The Asus Zenfone 5 series was a pioneer in affordable smartphones, offering impressive features for the price. But with two iterations – the 2014 (A500CG) and 2015 (A501CG) models – which one holds up best today? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Zenfone 5 (2014) with its significantly faster 2.0 GHz processor edges out the 2015 model. While the 2015 version boasts slightly improved software and potentially better RAM management, the 2014's raw processing power makes it the more responsive choice for everyday tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2015, January. Released 2015, January | 2014, January. Released 2014, April |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 148.2 x 72.8 x 10.3 mm (5.83 x 2.87 x 0.41 in) | 148.2 x 72.8 x 10.3 mm (5.83 x 2.87 x 0.41 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 145 g (5.11 oz) | 145 g (5.11 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~63.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~63.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.2 GHz | Dual-core 2.0 GHz |
| Chipset | Intel Atom Z2520 | Intel Atom Z2580 |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX544MP2 | PowerVR SGX544MP2 |
| OS | Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean), upgradable to 5.0.2 (Lollipop) | Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean), upgradable to 5.0.2 (Lollipop) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 2GB RAM | 8GB 2GB RAM, 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, 720p@60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP, f/2.4 | 2 MP, f/2.4 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, EDR | 4.0, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 353 h (3G) | Up to 353 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 18 h 30 min (3G) | Up to 18 h 30 min (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 2110 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 2110 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Charcoal Black, Pearl White, Cherry Red | Charcoal Black, Pearl White, Cherry Red, Champagne Gold, Twilight Purple |
| Models | T00F | T00J, T00J-D |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.18 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.53 W/kg (head) |
Asus Zenfone 5 A501CG (2015)
- Slightly improved software experience
- Potentially better RAM management
- Slightly larger battery capacity (2100mAh)
- Slower processor (1.2 GHz)
- Noticeable performance lag compared to 2014
- Similar camera quality to 2014
Asus Zenfone 5 A500CG (2014)
- Faster processor (2.0 GHz)
- Smoother performance and multitasking
- Comparable battery life despite smaller battery
- Generally more responsive
- Older software
- May lack some newer features
- Slightly less refined design
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 5-inch 720p IPS display. While the 2015 model might have slightly improved color calibration, the difference is minimal. Viewing angles and overall clarity are comparable on both devices.
Camera Comparison
Both phones have an 8MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera. Image quality is generally acceptable in good lighting conditions, but low-light performance is weak on both. The 2015 model might have slightly improved image processing algorithms, but the hardware is largely the same.
Performance
This is where the biggest difference lies. The Zenfone 5 (2014)'s 2.0 GHz Intel Atom Z2580 processor provides a noticeable performance boost over the 2015's 1.2 GHz Z2520. Expect smoother multitasking and faster app loading times on the 2014 model. The 2015 model's lower clock speed can lead to occasional lag, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
The Zenfone 5 (2014) has a 2000mAh battery, while the Zenfone 5 (2015) has a 2100mAh battery. Despite the slightly larger capacity, the 2014 model often delivers comparable or slightly better battery life due to the less power-hungry processor.
Buying Guide
The Asus Zenfone 5 (2014) is ideal for users prioritizing speed and performance on a tight budget. It's a good option for basic tasks and light gaming. The Zenfone 5 (2015) might appeal to those seeking a slightly more refined software experience, but the performance trade-off is noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Zenfone 5 (2015) worth the upgrade from the 2014?
Generally, no. The performance difference is significant, and the 2015 model doesn't offer enough improvements to justify the cost.
❓ Which Zenfone 5 has better software support?
The 2015 model likely received slightly longer software support, but both are now outdated and unlikely to receive further updates.
