1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 mini | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2020-11-13 | 2022-05-13 | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is newer by about 1.5 years, indicating newer technology and potentially longer software support |
| Dimensions | 131.5 × 64.2 × 7.4 mm | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | iPhone 12 mini is significantly smaller, better for one-handed use; Axon 40 Ultra is larger, more immersive for media. |
| Weight | 135g | 204g | iPhone 12 mini is much lighter, more comfortable for extended use and portability. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.4" | 6.8" | Axon 40 Ultra's larger screen offers a more immersive experience for videos, gaming, and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1116x2480 | Axon 40 Ultra has a slightly higher resolution, leading to marginally more detail. |
| PPI | 476 | 400 | iPhone 12 mini has significantly sharper text and images due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; minimal practical difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Axon 40 Ultra's 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations, resulting in a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 1500 nits | Axon 40 Ultra's higher brightness makes it easier to view the screen in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Both are high-performing processors; practical differences are minimal for day-to-day use; A14 is highly optimized for iOS, while Snapdragon is a top performer for Android. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,072,354 | 1,061,300 | Practically identical performance; both offer flagship-level speed and responsiveness. |
| GPU | Apple GPU (4-core) | Adreno 730 | Both are powerful GPUs capable of handling demanding games and graphics-intensive applications; specific real-world advantages depend on the game or app. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.6, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72", 0.7µm | Axon 40 Ultra captures more detail with its higher resolution sensor. Larger sensor generally means better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.0, 1.22µm | Axon 40 Ultra captures more light for brighter selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2", 0.7µm | Axon 40 Ultra has a telephoto lens, allowing for better zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | None | iPhone 12 mini has a dedicated wide-angle lens, useful for group shots and landscapes. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | None | 0.3MP | Axon 40 Ultra has ToF sensor for enhanced depth perception for AR apps and portrait mode. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72", 0.7µm | Axon 40 Ultra has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video | 4K@60fps, HDR | 8K@30fps, HDR, EIS | Axon 40 Ultra has higher resolution video recording capabilities. |
| Camera Scores | DxOMark: 117 (Main), 132 (Selfie) | None Available | iPhone 12 mini has reputable camera scores; Axon 40 Ultra's camera quality is unknown, though expected to be very good. |
| Camera Features | Dual camera, OIS, Ultra stable video, etc. | Quadruple camera, OIS, Under display camera, etc. | Each has its own unique feature set, check specific needs for the ideal choice. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 2227 mAh | 5000 mAh | Axon 40 Ultra's significantly larger battery likely provides much longer battery life, depending on usage. |
| Charging | 20W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | 65W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | Axon 40 Ultra charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | MagSafe, Qi Wireless | None | iPhone 12 mini offers additional charging options, including wireless charging. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128/256/512 GB | 128/256/512/1024 GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers larger maximum storage, especially useful for heavy media users. |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8/12/16/18 GB | Axon 40 Ultra has significantly more RAM, ideal for multitasking and demanding applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both lack expandable storage, so the internal storage of each device is very important. |
| Software | |||
| OS | iOS 14.1 (upgradeable to 18) | Android 12 (upgradeable to 13) | iOS ecosystem offers tight integration; Android offers greater customization. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6, Dual Band | Wi-Fi 6, Dual Band, Direct, Display | Axon 40 Ultra supports Wi-Fi Direct and Display, useful for sharing and projecting. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Axon 40 Ultra has a newer, more efficient Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | Standard GPS | Standard GPS, Dual Band | Axon 40 Ultra offers more precise location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | iPhone 12 mini supports eSIM for flexibility; Axon 40 Ultra has dual nano-sim support. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 Microphones | Both offer stereo sound, Axon 40 Ultra's 3 microphones offer superior recording. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic | Fingerprint Sensor | Axon 40 Ultra provides secure biometric security via the fingerprint sensor. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Both phones offer glass screen, level of protection unknown |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Each includes a comprehensive sensor suite; iPhone 12 mini includes Compass and Barometer; Axon 40 Ultra includes fingerprint sensor, Gravity and Hall sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Apple iPhone 12 mini Advantages:
- Compact Size and Lightweight: Much smaller and lighter, ideal for one-handed use and portability.
- Sharper Display: Higher PPI provides noticeably sharper text and images.
- Software Ecosystem: iOS ecosystem offers seamless integration, consistent performance, and strong privacy.
- Wireless Charging: MagSafe and Qi wireless charging options offer added convenience.
- Reputable Camera: DxOMark scores indicate a capable and reliable camera system.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Advantages:
- Larger, Smoother Display: Immersive experience with a larger screen and 120Hz refresh rate.
- Significantly Larger Battery: Longer battery life for extended usage.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging allows for quick power-ups.
- More Versatile Cameras: Telephoto, Macro, and 8K video options offer more creative possibilities.
- Higher RAM and Storage Options: Better for multitasking and media storage.
- Newer Technology: Newer chipset, Bluetooth, and additional features.
Significant Trade-offs:
- iPhone 12 mini: Smaller battery, lower refresh rate, less versatile camera system, less storage and RAM.
- Axon 40 Ultra: Larger, heavier, less sharp display, and potentially less cohesive software ecosystem.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Apple iPhone 12 mini:
- Users who prioritize portability and one-handed use.
- Users deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem.
- Users who prefer a simpler, consistent, and reliable software experience.
- Users who value a sharp, color-accurate display, even if it's smaller.
Use Cases:
- Daily communication and web browsing on the go.
- Quick photography in well-lit conditions.
- Users who prioritize comfort and portability.
- Users that value privacy and security.
Ideal Users for ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Users who prioritize media consumption and gaming.
- Users who value versatility and creative camera options.
- Users who require long battery life and fast charging.
- Users who need large amounts of RAM for multitasking.
Use Cases:
- Immersive gaming and movie watching.
- Professional content creation using advanced camera features.
- Long days away from a charger where battery life is critical.
- Users that like to customize the look and feel of their phone.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The iPhone 12 mini is older, and may be more affordable; it still offers a premium experience for a subset of users.
- The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is newer and packs many more modern features, but may be at a higher price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Size and Portability: How important is it for the phone to be small and lightweight?
- Battery and Charging: Do you prioritize long battery life and fast charging, or are you okay with charging more often?
- Camera Needs: Do you need a versatile camera system with telephoto and macro options, or do you prefer a simpler experience with good image quality?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Portability & Simplicity): If portability and ease of use are crucial, the iPhone 12 mini is a better fit due to its compact size, lighter weight, and more straight forward software.
- Scenario 2 (Media Consumption & Power Users): If a large, high-refresh display, long battery life, and a versatile camera are a priority, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the superior choice.
- Scenario 3 (Budget Conscious): If you're on a budget, the iPhone 12 mini might offer better value for core smartphone functions, as it's likely more affordable, though the Axon 40 Ultra offers much better specs for slightly more, so this is based on how much you value the extra features.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would lean towards the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. While I appreciate the compact size of the iPhone 12 mini, the Axon 40 Ultra offers several advantages that align better with my needs, and those of most general users. The larger, smoother 120Hz display would enhance my media consumption and gaming experience. The much larger battery and faster charging would also be a huge benefit, as I often spend long periods away from power outlets. While the display PPI is lower, the difference is less impactful than a smaller display. Finally, the additional camera versatility of a telephoto, macro and wide angle lens would be beneficial for photography.
The Axon 40 Ultra also has more RAM and storage, allowing for better multitasking and long term storage. The newer processor and connectivity are also preferable. While I do use the Apple ecosystem, I'm comfortable using an android device.
While the iPhone 12 mini is a great phone for a niche of people, the Axon 40 Ultra is much more versatile and powerful for a typical power user.
