Asus Zenfone Max M2

The Asus Zenfone Max M2 was a part of Asus’s strategy to capture the budget to mid-range smartphone market. Launched in 2018, the Zenfone Max M2 was positioned as a device that offers a blend of decent performance, camera capabilities, and impressive battery life. Here’s an in-depth review of the Asus Zenfone Max M2:

Overview:

The Asus Zenfone Max M2 was designed for users who wanted a reliable daily driver without spending too much. With its large battery as a primary selling point, it aimed to cater to users who prioritize battery longevity and basic performance.

Features:

1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.1 (Oreo), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie) with Asus’s ZenUI skin.
2. Display: 6.26-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 720 x 1520 pixels.
3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 632.
4. Memory: Options of 3 GB/4 GB RAM with 32 GB/64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
5. Camera: Dual-camera setup with a 13 MP primary sensor and a 2 MP depth sensor. The front camera is an 8 MP shooter.
6. Battery: A substantial 4000 mAh non-removable battery.
7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

1. Impressive Battery Life: The 4000 mAh battery ensured that the device could easily last a day, even with moderate to heavy usage.
2. Decent Performance: The Snapdragon 632 provided a balanced performance for day-to-day tasks and light gaming.
3. Stock-like Android Experience: Asus’s ZenUI on the Max M2 was closer to stock Android, providing a cleaner user experience.
4. Value for Money: Given its price point, the device offered a decent set of features and performance.

Cons:

1. Display Resolution: The HD+ resolution was not the sharpest, especially when compared to some competitors offering Full HD displays in a similar price range.
2. Camera Performance: While decent in well-lit conditions, the camera struggled in low-light scenarios.
3. Build Quality: The device had a plastic build, which didn’t feel as premium as some competitors with metal or glass backs.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Asus Zenfone Max M2 faced competition from:

• Redmi 6 Pro: Offering a 5.84-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 625, and a dual-camera setup.
• Realme 2: Featuring a 6.2-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 450, and a dual-camera setup.
• Honor 8C: With its 6.26-inch IPS LCD, Snapdragon 632, and a dual-camera setup.

Launch Date:

The Asus Zenfone Max M2 was announced in December 2018 and became available in various markets shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

1. Software Updates: Some users reported delays in receiving software updates.
2. Camera Software: There were reports of the camera software being a bit slow or occasionally freezing in certain modes.
3. Speaker Quality: Some users found the speaker quality to be average, lacking depth and clarity at higher volumes.

Conclusion:

The Asus Zenfone Max M2 was a solid offering in the budget segment, especially for those who prioritize battery life and a stock-like Android experience. Its large battery and decent performance made it a popular choice among users who wanted a reliable daily driver without breaking the bank. While it had its limitations, especially in terms of display resolution and camera performance, its overall package was quite compelling for its price segment. For users looking for a device that can last through long days and handle basic tasks with ease, the Zenfone Max M2 was a strong contender. However, those looking for a sharper display or better camera performance might have considered other options available in the market at the time.