1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro and ZTE Axon 40 Ultra, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164 × 76.5 × 8.1 mm | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | The Redmi Note 10 Pro is slightly wider, which might feel less comfortable for single-handed use. The Axon 40 Ultra is a bit thicker. |
| Weight | 193g | 204g | The Redmi Note 10 Pro is slightly lighter, which may be noticeable during extended usage. |
| Build | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 screen protection | Unknown screen protection | Redmi Note 10 Pro offers better screen protection with Gorilla Glass 5, more resistant to scratches and impacts. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.67" | 6.8" | The Axon 40 Ultra has a slightly larger screen, providing a more immersive viewing experience, especially for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1116x2480 | Axon 40 Ultra has a moderately higher resolution resulting in a sharper image. |
| Pixel Density | 395 PPI | 400 PPI | Both have very similar pixel density; the difference is not noticeable to the naked eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both displays offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, improving user experience. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 1500 nits | The Axon 40 Ultra's higher brightness will provide much better visibility in bright outdoor conditions. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G (8nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | The Axon 40 Ultra has a much more powerful processor, leading to significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 397,200 | 1,061,300 | The Axon 40 Ultra scores 167% higher, indicating much higher performance in demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 730 | The Adreno 730 in the Axon 40 Ultra offers a superior gaming experience with higher frame rates and better graphics rendering. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 64MP | The Redmi Note 10 Pro has a higher resolution for more detailed photos, but image quality also depends on sensor size and processing. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.9 | f/1.6 | The Axon 40 Ultra's wider aperture allows more light in, potentially improving low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.52" | 1/1.72" | The Redmi Note 10 Pro's larger sensor could capture more light and detail. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 16MP | Both phones have same selfie resolution, resulting in similar detail for selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.0 | The Axon 40 Ultra's wider aperture allows more light in, potentially improving low-light performance for selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 64MP | The Axon 40 Ultra's dedicated telephoto lens offers optical zoom, bringing distant objects closer without significant loss of quality. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP | None | The Redmi Note 10 Pro has a dedicated wide-angle lens allowing users to fit more into their shots. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | None | 0.3MP | The ToF sensor helps with depth perception for better portrait effects on the Axon 40 Ultra. |
| Portrait mode (depth) Lens | 2MP | None | The Redmi Note 10 Pro has a dedicated depth sensor for bokeh effect in portrait shots. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | None | The Redmi Note 10 Pro has a macro lens for close-up shots with decent detail. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 64MP | The Axon 40 Ultra has a combined wide-angle and macro lens with high detail. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | The Axon 40 Ultra offers higher video resolution and framerate options, suitable for professional video recording, whereas the Redmi Note 10 Pro offers basic 4K@30fps. |
| Stabilization | Digital image stabilization | Optical Stabilization (OIS) | The Axon 40 Ultra's OIS will provide superior stabilization compared to the Redmi Note 10 Pro’s digital stabilization, reducing blur in videos and photos, especially in low light or while in motion. |
| Features | Continuous autofocus | Optical zoom, Laser autofocus (LAF), Under display camera, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF) | The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra has a more advanced camera system overall, offering more features like Optical zoom, laser autofocus, and under-display selfie camera. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5020mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery capacities, offering comparable battery life for everyday use. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 65W fast charging | The Axon 40 Ultra charges significantly faster, reducing downtime spent plugged in. |
| Removable Battery | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both devices have non-removable batteries. |
Software
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | The Axon 40 Ultra launches with a newer Android version out of the box; both devices can be upgraded to the same Android version. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | The Axon 40 Ultra's Wi-Fi 6 supports faster wireless speeds, better range, and improved network performance. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.2 | The Axon 40 Ultra has a slightly newer Bluetooth version which may improve connection stability and efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) | The Axon 40 Ultra supports more satellite systems, resulting in better accuracy for navigation. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Both support dual SIM usage, allowing users to have two phone numbers active simultaneously. |
Storage
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1024GB | The Axon 40 Ultra offers larger storage options, ideal for users with many apps, photos, and videos. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB/12GB/16GB/18GB | The Axon 40 Ultra's higher RAM options are better for heavy multitasking and demanding games. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards, so choosing the right storage variant is important. |
Audio
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both offer stereo speakers for better audio quality and immersive sound. The Redmi Note 10 Pro has Dolby Atmos, while Axon 40 Ultra has DTS/DTS X and 3 microphones. |
Security
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | The Redmi Note 10 Pro's side-mounted fingerprint sensor is often faster and more convenient than the Axon 40 Ultra's sensor. |
Sensors
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope; Gravity; Hall | The Redmi Note 10 Pro includes a compass for better navigation and Ultrasonic proximity sensor. ZTE Axon 40 Ultra offers proximity sensor, gravity and hall sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Here's a breakdown of the major advantages of each phone:
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro Advantages:
- Lower Price: The Redmi Note 10 Pro is typically more budget-friendly.
- Slightly Lighter: A bit lighter which may be preferred by some users during longer periods of usage.
- Wide Angle Lens and Macro lens: It has dedicated wide-angle and macro lenses for more photography versatility.
- Compass and Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor: Includes a compass for navigation and Ultrasonic proximity sensor.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Provides faster and more convenient unlocking.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 5 Protection: Superior screen protection for scratches and impacts.
- Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio: Offers advanced audio technologies for an enhanced listening experience.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Advantages:
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 provides superior speed and responsiveness for demanding tasks.
- Larger Screen: Offers a more immersive viewing experience with a bigger screen.
- Brighter Display: Much better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Telephoto Lens: Includes a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom.
- 8K Video Recording: Capable of recording professional-grade video.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is much faster than 33W.
- Newer WiFi Standard: Supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster and more reliable connections.
- Higher RAM and Storage: Available with significantly more RAM and storage options.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Offers better image and video stabilization
- Advanced Autofocus system: Features including Laser autofocus and Phase detection autofocus.
- Under display camera: The selfie camera is hidden under the display for a seamless design.
- DTS/DTS X Sound Offers immersive audio capabilities with the support of 3 microphones.
Trade-offs:
- Redmi Note 10 Pro sacrifices raw power and camera features for a lower price and is geared towards a more budget-conscious user.
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra trades a higher price and heavier build for significantly improved performance and advanced features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro:
- Ideal Users: Budget-conscious individuals seeking a capable all-around phone for everyday tasks, casual photography, and media consumption. Users who value wide angle and macro lenses for creativity.
- Use Cases:
- Social media browsing and content creation.
- Casual gaming and video streaming.
- Everyday photography with multiple lenses.
- General productivity tasks, such as web browsing, emails, and note-taking.
- Price-to-Value: Offers excellent value for its price point with a good balance of features.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Ideal Users: Power users, gamers, photographers, and videographers who need top-tier performance and features. Users who value a more immersive media experience and advanced video capabilities.
- Use Cases:
- Demanding mobile gaming with high frame rates.
- Professional photography and videography.
- Heavy multitasking and app usage.
- Media consumption with a large, vibrant display.
- Video editing on the go.
- Price-to-Value: Provides excellent value for users willing to pay for top-of-the-line specifications, but is at a much higher price bracket than the Redmi Note 10 Pro.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions for buyers to consider:
What is your budget?
- Recommendation: If budget is the primary concern, the Redmi Note 10 Pro offers great value. For those who can spend more for better features, the Axon 40 Ultra is the better option.
How important is performance?
- Recommendation: For demanding tasks and gaming, the Axon 40 Ultra's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is far superior. If you are only a basic user, the Redmi Note 10 Pro will work fine.
Which camera features do you prioritize?
- Recommendation: The Redmi Note 10 Pro is better if you value wide-angle and macro lenses. The Axon 40 Ultra is better for video recording and optical zoom capabilities.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Casual User on a Budget: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro. It provides a good overall experience for basic smartphone tasks and is more affordable.
- Mobile Gamer or Power User: Choose the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. Its superior processor and RAM will provide the performance and multitasking capabilities you need.
- Photography Enthusiast: If you value telephoto lenses and advanced video features, go for the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. If you prefer wide-angle and macro lenses for your creative photography needs and are on a budget, then the Redmi Note 10 Pro is better for you.
- Heavy Video Content Creator: The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the clear winner with 8K video, better stabilization, and advanced features.
What I would choose and why
Given the information, I would choose the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra.
My Rationale:
As a smartphone analyst, I prioritize performance and innovation. The Axon 40 Ultra's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, significantly better AnTuTu score, and higher RAM options mean that it will have a smoother experience with any applications I use.
While the Redmi Note 10 Pro is a solid mid-range phone, the Axon 40 Ultra's better display (especially its higher brightness for outdoor use), superior video recording capabilities with 8K and OIS, and advanced camera features with optical zoom make it the clear winner for my needs. I also value the faster 65W charging. The wider aperture of the selfie camera and more advanced focusing system of the rear camera are beneficial for the quality of pictures and videos I take.
Even though it doesn't have the wide-angle or macro lens, the extra resolution of the main camera and the dedicated telephoto lens offer a higher-quality experience. The superior connectivity (Wi-Fi 6) and updated Bluetooth version are added benefits. While it lacks Corning Gorilla Glass, I am willing to use a screen protector to utilize its better overall features. While a higher price, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra offers a superior experience, therefore it is my preferred choice.
