Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Realme 12 Pro+. I'll put on my tech journalist hat and break down these devices as if we were chatting over coffee.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key specs, focusing on what they mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Realme 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-13 | 2024-01-29 | Realme 12 Pro+ is significantly newer. |
| Dimensions | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 161.5 × 74 × 8.8 mm | ZTE is taller and a bit thinner, Realme a tad wider and thicker. Difference is negligible for most users |
| Weight | 204g | 196g | Realme is slightly lighter, might feel less hefty. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-folding phones. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Virtually the same size. Both are large enough for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1080x2412 | ZTE has a slightly sharper screen with more pixels. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 394 | Both are very crisp, the difference won't be noticeable to most. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | ZTE has significantly better outdoor visibility. This is a big deal. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 | ZTE's chipset is higher-end, for more intense gaming and faster performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 603,400 | ZTE is noticeably faster with higher benchmarks. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 710 | ZTE has a more powerful GPU for better gaming performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery size, so expect similar daily use. |
| Charging | 65W | 67W | Both are fast-charging. Realme charges slightly faster. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | |||
| Resolution | 64MP | 50MP | ZTE has a higher resolution sensor, though resolution isn't everything. |
| Aperture | f/1.6 | f/1.8 | ZTE has a wider aperture, letting in a bit more light. |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.72" | 1/1.56" | Realme's sensor is slightly larger. |
| Sensor Model | Sony IMX787 | Sony IMX890 | Different Sony sensors. |
| Pixel Size | 0.70 µm | 1.00 µm | Realme has larger pixels which can capture more light. |
| Selfie Camera | |||
| Resolution | 16MP | 32MP | Realme has a higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.4 | ZTE has a wider aperture for selfies. |
| Pixel Size | 1.22 µm | 0.80 µm | ZTE has larger pixel size for selfie camera. |
| Sensor Model | Omnivision | Sony IMX615 | Different sensors |
| Telephoto Camera | |||
| Resolution | 64MP | 64MP | Both are same resolution. |
| Aperture | f/3.5 | f/2.6 | Realme has a wider aperture, better for low-light telephoto shots. |
| Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/2" | Both are the same size |
| Pixel Size | 0.70 µm | 0.70 µm | Both have same pixel size in telephoto lens. |
| Sensor Model | Omnivision OV64B | Omnivision OV64B | Both use same model telephoto sensor |
| Wide/Macro | |||
| Resolution | 64MP | 8MP | ZTE has much higher resolution for the ultrawide. |
| Aperture | f/2.3 | f/2.2 | Both have similiar aperture size. |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.72" | 1/4" | ZTE has much larger sensor size. |
| Pixel Size | 0.70 µm | 1.12 µm | Realme has larger pixel size for this camera. |
| Sensor Model | Sony IMX787 | Hynix HI-846 | Different sensor models. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Yes | No | ZTE has dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Video | |||
| Max Resolution | 8K@30fps | 4K@30fps | ZTE supports much higher video resolution. |
| Slow-Motion | 480 fps | 240 fps | ZTE offers better slow motion capabilities |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | Realme has the latest Android version out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both have latest Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Realme has more advanced bluetooth audio codec support. |
| GPS | L1+L5, GLONASS (L1) | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, BeiDou (B1) | Realme supports more satellite systems for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512/1024 GB | 128/256/512 GB | ZTE offers up to 1TB storage. |
| RAM | 8/12/16/18 GB | 8/12 GB | ZTE has up to 18GB for heavier multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS/DTS X, 3 Mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, 2 Mics | Realme has more advanced spatial audio, ZTE more mics |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | basic | basic | Both have similar basic fingerprint sensors. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra
Strengths:
- Performance Powerhouse: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 provides a massive performance advantage for gaming and heavy tasks.
- Superior Display Brightness: The 1500 nits brightness makes it fantastic for outdoor use.
- Advanced Video: 8K video recording is a big plus for videography enthusiasts.
- Versatile Camera: The quad-camera setup with a ToF sensor is a powerful imaging suite.
- Massive Storage Option: 1TB internal storage is great for storing vast amounts of media.
- High RAM options: Up to 18GB RAM for heavy multitasking
Trade-offs:
- Older Software: Launches with Android 12, though upgradable, it’s not as current as Realme's.
Realme 12 Pro+
Strengths:
- Latest Software: Comes with Android 14 out of the box.
- Stronger Telephoto: Wider telephoto aperture might perform better in low-light scenarios.
- Better Audio Codec Support: Bluetooth audio codecs like APT-X, LDAC, SBC and AAC enhance wireless audio experience.
- More satellite Support: More satellite systems provide improved GPS accuracy.
- Lower Cost: Generally available at a lower price point.
Trade-offs:
- Weaker Performance: The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 is a mid-range chip, not ideal for heavy gaming.
- Lower Screen Brightness: Not the best for sunny outdoor use.
- Less Versatile Ultrawide: The ultrawide camera has a significantly lower resolution.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Power Users: Gamers, content creators, and those who want the most powerful processor.
- Outdoor Shooters: The high brightness display makes it ideal for use in sunny conditions.
- Video Enthusiasts: The 8K video capability makes it ideal for video.
- Media Hoarders: The 1TB option is perfect for large media libraries.
Realme 12 Pro+:
- Everyday Users: Those needing a reliable phone with a good camera, decent performance, and the latest software.
- Audio Enthusiasts: The device is a good for listening to music with advanced bluetooth codec support.
- Budget Conscious: Those seeking good value for their money.
- Travelers: Those that need accurate GPS
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help decide:
- Performance Needs: Do you need the absolute best performance for gaming and intensive tasks, or is smooth, general use enough?
- Outdoor Usage: Will you be spending a lot of time in bright sunlight?
- Software Preference: Is having the very latest version of Android immediately a high priority?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming Enthusiast: If you're a gamer or a heavy user, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the clear choice with its more powerful processor and better GPU.
- Scenario 2: Everyday User: If you need a reliable phone for daily tasks, social media, and photography, the Realme 12 Pro+ is a better pick with its latest software.
- Scenario 3: Outdoorsy Person: If you need a phone that you can see clearly in direct sunlight, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is a superior option with its 1500 nits of brightness.
- Scenario 4: Budget Conscious: If you are more on the budget side of things, the Realme 12 Pro+ is the better pick.
What I would choose:
If I had to choose, I would pick the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. Even though it’s older and has an older operating system, the sheer performance difference, combined with that much higher brightness display, would be invaluable in my day-to-day use as a tech journalist. I also value 8K video recording capabilities for some of the work that I do, alongside the extra versatility of the quadruple camera set up. I’m also not too bothered by not having the latest version of Android right away, as both operating systems are Android. While the Realme 12 Pro+ offers a great package, the Axon 40 Ultra's power and display are more compelling for my specific needs.
