The Asus Zenfone 10 offers a refreshing choice for those who favor smaller smartphones amidst a market dominated by oversized devices. Continuing the tradition of delivering flagship-grade specifications in a compact package, the Zenfone 10 stands out as an exceptional choice for users seeking high-powered functionality in a more manageable form factor.
One notable addition to this year's Zenfone is wireless charging, a feature that was absent in previous models. However, due to its compact size, using stand-style chargers can be a bit tricky. The charging coil on the phone is slightly out of reach for some chargers, requiring careful placement. Opting for a pad-style charger is recommended for seamless charging experience.
The Zenfone 10 boasts an IP68 rating, ensuring resistance against dust and water, just like its predecessor. Under the hood, it is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, providing excellent performance capabilities. Notably, the device retains the cherished headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy their audio experience without the need for adapters.
Zenfone 10 stands out with a remarkable 5.9-inch screen that boasts a 1080p screen resolution and a high refresh rate of 120Hz. Gamers will appreciate the additional 144Hz mode that automatically activates during gaming sessions. With a 4,300mAh battery, the device offers reliable power throughout the day, easily handling moderate daily usage.
In terms of design, the Zenfone 10 showcases a front panel protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, complemented by aluminum side rails. The back panel features a textured finish, providing a unique tactile experience. The phone's vibrant eclipse red color option makes a bold statement. Asus confirmed that Zenfone 10 will be available in all color variants in the US. However, it'll only be supporting AT&T and T-Mobile networks, leaving out Verizon. The decision might disappoint some potential buyers.
The camera setup on Zenfone 10 comprises a 50 MP f/1.9 main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS). Additionally, it includes a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens and an upgraded 32-megapixel pixel-binning selfie camera. Building upon the gimbal-like stabilization introduced in the previous model, the Zenfone 10 now offers a dynamic mode that adjusts the level of shake correction according to the shooting conditions, resulting in improved image quality.
Users will appreciate a convenient new shortcut that allows them to access the camera app directly from the lock screen and instantly capture a burst of three images without the need to tap the shutter button. This feature proves handy for capturing spontaneous moments that would otherwise be missed while struggling to open the camera app.
Asus has made notable software enhancements as well. The Zenfone 10 promises two major OS updates and four years of security patches, a significant improvement over its predecessor's limited security support. The phone will be released first in the Europe with a price of €799, same as the Zenfone 9. It will reach the US market in Q3, this year.
While the Zenfone 10 may cater to a niche audience in the US, Asus deserves praise for maintaining its commitment to this form factor. The company has clearly listened to customer feedback, as evidenced by the inclusion of a setting to speed up animations that was previously only available in developer mode. This attention to detail demonstrates Asus's dedication to providing an optimal user experience. Personally, I am thrilled to see this little phone with its thoughtful touches making a return for another year.
The Asus Zenfone 10 is a power packed & feature rich smartphone. With its top-tier specifications, compact size, and user-centric features, it remains an excellent choice for individuals seeking a high-powered, small Android phone that doesn't compromise on functionality & performance.