Unveiling the Asus Fonepad 8 FE380CG Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview of the Asus Fonepad 8 FE380CG

The Asus Fonepad 8 FE380CG, released in 2014, was designed to merge the capabilities of a smartphone and a tablet. By utilizing Intel's technology paired with an Android operating system, Asus presented a device that appeals to those seeking a mid-range tablet experience with added phone functionalities.

Design and Build

The Fonepad 8 sports a sleek design with dimensions of 214 x 120 x 8.9 mm and weighs 328 grams. It's comfortable to hold despite having an 8-inch display, thanks to its slender profile and lightweight construction. The device is available in multiple colors like black, white, red, and gold, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences. The integration of dual Micro-SIM slots underscores its utility as both a communication and multimedia device.

Display Features

The Fonepad 8 features an IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen, which provides vibrant colors and broad viewing angles, making it a pleasure to watch multimedia content or browse the web. The screen resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels results in a pixel density of approximately 189 pixels per inch, offering decent clarity for its size category. The oleophobic coating on the display helps in reducing fingerprint smudges, maintaining a clearer view.

Performance and Hardware

At the heart of the Fonepad 8 is the Intel Atom Z3530 processor, a quad-core chipset clocked at 1.33 GHz. This processor, complemented by the PowerVR G6430 GPU, manages daily tasks smoothly, although heavier gaming and multitasking may encounter some limitations due to the 1GB or 2GB RAM configurations. Users have a choice between 8GB or 16GB of internal storage, with the option to expand using a microSDXC card, ensuring ample space for apps, media, and more.

Camera Capabilities

The Fonepad 8 is equipped with a 5 MP autofocus rear camera, capable of shooting 720p videos. While it doesn't stand out as a photography powerhouse, it’s sufficient for basic capturing needs in well-lit environments. The 2 MP front-facing camera fulfills the necessity for video calls and occasional selfies, although not at the highest quality available by today's standards.

Battery Life

Featuring a 3950 mAh Li-Po battery, the device offers a substantial battery life, with a talk time of up to 21 hours on 3G. This longevity is advantageous for users who need extended usage, such as travelers or those frequently on the go without regular access to charging facilities. The battery's 15.2 Wh capacity ensures it sustains the device for a full day of varied activities including browsing, messaging, and media consumption.

Connectivity and Network

The Asus Fonepad 8 comes with comprehensive communication capabilities, supporting GSM/HSPA networks. It allows for high-speed data transfers with speeds up to 42.2/5.76 Mbps on HSPA bands. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP support, and a microUSB 2.0 port for data syncing and charging. Unfortunately, it lacks NFC and radio features but compensates with GPS and GLONASS positioning systems for accurate navigation.

Software and User Interface

The tablet runs on Android 4.4.2 KitKat, which while not the latest version, provides a stable and user-friendly interface. Asus typically overlays its ZenUI on Android, offering additional software features and customization options that enhance user experience. Despite the age of the OS, the interface is intuitive and offers necessary functionalities without overwhelming the user.

Audio and Entertainment

For audio enthusiasts, the Fonepad 8 houses stereo speakers that deliver decent sound output. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack maintains compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories. This makes it suitable for immersive video watching or music listening sessions without needing specialized adapters.

Sensors and Additional Features

The device is equipped with essential sensors, including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors augment the user interface experience by enabling various on-device interactions, such as automatic screen rotation and app functionalities that depend on motion detection. However, the device’s discontinued status means users might face challenges receiving future updates or support from Asus.

Conclusion

The Asus Fonepad 8 FE380CG stands out for its dual-SIM functionality and dynamic convergence of tablet and phone utilities. While not a frontrunner in terms of raw performance or cutting-edge features, it offers a balanced approach for users who need a decent-sized screen and an affordable device without sacrificing connectivity options. For its release period, it provided a competitive edge in the budget tablet segment, appealing particularly to those entrenched in mobile data communication and multimedia consumption.