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Asus ZenFone 2 Performance Sneak Peek With Intel Z3580 Inside

Posted by timothy on from the doesn't-work-with-google-fi-though dept.

MojoKid writes: Asus just finally made their ZenFone 2 available for sale in the US. It's an Intel-powered smartphone running Android Lollipop that's compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile, and other cellular networks that utilize GSM technology, like Straight Talk, MetroPCS, and Cricket Wireless among others.The device is packing a quad-core Intel Atom Z3580 (2.3GHz) with PowerVR G6430 graphics and 4GB of RAM, along with Intel 7262 and Intel 2230 modem tech, a 5.5" Full HD screen, a 13MP rear camera, dual-SIM support and 802.11ac Wi-Fi. The high-end model can be had for only $299, unlocked. A $199 version with 2GB of RAM and a slightly slower Intel Atom Z3560 is also available. In the benchmarks, the Zenfone 2 offers competent though middling performance but considering Asus has priced the ZenFone 2 so aggressively, it's sure to grab some attention at retail with consumers looking for a contract-free commitment.

2 of 108 comments (clear)

  1. Here's why it's better than an S6 or iPhone 6 by CajunArson · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Does the Zenfone have enough performance to get the job done in the real world? Sure.
    Does the Zenfone win every benchmark? Nope.
    Will the Zenfone be obsolete in 2 years? Yup.
    Will the S6 and the iPhone 6 ALSO be obsolete in 2 years while at the same time costing a buttload more upfront? Yup.

    And that's why the Zenfone is the winner.

    --
    AntiFA: An abbreviation for Anti First Amendment.
  2. Obsolete in 2 years? by Petersko · · Score: 3, Insightful

    I'm going to make the case that your obsolence argument is invalid.

    iOS 8.3 still supports the iPhone 4s, which was released in 2011, 4 years ago. (I know there are locked-in android models where manufacturers have denied devices updates, though.) A two year old phone isn't even obsolete by capability anymore either. Nearly any app will work on a model made in 2013.

    Ditching your phone just because the battery doesn't hold a charge is a bit shortsighted... the batteries are cheap, and service can be had every hundred feet in a lot of malls. If my iPhone 5 battery needs replacement it'll cost me all of $20, installed. The most expensive service you can buy in a local repair shop for my phone is $89, parts and labour included. That's a full screen replacement without having to send the thing away.

    So I question the idea that a phone has a 2 year lifespan.