Okay, let's break down the Huawei Mate 50 Pro and the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra. Buckle up, we're going deep into the specs and what they actually mean for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two stack up, with a focus on the real-world implications:
| Feature | Huawei Mate 50 Pro | ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-28 | 2023-12-29 | The ZTE is newer, potentially with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 162.1 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm | 164 x 76.4 x 8.8 mm | ZTE is slightly taller and thicker, but these differences are minimal. |
| Weight | 205g | 246g | Huawei is significantly lighter, which may be preferable for long-term use and those who prioritize portability. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.74" | 6.8" | Practically the same size. Slight edge to the ZTE for a touch more screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1212 x 2616 | 1116 x 2480 | Huawei has a slightly sharper display, though this might not be noticeable in everyday use. |
| PPI | 428 | 400 | Huawei's display is a bit crisper, but both are high-density, and most will not notice the difference. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Very similar tech, both offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both are very smooth for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1500 nits | The ZTE's screen can get significantly brighter, making it better in direct sunlight. The Huawei's 0 nits is a data anomaly. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4G) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | ZTE has a much more powerful and efficient processor, translating to snappier performance and better gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,022,043 | 2,017,588 | ZTE is significantly faster, almost twice as powerful in benchmarks which translates to smoother overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 | ZTE has a newer, more powerful GPU for superior graphics performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4700mAh | 6000mAh | ZTE has a much larger battery, which should translate to significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 66W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | 80W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | ZTE charges slightly faster, though both should juice up quickly; Li-Polymer is generally safer and more durable, though the difference isn't significant in day to day life. |
| Battery Features | Reverse, 50W Wireless, 7.5W Wireless Reverse | Non-removable | Huawei offers wireless charging and reverse charging, adding convenience, while ZTE does not support this. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.4, 1/1.56", Sony IMX766) | 54MP (f/1.6, 1/1.49", Sony IMX800) | ZTE has a higher resolution sensor but Huawei has a wider aperture for better low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP (f/2.4) | 12MP (f/2.0, 1/2.4", Omnivision OV12D) | Huawei has slightly more resolution but ZTE has a wider aperture for better low light photos; the Z60 Ultra also has a modern under display design |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP (f/3.5, 1/2", Omnivision OV64B) | 64MP (f/3.3, 1/2", Omnivision OV64B) | ZTE has a slightly wider aperture for slightly better light gathering. Both are of the same sensor and resolution. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12MP (f/2.2, Sony IMX688) | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.55", Omnivision OV50E) | ZTE has a significantly higher resolution and wider aperture, should be much better for wide shots, especially in low light. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps | Up to 8K@30fps | ZTE can shoot much higher resolution videos for more professional work. Both offer excellent video stabilization and other features. |
| DXOMark (Huawei) | Mobile: 149 / Selfie: 145 | Not Tested | Huawei has a highly rated camera system, however the ZTE still hasn't been tested as of the date this comparison has been made. |
| Camera Features | Many, including Laser AF and Dual Front Camera | Many, including 8K video, continuous autofocus, Under-display Camera | ZTE has a more modern feature set including an under-display camera for a truly full-screen design, while Huawei has more autofocus options for better and easier photos |
| Software | |||
| OS | - | Android 14 | ZTE ships with a much more up-to-date Android version, with newer features and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | ZTE has the newer, faster WiFi standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.4 LE | ZTE has a newer version with better efficiency. |
| GPS | L1 + L5 | L1+L2+L5 | ZTE supports more satellite bands for more accurate positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 256GB / 512GB | 256GB / 512GB / 1024GB | ZTE offers more storage options at the high end. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB / 12GB / 16GB / 24GB | ZTE has options for much more RAM, beneficial for multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | DTS/ DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 Microphones | ZTE offers a more immersive audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both have a standard fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | ZTE has better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Motion, Environmental | Biometric, Proximity, Motion | Huawei includes a Barometer sensor for more advanced environmental data. ZTE has an RGB sensor for more accurate color measurements. |
2. Key Insights
Huawei Mate 50 Pro Strengths:
- Camera Prowess: Excellent main camera with a wider aperture, coupled with a highly rated DXOMark score, means this phone can produce outstanding shots, particularly in low-light environments. The additional features like Laser AF make for a simpler and better experience for many.
- Wireless Charging: The inclusion of wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and regular reverse charging is a big plus for many.
- Slightly Lighter Build: At 205g, it's significantly lighter and feels better in the hand for long periods.
- Environmental Sensors: The inclusion of a Barometer is a great tool to have if you ever go hiking.
ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra Strengths:
- Cutting-Edge Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and significantly higher AnTuTu score put this phone far ahead in terms of raw power and efficiency.
- Brighter Display: The 1500 nits of brightness means outdoor visibility will be much better in direct sunlight.
- Superior Battery Life: The 6000 mAh battery should easily last a full day, even with heavy use.
- Modern Camera Design: The under-display camera means a true full-screen display, and the significantly improved wide-angle lens and 8K video recording is a big leap forward.
- More RAM and Storage Options: The 24GB RAM option and 1TB of storage ensure you have the best possible experience.
- Up-to-Date Software: Ships with Android 14 for the latest features, security, and usability.
- Advanced Connectivity: Offers Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for the latest in wireless technology.
Trade-offs:
- Huawei's 4G Limitation: The Huawei Mate 50 Pro is limited to 4G, which might be a deal-breaker for some users in areas where 5G is prevalent. This really hurts the phone's speed in data intensive tasks.
- ZTE's Lack of Wireless Charging: The lack of wireless charging and reverse charging might be inconvenient for some users.
- ZTE's Weight: The ZTE is quite a bit heavier, which might not be comfortable for long-term use.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Huawei Mate 50 Pro:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize a top-tier camera experience, especially in low-light situations, and value convenience features like wireless charging.
- Best Use Cases: Photography enthusiasts, travelers, social media creators, and users who prefer a lighter device.
- Price-to-Value: The Mate 50 Pro has a great camera and wireless charging which adds value, though the lack of 5G can be a deal breaker for many.
ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra:
- Ideal for: Power users, gamers, and those who demand the latest tech. People looking for the most up-to-date software and performance.
- Best Use Cases: Heavy multitasking, mobile gaming, professional video recording, and users who need exceptional battery life and a top of the line modern feature set.
- Price-to-Value: The ZTE is packed with high-end features and offers excellent performance and screen visibility making it great value.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
Do you prioritize photography or raw performance?
- If photography and wireless charging convenience is your priority, the Huawei might be a good fit.
- If you want raw power, the latest features, and cutting-edge performance, the ZTE is the better option.
How important is battery life?
- If you’re a power user or often away from a charger, the ZTE's much larger battery is a game-changer.
- If you don't need your phone to last multiple days, the Huawei will be fine.
Does the lack of 5G on Huawei affect your usage?
- If you need the latest data speeds or have 5G everywhere you are, the ZTE is the better choice.
- If you are alright with 4G and you aren't data intensive on your phone, the Huawei might be fine.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Creative Photographer: If you prioritize a high quality camera and wireless charging for flexibility, the Huawei wins in its camera quality, though the ZTE’s much-improved wide-angle lens will be a boon.
- The Mobile Gamer: The ZTE is the clear winner here with its superior performance, battery life, and up-to-date technology.
- The All-Day Worker: The ZTE's battery life and performance make it a fantastic option for those on the go all day and need a phone to keep up.
- The Tech Enthusiast: The ZTE, with its cutting-edge features like Wi-Fi 7, 8K video, and under-display camera, offers the latest tech.
My Choice: For me personally, I'd choose the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra. While I appreciate the Huawei's highly-rated camera and wireless charging features, the ZTE is simply too impressive in too many other areas to pass up. As a tech enthusiast, the combination of a blazing-fast Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, a brighter display, superior battery life, significantly improved wide-angle lens, and the under-display camera for that full-screen look is incredibly appealing. I often find myself in situations where battery life and speed are paramount and the under-display camera and lack of wireless charging are a good trade off.
The ZTE is the future-proof choice, with support for the latest connectivity standards, up-to-date software, and better screen visibility. The extra weight might be a concern, but I think the benefits significantly outweigh the drawbacks. For a device that is going to be used in my day to day life, I want the most cutting edge experience.
