1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 148 × 68.5 × 8.9 mm | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | The Zenfone 8 is significantly more compact, easier to handle with one hand; the Axon 40 Ultra has a larger footprint. |
| Weight | 169g | 204g | Zenfone 8 feels much lighter and more comfortable for extended use; Axon 40 Ultra is noticeably heavier. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.8" | Axon 40 Ultra offers more immersive viewing for media, gaming; Zenfone 8 is better for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1116x2480 | Axon 40 Ultra's higher resolution provides a slightly sharper image, although both are very detailed. |
| PPI | 446 | 400 | Zenfone 8 has slightly sharper text and images due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1500 nits | Axon 40 Ultra is significantly more readable under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Axon 40 Ultra's newer chip offers better performance in demanding tasks, more power efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 1,061,300 | Axon 40 Ultra performs better in benchmarks, indicating better overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 730 | Axon 40 Ultra's newer GPU provides better gaming performance and graphical capabilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Axon 40 Ultra is expected to have significantly longer battery life for all-day use. |
| Charging | 30W | 65W | Axon 40 Ultra charges much faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", IMX686 | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72", IMX787 | Axon 40 Ultra's wider aperture (f/1.6) is better for low-light; both have high-resolution sensors for detailed shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.45, 1/2.93", IMX663 | 16MP, f/2.0, Omnivision | Axon 40 Ultra has a slightly higher resolution and brighter selfies due to its wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2", OV64B | Axon 40 Ultra has optical zoom capability, missing on the Zenfone 8. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | None | 0.3MP | Axon 40 Ultra has enhanced depth sensing for better portrait mode and AR experiences. |
| Wide Angle/Macro | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", IMX363 | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72", IMX787 | Axon 40 Ultra captures significantly higher detail with its wide-angle lens; Zenfone 8's has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Both offer high-quality video recording capabilities, although Axon 40 Ultra offers slightly better framerates in 8K mode. |
| DXOMark | Main: 116, Photo: 120, Video: 118 | Not available | Asus Zenfone 8's camera performance is rated higher overall based on available scores, but Axon 40 Ultra is untested |
| Camera Features | OIS, EIS, PDAF, RAW, etc. | OIS, EIS, PDAF, LAF, Under Display Camera, Night Mode, etc. | Axon 40 Ultra has laser autofocus and a more versatile setup with a telephoto lens and under-display camera |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradeable to 13 | Android 12, upgradeable to 13 | Axon 40 Ultra has newer starting OS but both are upgradeable to Android 13. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6, Dual Band, etc. | WiFi 6, Dual Band, etc. | Both support the same WiFi standards for fast internet. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE, AVRCP, HID, OPP, etc. | 5.2 LE, A2DP | Zenfone 8 offers more Bluetooth codecs (APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC) for higher-quality audio; Axon supports A2DP |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, NavIC | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Zenfone 8 supports more satellite navigation systems, potentially offering more accurate location data, especially in challenging locations. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM usage. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1024GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers much more storage with options up to 1TB, suitable for users with lots of media. |
| RAM | 6GB, 8GB, 12GB or 16GB | 8GB, 12GB, 16GB, 18GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers more RAM (up to 18GB), useful for intensive multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Noise Cancelling Mic, Stereo Speakers | DTS/ DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 8 has richer audio features including Hi-Res audio and noise-cancelling microphone for better call and audio quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint unlock security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Zenfone 8 has superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Zenfone 8 has additional compass for better sensor suite. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Compact Size & Lightweight: Easier to handle and use one-handed, more pocketable.
- Higher Pixel Density: Slightly sharper display for text and images.
- Superior Audio Quality: Includes Hi-Res audio and a noise-canceling microphone.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for enhanced durability.
- More satellite navigation systems: More accurate location tracking.
- DXO Mark Scores: Provides a baseline for comparison (though the Axon 40 Ultra is not tested)
- More Bluetooth codecs: Better quality audio over Bluetooth
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Advantages:
- Larger Display: More immersive viewing experience for media consumption and gaming.
- Higher Peak Brightness: Much better visibility in bright sunlight.
- More Powerful Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 offers better performance and efficiency.
- Significantly Larger Battery: Longer battery life for all-day use.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging replenishes battery quicker.
- More Versatile Camera System: Includes a telephoto lens, ultrawide camera, and ToF sensor for better image capturing options.
- Higher Resolution ultrawide sensor: Better ultrawide shots with a higher resolution sensor
- Under-Display Camera: Unique feature for a full-screen experience.
- More RAM and Storage Options: Higher RAM and more storage capacity for power users.
Trade-offs:
- The Zenfone 8 sacrifices battery life and a large screen for its smaller, more portable form factor. Its camera system is also less versatile.
- The Axon 40 Ultra trades portability for a larger screen, battery, and a more powerful camera system, and some might find its weight less comfortable than the Zenfone 8.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 is ideal for:
- Users who prioritize portability and one-handed usability: Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for people who prefer smaller phones.
- Users who consume media via Bluetooth headphones: The extra Bluetooth codecs can offer better audio quality.
- Users who desire a balance of performance and good audio quality: Perfect for those who want high quality sound on the go.
- Users who prefer a higher PPI display: For crisp text and detailed images
- Users who prioritize durability: The screen protection provides better scratch resistance.
- Users who value accurate location data: With its support for multiple satellite navigation systems, the Zenfone 8 would be more accurate in challenging environments.
- Users on the go: Given its more pocketable size, the Zenfone is easier to carry around.
- Budget-conscious buyers: Usually available at a lower price point than the Axon 40 Ultra
Use Cases:
- Daily commuting, using it on public transport
- Easy to use while walking, shopping, or doing other activities
- Casual gaming or social media browsing where ultimate performance isn't crucial
- Everyday photography, good audio quality during calls.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is ideal for:
- Users who prioritize media consumption and gaming: The large screen and powerful processor make it excellent for these tasks.
- Users who need long battery life and fast charging: It will easily last a full day with heavy use and quickly recharge when needed.
- Photography enthusiasts: The versatile camera system is suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.
- Users who want a unique design: The under-display camera is visually appealing.
- Users who need a lot of storage space for media and files: The large storage options can easily fit all kinds of data.
- Users who perform heavy multitasking: Large RAM options make it ideal for users who switch between multiple apps often.
- Users who spend a lot of time outdoors: Bright screen is great for usage under bright sun.
Use Cases:
- Watching movies or TV shows on the go
- Playing graphics-intensive games
- Capturing photos and videos in various settings
- Using a phone as a secondary workstation
- Using the phone outdoors or in bright sunlight
- Anyone who needs maximum performance for productivity tasks
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Size Preference: Do you prefer a compact phone for one-handed use or a larger screen for media consumption?
- Usage: Are you a casual user or a heavy user who needs maximum performance, battery life, and camera versatility?
- Budget: Are you willing to pay more for cutting-edge technology and features or are you looking for more value for money?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Portability & One-Handed Use: If you prioritize portability and want a phone that's easy to use with one hand, the Asus Zenfone 8 is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: Multimedia and Gaming: If you're looking for the best multimedia experience and want a powerful gaming phone, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is more suitable.
- Scenario 3: Photography: If photography versatility is critical and you need options like zoom and great ultrawide captures, then the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is better due to its flexible camera system.
- Scenario 4: Battery Life: If you prioritize all-day battery life and fast charging, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the better choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally go with the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. While I appreciate the compact size of the Zenfone 8, the Axon 40 Ultra's larger, brighter display, more powerful chipset, and significantly larger battery are more aligned with my priorities. I often use my phone for media consumption and gaming, and the extra battery life and more versatile camera are appealing. While the Zenfone 8's smaller size and audio quality are noteworthy, the advantages of the Axon 40 Ultra in terms of overall performance and versatility would outweigh those benefits. Moreover, the availability of 1TB storage gives me significant peace of mind that I won't have to manage storage as often as I would with a 256GB phone. While I would slightly prefer the more durable screen and extra satellite navigation, these aren't essential in my day-to-day use. The better camera versatility, specifically the telephoto and under-display camera, are more attractive to me.
