Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 was a notable release in the budget to mid-range segment, building on the success of its predecessor. Here’s an in-depth review of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2:

Overview:

Launched in late 2018, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 aimed to offer a balanced mix of performance, battery life, and affordability. It was a direct successor to the Zenfone Max Pro M1 and sought to address some of the shortcomings of the earlier model.

Features:

1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.1 (Oreo), with a near-stock Android experience.
2. Display: 6.26-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6.
3. Processor: Qualcomm SDM660 Snapdragon 660.
4. Memory: Options of 3/4/6 GB RAM with 32/64 GB internal storage, expandable via a microSD slot.
5. Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor and a 5 MP depth sensor. The front camera was a 13 MP shooter with an LED flash.
6. Battery: A massive 5000 mAh non-removable battery.
7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, dedicated microSD slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

1. Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery was one of the device’s standout features, ensuring the phone could easily last more than a day with moderate use.
2. Stock Android Experience: Unlike many competitors, the device offered a near-stock Android experience, which was appreciated by purists.
3. Performance: The Snapdragon 660, combined with ample RAM options, provided a smooth experience for daily tasks and moderate gaming.
4. Value for Money: Given its features and performance, the device offered excellent value for its price point.

Cons:

1. Camera Performance: While decent in well-lit conditions, the camera setup struggled in low-light scenarios.
2. Plastic Build: The device had a plastic back, which, while durable, didn’t feel as premium as some competitors with glass or metal finishes.
3. Slow Charging: Despite its large battery, the device lacked fast charging, resulting in longer charging times.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

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

• Redmi Note 6 Pro: Offering a similar Snapdragon 660 chipset, MIUI software experience, and a more versatile camera setup.
• Realme 2 Pro: With its waterdrop notch design, Snapdragon 660, and ColorOS software.
• Motorola Moto G6 Plus: Known for its stock-like Android experience and robust build quality.

Launch Date:

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 was unveiled in December 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

1. Software Updates: Some users reported delays in receiving software updates, especially major Android version upgrades.
2. Camera Software Processing: Despite the hardware, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
3. Speaker Quality: The bottom-firing speaker was considered average by some users, lacking in depth and richness.

Conclusion:

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 was a strong contender in the budget to mid-range segment, especially for those prioritizing battery life and a stock Android experience. While it had areas that could be improved, especially in the camera department, the overall package was compelling for its price. The device further solidified Asus’s position in the competitive budget smartphone market.