Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Huawei Pura 70 Pro. Both are impressive smartphones, but they cater to slightly different priorities. Let's break down the tech specs and see how they translate into real-world experiences.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table that highlights the key technical specs and their real-world implications:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Huawei Pura 70 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-13 | 2024-04-29 | Huawei is significantly newer, meaning better tech on paper. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-foldable smartphones. |
| Dimensions | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 162.6 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | ZTE is slightly taller but narrower; Huawei is a bit wider, might affect one-hand use. |
| Weight | 204g | 220g | ZTE is noticeably lighter, better for extended use without fatigue. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.8" | Identical screen size; comfortable for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1260x2844 | Huawei's higher resolution means sharper images and text, especially noticeable on a large screen. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 460 | Huawei offers a noticeably crisper display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast; AMOLED is a specific type of OLED, so very similar |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 2500 nits | Huawei's significantly higher peak brightness makes it much better for viewing under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Kirin 9010 (7 nm) | Snapdragon chipset gives a better edge in speed, smoothness, power efficiency and better heat management. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 869,707 | ZTE has a higher benchmark score, indicating faster app loading and smoother operation. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Maleoon 910 | ZTE's GPU is generally superior, potentially offering better gaming performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5050mAh | Both have similar battery capacity; expect comparable battery endurance. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 100W fast charging | Huawei charges significantly faster; a major advantage for those who need a quick top-up. |
| Charging Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, 80W wireless, 20W reverse wireless, Non-removable | Huawei’s wireless charging and reverse charging capabilities add versatility. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72", 0.70µm | 50MP, f/1.4, 1/1.3", 1.20µm | Huawei has a larger sensor with larger pixels and a wider aperture, likely capturing more light, better low light photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0, 1.22µm | 13MP, f/2.4 | ZTE's has a higher resolution and wider aperture, good for selfies and video calls. |
| Telephoto Camera | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2", 0.70µm | 48MP, f/2.1 | Huawei’s has a wider aperture which is better for low light telephoto photography. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72", 0.70µm | 12.5MP f/2.2 | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra has a dedicated Wide Angle + Macro lens while Huawei Pura 70 Pro has a dedicated wide angle lens. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Yes | No | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra has a dedicated Time of Flight sensor, this adds depth sensing capabilities |
| Video | 8K@30fps with HDR/EIS, 4K@120fps with HDR/EIS | 4K Video, 960 fps Slow-motion | ZTE offers higher video resolution for professional-grade content, Huawei has better slow-motion capability. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, OIS, EIS, Under display camera | Triple camera, OIS, Ultra stable video | ZTE: Under Display camera and versatile Quad camera system. Huawei: Ultra stable video, and dual front camera. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12, upgradeable to 13 | ZTE’s comes with google’s Android, Huawei’s does not specify, possibly its own HarmonyOS. | |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Dual band, MiMO | WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Dual band, MiMO | Both support fast WiFi; similar connectivity options. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 LE | Bluetooth 5.2 | Both are equal but differ in audio codec support with Huawei offering LDAC, SBC, AAC |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), Galileo | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou, NavIC System, QZSS, Galileo | Huawei supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy and reliability. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Nano SIM | Dual SIM, Nano SIM | Both offer Dual SIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1024GB | 256GB/512GB/1024GB | Both have high storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB/16GB/18GB | 12 GB | ZTE offers more RAM options for heavy multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports external storage; choose wisely when selecting capacity. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | ZTE has a slight edge in audio features offering enhanced surround sound, better audio separation and immersion, better voice capture. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer standard biometric security features |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Huawei has the inclusion of a compass sensor. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
Strengths:
- Significantly lighter and slightly narrower, enhancing comfort.
- Faster chipset and better benchmark scores, meaning snappier performance.
- Superior video recording with 8K resolution.
- More RAM options for heavy users.
- More varied lens options with Quadruple camera and ToF 3D sensor.
- Under-display camera for a clean, bezel-less look.
Competitive Advantages: A powerhouse of performance with an emphasis on capturing high-resolution content.
Limitations: It is older, so its specs are not as cutting edge.
Huawei Pura 70 Pro:
Strengths:
- Significantly brighter display, perfect for outdoor use.
- Faster charging speeds, ensuring you’re never out of juice for long.
- More refined camera setup for low-light photography, and better telephoto lens.
- Better GPS accuracy with more satellite system support.
- Superior audio with Dolby Atmos support.
- Additional battery features such as wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- More up-to-date build.
Competitive Advantages: Emphasizes user experience with a focus on enhanced photography, faster charging, and a more versatile display.
Limitations: The older chipset impacts raw processing power and multitasking.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Ideal For:
- Users who prioritize raw processing power and love to push their phones to the limit.
- Content creators who need high-resolution video and flexibility in camera lenses.
- Gamers who need the best frame rates without breaking the bank.
- Tech enthusiasts looking for a high-spec phone without compromising on certain performance aspects.
Huawei Pura 70 Pro:
- Ideal For:
- Photography enthusiasts who want exceptional low-light and telephoto capabilities.
- Users who need a reliable phone with a long battery life that can quickly be topped up.
- Users who spend a lot of time outdoors, the brighter display is a must.
- Those who want a more refined user experience with advanced features like wireless charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help users decide:
- What do you use your phone mostly for? If it’s heavy gaming and video editing, ZTE may be better. If it’s photography and daily use with a bright display, the Huawei is likely more appealing.
- How often do you need to recharge? The Huawei is faster and offers wireless charging features.
- Do you prioritize camera versatility or camera quality? ZTE offers a variety of cameras and modes, but Huawei has a superior camera quality and better results in low light conditions.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Power User: If you need the maximum processing power, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra makes more sense.
- The Everyday Photographer: The Huawei Pura 70 Pro, with its advanced low-light and telephoto capabilities, is the better choice.
- The Outdoor Enthusiast: Huawei’s brighter display is the key deciding factor.
My Choice and Why
If I had to choose, I would go for the Huawei Pura 70 Pro. While the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is a powerhouse, the Pura 70 Pro just feels more refined and future-proof. The main reasons for my choice are:
- Display: The higher brightness is essential for outdoor use which is something I would greatly benefit from.
- Charging: The 100W charging and wireless charging features are incredibly convenient.
- Camera: The improved low-light capabilities and more user friendly camera setup is a significant advantage for me.
Although the ZTE offers superior benchmark scores and more RAM options, the Huawei’s balanced approach with a focus on the camera and display wins me over. It’s a phone that I think more people would find satisfying for everyday use, and that's what matters most to me in a personal device.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Both phones are excellent and I hope this breakdown helps you make an informed decision!
