Android phones have become increasingly larger in recent years, making it a real treat for small phone enthusiasts when a new Asus Zenfone is released. The Zenfone 10 continues this tradition by offering flagship-grade specifications in a compact package. While a 5.9-inch screen may not seem small by current standards, it is considered small when compared to the larger Android phones dominating the market.
One notable improvement in this year’s Zenfone is the inclusion of wireless charging, which was absent in previous models. However, due to its small size, it can be a bit tricky to charge with stand-style chargers. The charging coil on the phone is just out of reach on some chargers, requiring careful placement to ensure proper charging. It is recommended to use a pad-style charger for optimal convenience.
The Zenfone 10 maintains an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, just like its predecessor. It also features a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and retains the beloved headphone jack. The screen resolution is 1080p, which is more than sufficient for a compact display, and it boasts a 120Hz refresh rate. While there is a 144Hz mode available for gaming, the 120Hz refresh rate remains the top option for regular usage. With a 4,300mAh battery, the Zenfone 10 offers impressive battery life, easily lasting a full day of moderate use.
In terms of design, the Zenfone 10 sports Gorilla Glass Victus on the front panel, aluminum side rails, and a polycarbonate plastic back panel with a unique textured finish. The review unit, specifically the eclipse red version, stands out with its vibrant color. Asus plans to release the Zenfone 10 in multiple color variants in the US. However, it is important to note that the phone will only be compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile networks, not Verizon, which may disappoint some potential buyers.
Related Post
The camera setup on the Zenfone 10 remains similar to its predecessor, featuring a 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 13-megapixel ultrawide camera, and an upgraded 32-megapixel pixel-binning selfie camera. The gimbal-like stabilization introduced in the previous model now offers a new mode that dynamically adjusts the level of shake correction based on the current conditions, altering the field of view accordingly.
A convenient new shortcut has been introduced in the Zenfone 10, allowing users to quickly access the camera app from the lock screen and automatically capture a burst of three images without needing to tap the shutter button. This feature proves incredibly useful for capturing precious moments without any delay or fumbling with the camera app.
One of the most significant improvements with the Zenfone 10 is the extended software support. Asus promises two major OS updates for the device, along with four years of security patches, surpassing the Zenfone 9’s two years of security support. The Zenfone 10 will initially go on sale in Europe for €799 and is expected to arrive in the US during the third quarter of this year.
While the Zenfone 10 may not appeal to the majority of smartphone users who prefer larger screens, Asus deserves commendation for its commitment to serving a niche market of small phone enthusiasts. The company’s willingness to listen to its customers is evident in the inclusion of the option to speed up animations, previously only available in developer mode, based on popular demand from Zenfone 9 users. This attention to customer feedback demonstrates Asus’ commitment to delivering a user-friendly experience.
In conclusion, the Asus Zenfone 10 offers a compact and powerful smartphone experience for those who prefer smaller devices. With flagship specifications, wireless charging, a 120Hz display, and an improved camera system, the Zenfone 10 is poised to impress small phone enthusiasts. Its thoughtful touches and extended software support make it a worthy choice for those seeking a compact, yet feature-packed smartphone.
