By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Accept
TechgoonduTechgoonduTechgoondu
  • Audio-visual
  • Enterprise
    • Software
    • Cybersecurity
  • Gaming
  • Imaging
  • Internet
  • Media
  • Mobile
    • Cellphones
    • Tablets
  • PC
  • Telecom
Search
© 2023 Goondu Media Pte Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Reading: Goondu review: Asus Zenfone 5
Share
Font ResizerAa
TechgoonduTechgoondu
Font ResizerAa
  • Audio-visual
  • Enterprise
  • Gaming
  • Imaging
  • Internet
  • Media
  • Mobile
  • PC
  • Telecom
Search
  • Audio-visual
  • Enterprise
    • Software
    • Cybersecurity
  • Gaming
  • Imaging
  • Internet
  • Media
  • Mobile
    • Cellphones
    • Tablets
  • PC
  • Telecom
Follow US
© 2023 Goondu Media Pte Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Techgoondu > Blog > Mobile > Cellphones > Goondu review: Asus Zenfone 5
CellphonesMobile

Goondu review: Asus Zenfone 5

Wilson Wong
Last updated: April 13, 2018 at 4:47 PM
Wilson Wong
Published: May 21, 2014
7 Min Read

Zenfone 5

If there’s still any doubt the low- and mid-end smartphone market is the most competitive now, you only have to take a look at one of the models vying for your attention.

The Asus Zenfone 5, the middle of the pack in the Taiwanese company’s recently unveiled lineup, has a five-inch screen and uses Intel’s Atom processor. All that costs an attractive S$249.

Like most other Android phones sporting Arm-based chips, the Zenfone 5’s chip is expected to run without fuss with Android apps. And unlike a quad-core Arm-based chip, the Zenfone 5 actually has two dual-core Atom processors, which some may say is like a quad-core chip.

After using the phone for the past two weeks, I can say the Zenfone 5 performs pretty well on the whole, except for some slight lag while opening up apps such as Facebook or firing up the camera.

Once the apps are powered up, however, the phone runs smooth. It’d be interesting to see if performance goes up a notch when the Zenfone 5 gets updated from the current Android 4.3 to the latest version 4.4 in the weeks ahead.

ZenUI_lockscreen

One obvious improvement that Asus has included in the new Zenfones, compared to its previous other mobile devices, is the user interface.

The new Zen UI comes with quick a number of new features, unlike previous Asus efforts, which didn’t differ that much from the stock Android look and feel.

One useful function is the ability to push activities to a later time. For example, when a call comes in and you are busy, a simple click lets you add a reminder to the to-do list to call the person back later.

The launch screen also features upcoming events and activities at one glance. This is from the same calender as many Android phones, but the details are presented in a more friendlier manner.

Asus zenfone 5_side
The IPS screen only has 720 x 1280 pixels resolution but it is sharp and renders colour images beautifully even on a rather large screen.

The Zenfone 5’s 5-inch screen has 1280 x 720 pixel resolution, which is less sharp than a full HD screen (1,920 x 1,080). However, it is surely no slouch in actual use.

Indeed, I’ve compared it to my own Asus Padfone Infinity’s Full HD screen and I find that the Zenfone 5 isn’t too bad when reading off the bright display. The image quality, in terms of clarity and colour representation, also doesn’t disappoint.

P_20140511_153341_PN
The stitching has improved over the Padfone Infinity and handles different light intensity very well.

One surprise in the package is the PixelMaster camera technology first seen on Asus’ high-end Padfone Infinity. Its best feature is the Low Light shooting mode that allows its camera to take in more light at the expense of having lower resolution as a result.

There are other improvements to imaging as well, such as the fancy selfie and miniature modes. There’s also a feature called Time Rewind, which causes the camera to take multiple shots just prior to shuttering the camera so the exact moment can be captured.

My personal favourite is the panoramic mode. It has improved with better stitching and graduation of colours from dark to bright areas. All in, the camera with a 5-megapixel sensor is more than enough for snapshots.

For frequent travellers, the Zenfone 5 has another trick up its sleeve – support for two SIM cards.

Unlike the Xiaomi Redmi, another budget offering, both SIM card slots in the Zenfone 5 are 3G-enabled so you can choose which SIM card to go online with.

Another thing that will please road warriors is the prudent use of power. The 2,110mAh power pack easily lasts a day without recharging, during the trial period when I was using it “moderately” without deliberately taxing the phone.

One note about the speaker though. It may be loud enough to notify you when a call or notification comes up, but those who have keen ears for music would do well with good ear buds to pair with the phone.

Admittedly, the Zenfone 5 plays in a crowded market. The Redmi is cheaper at S$169, albeit with a smaller screen. Looking up, the Asus will see fellow Taiwanese phone maker HTC’s new Desire range, some of which has bigger screens and fancier camera features.

Indeed, consumers are spoilt for choice. Even better, these budget phones are no pushovers when it comes to performance.

The Zenfone 5 may be different from its rivals when it comes to the processor it uses but it doesn’t feel crippled at all and is comparable to phones ARM-based chips.

Connections to cellphone networks also seem fuss-free in most cases, thanks to the Zenfone 5’s dual antenna setup. I didn’t have any issues with calls, as a result.

In the new phone, Asus has created a credible option for users who don’t need the features of S$1,000 flagship models. If you prefer to have only the basic but most important features, you’ll be happy to know that the S$249 Zenfone 5 doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

CORRECTION at 22/05/2014, 0937 hours: Images in the story have been updated to correctly reflect the Zenfone 5, instead of other models in the range.

Goondu review: LG V30+ is a delight to use, especially for music lovers
Hands on: Montblanc Summit 2 smartwatch seeks to sell “luxe tech” appeal
Samsung slims down Galaxy Z Fold 7, packs in 200MP camera in major upgrade
Sony Alpha 7 Mark IV review: An evolved hybrid shooter for the prosumer
Toshiba joins the ultrabook party with the Portege Z830
TAGGED:asusSingapore price and availabilityZenfone 5

Sign up for the TG newsletter

Never miss anything again. Get the latest news and analysis in your inbox.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Share This Article
Facebook Whatsapp Whatsapp LinkedIn Copy Link Print
ByWilson Wong
Follow:
Wilson is a self-taught photographer whose passion started with his father’s old Canon L Rangefinder camera. He now leads the 12,000+ strong Singapore Photography & Imaging Network group. His photos have won acclaim from Nikon and Fujifilm, and are featured in various books and exhibitions.
Previous Article Microsoft Surface Pro 3 ships in Singapore end-August, costs from S$1,108
Next Article Goondu review: Martian Passport smartwatch
5 Comments
  • Eddy says:
    January 9, 2015 at 10:03 am

    Due to its much more manageable size, this is the ZenFone I would get. Weighing in at a bit over 5 ounces, however, the device is notably heavier than most phones its size. Though, I didn’t find its weight to be too much of detriment during my brief time with it.

    Reply
  • bob says:
    May 22, 2014 at 6:32 am

    Interesting the photo says Zenphone 6 on the brochure

    Reply
    • techgoondu says:
      May 22, 2014 at 9:37 am

      Hi Bob, thanks for pointing that out. We’ve changed the photos to reflect the Zenfone 5. We’re sorry for the error.

      Reply
  • bob says:
    May 22, 2014 at 6:32 am

    Interesting the photo says Zenphone 6 on the brochure

    Reply
    • techgoondu says:
      May 22, 2014 at 9:37 am

      Hi Bob, thanks for pointing that out. We’ve changed the photos to reflect the Zenfone 5. We’re sorry for the error.

      Reply

Leave a ReplyCancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Stay Connected

FacebookLike
XFollow

Latest News

Thermomix TM7: A German kitchen helper that cooks Singapore chilli crab
Internet
July 11, 2025
Grab goes driverless with electric shuttle trial for employees in Singapore
Enterprise
July 10, 2025
Singapore expands AI assurance pilot to test AI agents, detect prompt injections
Enterprise Software
July 7, 2025
In search of fairer deal for content creators, Cloudflare blocks AI scrapers
Internet Media
July 3, 2025

Techgoondu.com is published by Goondu Media Pte Ltd, a company registered and based in Singapore.

.

Started in June 2008 by technology journalists and ex-journalists in Singapore who share a common love for all things geeky and digital, the site now includes segments on personal computing, enterprise IT and Internet culture.

banner banner
Everyday DIY
PC needs fixing? Get your hands on with the latest tech tips
READ ON
banner banner
Leaders Q&A
What tomorrow looks like to those at the leading edge today
FIND OUT
banner banner
Advertise with us
Discover unique access and impact with TG custom content
SHOW ME

 

 

POWERED BY READYSPACE
The Techgoondu website is powered by and managed by Readyspace Web Hosting.

TechgoonduTechgoondu
© 2024 Goondu Media Pte Ltd. All Rights Reserved | Privacy | Terms of Use | Advertise | About Us | Contact
Follow Us!
Never miss anything again. Get the latest news and analysis in your inbox.

Zero spam, Unsubscribe at any time.
 

Loading Comments...
 

    Welcome Back!

    Sign in to your account

    Username or Email Address
    Password

    Lost your password?