The first generation of the Zenfone Max series did what most smartphones in the sub-Rs 15,000 category failed to do; give Xiaomi a run for its money. Since then Xiaomi has launched its own upgrades in the Indian market and Asus was sure to follow snapping swiftly at its heels.
The Taiwanese gizmo maker has launched two new smartphones in the market – the Asus Zenfone Max M2 and its Pro variant. The Max M2 comes into the market starting at Rs 12,999 with compelling features like a big display and a heavy duty battery. There’s lots more in the bag so here’s a quick look at the Asus Zenfone Max M2.
Specifications
- Display: 6.3-inch HD+
- Processor: Snapdragon 632 octa-core
- RAM: 3GB/4GB
- Storage: 32GB/64GB (expandable)
- OS: Android 8.1
- Rear camera: 13MP+2MP
- Front camera: 8MP
- Battery: 4,000mAh
- Price: Rs 12,999 (3GB), Rs 14,999 (4GB)
Design & Display
Asus has got a solid phone here. Full metal design and a smooth finish at the back doesn’t present the phone to be lurid and uninteresting. It holds its own in terms of ergonomics and feels good in the hands.
The display is a HD+ 6.3-inch screen which comes with a notch at the top. With the 88.8 percent screen-to-body ratio, you will enjoy all media content you consume on this one.
Performance & Storage
The Asus Zenfone Max M2 comes with 64GB of on-board storage which is expandable. It comes with a SIM tray that can take two SIM cards and one Micro SD card.
The phone offers dual RAM options of 3GB and 4GB but I’d always recommend going for the 4GB variant. You never know when you’d need that extra memory. I was impressed that the phone offers face unlock for security considering the fingerprint sensor at the back is an underutilised feature these days and might slowly die.
Near stock Android is always a blessing and I really liked the clean interface on the phone not to mention its more than appealing management of bloatware.
Running the show here is a Snapdragon 632 octa-core processor, which keeps the ship afloat, but it’s surely not a chip that will clock great speeds.
Camera & Battery
On the rear is a 13+2-megapixel camera that’s capable of 4k video recording and also comes with a dedicated depth sensor. It’s a decent performer and the LED flash makes a great addition for shots in the dark.
The front sports an 8-megapixel sensor that will soon offer electronic image stabilisation and a portrait mode in the days to come — the company has said.
Under the cover is a non-removable 4,000mAh battery, which is bound to deliver back-up worth 2 days easily.
Initial Verdict
Asus is just continuing where it left off with the Max M1. The Max M2 is a good upgrade and comes with all the bells and whistles to send a cold chill down the spine of all the Xiaomi and Realme phones in the market.
Spending Rs 12,999, on a phone like this isn’t a risky proposition considering its predecessor did very well. If you’re not a Xiaomi fan and are looking for a phone under Rs 15,000, the Asus Zenfone Max M2 should definitely be on your shopping list.
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