ASUS has recently unveiled its latest flagship smartphone, the Zenfone 11 Ultra, which comes with a price tag starting at $899.99. Let's delve into the details and assess its features and drawbacks.
Overview and Pricing
The ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra enters a highly competitive smartphone market, aiming to provide top-notch features at a relatively affordable price point. Priced at $899.99 for the base model with pre-order bonuses, this device offers excellent value for money compared to other flagship smartphones on the market.
Design and Dimensions
Design-wise, the Zenfone 11 Ultra follows ASUS's signature aesthetic, featuring a sleek and premium look. Its dimensions of 163.8 x 76.8 x 8.9 mm and a weight of 224 grams make it a sizable handset, catering to users who prefer larger displays and substantial battery capacities.
The larger form factor not only accommodates a massive 6.78-inch display but also houses a generous 5,550 mAh battery. This combination ensures users can enjoy extended screen time without worrying about frequent recharges.
Display Technology
The Zenfone 11 Ultra sports an LTPO AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 144 Hz. While it may not match the 165 Hz refresh rate of some competing models, the difference is hardly noticeable in day-to-day usage. The display's 2,500 nits peak brightness and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection offer a vibrant viewing experience with added durability against scratches and impacts.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the Zenfone 11 Ultra packs a punch with its hardware configuration. Powered by the latest flagship processor and paired with 12 GB of RAM (upgradable to 16 GB), this device delivers exceptional performance across tasks, from multitasking to gaming and content creation.
Storage options include 256 GB and 512 GB variants, providing ample space for storing media files, apps, and games. The combination of powerful hardware and ample storage ensures a smooth and responsive user experience.
Camera Capabilities
Camera enthusiasts will be delighted with the Zenfone 11 Ultra's impressive camera system. Borrowing technology from the ROG Phone 8, it features a 50 MP primary sensor coupled with a 32 MP telephoto lens. This setup enables users to capture detailed and sharp images, whether in well-lit conditions or low-light environments.
Additional camera features such as AI enhancements, portrait modes, and advanced video recording capabilities further enhance the overall photography and videography experience.
Connectivity and OS
The Zenfone 11 Ultra offers comprehensive connectivity options, including 5G support for blazing-fast internet speeds and low latency. Users can enjoy seamless online gaming, video streaming, and browsing experiences without interruptions.
However, it's important to note that ASUS has limited the device to receive only two major Android OS upgrades. While this may not affect immediate usage, it could impact long-term software support and access to the latest features and security updates.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Competitive pricing compared to flagship alternatives
- Large and vibrant display with a high refresh rate
- Powerful hardware configuration for smooth performance
- Impressive camera system for photography enthusiasts
- Generous battery capacity for extended usage
- Includes pre-order bonuses and free accessories
- Comprehensive connectivity options, including 5G support
Cons:
- Limited to two Android OS upgrades, potentially limiting long-term software support
- Size and weight may not appeal to users preferring compact devices
- Display refresh rate slightly lower than some competing models
Conclusion
The ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra stands as a strong contender in the flagship smartphone market, offering a compelling blend of top-tier features, performance, and affordability. While it excels in areas such as display quality, camera capabilities, and battery life, potential buyers should consider its limited software support and larger form factor. Overall, the Zenfone 11 Ultra caters well to users seeking a feature-rich device without breaking the bank.
