Smartphone Comparison: Asus Zenfone 8 vs. vivo X100
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 148 × 68.5 × 8.9 mm | 164.1 × 75.2 × 8.5 mm | vivo X100 is significantly larger, may be less comfortable for one-handed use. Asus Zenfone 8 is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 169g | 202g | Asus Zenfone 8 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and carrying around. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, not foldable. |
Display
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 5.9" | 6.78" | vivo X100 offers a much more immersive viewing experience, better for media consumption and gaming. Asus Zenfone 8 is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1260x2800 | vivo X100 has a sharper and more detailed display, particularly noticeable when viewing high-resolution images or videos. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 446 | 452 | Both offer very similar sharpness, negligible difference in everyday use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, superior to LCD screens. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, ideal for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 3000 nits | vivo X100 is significantly brighter, making it much easier to view in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 9300 (4 nm) | vivo X100 uses a newer, more powerful processor, offering faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 1,881,325 | vivo X100 is significantly faster in benchmarks, translating to a noticeable performance difference in real-world usage. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Immortalis-G720 MC12 | vivo X100's GPU is significantly more powerful, leading to better gaming performance and graphics rendering. |
Camera
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP | 50MP | Asus Zenfone 8 has a slightly higher resolution, but the sensor size of vivo X100 is larger |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.57 | vivo X100's wider aperture allows more light, potentially resulting in better low-light performance and shallower depth of field |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | 1/1.31" | vivo X100's larger sensor captures more light, leading to better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 12MP | 32MP | vivo X100 captures much more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.0 | vivo X100's wider aperture allows for better low-light selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.93" | 1/2.8" | vivo X100 has a negligibly larger selfie sensor. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 64MP | vivo X100 offers optical zoom capabilities, a feature not present in the Asus Zenfone 8. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 50MP | vivo X100 offers wide-angle photography capabilities, a feature not present in the Asus Zenfone 8. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | 12MP | None | Asus Zenfone 8 provides the ability to take macro images, a feature not present in vivo X100. |
| Video | Up to 8K @ 24fps | Yes | Asus Zenfone 8 supports higher video resolution for higher quality videos, while vivo X100 supports video. |
| Slow-motion | 480 fps | 960 fps | vivo X100 offers higher frame rate slow-motion recording, capturing more detailed slow motion. |
| DXOMark | 116 | - | Asus Zenfone 8's camera performance has been independently tested, while vivo X100 is missing the test results. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | Cinematic Mode, Flicker sensor, Noise reduction, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Gimbal, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | vivo X100 offers a more advanced camera feature set including telephoto, wide angle, night mode, and manual controls, while Asus Zenfone 8 supports 8K video. |
Battery
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | vivo X100 has a significantly larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 120W Fast Charging | vivo X100 charges much faster, reducing time spent plugged in. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Lithium | No practical difference for the end user |
| Removable | No | No | Neither phone has a removable battery |
Software & Connectivity
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | vivo X100 offers a newer, more feature-rich operating system out of the box. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | vivo X100 supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for faster speeds and better connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.4 | vivo X100 has a newer Bluetooth version, offering potentially better connectivity and efficiency. |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Both offer similar GPS capabilities. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both support dual SIM cards. |
Storage & Audio
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | vivo X100 offers more storage options, crucial for users with large media libraries or demanding apps. |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16 GB | 12/16 GB | Both offer enough RAM for heavy multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, which may be limiting to some users. |
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation microphone, 3 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both phones provide excellent audio, however Asus Zenfone 8 is slightly better for clearer voice capture while vivo X100 has Dolby Atmos. |
Security, Build, Sensors
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | vivo X100 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both use basic fingerprint technology for security. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Asus Zenfone 8 offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Asus Zenfone 8 offers an additional Hall sensor, providing a more complete sensor set. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Compact Size & Lightweight: More pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use.
- Screen Protection: Uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for superior scratch and drop resistance.
- Higher Quality Video Recording: Supports 8k video, which is useful for professional content creators.
- Hall Sensor: Has an additional Hall sensor for more complete sensor set.
- Macro Lens: Includes a wide angle + macro lens for close up photos
vivo X100 Advantages:
- Larger & Brighter Display: Provides an immersive viewing experience, much better for media consumption and outdoor visibility.
- Significantly More Powerful Performance: Offers much faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming capabilities.
- Telephoto and Wide Angle Lenses: Offers a more versatile camera system with telephoto and wide-angle lenses.
- Much Faster Charging: Offers 120W charging, significantly reducing the time to charge the phone.
- Larger Battery: Provides longer battery life, reducing the need to recharge frequently.
- Newer Software: Ships with the latest Android 14, ensuring access to new features and security updates.
- More Storage Options: Provides higher storage options for users with large media libraries.
- Dolby Atmos: Offers Dolby Atmos for higher quality audio playback.
Trade-offs:
- Size & Weight: The vivo X100 is larger and heavier, which might not be preferred by all users.
- Camera: While the vivo X100 has better camera features and lens capabilities, the Asus Zenfone 8 can record 8k videos, and has a macro lens.
- Screen Protection: The vivo X100 has an unknown screen protection, while the Asus Zenfone 8 has the more superior Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Asus Zenfone 8:
- Users who prefer a compact and lightweight smartphone for easy one-handed use and portability.
- Users who prioritize robust screen protection and don't frequently need the latest or greatest mobile specs.
- Users who value a slightly higher quality audio recording for calls.
Use Cases for Asus Zenfone 8:
- Everyday tasks (calling, texting, browsing).
- Light gaming and media consumption.
- Users who are looking for a more pocketable device
- Professional content creators who need 8k video recording
Ideal User for vivo X100:
- Users who want a top-tier smartphone with cutting-edge performance and features.
- Users who frequently consume media, game, and perform demanding tasks.
- Users who want a versatile camera system with telephoto and wide angle lenses.
- Users who need a long-lasting battery with fast charging.
- Users who need a device for use in direct sunlight.
Use Cases for vivo X100:
- Heavy gaming and multitasking.
- Extensive media consumption (videos, movies, etc.).
- Professional photography and videography.
- Users who need a powerful device for on-the-go productivity.
- Users who need longer battery life without frequent recharges
- Users who need a phone with excellent outdoor visibility.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Asus Zenfone 8 is likely to be more budget-friendly due to its age, which makes it a more value-focused option for users who don't need the best specifications.
- The vivo X100 comes with the latest technologies, and is likely to be priced at a higher price point, but provides better features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my priority regarding phone size and comfort? Do you prefer a compact phone for one-handed use, or a larger display for better media experience?
- What is my performance requirement? Do you need top-tier performance for heavy gaming and multitasking, or is moderate performance adequate?
- How important is battery life and charging speed? Do you need a long-lasting battery and fast charging capabilities?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious & Compact: If you prefer a compact smartphone that is easy to use with one hand, has good screen protection, and is more affordable, the Asus Zenfone 8 is a better choice.
- Scenario 2: Performance and Media: If you want a top-tier performance, bigger and brighter screen, superior camera system, and faster charging speeds, the vivo X100 is the better option.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: If you need telephoto, wide angle, and night mode, the vivo X100 is the better option.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the vivo X100. While I appreciate the compact size and robust screen protection of the Asus Zenfone 8, the vivo X100 offers a much more compelling package overall. My primary use case is a combination of heavy multitasking, frequent media consumption, and gaming, and the vivo X100's performance advantages in these areas are very significant. Additionally, the much brighter display makes it much easier to use in outdoor conditions, which is something I value. The improved camera system with telephoto and wide angle lenses, plus faster charging, also makes the vivo X100 a more future proof choice. Although it comes at the cost of larger size and weight, the performance benefits are worth the trade-off for me.
