Unveiling the Asus Zenpad 10 Z300C Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview

The Asus Zenpad 10 Z300C is a versatile tablet that was introduced in June 2015 and quickly gained a reputation for its affordability and practical functionality. Although it has been discontinued, it remains a topic of interest due to its unique blend of features for an entry-level device. It was announced and released in the same month, making a swift entry into the market. This article provides a detailed exploration of the Zenpad 10 Z300C, covering its specifications, design, performance, and overall appeal.

Design and Build

The design of the Asus Zenpad 10 Z300C emphasizes practicality and comfort. With dimensions of 251.6 x 172 x 7.9 mm and a weight of 510 grams, it is easy to handle and suitable for extended usage. The tablet does not feature a SIM slot, emphasizing its focus on Wi-Fi connectivity rather than cellular usage. The build quality is robust, and the form factor allows for convenient use, whether you're watching movies, browsing the web, or reading eBooks.

Display

The Zenpad 10 Z300C sports a 10.1 inch IPS LCD display, which offers wide viewing angles and fairly accurate color reproduction. Although the resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels might seem modest compared to high-end tablets, it provides satisfactory clarity for most applications. The screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 68.4%, giving users a sizable display area. Additionally, the Corning Gorilla Glass protection is a notable feature that enhances durability, protecting against scratches and everyday wear and tear.

Performance and Platform

Under the hood, the Zenpad 10 Z300C is powered by an Intel Atom x3-C3200 quad-core processor. This was a strategic choice by Asus, aiming to balance processing power and energy efficiency. Paired with a Mali-450MP4 GPU, the tablet is suitable for basic tasks such as streaming videos, web browsing, and casual gaming. Coupled with 2GB of RAM, it provides a decent multitasking capability, though performance might wane under heavy usage. The device runs on Android 5.0 Lollipop, which, despite being an older version, retains a user-friendly interface with access to a plethora of apps on the Google Play Store.

Storage Options

The Zenpad 10 offers a selection of internal storage capacities: 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB, all complemented by 2GB of RAM. These options ensure that users can choose a variant that suits their needs, whether it be for minimal app storage or more extensive media storage. For those requiring additional space, the microSDXC card slot allows for expanded storage, accommodating large collections of photos, videos, and other files.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a 5 MP rear camera, the Zenpad 10 Z300C is capable of capturing basic images and videos. Although it lacks the advanced imaging technology seen in more recent tablets, it performs adequately for simple photography needs. The autofocus feature aids in capturing sharper images. The 2 MP front-facing camera serves for video calls and selfies, albeit with limited resolution. Video recording is supported, ensuring that users can capture moments in motion despite the modest camera specifications.

Sound and Multimedia

Audio capabilities are an integral part of the Zenpad 10 experience. The presence of stereo speakers delivers a louder and more immersive sound experience, which is beneficial for media consumption. A 3.5mm headphone jack is included, allowing for private listening sessions without the need for adapters. Whether users are listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the Zenpad 10 provides adequate sound quality for enjoyable listening experiences.

Connectivity and Sensors

The tablet is designed to cater to essential connectivity needs. While it does not support cellular networks, it includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n for robust wireless internet connectivity. Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP is also available for connecting to other devices, such as wireless headphones or speakers. Positioning technologies such as GPS and GLONASS are supported, enhancing navigation applications. USB connectivity is facilitated through a microUSB 2.0 port, allowing for data transfer and charging. The device also includes sensors such as an accelerometer and compass, which aid in various applications and games.

Battery Life

The Asus Zenpad 10 Z300C houses a non-removable Li-Po 4890 mAh battery. This substantial battery capacity provides up to 8 hours of multimedia use, ideal for a full day of casual use. The device's focus on energy efficiency, courtesy of the Intel Atom processor, contributes to its long-lasting battery life, making it suitable for travel or extended use away from power sources.

Color Availability and Pricing

The tablet was initially offered in a variety of colors, including Black, White, and Aurora Metallic. This selection allowed users to choose a style that matched their personal preferences. At an original price point of approximately 160 EUR, the Zenpad 10 Z300C is positioned as a budget-friendly option, providing considerable value for the features it offers.

Conclusion

In review, the Asus Zenpad 10 Z300C stands as a noteworthy tablet from 2015, particularly for those seeking a budget device with practical capabilities. Though it has been discontinued, its influence remains due to its balance of performance, storage options, and multimedia features—all at an accessible price. It may not compete with modern high-end tablets in terms of raw performance or cutting-edge features, but it certainly fulfills its promises for basic everyday usage.