Lenovo Z2 Plus: A Feature-Rich Marvel in the Budget Segment
Introduction:
Released in September 2016, the Lenovo Z2 Plus aimed to redefine expectations in the budget smartphone category. Hailing from the reputable Chinese manufacturer Lenovo, the Z2 Plus sought to deliver a potent combination of high-end features, reliable performance, and an affordable price point. This exhaustive review delves into every aspect of the Lenovo Z2 Plus, exploring its design, display, performance, camera capabilities, software experience, and overall value proposition.
Design and Build Quality:
The Lenovo Z2 Plus boasts a compact and sturdy design, featuring a fiber glass frame that adds durability without compromising on aesthetics. The 5-inch display, surrounded by relatively slim bezels, ensures a comfortable grip and ease of one-handed use. The device’s unibody construction contributes to a premium feel, elevating it above many competitors in the budget segment.
One distinctive design element is the placement of the fingerprint sensor on the front, embedded within the home button. This ergonomic positioning ensures convenient and secure biometric authentication. While the design may not feature the flashy aesthetics of flagship devices, the Lenovo Z2 Plus’ emphasis on build quality and practicality establishes it as a standout option in the budget smartphone market.
Display and Visual Experience:
The Lenovo Z2 Plus sports a 5-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. The compact size, coupled with the high pixel density, results in sharp and vibrant visuals. The display’s color accuracy and brightness levels are noteworthy, offering an enjoyable viewing experience for multimedia content, web browsing, and casual gaming.
While the Z2 Plus may not boast the bezel-less displays seen in premium smartphones, its Full HD screen provides a commendable visual experience within the constraints of its price range. The device strikes a balance between form factor and display quality, catering to users who prefer a more compact device without compromising on visual clarity.
Performance and Specifications:
Under the hood, the Lenovo Z2 Plus is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, a flagship-grade chipset that was considered powerful during its release. The device features either 3GB or 4GB of RAM, depending on the variant, ensuring smooth multitasking and responsive app launches. The combination of a potent processor and ample RAM makes the Z2 Plus a capable performer in everyday tasks and gaming.
The device’s internal storage options include 32GB and 64GB, catering to users with varying storage needs. However, it’s worth noting that the lack of expandable storage via microSD card may be a limitation for users who require additional space for apps, media, and files. Despite being a budget-friendly device, the Lenovo Z2 Plus doesn’t compromise on raw performance, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a snappy and responsive smartphone.
Camera Capabilities:
The Lenovo Z2 Plus features a 13MP primary camera with phase detection autofocus and a LED flash. The device’s camera app provides various shooting modes and manual controls, allowing users to capture images with a degree of customization. The inclusion of electronic image stabilization (EIS) enhances video recording capabilities, contributing to smoother footage.
While the Z2 Plus may not rival the camera prowess of flagship devices, it delivers reliable performance within its price category. The primary camera excels in well-lit conditions, capturing detailed and vibrant images. In challenging lighting scenarios, the camera may exhibit limitations, but its overall competence in everyday photography remains commendable.
Software Experience:
The Lenovo Z2 Plus runs on Lenovo’s proprietary ZUI, which is based on Android 6.0 Marshmallow. While the device does not feature the stock Android experience, ZUI introduces its own set of features and customization options. Lenovo has committed to providing software updates, ensuring that users receive the latest security patches and improvements.
The user interface is relatively clean and straightforward, with minimal bloatware. Lenovo’s decision to move towards a near-stock Android experience contributes to a smoother and more user-friendly interface. While the device may not receive the latest Android versions as swiftly as Google’s Pixel devices, the commitment to regular updates adds longevity to the Z2 Plus’ software relevance.
Battery Life and Endurance:
The Lenovo Z2 Plus houses a 3,500mAh battery, a notable capacity that ensures reliable endurance. The combination of a power-efficient processor and a Full HD display contributes to impressive battery life, allowing users to comfortably navigate a full day on a single charge. The device supports fast charging, a feature that adds convenience for users who need a quick top-up.
The Z2 Plus excels in providing practical battery performance, addressing one of the critical aspects of user satisfaction. The device caters to users who prioritize longevity and endurance, making it suitable for individuals with active lifestyles who require a reliable companion throughout the day.
Connectivity and Additional Features:
Connectivity options on the Lenovo Z2 Plus include 4G LTE support, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. The inclusion of a USB Type-C port was a forward-looking choice, considering its increasing adoption in modern smartphones. Additionally, the device features a hybrid SIM card slot, allowing users to choose between dual SIM functionality or expanding storage with a microSD card.
The absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack may be a notable omission for users who prefer wired audio solutions. However, Lenovo provides a USB Type-C to 3.5mm adapter in the box, mitigating the impact of this design choice. The inclusion of a dedicated physical button for switching between app navigation and the home screen adds a layer of convenience, catering to users who appreciate additional customization options.
Conclusion: Lenovo Z2 Plus – Budget Powerhouse
In conclusion, the Lenovo Z2 Plus emerges as a budget smartphone powerhouse that surpasses expectations. Released in September 2016, the device successfully combines a robust design, a vibrant Full HD display, flagship-grade performance, and dependable camera capabilities. The inclusion of a sizable battery, fast charging support, and thoughtful software optimizations further solidify its position as a compelling choice in the budget smartphone segment.
While the Z2 Plus may not boast the latest design trends or cutting-edge camera innovations, its emphasis on providing a well-rounded and powerful user experience is commendable. Lenovo’s strategic decisions, such as the use of the Snapdragon 820 processor and USB Type-C connectivity, contribute to the device’s longevity and relevance in the ever-evolving smartphone landscape.
Whether you are a budget-conscious consumer seeking flagship-like features or someone in search of a reliable secondary device, the Lenovo Z2 Plus stands as a testament to Lenovo’s commitment to delivering exceptional value without compromising on key aspects of the smartphone experience.
