1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Asus Zenfone 8 and Xiaomi Poco C65, focusing on practical implications:
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Xiaomi Poco C65 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-05-13 | 2023-11-06 | Poco C65 is significantly newer, potentially having better software support. |
| Dimensions | 148 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm | 168 x 78 x 8.1 mm | Zenfone 8 is smaller, more pocketable; Poco C65 has a larger screen area but is less dense. |
| Weight | 169g | 192g | Zenfone 8 is lighter, more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.74" | Poco C65 offers a larger screen for immersive media consumption and gaming. Zenfone 8 is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Zenfone 8 has a much sharper display, resulting in clearer text and images. |
| PPI | 446 | 260 | Zenfone 8's higher pixel density results in much sharper and clearer visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Zenfone 8 has superior colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency, especially with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Zenfone 8 offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Zenfone 8 will have much better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Zenfone 8 offers significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming capabilities. |
| Antutu Score | 891,700 | 237,768 | Zenfone 8 is dramatically more powerful and suitable for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Zenfone 8's GPU offers significantly superior graphics performance for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX686 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", Samsung S5KJN1 | Zenfone 8 has higher resolution and a larger sensor, leading to better low-light performance and detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93", Sony IMX663 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Zenfone 8 captures higher-resolution selfies. The Poco C65 has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Portrait Camera | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Poco C65 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Camera | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Poco C65 has a dedicated macro lens for closeup shots. |
| Wide Angle/Macro | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX363 | N/A | Zenfone 8 has a dedicated ultrawide camera, offering versatility in shooting options. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | Zenfone 8 offers vastly superior video capabilities, suitable for professional use. |
| DxOMark Score | 116 | N/A | Zenfone 8 has a rated camera performance, while Poco C65's is unknown. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Poco C65 likely offers longer battery life due to higher capacity. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Zenfone 8 charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Poco C65 can charge other devices, a potentially useful feature. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 | Poco C65 comes with a newer OS out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | Zenfone 8 offers faster and more reliable WiFi connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Poco C65 uses newer Bluetooth version; Zenfone 8 has better codec support |
| GPS | More Systems (L1/L5) | Fewer Systems | Zenfone 8 offers more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both offer Dual SIM capability |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both have same storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16 GB | 4/6/8 GB | Zenfone 8 offers more RAM, better for multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio Features | Zenfone 8 offers superior audio quality and features, including stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Poco C65 has a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Zenfone 8's screen is significantly more resistant to scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Variety | Comprehensive sensor suite | Basic sensor suite | Zenfone 8 provides more sensors for gaming, enhanced features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher resolution, brightness, and refresh rate offers a much better visual experience.
- Flagship Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset provides significantly faster performance, ideal for gaming and demanding applications.
- Enhanced Camera Capabilities: Better main camera, ultrawide camera, and 8K video recording offer more versatility and higher quality images and videos.
- Premium Audio: Hi-Res audio and stereo speakers provide a better audio experience for music and media consumption.
- Better Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior screen protection.
- Advanced Connectivity: WiFi 6 and more satellite systems for GPS provide faster connectivity and more accurate location.
Practical Implications for Zenfone 8:
- Better visual experience, ideal for media consumption and detailed tasks.
- Smoother experience for gaming, heavy multitasking and resource-intensive apps.
- Higher quality photos and videos for enthusiasts and professional users.
- Better audio experience for music and movies.
- More reliable connectivity for streaming and downloading.
Xiaomi Poco C65 Advantages:
- Larger Display: 6.74" screen offers more screen real estate, appealing to users who prefer larger displays.
- Longer Battery Life: Larger 5000 mAh battery allows for longer usage between charges, good for users who need all-day battery.
- Reverse Charging: Can be used as a power bank for other devices.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient and intuitive sensor placement for unlocking the device.
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 13, potentially better software support and newer features.
- More Cameras: Dedicated Macro and Portrait lenses add versatility.
Practical Implications for Poco C65:
- More screen real estate is better for media and browsing.
- The larger battery is good for heavy and continuous daily usage.
- Can share battery with other devices, a convenient feature.
- Easy access with side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Newer software experience out-of-the-box.
Trade-offs:
- Zenfone 8: Smaller display and possibly shorter battery life
- Poco C65: Inferior screen quality, performance, and camera capabilities.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 is ideal for:
- Power Users: Those needing high performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize a top-notch display and audio experience for media consumption.
- Photography/Videography Enthusiasts: Those who need high-quality cameras and advanced video features.
- Users who value a compact design: People who prefer a more pocketable device.
Specific Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming at high settings with smooth frame rates.
- Editing photos and videos on the go.
- Enjoying high-resolution movies and media content.
- Professional photography and videography.
Xiaomi Poco C65 is ideal for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those seeking a large-screen phone with good battery life at a lower price point.
- Casual Users: Individuals who primarily use their phones for social media, browsing, and basic tasks.
- Users who prefer large displays: Users who prioritize screen real estate.
- Users who prioritize long battery life: People who need a device that can last all day.
Specific Use Cases:
- Browsing the internet, social media, and email.
- Watching videos and movies.
- Basic photography for everyday moments.
- All-day usage without frequent charging.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Asus Zenfone 8, while older, offers better value if performance, display, and camera quality are your priorities.
- The Xiaomi Poco C65 is a budget-friendly option that focuses on battery life and larger screen size, but sacrifices some of the key premium features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? If you're on a tight budget, the Poco C65 might be the more affordable option.
- What is your primary use case? Do you need top-tier performance and a superior display, or is battery life and a larger screen more important?
- What features are you NOT willing to compromise? Is it screen quality, camera capabilities, or battery longevity?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Power User): If you are a gamer or power user requiring top-tier performance and a premium visual experience, the Asus Zenfone 8 is the clear choice.
- Scenario 2 (Budget User): If you have a tight budget and value battery life and a large screen, the Xiaomi Poco C65 will fit the bill.
- Scenario 3 (Balanced User): If you are looking for the best overall experience, including a balance of performance, screen quality and camera, and price is not the primary concern, then the Asus Zenfone 8 is a better option.
- Scenario 4 (Battery-centric): If battery life is a top priority, then the Xiaomi Poco C65 would be a better fit.
What I Would Choose and Why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally choose the Asus Zenfone 8. My decision is primarily based on the significantly superior display quality (AMOLED, high resolution, high refresh rate, high brightness), the flagship-level performance of the Snapdragon 888 chipset, and the advanced camera capabilities.
I value a great viewing experience when consuming media, and the Zenfone 8's screen is far superior for this. I also value a smooth and responsive user experience, and the performance difference between the Snapdragon 888 and the Helio G85 is very large. Although the Zenfone 8 is an older device and has a smaller battery, the overall premium experience it offers is worth the trade-off for me. While the Poco C65 has a larger screen and longer battery life, the trade-off in display, performance, and camera quality is too great for my preferences.
In summary, for me, the Zenfone 8 provides a better overall experience due to its premium components, and the features I would use most frequently are the ones in which it excels.
