Samsung Galaxy S7 edge Review

Introduction

Last year we saw the introduction of the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge, the first time in the Korean-based company’s history to complement a flagship with another variant. While the S6 and S6 edge featured the same specifications, the difference between them turned out to be the slicker aesthetics that accompanied the S6 edge – as well as its unique edge features, and heftier price too.

Having two very similar options to choose from makes for tougher decisions amongst consumers, but this year’s offering is substantially more ambitious. The Samsung Galaxy S7 edge isn’t just an S7 clone with a dual-curved screen. Oh no! Rather, it’s a bigger sized smartphone this time around, which should help to differentiate the two right from the onset, as there’s now more of an incentive (given its cost too) to eventually go for the S7 edge.

Samsung knows the importance of variety, evident in how they brought out the larger Galaxy S6 edge+ back in the fall to give consumers another option to think about. But with the introduction of the S7 edge, Samsung is replacing both the S6 edge and S6 edge+, leading us to believe that this year, it'll be the S7, S7 edge and Note 6 that are going to form the company's high-end line-up: three phones spanning three different sizes; unlike last year, when we had four phones covering just two sizes.

The package contains

• Samsung Galaxy S7 edge
• Rapid wall charger
• microUSB cable
• SIM ejector tool
• Stereo headphones
• User guide

Design

Improved premium design made better with a water-resistant construction.

From the surface, it might not appear as though there are remarkable changes to the S7 edge’s design, but there are in fact several subtle refinements that carefully address some of the shortcomings with last year’s design. First and foremost, the same premium design is present once again here, boasting that attractive metal and glass package that ceremoniously elevated Samsung to a totally new level last year. Our particular unit, a gold platinum Verizon variant, shimmers in a distinctive gold hue when it’s tilted in the sunlight. However, it’s still something that attracts nasty baddies such as fingerprints and smudges – so a lot of care and wiping is necessary in keeping it clean.

Of course, the same slick aesthetics are achieved thanks in part to how its dual-curved edges just makes it look great near and far. The most notable change here with the S7 edge is its size, one that finds itself in middle of the S6 edge and S6 edge+. For a 5.5-incher, though, Samsung’s engineers continue to trim as much of the fat off the phone, almost giving off the illusion that it’s a phone with a smaller sized screen. In fact, its 76.09% screen-to-body ratio is recognizable when it’s placed alongside the iPhone 6s Plus, which boasts a 5.5-inch screen as well, but looks considerably larger due to its lower screen-to-body ratio of 67.91%. In comparison with something like last year's LG G4 and its 72.46% screen-to-body ratio, the S7 edge's compactness isn't all that impressive, but it still comes across as remarkably narrow and easy-to-handle device considering the screen size.

Believe us when we say that the S7 edge doesn’t look like your typical 5.5-incher! And it’s quite revealing when we hold the phone in our hand, as we’re able to grasp the entire width of the phone without having that feeling of stretching our hand more to compensate its size – such as the case with the iPhone 6s Plus. Sure, people with smaller sized hands will feel it’s still quite goliath in size, but we’re digging how they’re able to keep its frame within the bounds of reasonable.

While its size is what’s arguably the most different, we will note, however, that Samsung has drastically improved its feel in the hand. The last generation suffered from excessively sharp metal edges that made the phone unpleasant to hold, but this year, Samsung has finally polished those edges, putting an end to in-hand discomfort with the S7 edge. Throw in the fact that it also adopts the same curved edges on the back of the phone, something first introduced by the Note 5, the S7 edge’s in-hand feel is substantially improved.

Looking around the phone, everything from before is in its familiar location. From the power button on the right edge, to the volume controls on the left, and the speaker grill, mic, microUSB port, and 3.5mm headphone jack all positioned on the bottom, nothing is out of order with its placements. The fingerprint sensor, which is incorporated into the home button, is still just as quick and responsive as before. Interestingly, though, the button itself doesn’t protrude as much – it's almost flush with the surface, in fact. Meanwhile, the camera lens on the back is not as protruding as before.

One key thing to note that’s missing this time is the IR blaster, something that Samsung has decided to scale back with its devices. Say what you will about this decision, it’s something that we’ve been accustomed to seeing in many flagships, so to find it omitted is rather telling about its worth to consumers.

The return of water-resistance & microSD slot

While the changes to the S7 edge’s design might be perceived as subtly refined, there are actually two notable changes that are worth mentioning. First and foremost, the nanoSIM slot on the top edge of the phone now doubles as a microSD slot as well, bringing back expandable storage to Sammy’s flagship. Another feature that went missing with last year’s S6 line, a water-resistant construction, makes its comeback in a stunning fashion.

With its IP68 rating, the Galaxy S7 edge ups its game by fashioning a water resistant construction to a premium looking smartphone. This means that it can be submerged in up to 5 feet of water for 30 minutes with no compromise, ensuring that minor accidents, such as spills, will no longer be of concern to this prized handset. Best of all, there’s no worry about having to close up ports and such, much like what you have to do with many of Sony’s Xperia phones, seeing that it’s been treated for water resistance.

Not only does the S7 edge look stunning and feels incredible in the hand, but the reintroduction of a water resistant package just completes its no-compromise stature. Many phones have impressive designs, but few go to the same length as to what Samsung achieves with the S7 edge.

Display

It’s a bigger screen, with those signature dual-curved edges that give it one slick look.

By now, we’re accustomed to Samsung’s expertise when it comes to displays. Each successive device thus far has been equipped with a better display. For the S7 edge, they’ve obviously fashioned a larger, 5.5-inch 1440 x 2560 Super AMOLED display – putting its size right between the two previous edge phones.

While it seems like we’re reaching that threshold, especially when Quad-HD resolution is the standard amongst high-end phones, we have to look at some of the other aspects of the screen to distinguish its superiority. Most notably, when set to Basic screen mode, this AMOLED display exhibits colors that are very close to the standard sRGB colorspace, which is always a good thing. And, being AMOLED, contrast and brightness are remarkably preserved when viewing the display at an angle. The same doesn't go for color accuracy, though, as things get dramatically shifted depending on the angle you're viewing the screen from.

The only minor thing to change here with the display is its peak luminance and color temperature. Specifically, the S6 edge managed to produce a potent 553 nit luminance, but the S7 edge’s potency has lessened to 493 nits. On paper, the discrepancy might be thought of as grand, but in reality, the S7 edge’s screen is still more than visible on the sunniest of days – thanks in part to how it cranks up the contrast when it’s on automatic brightness. As for its color temperature, it’s actually an improvement at 6586K, besting its predecessor’s mark of 6799K. A color temperature close to 6500K means that color balance is spot on.

Overall, there’s very little to complain about the S7 edge’s display. When we look at it, the same amount of iridescence put out by it continues to be a major drawing factor. And when you combine its dual-curved nature, it only helps to enhance its allure in the space – wherein it’s still a rare sighting for any phone to feature a curved scree
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Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ Review

Introduction

When the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge was announced alongside the S6 earlier in the year, there was no arguing about Samsung’s decision to push forward with curved screens. Between the two of them, we found the S6 edge more fascinating, thanks to the undeniably exotic aesthetics of its dual-curved display. Generating such attention, it’s no wonder why Samsung is on the fast track to give consumers just a little bit more variety with one of its newest offerings.

From what we’ve seen so far, big phones are big business for the companies making them. Knowing that, it’s no surprise at all to know that the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ includes everything we know and love about the existing S6 edge, but takes things to a bigger scale – and by that, we mean a phone with a 5.7-inch display. Now, some might think it’s merely a larger edition of the S6 edge, but that’s not exactly the case, as the S6 edge+ is accompanied by a number of its own unique features to differentiate itself. While its addition to Sammy’s already diversified lineup is appreciated, it’s actually trying to make a name for itself in the phablet world.

Or is it just Samsung’s way of trying to capitalize on what’s hot and trending at the moment?

The package contains:

• Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+
• microUSB cable
• Wall charger
• Stereo headphones
• SIM removal tool
• Quick start guide
• Warranty card

Design

Aside from the larger footprint, it’s the same premium design we know and love. It’s still gorgeous, but we’re not as enthused because we’ve seen it before.

One look at the Galaxy S6 edge+, it’s hard to deny the obvious assertions about its design right from the onset – it’s just a bigger-sized version of the Galaxy S6 edge. That’s the undeniable reality, so in a way, it doesn’t achieve the same level of intrigue that we first experienced with its smaller sibling. Don’t get us wrong, it’s still an attractive phone paired with premium materials to accentuate the stylish aesthetics brought on by its dual-curved display. The metal and glass combination, much like other high-end offerings from Sammy’s camp, makes it one of the best-looking phones around right now!

In terms of size, it’s clearly more of a handful to use than the S6 edge, but that’s the expectancy for something categorized as a phablet. Comparing it to Sammy’s other notable phablet, the Note5, the S6 edge+ is technically longer, at 6.08-inches, but also narrower, skinnier, and lighter. Interestingly, though, it’s not quite as sharp around the edges where its metal trim bezel is skinnier. And of course, we can’t forget about the mesmerizing show produced by its design as light bounces off the glass surfaces to produce a shimmering effect at certain angles.

For all of its aesthetic acclaims, it's still a finger print magnet, so its pristine looks can quickly be overpowered by smudgy prints on its glass surfaces. Even though it’s still largely an attractive looking thing in the space, we’re less enthused this time around with the design, since it merely replicates the design language of its sibling. On the flip side, for those who’ve never seen the S6 edge, this will certainly draw attention and significant admiration.

Nearly everything found on the S6 edge is present here again with the S6 edge+, so that includes the handy fingerprint sensor, heart rate sensor, rapid charging microUSB 2.0 port, and built-in wireless charging. The placements of its ports and buttons are also unchanged here. However, there’s one thing missing from its arsenal that’s available with the Galaxy S6 edge – that’s the IR blaster on its top edge. Most folks might overlook this decision, but we feel that it’s a bit unsettling considering that it’s something they were able to squeeze into the crammed confines of the Galaxy S6 edge..

Display

Bigger than before, we have more real-estate to work with this time around, but the dual-curve edges once again add to the aesthetics.

Naturally, its gorgeous-looking design is primarily attributed to the curved 5.7-inch 1440 x 2560 (Quad-HD) Super AMOLED display fashioned onto it, which is a few steps up in size from the 5.1-incher found with the Galaxy S6 edge. Technically speaking, its pixel density is lower at 518 ppi, but regardless, it’s still incredibly sharp and detailed. It’s a visual feast for the eye to see, that’s certain! And of course, pixel density with the S6 edge+ is equal to that of the Note5, which has a panel of the same size and resolution.

As we’ve realized, Samsung has nearly perfected the art of producing perfectly calibrated screens – and it continues to show here with the Galaxy S6 edge+. Even though there are subtle anomalies with its color reproduction in the sRGB color spectrum over what’s found with the Note 5 and S6 edge, it’s still largely very accurate in reproducing true-to-life colors. Better yet, its color temperature of ~6700K is pretty close to the 6500K reference point, so it’s a panel that appears very neutral in its color tone... as long as you stick with the 'Basic' screen mode. As always, there are a few other modes, which mostly pump things up to deliver colors that tend to be perceived as punchy and vivid, but also artificial.

In terms of visibility, its 502-nit luminance is less than the Galaxy S6 edge’s achievement of 553 nits, but it’s still pretty visible outdoors – even when it’s looked at in direct sunlight. It also appears to be superior than the Note5's display, which peaks out at 470 nits of brightness. Typical of AMOLED technology, the screen delivers outstanding viewing angles as far as retaining brightness and contrast goes, but on the downside, colors exhibit dramatic shifts in their quality as we turn the screen even slightly. Meanwhile, thought, we continue to appreciate the deep black levels of this AMOLED display, which helps things on screen appear that much livelier and contrasty. All told, everything about the display is expected.

Going beyond the specs and objective benchmarks, the dual-curved edges of the display are what makes it unique-looking and different in the space. The curve is pretty much unchanged from the S6 edge, so it’s subtle and doesn’t slope as much as the one found on last year's Galaxy Note Edge. Indeed, it’s accompanied with certain features that aren’t at the disposal of other displays, giving it some unique features against the competition, but the curved edges are still there primarily for the slick aesthetics. We’ll explain their new features a bit later in the interface section
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Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 8-inch Review

Introduction

Samsung has always been the one to offer diversity in its portfolio. Complementing its full-sized tablet offering, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 9.7-inch, the 8.0-inch model is naturally there for the taking if you prefer something that’s more compact in size. Steep competition is everywhere we look, including this space where 8-inch tablets can be fetched for under $300 at this point, so the $400 cost slapped to the 8.0-inch Galaxy Tab S2might seem too high to some folks. Regardless, we’re certain a few won’t mind paying the extra premium just as long as Samsung's tablet proves to be a strong performer.

The package contains:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 8-inch
• microUSB cable
• Wall charger
• Quick start guide
• Safety & warranty documents

Design

You’ll love its slim profile and lightweight feel.

Just like the 9.7-inch model, this 8-inch Galaxy Tab S2 takes its design cues from last year’sGalaxy Note 4 – exhibiting a slightly cleaner and more uniform design. Gone is the dimpled plastic chassis from last year’s Galaxy Tab S 8.4, replaced instead by a matte plastic – one that’s available in black, white, or gold. It looks good, and feels good too, especially when its svelte, 0.22-inch (5.6 mm) profile and 9.59 oz (272 g) weight ensure it’s comfortable to hold in the hand.

While many of the ports and buttons are positioned in the same locations as before, Samsung replaced the fingerprint sensor with the same one employed by its newer smartphones – so unlocking the tablet is easier and quicker than ever before. What’s unfortunate, though, is that they’ve removed the IR blaster. By now, we’re not too surprised by this, seeing that the Galaxy Note5 and Galaxy S6 edge+ don't have one either, but we’re nonetheless sad to see one less feature in this new model that was something accessible by its predecessor.

Display

Yes, its screen resolution is lower, but it still packs some favorable qualities.

In addition to seeing its screen size go from 8.4-inches to 8.0-icnhes, it’s also shockingly accompanied with a reduction to its resolution as well. Sammy impressed us when they slapped a pixel crunching 1600 x 2560 resolution with last year’s 8.4-inch model, but this time around, it’s now an 8.0-inch 1536 x 2048 Super AMOLED display. Even though it’s sporting a lower resolution than before, its 320 ppi pixel density is still more than effective enough to produce sharp-looking details that are pleasing to the eyes.

Despite the shortcomings with its lower screen resolution, they’ve managed to make some marked improvements to other aspects of panel itself,thus proving that it’s better in overall quality. In particular, its 6800K color temperature and 2.18 gamma value are improvements over its predecessor, but even better is the fact that the ‘basic’ display mode produces even more realistic, true-to-life colors than before. However, its maximum 337 nit luminance makes it challenging to view outdoors.

Love it or hate it, the display has all of the necessary qualities to make it favorable – like its good details, realistic color tones, and decent visibility. We just wish they kept up with the resolution, and for some people, we understand that it lessens its value.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 9.7-inch Review

Introduction

High-end Android tablets are becoming few and far between, indicating to us that the tablet segment in general has been seeing a slowdown. Most consumers seem to be more gravitated to either picking up a low-cost laptop hybrid, or the many inexpensive tablets that pack reasonable value for the money. On that note, it’s no surprise to us that many companies have stopped production and development for high-end tablets on the Android side. And then there’s Samsung!

If there’s one company you can count on for that, it’s no other than Samsung, because seriously, they absolutely love to get their presence everywhere. Although we’ve waited more than a year at this point, we’re seeing a successor to its popular and premium Galaxy Tab line. With theSamsung Galaxy Tab S2 9.7-inch, they’re ensuring that they’ll remain relevant, as this full-size offering packs a dose of premium tablet goodness in such a svelte package.

The package contains:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 9.7-inch
• microUSB cable
• Wall charger
• Quick start guide
• Safety & warranty documents

Design

It’s so lightweight and comfortable to use, you’d hardly know that you’re using a tablet.

Dramatic changes have come to this new tablet, as it totally sports a new design that actually follows after the Galaxy Note 4’s design language. That’s evident in how it employs a thin metal trim accent around its edges with a matte plastic chassis, which combine together nicely to give it a more appealing design than last year’s model. We can tell that it’s been designed to compete against the iPad Air 2, just because it trims off a lot of the fat to come up being skinnier, lighter, and having a smaller overall footprint than its rival. And it helps, too, in making it comfortable to use with one hand thanks to its feather-like weight – to the point that we have no discomfort holding it for a period of time.

One new, notable change is that Sammy opted to go with a portrait-style layout, as opposed to the landscape orientation of last year’s Galaxy Tab S 10.5-inch. And finally, we also find the same two dimples on its back to accommodate various covers and accessories made specifically for it. While we applaud the updated design, one that makes marked improvements over its predecessor, it doesn’t reach the same kind of premium craftsmanship we get from the iPad Air 2 – albeit, it’s surely one of the best-looking, new Android tablets around right now. 

Like many of Samsung’s newer products, it now features the newer fingerprint sensor, used by devices like the Galaxy S6 and Note5, so that it’s less of a hassle to operate than before. Gently resting our finger over the home button unlocks the tablet, which is considerably better than the frustrating swipe down motion that was implemented by its predecessor.

Becoming a consistent practice of Samsung of late, the Tab S2 9.7-inch ditches the IR blaster altogether, indicating to us that it’s going to be a common thing going forward. That’s a shame to tell you the truth, seeing that the tablet also centers on multimedia consumption at home, so the lack of an IR blaster lessens its value by some degree – more so to those who religiously used it.

Display

Oddly, the resolution is a step below its predecessor, but it’s still a generally good looking display.

An odd gesture from Samsung, a company that’s known to always outclass its previous efforts in the specs department, they’ve decided to fashion the Galaxy Tab S2 9.7-inch with a lower resolution display. This time around, it’s flaunting a 4:3 aspect ratio with its 9.7-inch 1536 x 2048 Super AMOLED display – whereas with the Tab S 10.5, it offers a widescreen format 10.5-inch 2560 x 1600 Super AMOLED panel. Even though there’s still a great deal of detail produced by it, thanks to its 264 ppi pixel density, it’s technically still not as pixel dense than Samsung’s previous effort.

There are improvements made to the screen’s quality, evident by its better ~6600K color temperature and color reproduction accuracy. Starting with the former, it betters the substantially colder ~7000K color temperature of its predecessor, which gives the screen an even more balanced tone – so it’s neither too warm nor cold. To no one’s surprise either, Sammy definitely knows how to produce an accurate screen – giving it that true-to-life representation, as opposed to the slightly saturated tones from before.

Another area that takes a step back, especially for Sammy, is seen in how the screen emits a lower luminance. In this particular case, it maxes out at a meager 375 nits, which poses trouble when it’s used outdoors with the sun’s presence glaring down on it. By comparison, the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 fared a bit better at 395 nits. While it's a fact that the screen is a step backwards from its predecessor in certain areas, it’s still a pretty good looking panel! There’s enough iridescence, wide viewing angles, and brilliance to make it a compelling visual treat to the eyes
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Plantronics BackBeat Pro+ Review

Introduction

Over a year ago, we were introduced to Plantronics’ new venture into the high-end mobile audio space with its acclaimed BackBeat Pro. In our own review, we were astounded by its feature-rich package that included active noise-cancellation, long range Bluetooth connectivity, cushy feel, quick charging, and enhanced audio amplification courtesy of its OpenMic feature.

For its successor, Plantronics is utilizing the same strategy we’ve seen them use in some of the products in its portfolio. Rather than producing a true successor, the Plantronics BackBeat Pro+ sees a single, major new addition to its arsenal, which we’ll reveal a bit later on. It’s priced higher at $299.99, but let’s figure out if there’s sufficient justification in snagging it.

The package contains:

• Travel sleeve
• microUSB cable
• 3.5mm stereo cable
• Get started guide

Design

Considering it’s not a real successor, the Plantronics BackBeat Pro+ recycles the design we’re familiar with. While the design and aesthetics remain unchanged, what does change is the paint job. In general, it’s adorned in the same greyish gunmetal paint job from before, but instead of finding purple accent colors lining the mesh grill of each ear cup, it’s been replaced by plain old grey – matching the body, making it uniform looking.

That’s essentially what’s different about its design, as the rest is unchanged from before. It continues to utilize the same plastic build from before, which gives it a lightweight feel for its size, but it doesn’t particularly exude a premium finish. As for its fit and comfort, there’s very little to complain about, mainly because it’s adequately padded around the headband and around each ear cup. In fact, it’s something we recommend for those long flights – or situations that put you into a relaxed mood.

For those with a more active lifestyle, however, there’s a bit of ‘looseness’ and ‘give’ when it’s worn. In this case, it’s not something that would be ideal for running or workouts that involve intensity.

BLU Vivo XL Review

Introduction

A breakout year for the company, Miami-based BLU left its mark in the mobile space throughout 2015, but 'it's wasting no time in directing its momentum. In fact, it announced not one, but two new affordably priced smartphones that don't sacrifice in style during CES 2016.

We're checking out the cheaper of the two, theBLU Vivo XL, which chimes in with a devilishly hard-to-resist starting price of $149.00. Visually appealing from head-to-toe, it's undeniably fabulous that its design is a central focus, but let's cross our fingers that other aspects of the phone aren't compromised.

The package contains:

• BLU Vivo XL
• Wall Charger
• USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable
• Stereo headphones
• Silicone case
• Screen protector
• User guide

Design

If this is what we can expect from a sub-$150 phone, we have higher expectations from the competition.

BLU doesn't disappoint with the Vivo XL, thanks in part to balancing the combination of having a slick design, svelte construction (0.3in/7.5mm), and lightweight figure (5.4oz/152 g). Honestly, it's almost unfathomable to believe 'everything has been crammed in such a thin, compact body.

What draws us in the most to the phone's design is the mirrored finish of its rear casing. It's highly reflective and makes for a great mirror for those quick peeks of yourself, while a stitching pattern accentuates the Vivo XL's premium-esque looks. Specifically, BLU refers to the finish as liquid metal, but in reality, it's far from metal – more like a glossy plastic coating that covers everything.

Even though it seems like BLU emphasizes on design above everything else, there's still utility in mind – evident in the fact that the phone features a removable battery, dual-SIM slots, and a microSD slot. What's most striking, though, is that a USB Type-C 2.0 port is present on the Vivo XL, ensuring that it's up to snuff with the times.

Display

It's a throwback to the AMOLED screens of yesterday; super saturation and a weak brightness output.

In complementing its dazzling aesthetics, the 5.5-inch 720 x 1280 Super AMOLED display with Gorilla Glass 3 is absolute in garnering attention with its iridescent glow, over-saturated colors, wide viewing angles, and the typical deep black that AMOLED screens are known for producing. This, from what we can gather, embodies all of the typical characteristics of the technology.

While Samsung has perfected the technology, the one used by BLU here harkens back to the AMOLED screens of old. For example, it washes out and fades under direct sun due to its feeble peak luminance of 289 nits. And other qualities about it indicate an inferior screen here, like its colder ~8000K color temperature and over-saturated, unrealistic color reproduction. You know it's representative of AMOLED technology of the past, due to the amount of saturation produced by it – such as in how yellows appear greenish and teal leans on the bluish side.

Asus Zenfone Zoom Review

Introduction

Asus has found its niche in the mid-range segment, as opposed to trying to duke it out with the elites in the high-end space. From the looks of it, though, it's working out for the company, at least for the most part. Its Asus ZenFone 2, for instance, proved to be a rousing success, spurring countless variants in the process.

Now, a full year after its initial announcement, another ZenFone model is here in the flesh. TheAsus ZenFone Zoom, as it is called, sports optical zoom with its camera – a feature that's few and far between in phones. Knowing that, the handset's aim is to specialize in photography, but is adding optical zoom adequate in defining it as a supreme camera phone?

The package contains:

• Asus ZenFone Zoom
• Wall Charger
• microUSB cable
• Lanyard
• User guide

Design

Even with the internal camera gear, it's able to retain an impressively slim profile.

While we weren't particularly won over by the ZenFone 2's design, the ZenFone Zoom presents us with a slightly more refined look. From the front, it looks like all the other ZenFone 2 variants, but there's a dramatic shift everywhere else.

For starters, the Zoom features an aerospace-grade alloy trim that closely resembles the iPhone, adding a sense of strength and durability to its construction. And the rear employs a genuine leather finish with a raised stitching pattern on one side to mimic the look of a subtle handle.

Clearly, there's far more attention paid to every aspect of the phone's design, ensuring it doesn't go unnoticed. It's a bit of a top-heavy device, actually, and the raised area for its camera compartment makes holding it in the hand feel a bit unusual, as if we're accidentally touching the lens, but we suppose that one becomes used to that over time.

Catering as best it can in being a camera-centric device, the ZenFone Zoom comes with a practical set of buttons along its right edge. Specifically, it features a dedicated two-level shutter key, a tiny button strictly for video recording, and its volume controls adjust the zoom function within the camera interface. There's even a small nook along the right corner of the phone to accommodate the included lanyard as well, showing us once again it's doing its best in being a capable camera phone.

Display

By now, the display is beginning to come off as boring.

Sharing ties to the existing ZenFone line, it's no surprise that the Asus ZenFone Zoom is rocking the same 5.5-inch 1080 x 1920 IPS-LCD, protected by Gorilla Glass 4 this time. At the same time, there are no major changes with its quality. The display exhibits nearly the same characteristics as those on recent ZenFone models. From its detail, 440 nit brightness output, and overblown color reproduction, it's almost identical. Strangely, though, its color temperature runs extremely cold at ~9000K, which is a huge disparity from the 7200K – 7600K ranges we saw with the other phones in the series.

Generally speaking, the qualities of the display paint a modest picture. It's not really as exciting or attractive looking compared to other screens. In fact, it tends to appear a bit washed out at times, even when it's set to its highest brightness leve
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