The 5.9-inch Asus ZenFone 10 smart phone is what we will be reviewing today.
The ZenFone 10 has six-axis gimbal stabilisation
The camera system of the ZenFone 10 is a notable feature, particularly its stabilization system. Unlike traditional optical image stabilization (OIS) that offers 0.5-degree freedom of movement in all directions by moving the camera sensor, Asus has implemented a different approach. In Asus’ system, the entire camera module moves to maintain stability.
According to Asus, this innovative approach provides a significant improvement to the camera’s capabilities. The 50MP primary camera and 13MP ultrawide camera of the ZenFone 10 can now move three times further, with 1.5 degrees of freedom in all directions. This enhanced stabilization helps counteract the effects of shaky hands and ensures smoother video recordings.
The gimbal stabilization feature on the ZenFone 10 was highly impressive, as indicated. It included a convenient on-screen icon to indicate whether the stabilization was active, although it didn’t completely eliminate all blurriness in every image. Nonetheless, it significantly facilitated capturing sharp shots with one hand and offered advanced shooting modes like Night Mode and Light Trail without requiring a tripod.
This doesn’t imply that Samsung’s triple rear camera system produces blurry photos; in fact, it performed well in everyday scenarios even with standard optical image stabilization (OIS). However, for those who require extreme stabilization, such as recording videos while off-roading on a BMX, the ZenFone 10 would be a more suitable choice.
The design of the Asus ZenFone 10 has received mixed reactions, evoking either love or dislike, primarily due to the utilization of a bio-based polycarbonate material for the rear panel. While the intention behind using this material is commendable, aiming to reduce petrochemical usage in the manufacturing process by 50%, the actual finish of the phone leaves much to be desired. The reviewer noted that it feels rough, comparable to sandpaper or a nail file, and the phone itself is relatively thin, giving it a somewhat hollow sensation. This aspect is not ideal, especially considering the phone’s price tag of £750.
The ZenFone 10’s software is hugely customisable
While the ZenFone 10 operates on Android 13, its approach to the operating system sets it apart. Asus has adopted a relatively stock approach with the ZenFone 10’s software, although it doesn’t technically run stock Android but instead utilizes Asus’ own ZenUI. Despite having its own user interface layered on top, the overall look and feel of the device still closely resemble stock Android.
Asus has also added its own touch to the design of icons and the power-off process, while also offering the option to revert to the stock approach. This departure from the norm is refreshing, considering that most smartphones provide limited customization options for the operating system.
The ZenFone 10 delivers an experience that aligns more closely with stock Android, and Asus has confirmed that the device will receive two major OS upgrades and four years of security patches. This means that the ZenFone 10’s software support will end at Android 15. If the idea of receiving new features and updates over time appeals to you, this is an important factor to consider.
The ZenFone 10 is cheap
In terms of pricing, the ZenFone 10 offers a more budget-friendly option, particularly during its pre-order period. Currently, if you place a pre-order for the ZenFone 10 before its release in July, you can purchase it for as low as £699 in the UK, which is a £50 discount from the recommended retail price (RRP) of £749. The higher-end variant with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage is currently priced at £749 during the pre-order phase, but the price will increase to £819 once orders begin shipping.