Asus Zenpad 80 Z380M Indepth Review Specs Pricing & More

Design and Build

The Asus Zenpad 8.0 Z380M presents a blend of elegance and functionality in its design. With dimensions measuring 209 x 123 x 8.5 mm and weighing 350 grams, it sits comfortably in the hands while still offering substantial screen space. Although it lacks SIM connectivity, it compensates with a sturdy build quality and an ergonomic design which is suitable for prolonged usage without causing significant strain. The choice of materials and the device's streamlined form factor further enhance its portability, making it a reliable companion for users who are constantly on the move.

Display

Equipped with an 8.0-inch IPS LCD display, the Zenpad 8.0 Z380M offers a resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels. This configuration provides a pixel density of approximately 189 ppi, ensuring that images and text are sufficiently crisp and clear for a variety of tasks, ranging from reading to watching videos. Although not the most cutting-edge technology available, the display's oleophobic coating helps reduce fingerprint smudging, keeping the screen looking clean and maintaining its responsiveness.

Performance

Under the hood, the Asus Zenpad 8.0 Z380M runs on a Mediatek MT8163 processor, utilizing a 28 nm architecture. This quad-core chipset, paired with a Mali-T720MP2 GPU, ensures that the tablet can handle basic computing tasks efficiently. The device is available in two RAM configurations - 1GB and 2GB - which, when combined with storage options of either 8GB or 16GB, allows users some flexibility depending on their specific needs. For more media storage, the microSDXC dedicated card slot provides expandable storage, providing ample space for apps, media, and documents.

Camera Capabilities

The Zenpad 8.0 Z380M is equipped with a 5 MP autofocus rear camera. While not revolutionary, it is capable of capturing decent images, suitable for quick snaps and basic video recording at 1080p@30fps. The front-facing camera is a 2 MP sensor with an aperture of f/2.2. It serves adequately for video calls and selfies, although the quality is not exceptional, which is expected at this price point.

Audio and Connectivity

This tablet includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to both private and shared audio experiences. It supports various Wi-Fi standards (802.11 a/b/g/n) and Bluetooth 4.0, featuring A2DP, LE, and aptX support for better audio streaming. GPS support is also available, making it useful for location services. However, it lacks NFC and radio features, which could limit its connectivity options for some users.

Battery Life

One of the strong points of the Zenpad 8.0 Z380M is its battery performance. The device is powered by a non-removable 4000 mAh Li-Po battery that is capable of delivering up to 8 hours of multimedia usage. This ensures that users can enjoy a full day's worth of use without constant recharging. It makes the device particularly attractive to those who need prolonged battery life for various tasks throughout the day.

Operating System

Originally shipped with Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), the device is upgradeable to Android 7.0 (Nougat). The operating system facilitates a smooth user interface and supports a wide array of applications available through the Google Play Store. Nougat brings enhancements that include better multitasking capabilities and improved notification handling, contributing positively to the overall user experience.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Asus Zenpad 8.0 Z380M is equipped with essential sensors, such as an accelerometer and a compass. These sensors ensure that the tablet can support basic orientation and navigational tasks. Although the device does not offer an extensive array of sensors that are found in more premium models, it covers the essentials needed for daily use.

Color Variants and Availability

The Zenpad 8.0 Z380M came in three distinct color options: Dark Gray, Pearl White, and Rose Gold, allowing users to choose one that best suits their style preferences. However, it is important to note that the device has been discontinued since its initial release in May 2016. This means that new units may no longer be readily available in the market, though it might still be possible to find used or refurbished models.

Conclusion

The Asus Zenpad 8.0 Z380M provides a balanced mix of features aimed at users looking for a capable yet affordable tablet. While it does not boast the high-end specifications of more expensive models, its practical feature set, reasonable performance, and solid battery life make it a suitable choice for everyday tasks such as browsing, reading, and video playback. Its lightweight design and decent build quality further enhance its usability as a portable multimedia and communication device.