Asus Zenfone Max Plus M1 ZB570TL Comprehensive Review & Pricing

Network Capabilities

The Asus Zenfone Max Plus (M1) ZB570TL supports diverse network technologies including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, and LTE. Specifically designed to cater to various international markets, it includes 2G bands for GSM 850/900/1800/1900 in both SIM 1 and SIM 2. For higher speed data demands, the device accommodates 3G through HSDPA 850/900/1900/2100 and offers 4G capabilities with bands 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, and 40 globally. The network speed reaches HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE Cat4 at 150/50 Mbps, providing robust browsing and streaming experiences.

Launch and Availability

This smartphone was officially announced in November 2017, generating interest as it prepared for release. By December 2017, it hit the market and has been available since, capturing the attention with its respectable array of features and affordable pricing.

Design and Build

The Zenfone Max Plus is designed with a sleek and modern silhouette, measuring 152.6 x 73 x 8.8 mm and weighing in at just 160 grams, making it adequately portable. It features a sturdy build with a glass front, aluminum back, and aluminum frame, offering both durability and a refined look. The device is equipped with dual SIM capability (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by), adding versatility for users managing multiple lines or traveling internationally.

Display

Sporting a 5.7-inch IPS LCD, the Zenfone Max Plus provides an expansive display while maintaining a compact form factor. With a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels and an 18:9 aspect ratio, it achieves a noteworthy ~424 ppi density. This ensures vibrant colors and sharp images, enhancing both media consumption and general usability.

Platform and Performance

The device operates on Android 7 (Nougat) with the ZenUI 4.0 skin overlay, offering users a balance of native Android features and proprietary enhancements from Asus. Its engine is the Mediatek MT6750T chipset, built on a 28 nm process. The octa-core CPU configuration comprises four 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 cores and four 1.0 GHz Cortex-A53 cores, providing sufficient power for multitasking and everyday applications. It is paired with a Mali-T860MP2 GPU for moderate graphical performance.

Memory and Storage

With multiple configurations available, the Zenfone Max Plus caters to various user needs. It comes in models with 16GB storage with 2GB RAM, 32GB with 3GB RAM, and 64GB with 4GB RAM. These configurations ensure flexibility in performance and economy. Additionally, it features a dedicated microSDXC card slot, allowing for expanded storage to manage multimedia and apps efficiently.

Main Camera

The photography system is comprised of a dual-camera setup. The primary camera features a 16 MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture and PDAF, promising sharp and detailed images in most lighting conditions. Accompanying this is an 8 MP ultrawide lens with a 17mm focal length for broader frame captures. This combination is augmented with features like LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes, and supports video recording at 1080p@30fps.

Selfie Camera

On the front, an 8 MP camera with a wide aperture of f/2.0 and a 25mm focal length handles selfies and video calls. It is engineered to deliver clear imagery suitable for social media sharing and everyday use.

Audio and Sound

The Zenfone Max Plus includes a standard loudspeaker for audio playback and alert signals, alongside a 3.5mm jack which ensures compatibility with a wide range of headphones and audio devices, adhering to traditional user preferences in audio consumption.

Connectivity

Renowned for its connectivity proficiency, the device supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n standards, along with Wi-Fi Direct for swift sharing. The Bluetooth 4.0 capability ensures wireless interaction with a multitude of accessories. Despite the lack of NFC, it compensates with GPS and GLONASS for accurate positioning services, FM radio for local broadcasts, and a microUSB 2.0 port which also accommodates OTG.

Sensors and Features

The phone's functionality is furthered by an assortment of sensors including a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, an accelerometer, a gyro meter, a proximity sensor, and a compass, each contributing to its broad operational potential.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the standout features is the battery capacity. The Zenfone Max Plus houses a non-removable Li-Po 4130 mAh battery, which promises prolonged usage cycles, whether you are streaming, browsing or gaming. It supports 10W wired charging and is also equipped for reverse wired charging, extending its utility as a power bank for other devices in exigent situations.

Color Variants and Models

Potential buyers can select from an array of eye-catching colors including Sunlight Gold, Azure Silver, and Deepsea Black. These aesthetic options allow users to reflect their personal style and preference in their device choice. The model version, X018D, represents its distinct configuration in the expansive lineup of Asus devices.

Pricing

Upon release, the device was competitively priced at approximately 250 EUR, placing it within reach for consumers seeking comprehensive features without the financial commitment of flagship devices.

The Asus Zenfone Max Plus (M1) ZB570TL encapsulates a balanced assortment of features, capable hardware, and reliable connectivity. It targets individuals requiring an endurance-centric device, offering generous battery life and power efficiency aligned with day-to-day requirements. While it steps modestly in the competitive smartphone market, its specifications make it a viable option based on personal usage needs and budget considerations.