After a five-year hiatus, Acer is diving back into the competitive smartphone arena with the launch of the Super ZX and Super ZX Pro, two ultra-affordable 5G devices aimed at budget-conscious consumers. The announcement, made at a press event in Taipei, signals the Taiwanese tech giant’s renewed ambition to carve out a niche in a market dominated by players like Xiaomi, Realme, and Samsung.
Back to Basics: What’s New?
The Super ZX and Super ZX Pro focus on delivering essential features without breaking the bank. Both models sport a 6.5-inch HD+ LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, a notable upgrade for a device starting at just $129. Under the hood, they’re powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 700 chipset, paired with 4GB of RAM (expandable via virtual RAM tech) and 64GB of storage. The Pro variant steps up with a 5,000mAh battery (compared to the base model’s 4,500mAh) and a 50MP primary camera, while the standard version settles for a 13MP shooter.
Acer emphasized durability, with both phones featuring IP52-rated splash resistance and Gorilla Glass 3 protection—a rarity in this price segment. “We’re targeting users who want reliability without compromise,” said Acer’s Chief Marketing Officer, during the launch.
Pricing and Availability
The Super ZX starts at $129, while the Super ZX Pro retails for $149. Pre-orders begin today in India, Southeast Asia, and select European markets. For those eager to snag one, the devices are available for purchase on Amazon India, with global retailers like Flipkart and MediaMarkt following suit next week.
Software and Surprises
Both phones run Android 14 out of the box, with Acer promising two years of OS updates—a commitment that could sway buyers wary of budget devices’ short software lifespans. The Pro model also includes a customizable “Smart Key” on the side panel, programmable for shortcuts like launching apps or activating the flashlight.
Industry analysts, however, remain cautious. “Acer’s re-entry is bold, but the sub-$150 space is brutally competitive,” said tech analyst Marina Chen of GSM Go Tech, which recently published an in-depth hands-on review of the devices. “Their success hinges on supply chain efficiency and after-sales support.”
Why Now?
Acer’s return comes amid slowing global smartphone sales, with brands doubling down on emerging markets where affordability reigns. The company’s existing reputation in laptops and monitors could lend credibility, but skeptics question whether it can replicate that success in mobile.
For now, early specs and pricing suggest Acer is serious about undercutting rivals. As noted in GSM Arena’s coverage, the inclusion of 5G at this price point is a “game-changer,” potentially forcing competitors to rethink their strategies.
Final Thoughts
While the Super ZX series may not dethrone segment leaders overnight, Acer’s aggressive pricing and focus on core features could win over frugal shoppers. Whether this marks a sustained comeback or a fleeting experiment, one thing’s clear: the budget smartphone wars just got hotter.
Stay tuned for our full review once we’ve tested the devices in real-world conditions.
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