Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 was a notable release from Asus, targeting the mid-range segment with a focus on battery life and a clean Android experience. Here’s an in-depth review of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1:

Overview:

Introduced in 2018, the Zenfone Max Pro M1 was Asus’s attempt to capture a larger share of the competitive mid-range market. The device emphasized its massive battery and departure from the typical ZenUI in favor of a more stock-like Android experience.

Features:

• Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.1 Oreo with a near-stock experience.
• Display: 5.99-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels.
• Processor: Qualcomm SDM636 Snapdragon 636 Octa-core.
• Memory: Options of 3/4/6 GB RAM with 32/64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD.
• Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 13 MP (or 16 MP for the 6 GB RAM model) primary sensor and a 5 MP depth sensor. An 8 MP (or 16 MP for the 6 GB RAM model) front camera.
• Battery: A whopping 5000 mAh non-removable battery.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS.
• Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a dedicated microSD slot.

Pros:

• Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery was one of the main selling points, ensuring the phone lasted well over a day for most users, even with heavy usage.
• Stock Android Experience: A departure from Asus’s typical ZenUI, the near-stock Android experience was a refreshing change and was well-received by users.
• Performance: The Snapdragon 636 chipset, combined with ample RAM options, ensured smooth multitasking and decent gaming performance.
• Value for Money: The device offered a balanced set of features for its price point, making it a compelling option in the mid-range segment.

Cons:

• Camera Performance: While decent in well-lit conditions, the camera struggled in low-light scenarios and lacked some of the refinements seen in competitors.
• Build Quality: The all-metal design, while sturdy, lacked the premium feel of glass-backed devices in its segment.
• Slow Charging: Despite the large battery, the device did not support fast charging, making charging times lengthy.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2018, the Zenfone Max Pro M1 faced stiff competition in the mid-range segment:

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro: With a similar Snapdragon 636 chipset, enhanced camera capabilities, and MIUI software experience.
• Motorola Moto G6: Offering a glass design, clean software, and focus on camera capabilities.
• Nokia 6.1 (Nokia 6 2018): With its robust build, clean Android One experience, and reliable performance.

Launch Date:

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 was announced in April 2018 and released in May 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

• Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches and inconsistencies, especially with the camera app.
• Delayed Updates: Despite the stock Android experience, the device faced delays in receiving timely software updates.
• Speaker Quality: The single bottom-firing speaker, while decent, wasn’t particularly loud or clear.

Conclusion:

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 was a significant release for Asus, showcasing their ability to adapt to market demands and preferences. The device’s massive battery, combined with its clean software and balanced performance, made it a favorite among users looking for longevity and a no-nonsense Android experience. While it had its challenges, especially in the face of fierce competition, the Zenfone Max Pro M1 marked a positive direction for Asus in the mid-range smartphone market.