Asus PadFone S Comprehensive Review Specs and Pricing

Introduction to Asus PadFone S

The Asus PadFone S is a unique device in the world of mobile technology, introduced in 2014. It was designed to provide users with an innovative blend of smartphone and tablet functionalities, capitalizing on the concept of a hybrid device. With an emphasis on versatility and performance, the PadFone S set out to cater to consumers looking for more fluidity between their mobile experiences without having to invest in multiple devices.

Design and Build

The Asus PadFone S boasts a sleek and durable design with dimensions of 143.4 x 72.5 x 10 mm and a weight of 150 grams. Its compact size makes it easy to handle as a smartphone, while the complementary tablet dock adds an additional layer of usability. It features a sophisticated exterior available in Titanium Black, Platinum White, and Dark Ruby, designed to appeal to a broad audience by combining aesthetics with functionality. The device supports a micro-SIM and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, ensuring resistance against scratches and minor impacts.

Display

Fitted with a 5.0-inch Super IPS+ LCD, the PadFone S delivers vibrant visuals and clarity, suitable for both work and entertainment purposes. The screen comes with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, offering a pixel density of around 441 ppi. This high resolution ensures sharp images, making it pleasurable for both reading texts and watching videos. Additionally, the Corning Gorilla Glass offers substantial protection against daily wear and tear.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Asus PadFone S is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8974AB Snapdragon 801 chipset, coupled with a quad-core 2.3 GHz Krait 400 processor and Adreno 330 GPU. This hardware combination guarantees robust performance, making it capable of handling demanding applications and multitasking with ease. Originally launching with Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), the device is upgradeable to Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), allowing access to many modern features and enhanced security updates.

Camera Capabilities

The PadFone S is equipped with a 13 MP main camera with an f/2.0 aperture and auto-focus capabilities. It is designed to capture high-quality photos and features an LED flash for low light conditions. It supports video recording in 4K at 12-25fps, 1080p at 30fps, and 720p at 60fps, thus offering versatile options for video enthusiasts. On the front, a 2 MP camera with an f/2.0 aperture meets the needs for selfies and video calls, supporting 1080p video recording at 30fps.

Storage and Memory

The device comes with 16GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using a microSDXC card thanks to its dedicated slot. This ensures users have the flexibility to store extensive media libraries and applications as per their needs. The 2GB RAM included ensures efficient multitasking, allowing users to switch between apps smoothly and run games or productivity tools without significant delays.

Connectivity Features

The Asus PadFone S supports a wide range of connectivity features, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, ensuring compatibility with various networks and providing fast internet speeds with LTE Cat4, capable of up to 150/50 Mbps. It offers Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, and hotspot capabilities, alongside Bluetooth 4.0, A2DP. Additionally, it supports GPS for navigation, NFC for contactless transactions, and comes with microUSB 2.0 with OTG and SlimPort TV-out features for expanded connectivity.

Audio and Multimedia

The device includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to those who prefer wired audio solutions. While it does not feature a radio, the PadFone S still offers a rich audio experience suitable for multimedia consumption through streaming services, music, and videos.

Battery Life

The Asus PadFone S is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 2300 mAh battery, which delivers satisfactory performance for a hybrid device. It offers up to 417 hours of standby time on 2G networks and up to 528 hours on 3G networks. For talk time, users can expect up to 30 hours on 2G and up to 22 hours on 3G, depending on usage patterns and network conditions.

Sensors and Additional Features

Equipped with sensors such as an accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, and compass, the PadFone S provides an extensive range of functionality that enhances user interaction and device utility. These sensors support various applications and features, contributing to a seamless and interactive user experience.

Conclusion

In summary, the Asus PadFone S was a pioneering device that attempted to bridge the gap between smartphones and tablets. By offering robust performance, a high-quality display, and a versatile camera setup, it sought to meet the diverse needs of modern users. While the device has been discontinued, it remains a noteworthy chapter in the evolution of hybrid mobile technology.