Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Apple iPhone 15 Plus. I'll be focusing on real-world usage and what these specs actually mean for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the key specifications, laid out in a way that highlights practical implications:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Apple iPhone 15 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 160.9 × 77.8 × 7.8 mm | Axon is taller and thicker; iPhone is wider. In hand, the iPhone might feel slightly more substantial. |
| Weight | 204g | 201g | Practically identical in weight; neither feels significantly lighter or heavier. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Axon has a marginally larger screen, but the difference is negligible in daily use. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1290x2796 | iPhone display is noticeably sharper due to higher pixel density. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 460 | The iPhone’s higher PPI results in clearer text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both use similar high-quality OLED technology, meaning great colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | Axon is much smoother for scrolling and gaming, with double the refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 2000 nits | The iPhone display is better suited for use in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | A16 Bionic (4 nm) | Both are high-end processors; the A16 is benchmarked higher. The iPhone will likely feel faster and smoother in use. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,470,000 | The iPhone has significantly higher processing power, handling demanding tasks more easily. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Apple 5-core GPU | Both offer very capable graphics processing; iPhone’s integrated GPU is optimized for its ecosystem. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72" | 48MP, f/1.6, 1/1.5" | Axon has a higher resolution; iPhone has a larger sensor. The iPhone will likely perform better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 12MP, f/1.9 | Axon offers more megapixels; iPhone has a wider aperture that can help in low light. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | Not Present | Axon has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom capabilities, that the iPhone lacks. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" | 12MP, f/2.4 | Axon's wide-angle has a much higher resolution and wider aperture. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Present | Not Present | Axon can potentially capture better depth information. |
| Video | 8K@30fps, various HDR modes | 4K@60fps, various HDR modes | Axon supports higher resolution video recording. Both have excellent video capabilities. |
| DXOMark Camera Score | Not Present | 145 (Mobile) | iPhone’s camera is officially rated for high image and video quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4383mAh | Axon has a larger battery that should last longer on a single charge. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 20W Fast Charging | Axon charges much faster, which can be convenient. |
| Wireless Charging | Not Present | 15W MagSafe, 7.5W Qi | iPhone offers convenient wireless charging options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12/13 | iOS 17/18 | Android and iOS offer different user experiences. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, Direct, Display | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer excellent WiFi; Axon has additional connectivity options. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.3 LE | iPhone has a newer version; both support good audio streaming. |
| GPS | More Satellite Systems | Less Satellite Systems | Axon supports more satellite systems for precise GPS. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | iPhone offers eSIM compatibility. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512/1024GB | 128/256/512GB | Axon offers up to 1TB storage; iPhone caps at 512GB. |
| RAM | 8/12/16/18GB | 6GB | Axon offers higher RAM for more demanding applications and multitasking. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS/DTSX, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers, Noise cancellation mic | Both offer good audio; Axon offers DTS audio. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Fingerprint sensor | Basic Security Features | Axon has fingerprint unlock; iPhone has standard security measures. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Protection rating is not listed for either phone. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Both include standard sensors, with extra sensors on each phone. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:
- Display Smoothness: The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and gaming notably smoother than the iPhone's 60Hz.
- Charging Speed: The 65W fast charging is substantially faster than the iPhone's 20W, a game-changer for topping off on the go.
- Camera Versatility: Boasting a telephoto lens, higher resolution sensors and a ToF 3D sensor, the Axon has more flexibility for photographers.
- Battery Capacity: The larger 5000mAh battery should offer better endurance.
- RAM: The 18 GB of RAM is great for multitasking and running demanding apps.
- Storage Options: Having a 1TB model available is great for those who want to store a lot of content.
Apple iPhone 15 Plus Strengths:
- Display Clarity: The higher pixel density of the iPhone's display makes it noticeably sharper.
- Brightness: The higher peak brightness ensures better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Processing Power: The A16 Bionic chip outscores the Snapdragon in benchmarks, giving an edge in performance.
- Camera Quality: While lower resolution, the larger sensor, and strong image processing of the iPhone’s main camera generally gives better image quality.
- Ecosystem and Software: iOS and its ecosystem are generally considered refined and user-friendly.
- Wireless Charging: The included 15W MagSafe wireless charging is convenient.
- Brand recognition: Apple has a strong reputation.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: The camera quality, while versatile, might not match the iPhone's optimized image processing and may require more post processing. The software experience on Android may not be as polished as iOS.
- Apple iPhone 15 Plus: The 60Hz refresh rate might feel less smooth to those who have used higher refresh rate displays. Slower charging is not as convenient.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Who Should Choose the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra?
- Gamers and Media Enthusiasts: The 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother visuals, and the large battery ensures longer playtime.
- Power Users: The expandable storage and ample RAM handle multitasking and demanding applications well.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value versatile camera options, optical zoom, and 8K video will appreciate its unique features.
- Budget-Conscious Techies: This phone offers a very good set of features at a lower price than the iPhone.
Who Should Choose the Apple iPhone 15 Plus?
- Ecosystem Loyalists: Those already invested in the Apple ecosystem and prefer iOS.
- Users Who Value Camera Quality: The iPhone offers high-quality images and video with little post processing required.
- Users Who Want a Smooth and Reliable Experience: The streamlined software and powerful A16 Bionic chipset provide a polished, fast, and consistent experience.
- Users in Bright Light: Those who require a screen that can easily be viewed in sunlight.
- Users Who Value Brand Reputation: Users that prefer known brands, with a good reputation.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is display smoothness for you? If you’re a gamer or someone who appreciates a fluid visual experience, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra's 120Hz refresh rate is a significant advantage.
- How critical is processing power and camera quality? If you prioritize processing power and camera quality over versatility, the iPhone 15 Plus will probably be a better fit.
- Are you committed to an OS ecosystem? If you’re invested in the Apple ecosystem or specifically prefer the user experience of iOS, the iPhone is the obvious choice. Android users will feel more comfortable with the Axon.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Power User/Gamer: The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra with its 120Hz display, 65W fast charging, larger battery and huge RAM is the better choice.
- For the Casual User/Photo Enthusiast: The Apple iPhone 15 Plus with its ease of use and good image quality is a more convenient choice.
- For Those On A Budget: The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra offers good overall performance and many high-end features at a more affordable price.
My Choice
Personally, if I were making the choice right now, I'd lean towards the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. As someone who appreciates that smooth, 120Hz display and the flexibility of the camera system (including that telephoto lens), it ticks a lot of boxes for me. The faster charging is a huge convenience, and the higher battery capacity gives me peace of mind. While the iPhone has a better screen clarity and is smoother, I'm willing to trade that for the smoothness of the 120Hz display, the versatility of the Axon's camera system, and the added battery capacity for those long days out. While the iPhone has the DXO Mark backing it, the Axon's versatile camera system, combined with its faster charging and better battery makes it better in my use case.
