Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Huawei nova 8i and the Huawei Pura 70. As a smartphone analyst, I'm here to break down the specs, explain what they mean in the real world, and help you decide which phone is right for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the key differences between the Huawei nova 8i and the Huawei Pura 70, presented in a way that highlights their real-world impact.
| Feature | Huawei nova 8i | Huawei Pura 70 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.9 x 74.7 x 8.6 mm | 157.6 x 74.3 x 8 mm | Pura 70 is slightly more compact, potentially easier to handle for some users. |
| Weight | 190g | 207g | Nova 8i is lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Build | Unknown | Unknown | Durability and premium feel are unknown; could be a deciding factor if known. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.6" | Minimal difference in screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2376 | 1256x2760 | Pura 70 has a noticeably sharper and clearer display. |
| Pixel Density | 391 PPI | 460 PPI | Text and images will appear crisper on the Pura 70. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Pura 70's OLED offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pura 70 provides smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experiences. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2500 nits | Pura 70 is significantly better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 | Kirin 9000S1 | Kirin 9000S1 offers significantly faster performance, better multitasking, and smoother gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 201,000 | 768,000 | Pura 70 is much more responsive and future-proof. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Maleoon 910 | Pura 70 has superior graphics processing for demanding games and applications. |
| RAM | 6GB | 12GB | Pura 70 handles more apps and tasks simultaneously without slowdowns. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.9 | 50MP, f/1.4 | Pura 70's wider aperture and sensor size may result in better low-light performance and image quality, despite lower megapixel count. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.4 | Nova 8i has slightly higher resolution and wider aperture, potentially better for selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP, f/3.4 | Pura 70 offers optical zoom capabilities for distant subjects. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Pura 70 captures wider scenes with more detail. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Nova 8i has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Nova 8i can take close-up macro shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K Video | Pura 70 records higher-resolution videos. |
| Stabilization | No | Yes (OIS) | Pura 70 provides smoother, less shaky videos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4300mAh | 4900mAh | Pura 70 likely offers longer battery life. |
| Charging | 66W | 65W | Similar fast charging capabilities. |
| Wireless Charging | None | 50W | Pura 70 supports fast wireless charging for added convenience. |
| Reverse Charging | None | Yes | Pura 70 can wirelessly charge other devices. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Pura 70 supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Pura 70 has a more modern Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | Basic | Advanced | Pura 70 offers more accurate and reliable location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB | 256/512/1024GB | Pura 70 offers significantly more storage for files, apps, and media. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | Noise Cancellation | Dolby Atmos | Pura 70 provides immersive audio with Dolby Atmos. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Unknown | Pura 70's OS will likely be a newer version of Android or HarmonyOS. |
| Security | Side Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Nova 8i has side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Huawei nova 8i Strengths:
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for extended holding.
- Decent Main Camera: Offers high resolution (64MP) for detailed shots.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Convenient and quick access.
- Macro and Depth Lenses: Offers additional photography options.
- Noise Cancellation: Offers clearer calls, better audio separation and immersion, improved voice capture
Huawei Pura 70 Strengths:
- Superior Display: OLED, higher resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and incredibly bright.
- High Performance: Cutting-edge Kirin chipset for smooth multitasking and gaming.
- Versatile Camera System: Larger sensor, wider aperture, telephoto lens, and OIS.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient charging without cables.
- Reverse Charging: Can charge other devices wirelessly.
- Larger Battery: Better endurance throughout the day.
- More Storage: Options for up to 1TB of internal storage.
- Dolby Atmos: Provides immersive audio with Dolby Atmos
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Huawei nova 8i: Older chipset, lower-quality display, lacks advanced camera features.
- Huawei Pura 70: Heavier, lacks dedicated macro and depth lens, unknown OS.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Huawei nova 8i:
- Best For: Users on a tight budget who need a reliable phone for basic tasks like calls, messaging, and social media.
- Use Cases: Everyday communication, light browsing, casual photography.
- Value: Good value for the price if budget is the primary concern.
Huawei Pura 70:
- Best For: Tech enthusiasts, photography lovers, gamers, and users who demand top-tier performance and features.
- Use Cases: Professional photography, mobile gaming, video editing, content creation, power users.
- Value: Justified if you prioritize performance, display quality, and camera capabilities.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- What's your budget? If money is tight, the nova 8i is the more economical choice.
- What are your primary uses? If you're a power user or photography enthusiast, the Pura 70 is worth the investment.
- How important is display quality? If you value a vibrant, smooth, and bright screen, the Pura 70 is the clear winner.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious Student: The Huawei nova 8i is a sensible choice for essential tasks without breaking the bank.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Photographer: The Huawei Pura 70's advanced camera system will significantly enhance your photography experience.
- Scenario 3: Performance Seeker: The Huawei Pura 70's chipset and display will ensure a fluid and enjoyable experience for gaming and multitasking.
Which One Would I Choose?
For me, the Huawei Pura 70 is the clear winner. As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I value cutting-edge performance, display quality, and advanced camera capabilities. While the nova 8i is a decent phone for basic use, the Pura 70 offers a far superior experience in almost every aspect that matters to me. The combination of the Kirin 9000S1 chipset, OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, and versatile camera system makes it an ideal device for both work and play.
