Price and specifications of Asus Fonepad 7 FE375CXG advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction and Overview

The Asus Fonepad 7 FE375CXG is a unique blend of a tablet and a smartphone, commonly referred to as a phablet. Introduced in 2014, it was a competitive device in the mid-range market thanks to its affordability and dual SIM support. This device aims to provide versatility with its 7-inch display while ensuring usability as a phone for users who prefer larger screens for both multimedia consumption and communication.

Design and Build Quality

The Asus Fonepad 7 features a sleek design with dimensions of 194.3 x 108.9 x 9.8 mm and a weight of 299 grams. Its build is practical, accommodating a large screen size that constitutes approximately 67.1% of the device's body. The phablet features a sturdy plastic body available in several colors: Black, White, Red, and Gold to suit various tastes. One of the notable elements of its design is the oleophobic coating which minimizes fingerprints and smudges, enhancing the durability and visual appeal of the device.

Display Features

The device is equipped with a 7.0-inch IPS LCD display, which provides wide-viewing angles and vivid color reproduction. With a resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels, the screen density is approximately 216 ppi, which is suitable for everyday media consumption such as browsing, reading, or watching videos. Although not the highest in terms of pixel density, the display does its job adequately for standard mobile tasks.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Fonepad 7 is powered by an Intel Atom Z3530 chipset, featuring a quad-core 1.33 GHz processor. The device includes a PowerVR G6430 GPU, providing reasonable graphical performance for casual gaming and video streaming. This hardware setup makes it fit for moderate multitasking and regular app usage, although it may struggle with more demanding applications due to its 1GB of RAM.

Operating System

Out of the box, the Asus Fonepad 7 runs on Android 4.4.2 KitKat. This operating system, while outdated by current standards, was popular for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. It allows access to a vast array of apps through the Google Play Store, providing the essential functionality required by most users.

Storage Options

The device offers two internal storage options: 8GB and 16GB, both paired with 1GB of RAM. For users requiring more storage for apps and media, the Fonepad 7 includes a dedicated microSDXC slot, allowing expansion of storage capacity and alleviating some of the limitations posed by its relatively modest internal storage.

Camera Capabilities

The Asus Fonepad 7 comes with a basic 2MP rear camera capable of 720p video recording. While this is not designed for high-quality photography, it offers sufficient functionality for capturing everyday moments. The front VGA camera serves basic video calling purposes, reflecting its design emphasis on being a multi-functional device rather than a photography-centric one.

Network and Connectivity

Supporting dual SIM models, the Fonepad 7 allows users to manage two networks simultaneously. It supports GSM/HSPA technologies, providing 3G connectivity with a speed of 42.2/5.76 Mbps. This flexibility makes it a suitable choice for users requiring diverse network management. Additionally, the device includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, and GPS with GLONASS for comprehensive connectivity solutions.

Audio and Multimedia

Equipped with stereo speakers and a 3.5mm audio jack, the Asus Fonepad 7 delivers satisfactory audio outputs for media consumption and calls. The stereo speakers enhance the multimedia experience, making it a decent choice for watching videos or listening to music on the go.

Battery Life and Management

The device houses a 3950 mAh Li-Po battery. This provides a considerable standby time of up to 316 hours on 3G. Users can enjoy a talk time of up to 21 hours on 3G networks and approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes of multimedia use. This battery life is sufficient for users who are always on the move, highlighting the Fonepad 7's suitability for prolonged usage without frequent recharging.

Additional Features and Sensors

The Asus Fonepad 7 includes various sensors like the accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, which are widely used in enhancing user applications and games. Furthermore, it supports microUSB 2.0, OTG, and USB OTG, enhancing its versatility for data transfer and peripheral connectivity.

Market Position and Legacy

Initially released at an approximate price of 130 EUR, the Asus Fonepad 7 targeted budget-conscious users seeking tablet-like functionalities in a smartphone. While it has been discontinued, it remains a notable example of a versatile, affordable phablet attempting to bridge the gap between smartphones and tablets in the era of its release.

Conclusion

In summary, the Asus Fonepad 7 FE375CXG offers a balanced combination of features for users interested in a budget-friendly phablet. Its design, connectivity options, and functionality cater to a demographic looking for usefulness and affordability. Although not without limitations, particularly in terms of camera quality and hardware capabilities, it stands as a testament to Asus's effort to provide diverse mobile devices catering to various user needs.