Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S23+. We'll break down these two impressive devices, examining their specs and, more importantly, what they mean for you in your day-to-day life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specs, along with real-world implications to give you a better understanding of what each phone offers:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 157.8 × 76.2 × 7.6 mm | Axon taller/thicker, S23+ wider; Axon has a larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 204g | 196g | S23+ is slightly lighter, which might be noticeable during extended use. |
| Build | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S23+ has superior screen protection, the Axon has unknown screen protection |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.6" | Axon has slightly larger display for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1080x2340 | Axon has higher resolution for slightly sharper images |
| Pixel Density | 400 PPI | 393 PPI | Both have very similar pixel density; very sharp images |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED panels. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1750 nits | S23+ has noticeably higher brightness, better for outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm) | S23+ has newer, more powerful chip, better performance and efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,508,732 | S23+ significantly faster in benchmarks, better app loading and smoother operation. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 740 | S23+ has better GPU for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.6, 1/1.72") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.57") | Axon boasts a higher resolution sensor, while S23+ has larger pixels. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.0, 1.22µm) | 12MP (f/2.2, µm) | Axon has a higher-res selfie camera with a wider aperture. |
| Telephoto | 64MP (f/3.5, 1/2") | 10MP (f/2.4, 1/3.9") | Axon has much higher resolution telephoto, while S23+ has a wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle | 64MP (f/2.3, 1/1.72") | 12.2MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55") | Axon has a wide angle and macro lens, while the S23+ has only the wide angle lens |
| ToF 3D sensor | 0.3MP | None | Axon has a ToF 3D sensor for depth sensing |
| Video | Up to 8K@120fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Both devices have excellent video recording capabilities. |
| DxOMark | Not Tested | 133 (Mobile) | S23+ has a verified camera score from DxOMark; Axon score is unknown |
| Camera Features | Multiple additional features | Multiple additional features | Both phones have comprehensive camera features, with some specific differences. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | Axon has slightly larger battery; potentially a bit longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | Axon has significantly faster charging speed. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass, Reverse Charging, Wireless Charging | S23+ has wireless and reverse wireless charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | S23+ has a more recent Android version with the latest features, Axon has an older version of android |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both phones feature the same Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.3 LE | S23+ has a newer Bluetooth version with more features and capabilities. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5) | GPS (L1+L5) ,QZSS, BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | S23+ has more satellite support for better accuracy |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | S23+ has eSIM for digital carrier switching, Axon has the flexibility of 2 physical sim slots |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512/1024 GB | 256/512 GB | Axon has up to 1 TB of storage, S23+ limited to 512 GB; |
| RAM | 8/12/16/18 GB | 8 GB | Axon has significantly more RAM for improved multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X, 3 mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Axon has 3 mics for recording; S23+ supports more audio features |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both phones have a basic fingerprint sensor |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Samsung Galaxy S23+ has more sensors |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra
Strengths:
- Larger Display: The 6.8" screen offers a more immersive viewing experience, great for media consumption.
- Impressive Camera Resolution: Higher megapixel counts on main and telephoto lenses, could result in more detailed images.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is significantly faster than the S23+'s 45W, getting you back to full power more quickly.
- Potentially More RAM: Up to 18GB RAM for exceptional multitasking and gaming.
- Larger Maximum Storage Options: Up to 1TB internal storage for users needing lots of storage.
Competitive Advantages:
- The Axon 40 Ultra is geared towards media enthusiasts and power users.
- Has a unique under-display camera for a full screen experience.
Trade-offs/Limitations:
- Older Chipset: Uses the older Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, resulting in less power and efficiency.
- Older Android Version: Ships with Android 12, may not have all the latest features of Android 13
- Unknown Screen Protection The lack of known screen protection could be a concern for durability.
Samsung Galaxy S23+
Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip provides significantly better performance and efficiency.
- Brighter Display: A 250-nit brighter display excels in outdoor visibility.
- Premium Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides great screen protection.
- Better Video Recording: 8K Video with many additional recording options, stereo sound, and stabilization.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Newer Android Version: Ships with the most recent Android version with more up to date software.
- Better Connectivity Has a newer bluetooth and more GPS systems
- Verified Camera Performance: Has been tested by DxoMark and scored 133 on mobile.
Competitive Advantages:
- The S23+ excels in raw performance and overall user experience, making it a reliable all-rounder.
- Has better overall protection features.
Trade-offs/Limitations:
- Smaller Battery: Slightly smaller battery capacity; potentially shorter battery life than the Axon 40 Ultra.
- Less RAM: Has a maximum of 8 GB of RAM.
- Less Flexible Storage: Only has a maximum of 512GB of internal storage and no expandable options.
- Slower Charging: 45W charging is slower compared to Axon's 65W.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Best For:
- Users who value a large, immersive display for media consumption and gaming.
- Those who prioritize fast charging and need a quick power boost throughout the day.
- Users who require large amounts of onboard storage and are serious about photography and video recording
- Users who want to try a new phone with advanced features like under-display camera technology.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gamers who want lots of screen real estate for playing immersive games.
- Video enthusiasts who want high-resolution cameras for professional-grade content creation.
- Users who are on the go and value fast charging.
- Best For:
Samsung Galaxy S23+:
- Best For:
- Users who need top-tier performance for gaming, productivity, and demanding apps.
- Those who value a bright display with excellent outdoor visibility.
- Users who prefer a polished software experience and long-term software support.
- Those who rely on wireless charging and appreciate the convenience of reverse wireless charging.
- Use Cases:
- Professionals who need a fast and reliable phone for daily productivity.
- Users who are heavily invested in the Samsung ecosystem and its features.
- Mobile photographers who want excellent performance on a flagship phone.
- Best For:
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, ask yourself these three questions:
- Do you prioritize raw power and the latest software features, or are you willing to trade that for a larger display and faster charging?
- Is high-resolution photography with more on-board storage and RAM a bigger factor for you than having a brighter display and better screen protection?
- Do you prefer a fast charging solution (Axon), or more flexible charging like wireless and reverse wireless charging (S23+)?
Based on these questions, here are some scenario-based recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You're a mobile gamer who also enjoys binge-watching content. If this is you, the Axon 40 Ultra with its bigger display and potential for more RAM may be a better choice.
- Scenario 2: You're a busy professional who needs a reliable and fast phone for daily productivity. The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is the clear winner here due to its top-tier performance, brighter display, and polished software.
- Scenario 3: You're a photography enthusiast who also values battery life. The choice here depends on preference; Axon provides more storage and lens flexibility, while the S23+ provides a more premium experience with validated professional camera performance.
What I Would Choose and Why:
Personally, I'd lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S23+. As a tech journalist and someone who uses my phone heavily for both work and leisure, the superior performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the brighter screen, and the overall refinement of the user experience are more compelling to me. While the Axon 40 Ultra is an impressive phone with some unique features, the S23+ just feels like a more well-rounded, reliable, and future-proof device for my needs. The promise of a better, brighter and more durable screen, newer software version, and enhanced performance outweighs the larger battery and faster charging speeds. I would also want more up to date features and connectivity options of the S23+.
