Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra, focusing on what these differences mean for you, the end user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a table that breaks down the key specs, along with real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-08-27 | 2023-12-29 | ZTE is much newer, potentially better software/hardware support. |
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | Foldable offers tablet-like experience; standard is more traditional, pocketable. |
| Dimensions (mm) | 158.2 × 128.1 × 6.4 | 164 × 76.4 × 8.8 | Z Fold is wider when unfolded, thicker when folded; Nubia is taller and more traditional. |
| Weight (g) | 271 | 246 | Nubia is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 7.6" | 6.8" | Z Fold has significantly larger display for media consumption, multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1768 x 2208 | 1116 x 2480 | Z Fold has a much sharper screen, better for reading and detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 374 | 400 | Nubia slightly sharper, but difference is unlikely to be seen to the naked eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Nubia has superior AMOLED tech for vibrant colors and deep blacks. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness (nits) | 0 | 1500 | Nubia is dramatically brighter, significantly better for outdoor use. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Nubia has a much newer, faster, more efficient processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 898,700 | 2,017,588 | Nubia scores significantly higher, for noticeably faster performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | Nubia has much better graphics performance for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 4400 | 6000 | Nubia has a significantly larger battery for potentially longer usage. |
| Charging (W) | 25W | 80W | Nubia charges significantly faster; less time plugged in. |
| Features | Wireless & Reverse Charging | None | Z Fold offers more versatile charging options. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard (MP) | 12 (f/1.8) | 54 (f/1.6) | Nubia captures more detail, has a wider aperture for low light. |
| Selfie (MP) | 10 (f/2.2) | 12 (f/2.0) | Nubia has slightly better selfie quality, wider aperture for better low light selfies. |
| Telephoto (MP) | 12 (f/2.4) | 64 (f/3.3) | Nubia has higher resolution for more detailed zoom, Z Fold has wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle (MP) | 13 (f/2.2) | 50 (f/1.8) | Nubia captures more detail and has a wider aperture. |
| Video (Max) | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps/4K@120fps | Nubia offers high resolution video recording, plus high frame rate 4k |
| DXOMark | 120 (Mobile), 83 (Selfie) | N/A | Z Fold has excellent image quality, but the Nubia is not tested yet. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable) | Android 14 | Nubia ships with a much newer version of Android, potentially better long-term updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7 | Nubia supports newer standard for faster, more reliable Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.4 | Nubia has a newer Bluetooth version, more reliable connections |
| GPS | Dual-Band | Multi-Band | Nubia has more precise GPS for better accuracy in tracking. |
| SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Dual Nano SIM | Fold offers eSIM, Nubia offers dual physical SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 256/512 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | Nubia offers more storage, maxing out at 1TB. |
| RAM | 12 GB | 8/12/16/24 GB | Nubia offers up to twice as much RAM as the Z Fold. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos | DTS/DTS X | Nubia with 3 mics for improved voice recording. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Side-mounted | Basic | Z Fold has the better fingerprint sensor location. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Z Fold offers superior scratch and impact resistance. |
| Sensors | |||
| Variety | Barometer | RGB | Z Fold is better for pressure/altimeter usage; Nubia has better color sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G Strengths:
- Unique Foldable Design: Offers a tablet-like screen experience, great for multitasking, reading, and media.
- High-Resolution Display: Exceptionally sharp and detailed, excellent for viewing content.
- Premium Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and eSIM capability.
- Excellent Cameras: DXOMark rated, great all-around camera with strong performance.
- Premium Build: Gorilla Glass Victus for superior durability.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G Limitations:
- Older Processor: Snapdragon 888 is showing its age, particularly with newer generations of processors available.
- Smaller Battery and Slower Charging: Less battery life and significantly slower charging than the Nubia.
- Bulkier and Heavier: Not as pocketable as standard smartphones.
- Lower brightness: Not ideal for bright sunlight.
ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra Strengths:
- Cutting-Edge Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is significantly faster and more power-efficient, providing top-tier performance and excellent gaming capability.
- Superior Display Technology: AMOLED with much higher brightness, ideal for outdoor visibility and vibrant visuals.
- Much Larger Battery and Fast Charging: Great for all-day use and quick top-ups.
- Impressive Camera System: High-resolution sensors on all cameras.
- Higher Video Resolution: Capability to record 8K footage.
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and more portable, as it has a standard form factor.
- More Memory: Offers larger RAM options up to 24 GB.
- Newer Connectivity Options: With WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra Limitations:
- Standard Form Factor: Lacks the unique multitasking capabilities of a foldable phone.
- Basic Fingerprint Sensor: No enhanced/side-mounted sensor.
- No Wireless Charging.
- No DXOMark Scores: Unclear how the cameras perform in real-world scenarios.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G:
- Multitasking Power Users: Those who want the productivity benefits of a large display for multitasking and who don't mind a bulky phone.
- Media Consumers: Users who enjoy reading, watching videos, and browsing on a big screen.
- Early Tech Adopters: Those who appreciate the novelty and unique functionality of a foldable phone.
- Users Who Need Premium Features: Such as eSIM and wireless charging.
ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Gamers, power users, and anyone who wants top-tier processing power and a long-lasting battery.
- Photography and Videography Buffs: Users who prioritize high-resolution photos and video, and want the option of 8K.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a screen that remains visible in bright sunlight.
- Users who prefer a conventional design and better portability
- Users Who Want to Future Proof their Devices: The most updated specs, software and technology make the phone a more secure long term investment.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- Do you need the unique, tablet-like experience of a foldable phone? If yes, the Z Fold3 is the only option. If not, the Nubia Z60 Ultra may be the better pick.
- Do you prioritize cutting-edge performance and battery life above all else? If yes, the Nubia with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is the clear winner.
- How important is camera quality? Both are capable, but the Nubia is more versatile, with the potential for better photos and 8K videos. The Z Fold has the backing of DXOMark results.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the productivity-focused user who loves multitasking and doesn't mind the bulk, the Z Fold3 is still a viable option.
- For the gamer or power user looking for the best possible performance, the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra is the best option.
- For the user who is always on the go and needs an excellent screen outdoors and an all day battery, the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra is ideal.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra.
While I am fascinated by the foldable tech of the Z Fold3, the reality is that its older internals, limited battery, and slower charging hold it back. For me, real-world performance, battery life, and camera capability are the most important aspects of a smartphone, and the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra seems to ace all of those categories. The newer processor, significantly larger battery with fast charging, more versatile camera, and the latest software, makes it the obvious choice for me. Plus, the standard form factor of the nubia is more practical for everyday use, and the price-to-performance ratio seems excellent. The Z Fold3 is more of a tech experiment with a unique form factor but its usefulness is far less than that of a phone that has superior performance with modern specs that are guaranteed to last for a longer time.
It really comes down to what you prioritize: cutting edge specs and performance or the unique novelty and experience of a folding screen. But if i had to pick one, I would choose the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra and its impressive powerhouse specifications that make it the better choice.
