Alright, let's break down the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Nothing Phone (2). I'm going to take a deep dive into the specs, translate the tech jargon into real-world implications, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up across key categories:
Design
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Nothing Phone (2) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | 162.1 x 76.4 x 8.6 mm | Axon is taller & slimmer; Nothing is a tad wider and thicker, potentially affecting grip. |
| Weight | 204g | 201.2g | Virtually identical weight - both feel substantial but not overly heavy. |
| Build | Unknown | Unknown | We can't compare build quality based on the data provided. |
Display
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Nothing Phone (2) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Both are large, immersive screens; Axon is slightly larger by 0.1" |
| Resolution | 1116 x 2480 | 1080 x 2412 | Axon offers a sharper image with moderately higher resolution. |
| Pixel Density | 400 PPI | 394 PPI | Very similar sharpness; both displays look crisp and detailed. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast; minimal practical difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide buttery-smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1600 nits | Nothing Phone (2) will be more visible in direct sunlight due to higher peak brightness. |
Performance
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Nothing Phone (2) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Nothing Phone (2) boasts a newer chipset with slightly better performance and efficiency; smoother experience overall. |
| Antutu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,135,786 | Nothing Phone (2) is slightly faster in benchmarks, a sign of better real-world performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 730 | Both have the same GPU, but the Nothing Phone (2)'s chipset will likely lead to slightly better gaming performance. |
Camera
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Nothing Phone (2) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72", Sony IMX787, 0.7µm | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56", Sony IMX890, 1.0µm | ZTE has higher res but a smaller sensor, Nothing captures larger pixels, better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0, Omnivision, 1.22µm | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/2.74", Sony IMX615, 0.8µm | Nothing has higher res, which captures more detail; ZTE has a brighter aperture which is good for low-light. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2", Omnivision OV64B, 0.7µm | None | ZTE offers telephoto zoom capabilities, which the Nothing Phone (2) lacks. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | 0.3MP | None | ZTE has a ToF sensor to increase depth mapping and accuracy in photography. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72", Sony IMX787, 0.7µm | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76", Samsung S5KJN1, 0.64µm | ZTE has more resolution and a larger sensor, Nothing has a wider aperture; ZTE captures more detail, Nothing is better in low light. |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps with HDR, EIS, and Slow-motion: Yes, 480 fps | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, OIS, EIS, and Slow-motion: Yes, 240 fps | ZTE supports higher video resolution; Nothing offers better video stabilization, ZTE has better slow motion. |
| Features | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Under display camera, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Time-Lapse, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | ZTE is great for professional video, while Nothing is great for simple and quick shots. |
Battery Life
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Nothing Phone (2) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 4700 mAh | Axon has a slightly larger battery, potentially longer run times; difference is minor. |
| Charging | 65W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 45W fast charging, Li-Ion | Axon charges faster; nothing also offers wireless charging capabilities. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable, 15W wireless charging, 5W reverse wireless | Nothing is more flexible for charging with wireless and reverse wireless capabilities. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra
- Strengths: The Axon 40 Ultra really stands out with its under-display camera which offers an uninterrupted screen. It also has a more versatile camera system, a telephoto lens, and a higher-resolution main and ultrawide lens, and it can capture 8K videos. The battery is slightly larger and has faster wired charging speeds.
- Competitive Advantages: The camera system makes it perfect for those who need high zoom, or want to do prosumer videography. The under-display camera provides a sleek aesthetic.
- Trade-offs: The processor is a generation older, so there may be small performance disadvantages. It also does not have wireless charging capabilities.
Nothing Phone (2)
- Strengths: The Nothing Phone (2) has a newer, more efficient processor that offers better daily performance and slightly better benchmark scores. The main camera has larger pixel sizes, leading to superior low-light performance. Also, it features both wireless and reverse wireless charging.
- Competitive Advantages: The processor has a very high performance to battery ratio, it's a great phone for people who want to game. The design is unique and the display is marginally brighter.
- Trade-offs: The camera system is slightly less versatile, the fast charging is slower, and it does not have a telephoto lens or 8k videos.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra
- Best Suited For: Photographers and videographers who want versatile high-resolution photography and professional-grade video recording capabilities, and people who need the most screen real estate possible without a notch. Those who want the fastest possible wired charging speeds.
- Use Cases: Professional video shoots, zoom photography in nature, users who prioritize cutting-edge camera technology, and those who need a full display.
Nothing Phone (2)
- Best Suited For: Enthusiasts seeking a unique design, superior all-around performance, great low-light shots, and convenience from wireless charging, and the latest Android operating system.
- Use Cases: Gamers, photography enthusiasts who need good low-light performance, those who prioritize efficiency and wireless charging, and users who appreciate a distinct design aesthetic.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- Camera Needs: Do you prioritize the highest possible video resolution and versatility, including telephoto zoom? If yes, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra might be better. Or do you want better low light capabilities and prefer wireless charging? If yes, the Nothing Phone (2) might be a better option.
- Performance vs. Efficiency: Do you need the absolute fastest benchmark performance and most up-to-date processor, and would you like a more modern, efficient processor that uses less battery for a better daily performance? If yes, the Nothing Phone (2) is better.
- Design Aesthetics: Do you like the more minimalist design of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra with its under-display camera? Or do you want a more unique, futuristic look with Nothing's glyph interface?
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- For the Photographer/Videographer: The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the better choice due to its superior flexibility with high resolution and different focal lengths.
- For the Gamer: The Nothing Phone (2)'s newer chip and excellent low light capabilities make it the better choice for everyday performance, gaming, and quick photography.
- For the Everyday User: If you prefer the latest Android version and a more polished user experience, go with the Nothing Phone (2). If you want a more traditional user interface and the most screen real estate with the fastest charging speed, go with the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra.
My Pick
If I were choosing, I'd lean towards the Nothing Phone (2). As a tech journalist and analyst, I'm fascinated by unique design and performance. The Nothing Phone (2)'s processor and efficient processor, combined with its wireless charging capabilities, makes it a more appealing everyday device for me. While I appreciate the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra's unique display and camera flexibility, for my specific needs and interests the Nothing Phone (2) is a slightly better choice.
