Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL Review

• Overview
• Design and Build Quality
• Display
• Performance
• Software and User Interface
• Camera
• Battery Life
• Connectivity and Networking
• Additional Features
• Comparison with Other Related Phones
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion

Overview

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is a captivating smartphone that offers a perfect blend of style and performance. With its sleek design and a 6.26-inch IPS LCD display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6, this phone is a treat for the eyes. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor, it ensures smooth multitasking and lag-free performance. The device comes with multiple memory variants, ranging from 3GB to 6GB RAM and 32GB to 128GB internal storage, providing ample space for all your files and apps. The dual rear camera setup, featuring a 12MP primary sensor and a 5MP depth sensor, captures stunning photos with great detail. The massive 5000mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage, and the inclusion of a microSD card slot allows for expandable storage. The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is available in attractive colors like Blue and Titanium, making it a stylish choice for gadget enthusiasts. With its affordable price point, this smartphone offers great value for money.

Design and Build Quality

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is designed to be sleek, stylish, and comfortable to hold. With dimensions of 157.9 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm (6.22 x 2.97 x 0.33 in) and a weight of 175g (6.17 oz), it strikes a good balance between portability and usability. The device features a glass front with Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection, a plastic back, and a plastic frame. While the use of plastic may not be as premium as metal or glass, it helps in keeping the weight down and provides a more affordable option. The phone is available in two elegant colors, Blue and Titanium, giving users the choice to pick the one that suits their style.

In terms of ergonomics, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is designed to fit comfortably in the hand, with its curved edges and minimal bezels. The placement of buttons and ports is intuitive, allowing for easy access and operation. The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor is conveniently located and provides quick and secure unlocking of the device.

Durability is an important aspect, and the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is built to withstand everyday use. The Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection on the front adds an extra layer of durability, making it more resistant to scratches and accidental drops. While the plastic back may not be as robust as metal or glass, it helps to absorb impacts and reduces the risk of damage. The device is also built to withstand the rigors of daily life, with its sturdy construction and solid build quality.

Overall, the design and build of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL are commendable. It may not boast the most premium materials, but it offers a good balance between aesthetics, comfort, and durability. The phone's physical appearance is sleek and stylish, while its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip. The use of Corning Gorilla Glass 6 adds an extra layer of protection, making it more durable. With its solid construction, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is built to withstand the demands of everyday use.

Display

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL features a 6.26-inch IPS LCD display with a screen resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels and an aspect ratio of 19:9. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6, which provides durability and resistance against scratches. With a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 82%, the device offers an immersive viewing experience.

In terms of color accuracy and vibrancy, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL delivers vibrant and accurate colors, making content look vivid and lifelike. The display also offers good brightness levels, ensuring comfortable visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. Additionally, the device features adaptive brightness, which automatically adjusts the screen brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.

The touch responsiveness of the display is smooth and accurate, providing a seamless user experience. The viewing angles are wide, allowing for clear visibility from different angles without any significant color shifting.

Although the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL does not feature OLED technology, which is known for its deep blacks and high contrast, the IPS LCD display still offers impressive visuals. It does not have a high refresh rate or support HDR, but it provides a satisfactory viewing experience for everyday usage.

Other notable features of the display include the absence of a notch design, resulting in bezels around the screen. This design choice may appeal to users who prefer a more traditional look. The display does not have an always-on display feature, but it does offer a blue light filter for reducing eye strain during nighttime usage.

Overall, the display of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL offers a good balance between color accuracy, brightness, and viewing angles, providing a pleasant visual experience for everyday tasks and multimedia consumption.

Performance

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL boasts impressive performance, thanks to its powerful chipset and efficient GPU. Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 chipset, which features an octa-core CPU with four Kryo 260 Gold cores clocked at 2.2 GHz and four Kryo 260 Silver cores clocked at 1.8 GHz, this phone delivers a smooth user experience and lag-free performance. It excels in handling multitasking, app loading speeds, and overall system optimization.

In terms of gaming capabilities, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL performs admirably. The Adreno 512 GPU ensures smooth graphics rendering and enhances the gaming experience. Gamers will appreciate the device's ability to handle graphically demanding games with ease. The GPU benchmarks and gaming benchmarks reveal that this phone can handle most games without any noticeable frame drops or performance issues.

When it comes to benchmark tests, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL exhibits impressive scores. In synthetic benchmarks like AnTuTu, it achieves a score of 124039 (v7), showcasing its strong processor efficiency. The GeekBench score of 5169 (v4.4) further highlights its prowess in CPU benchmarks. These scores indicate that the phone can handle resource-intensive tasks and provide a seamless user experience.

The thermal management of the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is worth mentioning as well. Despite its powerful chipset, the device effectively manages heat dissipation, ensuring that it stays cool even during prolonged gaming sessions or heavy app usage. This is a crucial aspect for maintaining performance consistency and preventing overheating.

In terms of battery life, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL excels with its massive 5000 mAh battery. This allows for extended gaming sessions without the worry of running out of power quickly. Additionally, the battery optimization features of the device further enhance its efficiency, providing users with extended usage time.

Overall, the performance of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is commendable. Its powerful chipset, efficient GPU, and optimized system contribute to a smooth and lag-free experience. Whether it's multitasking, gaming, or handling resource-intensive tasks, this phone delivers impressive results. With its strong benchmark scores and thermal management, it showcases its prowess in both synthetic benchmarks and real-world usage. If you're in search of a

Software and User Interface

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL runs on the Android 8.1 Oreo operating system, which can be upgraded to Android 9.0 Pie. This gives users access to the latest features and improvements offered by the Android platform. The device is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 chipset, which ensures smooth performance and efficient multitasking capabilities. The octa-core processor, consisting of four Kryo 260 Gold cores clocked at 2.2 GHz and four Kryo 260 Silver cores clocked at 1.8 GHz, delivers a reliable and responsive user experience.

One notable aspect of the software on the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) is its user-friendliness. The device offers a clean and intuitive interface, allowing users to navigate through the various features and functions effortlessly. Additionally, the device comes with minimal bloatware, ensuring that users have more storage space and a clutter-free experience. This is a welcome feature, as many users prefer to have control over the apps they install on their devices.

In terms of customization, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) offers a range of options to personalize the device according to the user's preferences. Users can customize the home screen layout, choose from a variety of themes, and even apply different icon packs. This level of customization allows users to make the device truly their own.

The device also comes with a range of pre-installed apps that enhance the overall user experience. These include essential apps such as a file manager, calculator, and calendar, as well as popular apps like Facebook and Instagram. These pre-installed apps provide convenience and utility right out of the box.

Overall, the software on the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL offers a user-friendly interface, minimal bloatware, and a range of customization options. With the latest Android operating system and a powerful chipset, this device provides a smooth and efficient user experience.

Camera

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL boasts a dual-camera setup on its rear, consisting of a 12-megapixel primary camera with an aperture of f/1.8 and a 5-megapixel depth sensor. This combination allows for great flexibility in capturing a variety of shots, from stunning portraits to detailed landscapes. The camera also features LED flash, HDR, and panorama, enhancing the overall image quality in different lighting conditions.

In terms of daylight photography, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) performs admirably, capturing images with natural colors and sharpness. The dynamic range is also impressive, ensuring that both highlights and shadows are well-preserved. Indoors, the camera continues to deliver excellent results, with low-light sensitivity and noise reduction playing a significant role in maintaining image quality.

For night photography, the device offers a night mode that optimizes low-light performance. This feature helps to capture detailed shots in challenging lighting conditions, reducing noise and improving overall clarity. The camera's image stabilization further enhances the quality of night shots, minimizing blurriness caused by hand movements.

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL also excels in video recording. It can shoot 4K videos, ensuring high-resolution footage. Video stabilization technology helps to minimize shakiness, resulting in smooth and professional-looking videos. Additionally, slow-motion video and time-lapse options add creativity to your videography, allowing you to capture moments in unique ways. The device supports various video formats, providing flexibility for sharing and editing your captured videos.

Overall, the camera capabilities of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL make it a reliable choice for photography enthusiasts, offering a range of features and functionalities that cater to different shooting scenarios.

Battery Life

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is equipped with a massive 5000 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery, which is one of its standout features. This large battery capacity ensures exceptional battery life, allowing users to go through a full day of heavy usage without needing to recharge. The device also offers power optimization features that help maximize battery efficiency and optimize power usage.

In terms of charging technology, the Max Pro (M2) supports 10W wired charging. While it doesn't feature fast charging technology, the device makes up for it with its impressive battery endurance. With its efficient power management, the battery provides a good balance between performance and longevity.

The battery performance is commendable, providing users with long screen-on time and standby time. The device also offers battery optimization options and a battery saver mode to further enhance efficiency and extend battery life.

Although the Max Pro (M2) does not support wireless charging options, the combination of its large battery capacity and power management features make it a reliable device for users who prioritize long-lasting battery performance.

Connectivity and Networking

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL offers a range of connectivity options to keep users connected on the go. It supports dual SIM functionality, allowing users to easily switch between two different numbers or plans. In terms of network compatibility, the device supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, ensuring that users can stay connected in various locations.

For wireless connectivity, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, which provides reliable and fast internet connection. It also supports Wi-Fi Direct, allowing for seamless file sharing between compatible devices. Bluetooth 5.0 is present on the device, enabling users to connect to wireless headphones, speakers, and other Bluetooth-enabled accessories. NFC is another feature available on the device, allowing for convenient contactless payments and easy pairing with other NFC-enabled devices.

In terms of wired connectivity, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) is equipped with a microUSB 2.0 port, which supports data transfer and charging. However, it does not support USB-C, which is a newer and more versatile connector. It is worth noting that the device does not support wireless charging.

For navigation purposes, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) has GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO, ensuring accurate positioning and reliable navigation. Additionally, the device supports mobile hotspot functionality, allowing users to share their internet connection with other devices.

Overall, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL provides a good range of connectivity options, including dual SIM support, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and GPS. While it lacks USB-C and wireless charging, it offers reliable connectivity for everyday use.

Additional Features

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL comes with a range of additional features that enhance its functionality. Firstly, it offers dual SIM card slots, allowing users to easily switch between two SIM cards for better connectivity and convenience. The device also includes a microSD card slot, enabling storage expansion for those who require additional space for their files, photos, and videos. In terms of sensors, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) is equipped with an accelerometer and a gyroscope, which provide accurate motion sensing capabilities. Additionally, it offers a sensor suite that includes advanced sensors for detecting environmental factors. However, it should be noted that the device does not come with water resistance or dust resistance capabilities, and it does not support wireless charging or Qi wireless charging.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL stands out in the market as a competitive mid-range smartphone. When comparing it with related devices, such as the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 and the Realme 2 Pro, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) offers a solid combination of features and performance at an affordable price point.

In terms of specifications, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) features a 6.26-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels and Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 chipset, which provides smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. The device also offers multiple storage and RAM options, ranging from 32GB/3GB to 128GB/4GB, catering to different user needs.

When it comes to the camera, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) sports a dual rear camera setup with a 12MP primary sensor and a 5MP depth sensor. The device captures detailed and vibrant photos, thanks to its f/1.8 aperture and PDAF technology. On the front, it features a 13MP selfie camera with LED flash, allowing for excellent low-light selfies.

One of the standout features of the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) is its massive 5,000mAh battery, which provides exceptional battery life, easily lasting a full day of heavy usage. Additionally, it offers stock Android experience with near-stock Android 8.1 Oreo, upgradable to Android 9.0 Pie, providing a clean and bloatware-free user interface.

In terms of performance, the Zenfone Max Pro (M2) delivers excellent results in benchmark tests. It achieves an AnTuTu score of 124,039 and a GeekBench score of 5,169, showcasing its capability to handle demanding tasks and games.

Considering its specifications, performance, and pricing, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL competes well in the mid-range smartphone market. It provides a strong alternative to devices like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 and the Realme 2 Pro, offering similar features and performance at a more affordable price point. Its competitive advantage lies in its stock Android experience, large battery capacity, and competitive pricing strategy, making it a value-for-money option for consumers seeking a reliable mid-range smartphone.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers a solid performance and impressive features. With its sleek design and durable build, it provides a comfortable user experience. The large 6.26-inch display with Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection ensures vibrant visuals. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 chipset and ample RAM options deliver smooth multitasking and gaming performance. The dual-camera setup captures decent photos with good detail, while the 13 MP front camera is great for selfies. The 5000 mAh battery provides excellent endurance for long hours of usage. Overall, the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) ZB631KL is a reliable choice for buyers looking for a budget smartphone with excellent battery life and decent performance.