Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia X30 and the Asus Zenfone 10. As always, we’ll be looking past the spec sheets and digging into how these differences play out in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a comprehensive look at how these two phones stack up:
| Feature | Nokia X30 | Asus Zenfone 10 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 158.9 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 146.5 × 68.1 × 9.4 mm | X30 is noticeably larger and slightly thinner; Zenfone 10 is more compact and thicker; affects one-handed use and pocketability |
| Weight | 185g | 172g | Zenfone 10 is lighter, which can make it more comfortable for long periods of use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 5.92" | X30 has more screen real estate, better for media consumption; Zenfone 10 is better for portability and one-handed operation. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both are sharp, no practical difference here. |
| PPI | 409 | 445 | Zenfone 10 has slightly sharper text and images, but difference is not very noticeable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 144Hz | Zenfone 10 will appear much smoother during animations and gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1100 nits | Zenfone 10 is much better for use in bright sunlight, the Nokia is missing its brightness information, which is suspicious. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Zenfone 10 is a performance powerhouse, far faster and more efficient than the Nokia. |
| Antutu Score | 410,072 | 1,532,000 | Zenfone 10 will run apps much faster, multitask smoother, and handle graphically intense games better than the X30. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 740 | Zenfone 10 offers significantly better graphics performance, suitable for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4200mAh | 4300mAh | Similar battery sizes; should have comparable endurance. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 30W fast charging | Nokia X30 charges slightly faster on paper, though practically the difference is likely minimal. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable, 15W wireless charging, 5W reverse wired charging | Zenfone 10 has more versatile charging options with wireless charging and reverse charging for accessories. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8, 1.00µm pixels | 50MP f/1.9, 1/1.56" sensor, Sony IMX766, 1.00µm pixels | Zenfone 10 main camera has a larger sensor and a quality sensor for better overall picture quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.4, 1.00µm pixels | 32MP f/2.5, 1/3.2" sensor, Omnivision OV32C, 0.7µm pixels | Zenfone 10 selfie has higher resolution but smaller pixels with a smaller sensor; the quality difference will probably not be significant. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP f/2.4 | None | Nokia X30 has a dedicated wide-angle lens for more flexible photography. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 13MP f/2.2, 1/3.06" sensor, Omnivision OV13B10, 1.12 µm pixels | Zenfone 10 has a wide angle/macro combination lens; a better lens for macro photography. |
| Video Recording | Up to 1080p@60fps | Up to 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps HDR, EIS | Zenfone 10 offers far superior video quality with 8k and 4k options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 13) | Android 13 (up to 15) | Zenfone 10 is newer, comes with the latest Android out of the box and has a longer support window for software updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7, WiFi 6E | Zenfone 10 supports newer, faster Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Zenfone 10 has a more modern Bluetooth version, slightly faster and more efficient. |
| GPS | Standard set | Enhanced multi-band GPS | Zenfone 10 provides better location accuracy, especially in urban environments. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | Zenfone 10 offers more options, up to 512GB of storage space. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB/16GB | Zenfone 10 has more memory, offering a better performance with multiple apps. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation microphone | Zenfone 10 offers a superior audio experience, both in quality and features. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted is more convenient than a basic sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Similar protection against scratches and accidental damage. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall | Zenfone 10 features additional sensors for more complex features and improved functionality. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia X30: This phone aims for a solid, all-around experience at a mid-range price. It has a larger screen, good build quality, and a clean software experience. However, it lacks the raw power and premium features found in the Zenfone 10.
Asus Zenfone 10: This is a compact powerhouse. It punches well above its weight class in terms of performance, display smoothness, and camera capabilities. It’s the better choice for gamers, photographers, and anyone wanting a fast, modern experience. The wireless charging and reverse charging are also great features for convenience.
Performance Gap: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Zenfone 10 is a huge leap over the Snapdragon 695 in the Nokia. This results in dramatically faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and higher frame rates in games.
Display: The Zenfone 10’s 144Hz refresh rate makes the screen feel incredibly fluid, much better than the Nokia X30 at 90Hz. This is a huge difference that you will notice instantly and on a daily basis.
Camera: The Zenfone 10’s camera system is better overall, offering a higher resolution front-facing camera, a better main sensor, and far superior video recording capabilities.
Software: The Zenfone 10 comes with a newer version of Android, which means it will receive updates for a longer period.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia X30 User: Best suited for users who:
- Value a larger screen for media consumption and reading.
- Want a reliable and straightforward Android experience without breaking the bank.
- Don't need top-tier performance or the highest quality video recording.
- Have more of a budget-oriented approach.
Asus Zenfone 10 User: Best suited for users who:
- Want the most powerful and smoothest experience in a smaller form factor.
- Enjoy gaming or using performance-intensive apps.
- Prioritize camera quality and video recording capabilities.
- Appreciate premium features like wireless charging and superior audio.
- Do not have a strict budget and are willing to pay extra for quality and convenience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is performance?
- If you need the best possible performance, the Zenfone 10 is the clear winner.
- If you have more basic needs, the Nokia X30 will be sufficient.
- What are your video recording needs?
- If you need high-quality 4K or 8K video recording, the Zenfone 10 is the best option.
- If you're okay with lower resolution and quality video, the Nokia will do fine.
- How important is display smoothness?
- If you want a fluid experience, the Zenfone 10's 144Hz refresh rate is a game changer.
- If this isn’t a high priority, then the Nokia will be acceptable.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
The Gamer: Zenfone 10. The top-tier processor, better GPU, and higher refresh rate screen make it the better gaming device.
The Photographer: Zenfone 10. The improved camera, enhanced video features and the inclusion of RAW capture puts it above the X30.
The Everyday User: If you want the best performance available in a compact package, then the Zenfone 10 is the better choice. If you are more on a budget then the X30 will do fine.
What I Would Choose and Why
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would go with the Asus Zenfone 10. Here's why:
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I constantly demand the best performance and the most cutting-edge features. The Zenfone 10 not only meets but exceeds these requirements. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor ensures that every app loads swiftly, that multitasking is seamless, and that even the most demanding games run without a hiccup.
The 144Hz refresh rate of the AMOLED display is a visual treat. Scrolling through social media feeds or navigating between apps feels incredibly smooth. The smaller size is also very convenient for daily use.
Moreover, the Zenfone 10's enhanced camera capabilities are something I value. The larger sensor, higher video resolution, and the inclusion of a dedicated macro lens allow for greater versatility in photography and videography. Features like wireless charging and reverse charging are nice additions that I would also use daily.
While the Nokia X30 is a respectable phone, it simply cannot compete with the Zenfone 10 when it comes to performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and overall user experience. The Zenfone 10 is not only technically superior but also provides a more satisfying user experience that caters to my needs as a tech enthusiast.
The Zenfone 10 offers not just a phone, but a complete package that allows me to both get my work done and have a great experience while doing it. It is simply a better piece of tech.
