ASUS Intel Atom-Powered ZenFone 2 Hits US Retailers Tomorrow With $199 - $299 MSRP Unlocked
ASUS’ red hot ZenFone 2 is about to make its big U.S. debut, and we can hardly wait. More specifically, the ZenFone 2 will launch tomorrow in two variants, both of which will be come from the factory unlocked.
The cheaper model will come standard with a 1.83GHz Intel Atom Z3560 processor, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage for $199. If you pony up $299, however, you’ll be greeted with a faster 2.33GHz Intel Atom Z3580 processor paired with 4GB of RAM, 64GB of internal storage and a QuickCharger.
Regardless of whether you decide to go for the entry-level model or the fully decked out variant, both come with a 5.5-inch 1080p IPS display that is covered in Gorilla Glass 3, a 13MP rear camera with an f/2.0 lens, 5MP front-facing camera, an integrated LTE modem, and a 3000 mAh battery (with fast-charging support) which promises all-day battery life. You’ll of course find Android 5.0 Lollipop on the ZenFone 2, which has ASUS’ ZenUI layered on top.
With the exception of the 4GB of RAM on the top-spec model, the ZenFone 2’s specs aren’t exactly earth-shattering. Today’s top flagships are sportin’ QHD displays, octa-core processors, and premium metal construction. ASUS can’t compete on those fronts with its primary glass and plastic construction (the ZenFone 2 is available in red, black, silver, and gray). However, the ZenFone 2 also doesn’t come with a $600+ price tag like the Galaxy S6 or HTC One M9. And the fact that both of these phones come straight out of the box unlocked makes them extremely attractive.
We got our first hands-on look at ZenFone 2 at CES this year, and we were definitely impressed with what ASUS has to offer. The price is definitely right, and we’re certain that ASUS will find plenty of enthusiasts that are willing to hand over their hard-earned money for a well-rounded device (on paper). Once we get a sample in for review, we can really see if ASUS truly has a winner on its hand.
