Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Huawei Mate X3. Buckle up, because we're about to go beyond the spec sheets and into real-world performance.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown, focusing on what each specification means for you:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Huawei Mate X3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Mate X3: Offers a larger screen in a more compact form factor when folded. Axon 40 Ultra: Standard candy-bar shape. |
| Dimensions | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 156.9 × 141.5 × 5.3 mm (unfolded) | Mate X3: Significantly wider when unfolded, thinner. Axon 40 Ultra: Taller and thicker, might feel more pocketable when not using large screen. |
| Weight | 204g | 239g | Axon 40 Ultra: Lighter, more comfortable for extended use. Mate X3: Heavier, especially noticeable for one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 7.85" | Mate X3: Much larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. Axon 40 Ultra: More compact, better for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 2224x2496 | Mate X3: Significantly sharper visuals due to higher pixel count. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 426 | Mate X3: Slightly crisper text and images, although difference is small. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Axon 40 Ultra: Superior contrast, vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency for dark themes. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness (nits) | 1500 | 0 | Axon 40 Ultra: Much better outdoor visibility, especially in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 4G | Mate X3: Newer processor, better sustained performance. Axon 40 Ultra: Still powerful, but older chip. |
| Antutu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,238,400 | Mate X3: Marginally faster in benchmarks. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 730 | Similar graphics capabilities, meaning most games will run smoothly on both. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Sensor | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56" | Axon 40 Ultra: Higher resolution sensor, wider aperture for better low-light performance. Mate X3: Larger sensor, potentially better image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.4 | Axon 40 Ultra: Higher resolution front camera, better for selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | 16MP, f/3.4, 1/3.09" | Axon 40 Ultra: Higher resolution, larger sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" | 12MP, f/2.2 | Axon 40 Ultra: Much higher resolution. |
| 3D ToF Sensor | Yes | No | Axon 40 Ultra: Captures depth information. |
| Video Resolution | Up to 8K @ 30fps | Up to 4K @ 60fps | Axon 40 Ultra: Offers professional-grade video capture with higher resolution. Mate X3: Still excellent video, but limited to 4K. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4800mAh | Axon 40 Ultra: Slightly larger battery, may offer marginally longer usage times. |
| Charging | 65W wired | 66W wired, 50W wireless | Mate X3: Faster wired charging plus convenient wireless charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Mate X3: Newer operating system out of the box. Axon 40 Ultra: One generation older, but is upgradable. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:
- Superior Display Tech: AMOLED panel provides deeper blacks and better contrast, making it excellent for content consumption.
- Camera Prowess: Higher resolution across the board (main, telephoto, ultrawide and selfie), 8K video recording, and a dedicated Time of Flight sensor provide more photographic flexibility.
- Higher Video Resolution: 8K video resolution for professional-grade video content creation.
- Lighter Build: Weighs less, making it more comfortable for long-term handheld use.
- Feature Rich Audio: Boasting DTS / DTS X and a triple microphone array
- More RAM: Offers configurations with 16GB or 18GB of RAM
Huawei Mate X3 Strengths:
- Foldable Design: Large, immersive display that folds for portability. Offers a tablet-like experience.
- Larger Screen: Significantly bigger screen for multitasking, entertainment and productivity.
- Newer Processor: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 for slightly faster performance.
- Wireless Charging: 50W wireless charging adds convenience.
- Advanced Sensors: Features a more comprehensive sensor suite, including a barometer.
- More Satellite Systems for Positioning: More GPS satellites supported for improved location accuracy
- Bluetooth Audio: Bluetooth with LDAC, SBC, and AAC for high quality wireless audio
Trade-offs:
- Axon 40 Ultra: Lacks wireless charging and the latest gen processor.
- Mate X3: Heavier, larger screen size, making it less comfortable for one handed use and lacks AMOLED.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Content Creators: The high-resolution cameras and 8K video capabilities make it a great tool for creators.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Wide aperture, high-resolution and triple sensor array are great for photography lovers.
- Gamers: Strong processor and smooth display are ideal for gaming, and the device comes with 18GB of RAM.
- Practical Users: Its lighter weight, traditional form factor and AMOLED screen offer superior display for the content creator.
- Huawei Mate X3:
- Multitaskers: Large, foldable screen ideal for running multiple apps simultaneously.
- Media Lovers: Immersive display and high-quality audio system deliver an excellent media experience.
- Productivity Users: Great for professionals who need a large display for documents, emails, and presentations.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Who appreciate innovative design and premium features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to guide your decision:
- How important is a large screen and foldable design? If a large screen and foldable nature is your priority, the Huawei Mate X3 is the clear choice, even if it makes the phone slightly less comfortable for one handed use. If you are looking for a more standard smartphone, then the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the best option.
- How essential is camera flexibility and high video resolution? If you need high video resolution and photographic flexibility the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the better device.
- Do you need wireless charging and other advanced features? If wireless charging, a newer OS, or slightly better performance is important to you, the Mate X3 is the way to go. If not, the Axon 40 Ultra will be more than enough.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Mobile Photographer/Videographer: The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra offers more resolution, lens versatility, and high quality video recording capabilities.
- For the Productivity Power User: The Huawei Mate X3 with its large foldable display, and multitasking capabilities is the go to device.
- For the Casual User Seeking Overall Value: The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra offers an excellent balance of performance, camera quality, and premium display at a potentially lower price point.
My Choice and Why
Personally, I would lean towards the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. Here's why:
As a tech journalist and analyst, I prioritize devices that offer excellent performance, flexibility, and versatility across different use cases, and that is exactly what the ZTE offers. While the foldable form factor of the Huawei Mate X3 is enticing, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra better suits my needs with its superior camera system, the AMOLED display, 8K video, and a more manageable form factor for everyday use. The Axon also comes with more ram and is still a powerhouse, making it the overall winner in my book.
