6, so I suppose this brick's performance comes out even ****tier. Sad part is cashify does not give on offer for this paper weight and for selling on ebay, you require GSTIN. My two cents......Stay away from ASUS only.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a very strong review of the phone. I have been using it for more than a month ago and while it doesn't compare to the fastness and quality of the OP6, the Zenfone Pro M1 is a remarkable phone.. The software is definitely not buggy or lagging, the cameras are definitely good in this price range (maybe the front camera is not upto the mark), battery is defintely good giving about 10 hours SOT/2days moderate use. ZENtalk is definitely crap - that's why we have XDA and the launcher can always be replaced with NOVA or LAWNCHAIR. Either you have got a defective phone or you are just trying to bad mouth a very good value for money phone.
spunxhoe said:
That's a very strong review of the phone. I have been using it for more than a month ago and while it doesn't compare to the fastness and quality of the OP6, the Zenfone Pro M1 is a remarkable phone.. The software is definitely not buggy or lagging, the cameras are definitely good in this price range (maybe the front camera is not upto the mark), battery is defintely good giving about 10 hours SOT/2days moderate use. ZENtalk is definitely crap - that's why we have XDA and the launcher can always be replaced with NOVA or LAWNCHAIR. Either you have got a defective phone or you are just trying to bad mouth a very good value for money phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stop being a fanboy, no good comes out of such an attitude. And stop making these insinuations. If you don't agree then say so and leave it at that. Now coming back to the point.Its not remarkable, its down right pathetic. It stutters everywhere except the App drawer. Gosh even the dialer stutters. The google cards stutter,Facebook....don't even get me started on that. Cameras are pathetic and nothing can improve that situation, not even GCAM. It can certainly make it it better but to a limited extent. The battery is not optomized at all. SOT is around 7-8 hours on avg, but the question, that quite pathetic from a 5000 Mah battery. Finger print and Face Unlock is also pathetic and it speaks volume that they had to release three updates to make it work and still can't get them to work properly. My two cent. take it or leave it.
https://www.gizmochina.com/2018/06/21/6gb-ram-asus-zenfone-max-pro-m1-seen-on-flipkart/
Daruwalla said:
I waited too long for the 6GB variant but my patience is at the end now. I recently got the Real Me 1 6GB/128 and that phone is pure bull**** in terms of software (kinda love stock os), crappy iOS looks, bad features like can't see battery sot, no unlock bootloader option for OPPO phones etc. I returned it back to Amazon.
I'm still waiting for the 6GB variant, I already had Redmi Note 5 pro so I wouldn't get that same device again, tired of miui and flashing roms so gave it to my bro.
Should I wait or get the 4GB? 6GB phone launch timeline was Mid June but I don't see it in next sale too. I know nobody knows that in real but I'm desperate to get a new phone. Help or suggestions please? Next phone is Mi A2 which will also be stock Android but no idea when it will be released.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is asus is planning to remove 6GB variant ?
they removed it from their website there is no sign of 6gb variant in indian official website
https://www.asus.com/in/Phone/ZenFone-Max-Pro-ZB601KL/Tech-Specs/
mehtasu said:
Stop being a fanboy, no good comes out of such an attitude. And stop making these insinuations. If you don't agree then say so and leave it at that. Now coming back to the point.Its not remarkable, its down right pathetic. It stutters everywhere except the App drawer. Gosh even the dialer stutters. The google cards stutter,Facebook....don't even get me started on that. Cameras are pathetic and nothing can improve that situation, not even GCAM. It can certainly make it it better but to a limited extent. The battery is not optomized at all. SOT is around 7-8 hours on avg, but the question, that quite pathetic from a 5000 Mah battery. Finger print and Face Unlock is also pathetic and it speaks volume that they had to release three updates to make it work and still can't get them to work properly. My two cent. take it or leave it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahh..well! I gave you my experience. You are free to take it whatever way you want. Maybe you should go through some youtube videos about the Zenfone Max Pro M1.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cqy6H_NpjL0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XAvPnRPTAI
Maybe according to you, they are fanboys too.. Anyways “Never argue with an idiot. They will only bring you down to their level and beat you with experience"....So, I am out of here.. Cheers!
spunxhoe said:
Ahh..well! I gave you my experience. You are free to take it whatever way you want. Maybe you should go through some youtube videos about the Zenfone Max Pro M1.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cqy6H_NpjL0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XAvPnRPTAI
Maybe according to you, they are fanboys too.. Anyways “Never argue with an idiot. They will only bring you down to their level and beat you with experience"....So, I am out of here.. Cheers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, sadly all these review are worthless. They are more concerned about opening the app rather than the experience while using the APP. There is lag and stutter everywhere from the dialer, to google cards to facebook. Everything lags and its horrendous. Anyways, I know how to put in place people who are results of worthless procreation between individuals who were clearly not thinking properly at the time. . Cheers!!
mehtasu said:
Well, sadly all these review are worthless. They are more concerned about opening the app rather than the experience while using the APP. There is lag and stutter everywhere from the dialer, to google cards to facebook. Everything lags and its horrendous. Anyways, I know how to put in place people who are results of worthless procreation between individuals who were clearly not thinking properly at the time. . Cheers!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can you please at least record it when it stutters?
i dont have any stutters problem when using facebook and dialer (and other apps too)
and i dont think its laggy
maybe you have a deffect phone?
sorry for my bad english
aslam31319 said:
Is asus is planning to remove 6GB variant ?
they removed it from their website there is no sign of 6gb variant in indian official website
https://www.asus.com/in/Phone/ZenFone-Max-Pro-ZB601KL/Tech-Specs/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the same, it seems they just fake promised the 6GB model. Anyway, I got Redmi Note 5 pro in the meantime back from my cousin ( just unlocked the bootloader and will flash custom rom to get rid of MIUI) will use it till Asus releases the 6GB version if EVER in future. I think I will be old, get married and couple of kids waiting for this phone.
mehtasu said:
Well, sadly all these review are worthless. They are more concerned about opening the app rather than the experience while using the APP. There is lag and stutter everywhere from the dialer, to google cards to facebook. Everything lags and its horrendous. Anyways, I know how to put in place people who are results of worthless procreation between individuals who were clearly not thinking properly at the time. . Cheers!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't blame Asus, blame Android. Even my Google pixel 2 XL sometimes take blind pictures cause of ram issues or reload apps. I can feel your pain, anything below 4GB ram is unacceptable in today's standard. That's one of the reason I'm waiting for 6GB variant.
I'm actually sold for a 15k phone with near about stock Android. If there's Mi A2 by Xiaomi before Asus releasing it, I will forget Asus and buy that phone.
Main question in topic title… (new or used devices)
How to unlock the bootloader? What's the best maintained and stable ROM out there?
Or should I avoid it?
The device is now currently selling for ₹9000 (presuming you are in India). If you spend a little more the current gen Redmi and Realme devices offer much better specs.
If you still want this phone I would recommend ResRemix, DOT OS, Havoc OS or Pixel Experience.
Nope no never even not in your nightmare..if you want it to became more than worst nightmare
Depends on how much price you're getting, In some websites it goes under 7k with Bank offers and all that, It's a nice device for that price range. If you're going above 8.5k, then look aside, there are better devices in that segment of 10k or under. Hope that helps
Do not buy any Asus phone in 2019 because they do not have LTE band 41 (Sprint / Vodafone In) and even though the SD636 660 and 865 support LTE A, CA does not work. There are software glitches in M1, fewer on 340.
Yes, with discounts and offers it goes around 7k or so right? can anyone suggest better phone in this range? with 5kmah batt full hd screen 3/4gb ram, sd 636 or better
If you NEED big battery AND you live in a well signal area = yes, otherwise, the phone simply sucks.
If you choose this phone, use Havoc, Dot OS for M1 is slow af, and buggy (Titanium backup doesn't work after a while, lots of gcam also force stop), also not so good battery life, just tried it yesterday. Oh, and it's a clean flash, not dirty.
dangquoctrung123 said:
Dot OS for M1 is slow af, and buggy (Titanium backup doesn't work after a while, lots of gcam also force stop), also not so good battery life, just tried it yesterday. Oh, and it's a clean flash, not dirty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the review,
no
go for vivo z1 pro
killerbees19 said:
Main question in topic title… (new or used devices)
How to unlock the bootloader? What's the best maintained and stable ROM out there?
Or should I avoid it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For 8k it's a good Device...with decent development
If you are not particular about custom rom and development, skip this phone. Otherwise it is a good buy.
willmaxXD said:
go for vivo z1 pro
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you're SERIOUSLY recommending a phone thats almost DOUBLE the price?
are your eyes and brain working normally?
hey OP, ignore everything in this thread, go for a gold plated iPhone with diamond touchscreen.
because screw budgets, right?
I would say it depends upon your needs.
I am a person who prefers small to medium sized phones, but wanted a slightly bigger device for reading and media consumption that could still be operated via single hand. Max Pro M1 fit the bill pretty well.
Its got a nice screen, reasonable specs, lightweight stock UI, nice build quality and is affordable.
I found is the camera to be lacklustre, which can somewhat be improved via Google Camera app.
YMMV.
I got 4gb max pro m1 for 7.6k
And running miui10 benchmark 124000
Is it good buy or what?
gknaidu said:
I got 4gb max pro m1 for 7.6k
And running miui10 benchmark 124000
Is it good buy or what?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For 7.6k its definitely good buy,redmi note 6 pro with same SoC is 11-12k.
I bought the 3/32GB variant for Rs 6,066 after all the Bank Discounts and an exchange. So far, it's proving to be a good purchase. I'm really impressed with the battery life on it. The UI is smooth being stock Android. I've added a 64GB Micro SD card. It works than my brother's Redmi Note 5 Pro. The Front Camera is where it lacks but apart from that it's great.
Bought this phone in February this year for my mother, the price itself in Indonesia is quite a good deal if we consider its mid-class spec.
But... turns out it is a big disappointment. My mom only uses this phone for about 2 months and after that, she doesn't want to use it anymore, even she beg me to have her old Redmi Note 4 back instead of continuing using it (too bad, I already sold her old RN4). She said, this phone is too minimalist, the camera is very bad, no convenient features and the stock UI is simply boring.
So, she handed it back to me and I bought her the Galaxy M20 for a replacement and she is very happy with it. Now, this phone becomes my test phone to play with several custom ROM from our talented dev here in XDA community. Currently, I am using Pixel Experience Plus Edition with Darkonah Kernel. Sometimes, I also use this phone for a hotspot device when I have to travel overseas (i just have to put the local 4G sim card in it), so I can connect my primary phone and laptop while I'm roaming in the city.
However, if you consider buying this phone in 2019, my advice is, just DON'T... Except, you can get it with a very cheap price and forget the stock ROM, it is just BAD.
Did you try flashing the MIUI10 ROM, which makes it exactly like a Xiaomi phone? I come from Mi Max 2, got this phone for 3 main reasons
1)5000mah battery
2)2 sim and sd card
3) multi colored led notification light
I am quite happy with it. However the new Mi9T/k20 pro has AMOLED screen which are quite nice for decent price. Smaller battery and no rgb notification though.
---------- Post added at 04:40 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:40 AM ----------
motherninja said:
Bought this phone in February this year for my mother, the price itself in Indonesia is quite a good deal if we consider its mid-class spec.
But... turns out it is a big disappointment. My mom only uses this phone for about 2 months and after that, she doesn't want to use it anymore, even she beg me to have her old Redmi Note 4 back instead of continuing using it (too bad, I already sold her old RN4). She said, this phone is too minimalist, the camera is very bad, no convenient features and the stock UI is simply boring.
So, she handed it back to me and I bought her the Galaxy M20 for a replacement and she is very happy with it. Now, this phone becomes my test phone to play with several custom ROM from our talented dev here in XDA community. Currently, I am using Pixel Experience Plus Edition with Darkonah Kernel. Sometimes, I also use this phone for a hotspot device when I have to travel overseas (i just have to put the local 4G sim card in it), so I can connect my primary phone and laptop while I'm roaming in the city.
However, if you consider buying this phone in 2019, my advice is, just DON'T... Except, you can get it with a very cheap price and forget the stock ROM, it is just BAD.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try flashing the MIUI10 ROM, which makes it exactly like a Xiaomi phone? I come from Mi Max 2, got this phone for 3 main reasons
1)5000mah battery
2)2 sim and sd card
3) multi colored led notification light
I am quite happy with it. However the new Mi9T/k20 pro has AMOLED screen which are quite nice for decent price. Smaller battery and no rgb notification though
Iam planning to tell my friend to buy one from his trip to India. There is nothing even half good i can buy for that price ( around 80 Pound) here in the UK . Dear Indian friends do you have any other phones to suggest for that budget ?
@rkoforever90 Hi,
Only lack luster thing in this phone is- its camera performance. Ignore the trolls here, they might be just some teens, accustomed to Chinese vendors.
Slow battery charge is intentionaly done by Asus to keep its massive battery healthy.
Very few devices comes with sd636 in your budget.
I'll recommend moto one device if you want to compensate for camera and performance.
Skip realme, oppo, Mi etc. (You know why )
Htc u12+ and Nokias in budget but lacks battery power. Also upcoming month is festive month in India so may be some good device launch will follow.
Overall for an elderly I think its good device with good resolution and screen quality. With no lags. Stock rom is not as bad as this forum made it look like.