Why the Asus ZenFone 2 (ZE551ML) is Worth the Extra 4K

Skip the ZE550ML and go for the ZE551ML

Online stores and various gadget shops in malls have already started offering the lower end Zenfone 2 variant, the ZE550ML. Based on what we’ve seen the current gray market price is at Php10,000-Php10,500. The higher end model of the Zenfone 2, the ZE551ML is currently being offered at just Php4,000 more, roughly Php13,999. We’ve received a lot of questions via our Facebook Page if it’s worth the extra cash. Without a shadow of a doubt we can say a big YES. If you guys can save up the extra Php4,000 and skip the 550ML so you can go straight for the 551ML, do it.

Here are the 5 reasons why we think you should:

1. Generous serving of 4GB RAM

The ZE551ML has twice the RAM of the ZE550ML. The extra 2GB ensures a much smoother experience and we experience this ourselves at the demo floor of ASUS during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Multi-tasking was a much more flawless experience with the ZE551ML compared to the ZE550ML. Slow multi-tasking was also one of the biggest criticisms against the Zenfone 5 so might as well make sure we avoid that altogether with the Zenfone 2 by going for the ZE551ML.

When it comes to processors, the ZE551ML has two variants. There’s one with the Intel Atom Z3580 2.33GHz processor and the Intel Atom Z3560 1.83GHz. The Php13,999 (Php4,000 more expensive vs the ZE550ML) model carries the same Z3560 1.83GHz processor so what you’re really paying for in terms of internals here is the additional 2GB RAM and the other benefits listed below.

2. It looks much better with the Metallic Brushed Finish Body

The ZE550ML (pictured above) has the same body as the Zenfone 5.

This is more aesthetic than anything but the brushed metal finish feels and looks much more premium compared to the generic build that was originally used by the Zenfone 5 and was eventually retained with the ZE550ML.

3. Beautiful Full HD Display

Both the ZE551ML and the ZE550ML use a 5.5-inch IPS LCD Corning Gorilla Display. What makes the ZE551ML superior is the resolution and pixel density. The ZE551ML packs a Full HD Display (1920 x 1080 pixels) which is roughly 403 pixels per inch. The ZE550ML is only HD (1280 x 720 pixels) or around 267 pixels per inch.

With this big of a screen you’d really want it to be Full HD since this will be a great entertainment and gaming mobile device. Better resolution means better viewing experience so if you ask us it is well worth the extra moolah to upgrade.

4. NFC

Used properly, NFC can make your smartphone experience incredibly better. Our current set-up is that we have NFC tags in three key places: inside our car, at our home, and at the office. By tapping the phone to the tags the phone automatically adjusts its settings. For example, if we tap it at the office the phone goes silent, data goes off, and wifi connects to the office network. At the car data and bluetooth go on while wifi turns off.

5. Better Internal Storage at 32GB

Lastly… 32GB internal storage (vs 16GB of the ZE550ML). Why is this important? Two reasons. First you don’t have to store all of your media anymore in your phone. Streaming services like Spotify and YouTube can give you your music and video fix while you’re on the go. Secondly you don’t have to spend anymore on a microSD card which can go up to the thousands. 32GB should be more than enough for casual-moderate users. If you’re a hardcore user though then that 64GB microSD can come in handy.

And there you have it! Those are the main reasons why we’re skipping the ZE550ML and going straight for the ZE551ML. If this is going to be your primary and main phone, might as well go all the way.

If you guys have any thoughts on this matter please do share it with us via the comments section below. 🙂