Just recently, we reviewed ASUS ZenFone 5 that is launched in Malaysia at only RM1,299, while the upgraded version of ZenFone 5 – ASUS ZenFone 5Z is launching in Malaysia today! The two models are called the “Intelligent Siblings” for a reason, and here we will be doing a review to find out why. So without further ado, let’s check out our ASUS ZenFone 5Z review below!

*Photos taken with Sony α6300

The Design and Display

Featuring the signature ZenFone design that dates back to the ZenFone 3, the ZenFone 5Z is having a glass-covered body with edge-to-edge 2.5D Gorilla Glass panel on both its front and rear. The iconic Zen-inspired concentric-circle patterning is featured on its rear panel yet again along with the fingerprint scanner (with damp finger reading capability) and dual-lens camera.

Just like ZenFone 5, the ZenFone 5Z is able to squeeze in a 6.2-inch FHD+ display into a smaller frame as its 5.5-inch predecessors thanks to the 19:9 screen-to-body ratio. The device weights at only 165g under its 7.7 mm thick body so you won’t feel burdened bringing it around.

The ZenFone 5Z comes in two stylish colour options – Meteor Silver and Midnight Blue, the model we get is in the gorgeous Meteor Silver, but if I were to choose according to my preference, I would get the elegant Midnight Blue version for myself.

ASUS ZenFone 5Z Specifications

• Size: 153 x 75.65 x 7.7 mm
• Weight: 165 g
• Color: Meteor Silver, Midnight Blue
• Display:  6.2-inch Full HD+ Super IPS+ display
• Resolution: 2246 x 1080 pixels
• CPU: 10nm Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Octa-core Processor with AI Boost
• GPU: Qualcomm Adreno 630
• OS: Android Oreo with new ASUS ZenUI 5
• Memory:  6 GB RAM + 128 GB ROM / 8 GB RAM+ 256 GB ROM
• Camera:
  • 8 MP Front Camera
  • 12 MP + 8 MP Dual-lens Rear Camera
• Battery: 3300 mAh with fast charging

Camera

On the rear of the device, we have a 12 MP main camera using the latest Sony flagship IMX363 sensor for superb low light performance, as well as a 120-degree wide angle 8MP camera that could capture wide landscapes. While on the front, we have an 8 MP selfie camera.

As we mentioned earlier, the ZenFone 5Z is being called an intelligent smartphone for a reason – the 3 cameras are having a bunch of powerful AI function. First of all, we have the AI Scene Detection that detects up to 16 different scenes or subjects such as Sky, Plant and Ocean, then applies the ideal settings on it automatically.

Well, AI Scene Detection technology is quite a common thing now, but ASUS ZenFone 5Z has more than that. It can also learn your preferences through AI Photo Learning. Using this feature, the device will know the best setting to use and replicate the same look or feel if presented with a similar scene in the future. Not to mention that the device features ZeniMoji (which turns your face into animated characters), real-time beautification and real-time portrait too.

Performance and Battery Life

Powered by the latest Snapdragon 845 processor and up to 8GB RAM, you shouldn’t face any problem running the most demanding apps or games. The AI Boost function featured in ZenFone 5Z also provides an instant performance boost while you run demanding apps like graphically-rich games.

The AI part came in handy on the battery performance especially, as it accelerates deep-learning functions on your usage patterns and choices, then optimizes its performance for even longer battery life (although 3300 mAh is more than enough for a day under normal usage). The fast charging function allows you to refill its energy quickly when it is running out as well.

Conclusion

Smartphones are getting smarter these days, and ASUS ZenFone 5Z, pricing at only RM1899 (6 GB RAM + 128GB ROM) and RM2299 (8 GB RAM + 256 GB ROM) is probably one of the most valuable ones you can get in the market at this price range.

The device will be available in 2 colours – Meteor Silver and Midnight Blue starting from 31 July. A one-day limited flash sale on Lazada that sells ZenFone 5Z at only RM1699 (6 GB RAM + 128GB ROM) will be live on 31 July too, so don’t miss out if you are interested! For more information, you can visit their official site.