Asus PadFone X Mini Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Design and Build Quality

The Asus PadFone X mini showcases a compact design that offers both functionality and portability. Measuring 132.1 x 66.3 x 12.7 mm and weighing in at 148.8 grams, it fits comfortably in the hand and is easy to use with one hand. The device sports a classic black color, giving it an understated yet sophisticated look. The micro-SIM slot and removable battery add to its functionality, making it a practical choice for users who require flexibility and convenience from their mobile device.

Display Features

The device comes equipped with a 4.5-inch IPS+ LCD display. With a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio, it provides adequate clarity for everyday tasks like browsing, messaging, and media playback. The screen-to-body ratio of approximately 63.7% offers a compact display area, making it suitable for those who prefer smaller screens without sacrificing usability.

Hardware and Performance

Under the hood, the Asus PadFone X mini is powered by the Intel Atom Z2560 chipset featuring a dual-core 1.6 GHz CPU paired with the PowerVR SGX544MP2 GPU. The combination of these components ensures a smooth user experience for basic operations and light multitasking. With 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, the device provides sufficient space for essential apps and media. The inclusion of a dedicated microSDXC slot allows users to expand storage capacity to meet their needs.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera is a 5 MP autofocus shooter complemented by an LED flash, capable of capturing 1080p video at 30 frames per second. While it may not compete with higher-end smartphone cameras, it serves adequately for everyday photography and video needs. The 2 MP front-facing camera is modest but suitable for casual selfies and video calls.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Asus PadFone X mini is its removable 2060 mAh Li-Ion battery. Official specifications suggest a standby time of up to 360 hours on 3G and talk time of up to 15 hours and 40 minutes. These figures point to a device capable of handling a full day of average use without requiring frequent recharges, which is a critical feature for those on the go.

Network and Connectivity Options

The PadFone X mini supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, ensuring wide compatibility with various network providers. It includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n capabilities, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP for wireless audio, GPS for navigation, and an FM radio. It lacks NFC, which might be a consideration for users reliant on mobile payments and quick pairing of devices. The inclusion of a standard microUSB 2.0 port allows for conventional charging and data transfer needs.

Software and User Experience

Running on Android 4.4.2 KitKat, the Asus PadFone X mini offers a user interface and feature set that aligns well with the software ecosystem available at its launch. Although it falls behind more recent Android updates, the system is robust and optimized for the hardware, presenting minimal lag and good responsiveness for its class.

Audio and Sound Quality

The device includes a loudspeaker and offers a 3.5mm audio jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of audio devices. This makes it convenient for music lovers who still prefer the audio jack over Bluetooth audio. Sound quality is satisfactory for media consumption and hands-free calls.

Additional Features

Asus has integrated essential sensors like an accelerometer and proximity sensor, enhancing the phone's ability to deliver a more responsive user interaction. These sensors enable features such as auto-rotate and adjusting display timeouts based on user presence.

Price and Availability

Upon release in October 2014, the Asus PadFone X mini was priced around 160 EUR. Although discontinued, it was a popular choice for users seeking a budget-friendly device with good connectivity and adequate performance for everyday tasks.

Conclusion

In summary, the Asus PadFone X mini is a device that represents the synergy of functionality and affordability. While it may not boast the most cutting-edge specifications, it offers a package that's substantial for basic mobile computing needs. Its durability, coupled with ample battery life and a modest feature set, makes it a worthy contender in the budget smartphone market of its time.