The Big-Battery ZenFone Comparo: What is different between the ZenFone 3 Max and ZenFone 4 Max?

The Big-Battery ZenFone Comparo: What is different between the ZenFone 3 Max and ZenFone 4 Max?

We take look at the big-batteried ZenFone models.

 

As we wait for Asus to launch its Zenfone 4 lineup this week, we compare this year’s models with the ones released last year. First up, we compare the Max series: Models that focus on battery life with their humongous battery packs. What are the major improvements spotted with the ZenFone 4 Max? Here’s a quick overview and comparison of their specs:

Do note that like last year, Asus launched two versions of the ZenFone 3 Max, a 5.2-inch and a 5.5-inch model. We expect Asus to do the same with the ZenFone 4 Max. For this head-to-head, we compare the 5.5-inch version of both models. Also note that there’s a rumored third variant of the ZenFone 4 Max.

 

ZenFone 3 Max (Zc553KL)

  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 octa-core processor
  • 3GB of RAM
  • 5.5-inch full HD IPS display, 2.5D glass, 1920 x 1080 resolution
  • 32GB of expandable storage
  • 16-megapixel rear camera with LED flash, laser AF
  • 8-megapixel front camera
  • Dual SIM
  • 3G, LTE
  • WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, A-GPS, Fingerprint scanner
  • Android Marshmallow 6.0, ZenUI 3.0
  • 4100mAh battery

Read: ASUS Zenfone 3 Max ZC553KL Review: Mid-range Dilemma

  

ZenFone 4 Max (Zc554KL)

  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 processor
  • 3GB of RAM
  • 5.5-inch HD IPS display, 1280 x 720 resolution
  • 32GB of expandable storage (up to 256GB)
  • 13-megapixel primary rear camera, 5-megapixel secondary camera
  • 8-megapixel front camera
  • 4G, LTE
  • Dual SIM
  • WiFi, Bluetooth
  • GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS
  • Fingerprint Scanner
  • 5,000mAh battery
  • Android 7.0 Nougat with ZenUI

Read: ASUS Confirms Third Variant Of ZenFone 4 Max

 

By looking at the specs side-by-side, the ZenFone 3 Max and ZenFone 4 Max are almost the same. Both sport a Snapdragon 430 processor, 3GB RAM, and 32GB internal storage. Both have the same 5.5-inch HD IPS Display and 8-megapixel front camera. In spite of the similarities, there are three significant differences between the two:

Bigger battery

While we were impressed with the ZenFone 3 Max’s 4100Mah battery, the ZenFone 4 Max takes a step further with a 5000Mah battery. If the ZenFone 3 Max can last for over two days on a single charge, we expect the ZenFone 4 Max to have similar (or better) battery life ratings. If real-life tests can prove that the ZenFone 4 Max can go for three days on a single charge, this would make it a great buy.

Dual Camera set-up

While the ZenFone 4 Max’s 13-megapixel rear camera might feel like a downgrade compared to the 16-megapixel one on the ZenFone 3 Max, keep in mind that a camera’s performance isn’t always about the amount of pixels being pushed. ASUS’ move to a smaller resolution camera on the rear means that they’re embracing the trend of bigger sensor sizes that take in more light, which equates to better low light performance–in theory anyway.

The biggest difference compared to last year’s model is that the ZenFone 4 Max now uses a dual-camera setup, with an 8-megapixel secondary camera complementing the 13-megapixel snapper. Both cameras have f/2.0 apertures with one acting as a wide angle lens, while the other acts as a telephoto. 

Finger scanner placement

For the ZenFone 4 Max, Asus decided to move it to the front, compared to the rear-mounted scanner found in the ZenFone 3 Max. While the location of the fingerprint scanner really depends on one’s preferences, the front-mounted scanner on the ZenFone 4 Max gives it a sleeker look.

In summary: A modest upgrade

The ZenFone 4 Max has only a few major upgrades in comparison to its older brother. However, the bigger battery pack and the dual rear camera set-up are the major changes that may convince people to get the ZenFone 4 Max. One thing we hope is that the ZenFone 4 Max will be priced below the 10K range, just like the ZenFone 3 Max. 

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