ZTE Axon 40 Ultra vs Nothing Phone (2a) Plus - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date May 13, 2022 August 3, 2024
Release Year 2022 2024

Physical

Volume 100.96 cm³ 104.87 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.33 "/g 3.53 "/g
Weight 204 g 190 g
Height 163.3 mm 161.7 mm
Width 73.6 mm 76.3 mm
Thickness 8.4 mm 8.5 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Silver
  • Gold
  • Black
  • Black
  • Grey

Display

Screen Size 6.8 " 6.7 "
Resolution 1116 x 2480 1080 x 2412
Aspect Ratio 20:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 92.9 % 87.6 %
Pixel Density 400 PPI 395 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A 700 nits
HBM Brightness N/A 1100 nits
Peak Brightness 1500 nits 1300 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 108.13 mAh/in² 111.38 mAh/in²
Battery Density 49.53 mAh/cm³ 47.68 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) Mediatek Dimensity 7350 Pro (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x3.00 GHz Cortex-X2 & 3x2.50 GHz Cortex-A710 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A510) Octa-core (2x3.0 GHz Cortex-A715 & 6x 2.0 GHz Cortex-A510)
GPU Adreno 730 Mali-G610 MC4

Connectivity

USB Version 3.1 2.0
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.1, OTG USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 12 14
Maximum OS Version 13 17

Comparison Summary

Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus. I'll break it down like I'm explaining it to a friend who wants to know which phone will really fit their life.

1. Specifications Breakdown

Here's a breakdown of the key specs, translated into real-world implications:

FeatureZTE Axon 40 UltraNothing Phone (2a) PlusReal-World Implications
Design
Dimensions163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm161.7 x 76.3 x 8.5 mmZTE is slightly taller and narrower, while Nothing is a bit shorter and wider. Both are slim. Weight difference might matter for long usage.
Weight204g190gThe Nothing Phone (2a) is noticeably lighter (14g), potentially making it more comfortable for extended use.
Display
Size6.8"6.7"Both phones offer large, immersive displays. The difference of 0.1" is negligible for most users.
Resolution1116 x 24801080 x 2412ZTE has slightly sharper visuals, but both are plenty crisp for everyday use.
PPI400395Both have similar pixel densities, resulting in sharp, detailed images and text.
TechnologyAMOLEDAMOLEDBoth displays offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast.
Refresh Rate120Hz120HzSmooth scrolling and animations on both devices.
Brightness1500 nits1300 nitsZTE’s brighter display will be easier to read in direct sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 8 Gen 1Dimensity 7350 ProZTE's chipset provides higher overall performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
AnTuTu Score1,061,300805,721ZTE delivers noticeably faster performance (about 32% higher benchmark scores).
GPUAdreno 730Mali-G610 MC4The ZTE's GPU will handle heavy graphics tasks with more ease.
Camera
Main Camera64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72"50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56"ZTE has higher resolution (64MP vs 50MP) and a slightly wider aperture f/1.6, but the Nothing has a larger sensor, which should improve low light performance
Selfie Camera16MP, f/2.0, 1.22µm pixel size50MP, f/2.2, 0.64 µm pixel sizeNothing has a higher resolution front camera with a 50MP sensor, but the ZTE has larger pixels and wider aperture, which should improve low light performance.
Telephoto Lens64MP, f/3.5, 1/2"NoneZTE offers optical zoom capabilities, which Nothing lacks.
ToF 3D sensor0.3MPNoneZTE offers depth sensing capabilities, which Nothing lacks.
Wide Angle + Macro64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72"50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76"ZTE has higher resolution and larger sensor size which should improve photo details.
Video Recording8K@30fps4K@30fpsZTE captures higher quality videos; both have EIS for stabilization.
Battery Life
Capacity5000mAh5000mAhBoth devices have the same battery capacity, meaning similar battery endurance.
Charging65W Fast Charging50W Fast ChargingThe ZTE charges faster, which is useful if you’re always on the go.
Software
OSAndroid 12 (up to 13)Android 14 (up to 17)Nothing has a newer operating system and will receive more updates in the future.
Connectivity
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6Wi-Fi 6Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards.
Bluetooth5.25.3Nothing has a newer version, offering potentially better connectivity.
GPSGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, GalileoGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, NavIC SystemNothing has more advanced GPS system for better location accuracy
Storage
Internal Storage128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB256GBThe ZTE offers more storage options, including a massive 1TB variant.
RAM8GB/12GB/16GB/18GB12GBThe ZTE offers more RAM options, meaning better multitasking and smoother performance with heavy apps.
Other
AudioDTS / DTS XHi-Res AudioBoth phones offer excellent audio quality. ZTE has DTS/DTSX whereas Nothing has Hi-Res Audio.
Screen ProtectionUnknownGorilla Glass 5Nothing provides better screen protection with Gorilla Glass 5.

2. Key Insights

ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:

  • Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip gives it a significant edge in processing power, making it better for gaming and heavy multitasking.
  • Camera Versatility: The telephoto lens, 8K video, higher res main camera and depth sensor provide more camera options.
  • Brighter Display: The 1500 nits brightness ensures excellent outdoor visibility.
  • Faster Charging: 65W charging allows you to quickly top up the battery.
  • More Storage Options: Up to 1TB of storage.

Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Strengths:

  • Lighter Design: The 14g difference is noticeable and can make a difference for long usage.
  • Software Updates: Runs on a newer Android version and is promised more updates in the future
  • Selfie Camera: 50MP sensor with high resolution
  • GPS: Support for more satellite systems.
  • Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass 5 provides excellent screen protection
  • Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 with better audio codec options

Trade-offs and Limitations:

  • ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: It is slightly heavier and has older software (Android 12). The lack of screen protection is a concern.
  • Nothing Phone (2a) Plus: The processing power isn't as high. Does not come with a charger in the box. Lacks optical zoom.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is best for:

  • Power Users: Those who demand top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and intensive apps.
  • Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value versatile camera options including optical zoom.
  • Users in Bright Environments: People who often use their phone outdoors will benefit from the brighter display.
  • Storage Hungry users: Those that need large amounts of storage.

Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is best for:

  • Style-Conscious Users: Users who want a unique design.
  • General Use: Suitable for everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming.
  • Long-Term Software Support: Users who prioritize the latest Android features.
  • Users on a Budget: The 2a Plus is designed as a more affordable option.

4. Buying Decision Framework

Here are three questions to guide your decision:

  1. How important is peak performance?

    • If you're a hardcore gamer or multitasker, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is your choice. If you're a more casual user the Nothing phone is likely better.
  2. How important is the camera system for you?

    • If you want a versatile camera system with optical zoom, choose the ZTE. But for overall selfies the Nothing Phone is better.
  3. Are software updates and long term support a priority?

    • If keeping your phone up-to-date is critical, the Nothing Phone will have more future software support.

My Choice:

Personally, given my needs and preferences, I'd lean toward the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. While I appreciate the modern design and software of the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus, I do value top performance for running multiple applications at once and prefer the versatility of the camera setup on the Axon 40 Ultra. That also includes the telephoto lens, which is great for taking detailed zoom photos and videos. The increased brightness would also be a big benefit when working outside, though the lack of screen protection is a concern.

However, if you want something that has a more unique look, with long term software support and good performance the Nothing Phone (2a) is a good option.

Ultimately, both are excellent devices, but my choice is driven by performance and photography. If you prioritize those aspects as well, the Axon 40 Ultra is the better pick.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.