Asus Zenfone 5 A500CG 2014 Full Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build Quality

The Asus Zenfone 5 A500CG was introduced in 2014, offering a modest yet appealing design for its time. The device's dimensions are 148.2 x 72.8 x 10.3 mm, fitting comfortably in the hand while also ensuring stable grip with its relatively lightweight build at 145g. The front of the phone is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which offers a resistance against minor scratches and impacts, while the rear and frame are crafted from plastic, emphasizing durability and cost-effectiveness. Available in multiple colors, including Charcoal Black, Pearl White, Cherry Red, Champagne Gold, and Twilight Purple, the Zenfone 5 catered to a broad spectrum of personality and style preferences.

Display

The Asus Zenfone 5 A500CG features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display. With a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, and a pixel density of around 294 ppi, the display provides vibrant colors and decent clarity for media consumption and everyday use. The choice of IPS LCD technology ensures good viewing angles and color consistency across the screen, which is fantastic for basic multimedia usage, gaming, and browsing. The Corning Gorilla Glass 3 not only gives the screen a robust layer of protection but also aids in reducing glare and reflections, enhancing the overall viewing experience outdoors.

Performance

Under the hood, the Zenfone 5 is powered by an Intel Atom Z2580 chipset, which includes a dual-core 2.0 GHz CPU. Coupled with 2GB of RAM, this hardware configuration handles everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and light gaming with relative ease. The PowerVR SGX544MP2 GPU handles graphic-intensive tasks, though it is more suited for casual gaming rather than intensive 3D gaming. Originally, the Zenfone 5 ran on Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean) but it is upgradeable to Android 5.0.2 (Lollipop), providing additional features and an improved user experience over time.

Storage

The device comes with multiple storage options: 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB of internal storage. Moreover, it supports expansion via a dedicated microSDXC card slot, allowing users to significantly increase storage capacity to accommodate more apps, media files, and other data, which is a great flexibility feature for users who require additional space.

Camera

Photography needs are addressed with an 8 MP rear camera, which comes equipped with an f/2.0 aperture and autofocus capabilities. This camera configuration is complemented by an LED flash, ensuring decent photo quality under varying lighting conditions. It is capable of shooting 1080p videos at 30 frames per second, capturing moments in high definition, albeit with basic stabilization. The front-facing camera is a 2 MP shooter with an f/2.4 aperture, intended for video calls and basic selfie photography. While not cutting-edge, both cameras provide satisfactory results for social media sharing and personal use.

Battery

The Zenfone 5 is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 2110 mAh battery, which was typical for smartphones of this era. The battery delivers up to 353 hours of standby time (3G) and around 18 hours and 30 minutes of talk time (3G), ensuring a full day of use for moderate users. The longevity might vary with heavier acts like high-intensity gaming or prolonged media consumption.

Network and Connectivity

Seamless connectivity is an essential characteristic of the Zenfone 5, starting with its dual-SIM capability, supporting micro-SIM cards with dual standby for enhanced reachability. As for network connectivity, the phone is compatible with GSM and HSPA technology, facilitating reasonably fast mobile data speeds of up to 42.2 Mbps for downloads and 5.76 Mbps for uploads under HSDPA and HSUPA protocols. Additional connectivity features include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with Wi-Fi Direct and hotspot capabilities, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP and EDR, GPS with GLONASS support for improved navigation accuracy, FM radio, and USB 2.0 with OTG support. The phone lacks NFC, which may be a consideration for users who rely on contactless payments and data transfer.

Sound and Multimedia

In the sound department, the Zenfone 5 accommodates all basic audio needs with its in-built loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide variety of audio peripherals. While the audio output quality is satisfactory for casual listening, audiophiles may find it lacking in depth and bass. The presence of FM radio is an added bonus for users who enjoy radio broadcasts as part of their daily routine.

Sensors and Extras

The device comes equipped with a standard array of sensors, including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, contributing to intuitive usability and interaction with various apps. While it may not feature cutting-edge biometric security measures like fingerprint scanners, the combination of basic sensors provides adequate functionality for a smartphone of its period.

Market Position and Pricing

Originally priced at about 130 EUR, the Asus Zenfone 5 A500CG aimed to offer a balanced mix of features at a budget-friendly price point. This pricing strategy seeks to attract budget-conscious customers who require a reliable smartphone for everyday use without the financial burden of premium devices. Over time, it faced competition from other brands offering similar specifications but managed to maintain a loyal user base due to its dependable performance and Asus' brand reputation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Asus Zenfone 5 A500CG represents a solid entry-level smartphone from the year 2014, offering a practical blend of performance, design, and features for its price range. While some of its specifications may be outshined by today's standards, at its time, it effectively provided reliable performance for daily tasks. Its attractive design choices, satisfactory camera capabilities, and expansion options made it appealing to users who prioritize functionality and value. Regardless of its discontinuation, this phone continues to be remembered as a pertinent choice for those seeking an affordable yet reliable smartphone experience in its prime.