Asus Zenfone Max ZC550KL Full Specs and Honest Review

Overview of Asus Zenfone Max ZC550KL

The Asus Zenfone Max ZC550KL is a smartphone that stood out in the mid-range segment for its impressive battery capabilities. Released in 2016, the device was designed to cater to users who demand long-lasting battery life without compromising on fundamental smartphone features. With a 5000mAh battery, the Zenfone Max ensures prolonged use, making it an attractive choice for users who are constantly on the go.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Asus Zenfone Max ZC550KL features a practical build with a glass front protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4 and a plastic back and frame, giving it a robust yet lightweight feel. Measuring 156 x 77.5 x 10.6 mm and weighing 202 grams, it is relatively heavier compared to its contemporaries, which is largely due to its massive battery. Nevertheless, the phone maintains a comfortable handling experience.

Display

The device comes with a 5.5-inch IPS LCD, offering a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, and a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 69%. While the resolution might seem modest by today's standards, it was quite acceptable for devices released in its period. The inclusion of Gorilla Glass 4 provides additional durability against scratches and minor drops. The display delivers decent visual clarity and color reproduction, although it may not perform as vividly under direct sunlight.

Performance

Under the hood, the Zenfone Max is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, which was standard for many mid-tier smartphones at the time. The quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and Adreno 306 GPU cater to general usage and moderate multitasking efficiently. Although not designed for high-performance gaming or extensive computational tasks, the device handles everyday applications like browsing, social media, and media playback with relative ease.

Memory and Storage

The Asus Zenfone Max ZC550KL offers two variants in terms of internal storage: 8GB or 16GB, both paired with 2GB of RAM. The presence of a dedicated microSDXC slot allows users to expand storage further, a feature that is highly appreciated for users wanting to store more media files and applications.

Camera Capabilities

Photography on the Zenfone Max is powered by a single 13 MP rear camera featuring an f/2.0 aperture and laser autofocus, which enhances the capability to capture detailed and focused images quickly. The camera is equipped with a Dual-LED dual-tone flash, and supports modes such as HDR and panorama, adding versatility to the photography experience. Video recording can be done at 1080p@30fps. On the front, a 5 MP camera with an f/2.0 aperture handles selfie duties.

Software and User Interface

The phone initially shipped with Android 5.0.1 (Lollipop) and could be updated to Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow). Asus's proprietary ZenUI runs on top, offering a customized user experience with additional features and enhancements. ZenUI incorporates practical utilities and a visually friendly interface, although it can present some pre-installed bloatware, common in manufacturer skins.

Battery Life

The battery life is one of the hallmark features of the Zenfone Max. The non-removable Li-Po 5000 mAh battery delivers exceptional endurance, with stand-by times of up to 914 hours on 3G and talk time reaching up to 38 hours. The device's robust battery capabilities ensure users can rely on continuous usage without frequent recharges. The battery also supports reverse wired charging, allowing the phone to function as a power bank for other devices.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The device offers solid connectivity options, including support for GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks. Additionally, it supports dual SIM functionality. Connectivity extends to Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS with GLONASS, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG support. Notably, the device lacks NFC but includes an FM radio for users who appreciate traditional radio listening.

Audio and Sensors

Audio quality is satisfactory with a built-in loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, accommodating traditional wired headphones. The phone includes standard sensors such as an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, meeting the fundamental requirements for a smartphone of its class.

Market Performance and Pricing

At launch, the Asus Zenfone Max ZC550KL was priced around 170 EUR, positioning it as an affordable option within the mid-range smartphone market. Asus provided substantial value for the price through its exceptional battery life and reliable build quality. With its focus on endurance, the device attracted users looking for a cost-effective, long-lasting mobile solution.

Conclusion

The Asus Zenfone Max ZC550KL effectively carved out its niche by delivering outstanding battery life in a budget-friendly package. While its specifications may not match high-end devices, its reliability and longevity make it a noteworthy option for users prioritizing battery endurance. As smartphone technology continues to evolve, the Zenfone Max remains a reminder of the balance between key features and user needs.