Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the OnePlus 10 Pro and the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. These two phones, while sharing a similar chipset, offer distinct experiences in other key areas. I’ve broken it all down to make it clear and understandable, mixing technical detail with practical implications.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two contenders stack up, with a focus on how each specification translates into real-world use:
| Feature | OnePlus 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163 × 73.9 × 8.6 mm | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | Practically identical in hand; slight difference in thickness |
| Weight | 201g | 204g | Virtually the same, both feel substantial |
| Build Material | Gorilla Glass Victus Front | Unknown Front | OnePlus has a screen with superior protection |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.8" | Marginally larger on the Axon 40 Ultra |
| Resolution | 1440x3216 | 1116x2480 | OnePlus has a visibly sharper screen (67.3% more pixels) |
| PPI | 525 | 400 | Noticeably sharper text and images on the OnePlus |
| Technology | - | AMOLED | Axon 40 Ultra has deeper blacks and vibrant colors |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 1500 nits | Axon 40 Ultra is better for outdoor visibility |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Same powerful core processor |
| Antutu Score | 900,491 | 1,061,300 | Axon 40 Ultra shows a marginally better benchmark performance |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 730 | Identical graphics processing power |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/1.43" | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72" | Axon 40 Ultra has a higher MP count, wider aperture, but smaller sensor |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.0, 1/2.74" | 16MP, f/2.0, | OnePlus captures more detailed selfies (higher resolution) |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4" | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | Axon 40 Ultra offers far better zoom images (higher resolution and larger sensor) |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76" | None | OnePlus offers dedicated wide angle images |
| ToF 3D Sensor | None | 0.3MP | Axon 40 Ultra includes depth-sensing tech |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" | Axon 40 Ultra offers ultrawide and macro in the same camera |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@120fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | Similar high-resolution recording on both |
| DxoMark Score | 122 | N/A | OnePlus 10 Pro camera has been tested with a score of 122 |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity |
| Charging | 80W | 65W | OnePlus charges faster |
| Wireless Charging | 50W wireless charging, Reverse charging, reverse wireless charging | None | OnePlus has more advanced charging features |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 14) | Android 12 (up to 13) | OnePlus has longer software support |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | OnePlus supports newer faster Wi-Fi Standard |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.2 | OnePlus provides higher quality audio codecs |
| GPS | More systems | Less systems | OnePlus uses more satellite systems for more accurate location |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256/512/1024 GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers more storage on max configurations |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 8/12/16/18 GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers up to 18 GB for extreme multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither can expand storage |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Noise Cancellation | DTS/DTS X | OnePlus offers more immersive audio |
| Security | Basic fingerprint | Basic fingerprint | Both offer basic fingerprint security |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus 10 Pro Strengths:
- Sharper Display: The higher resolution and pixel density make a noticeable difference in visual clarity.
- Faster Charging & More Battery Features: 80W wired charging is quicker, and the wireless charging options are a big plus.
- Better Software Support: OnePlus promises longer support, with Android updates up to 14.
- Superior Audio Quality: Dolby Atmos provides more immersive audio and better voice capture for calls.
- Better Connectivity: The newer WiFi standard enables better overall performance in crowded networks and faster speed.
- Stronger Camera System: Offers a dedicated wide-angle lens.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:
- Brighter Display: 1500 nits for better visibility in direct sunlight.
- Higher Benchmark Performance: Slight edge in raw performance, which might be noticeable in heavy gaming.
- Better Telephoto Lens: A 64MP sensor results in much better zoom capabilities.
- More RAM Options: Configurations go up to 18GB, excellent for heavy multitasking and gaming
- Higher Storage Options: 1TB option for users that need large storage capacity.
- Advanced Camera Features: Includes a ToF 3D sensor for enhanced depth information and a wide angle + macro camera.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- OnePlus 10 Pro: Slightly heavier. Lacks a Macro lens for close up pictures.
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: Does not include Wireless Charging options. Lacks a dedicated wide angle lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
OnePlus 10 Pro is Best For:
- Media Consumers: The sharper display and excellent audio make it perfect for watching videos, browsing, and general usage.
- Power Users: Users who need quick charging, great connectivity and reliable performance.
- Users who require more robust software support with more Android updates.
- Photography enthusiasts needing a wide angle lens.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is Best For:
- Gamers: The higher benchmark scores and extra RAM provide an edge for mobile gaming, while the higher brightness helps in sunlight.
- Travelers: A brighter screen combined with high zoom capabilities.
- Creative Photographers: Better zoom capabilities and inclusion of a macro camera for up-close photography, while also having a 3D TOF sensor.
- Users who need high capacity storage options.
- Users who prefer all-in-one ultrawide lens with macro capabilities.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to consider:
- How important is display clarity versus brightness? If you prioritize crispness, the OnePlus is better; if you need maximum outdoor visibility, go with the ZTE.
- What's your photography style? If you use the zoom camera often go for the ZTE; if you rely on wide angle cameras, go for the OnePlus.
- Do you need wireless charging, faster wired charging or the largest storage capacity? The OnePlus has great charging capabilities, while the ZTE offers a 1TB storage capacity.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Daily Driver & Media Consumption: If you are on the phone for browsing, watching videos, and want something that is reliable, go with the OnePlus 10 Pro due to its sharper display, robust audio, more charging features and longer software support.
- Heavy Gaming & Performance: For the best performance and heavy gaming the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra will deliver a better experience thanks to higher benchmark scores and more RAM options.
- Photography Enthusiasts: For users that use zoom capabilities often, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra will deliver better pictures, while also providing wide-angle with macro capabilities. For users that use the wide angle camera more often go with the OnePlus 10 Pro.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I'd lean towards the OnePlus 10 Pro. While the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra has its strengths (especially in zoom photography and benchmark scores), the OnePlus has a more well-rounded package for my daily needs. The sharper display, significantly better charging capabilities, and longer software support make it a more compelling choice. Also, I value the dedicated wide angle lens, as I use it very often. While the ZTE's zoom capabilities are tempting, I value the full picture more often.
