Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. We'll break down the specs, explore their real-world implications, and figure out which phone might be the best fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a deep dive into how these phones stack up across key areas:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | 162 x 77.3 x 8 mm | The Axon 40 Ultra is slightly taller and thicker but narrower, while the S24 FE is shorter, wider and thinner. May affect one-handed usability; the difference is negligible in pocket or bag. |
| Weight | 204g | 213g | The Axon 40 Ultra is lighter by 9 grams. May be slightly more comfortable to hold for extended periods. |
| Build | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | S24 FE has more scratch-resistant screen protection; Axon 40 Ultra doesn't specify. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Similar screen sizes, the Axon 40 Ultra is negligibly bigger. |
| Resolution | 1116 x 2480 | 1080 x 2340 | Axon 40 Ultra offers slightly sharper display, but difference may not be noticeable to the naked eye. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 385 | Both phones have very similar pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant and high-contrast displays. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and fluid animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1900 nits | S24 FE display is significantly brighter, better in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Exynos 2400e | Different chipsets. The S24 FE’s is much faster according to AnTuTu scores. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE is substantially faster in benchmarks. Will result in snappier performance and better gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Xclipse 940 | Different GPUs; S24 FE’s GPU is expected to offer better graphical performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Axon 40 Ultra has higher resolution and wider aperture. Both have a good primary sensor and are expected to provide excellent day-to-day performance. |
| Sensor Size - Main | 1/1.72" | 1/1.57" | S24 FE has bigger physical sensor, better for low-light photography. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 10.8MP, f/2.4 | Axon 40 Ultra has higher resolution and wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4" | Axon 40 Ultra has a higher resolution and bigger sensor size telephoto. The S24 FE has the better aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1" | Only the S24 FE offers a dedicated wide-angle lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" | None | Only the Axon 40 Ultra has a Wide Angle + Macro camera lens. |
| ToF 3D sensor | 0.3MP | None | Only the Axon 40 Ultra has a ToF 3D sensor. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@120fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Both offer 8K video but the Axon has more options. |
| DXOMark | Not Tested | Mobile: 133 | Only Samsung Galaxy S24 FE has been tested on DXOmark |
| Camera Features | Quad, LAF, Under-display Camera | Triple, Night Mode 2.0 | Axon 40 Ultra includes more lenses, the S24 FE includes better low-light features. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | Axon 40 Ultra has a larger battery by a small margin, potentially offering slightly better battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Axon 40 Ultra charges significantly faster. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass, Reverse, Wireless | S24 FE has added battery features such as bypass, reverse and wireless charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (Up to 13) | Android 14 | S24 FE ships with a newer version of Android and a more current feature set. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | S24 FE supports newer standard for faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | S24 FE supports the latest standard. |
| GPS | Dual-band | Multiband | S24 FE supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | S24 FE supports eSIM for digital carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512/1024GB | 128/256/512GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers a 1TB option. |
| RAM | 8/12/16/18GB | 8GB | Axon 40 Ultra can be purchased with more RAM for heavy users |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, 3 mics | Noise Canceling mic | Axon 40 Ultra has more microphones and enhanced surround sound, better audio separation and immersion. S24 FE offers better noise cancelling for calls. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both devices use a basic fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric, Motion, Proximity | Motion, Environmental, Proximity | S24 FE has an additional environmental sensor suite. The Axon 40 Ultra has a fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths
- Advanced Camera System: The Axon 40 Ultra boasts a versatile camera setup with a high-resolution telephoto lens and unique under-display camera technology. Also, the wide-angle + macro lens and ToF 3D sensor makes it more versatile.
- Fast Charging: With 65W charging, it fills up much quicker than the Samsung.
- Potentially More RAM: The option for up to 18GB of RAM makes it a beast for multitasking.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery may provide a marginal edge in battery life.
- Audio Features: The DTS / DTS X, 3 microphones gives the ZTE a unique audio advantage.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Strengths
- Superior Performance: Its Exynos 2400e chipset and higher AnTuTu score indicate substantially better performance.
- Brighter Display: The 1900 nits display is better for outdoor visibility.
- More Up-to-date OS: Comes with Android 14 out of the box.
- Additional Battery Features: Includes useful features like bypass charging, reverse charging, and 15W wireless charging.
- Additional Connectivity Features: Newer Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity.
- Wider Camera Functionality: Comes with a more up-to-date camera with better sensor technology and Night mode 2.0 for better pictures at night.
- Better screen protection: The Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ screen protection gives better scratch resistance.
Trade-offs
- Axon 40 Ultra: While it has some standout features, the older chipset may not deliver the same level of performance as the S24 FE. The lack of a wide angle lens, a critical feature of most modern smartphone is a trade-off.
- S24 FE: Slower charging and smaller battery could be an inconvenience for some, especially when using power-hungry apps. Lack of a ToF sensor.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value a diverse range of camera lenses and features, and don't mind not having a wide-angle lens.
- Power Users: Users who need maximum RAM for heavy multitasking and fast charging.
- Multimedia Lovers: Appreciate enhanced audio.
- Samsung Galaxy S24 FE:
- Performance Seekers: Users who prioritize speed, responsiveness, and smooth gaming.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a bright display for visibility under sunlight.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest software and connectivity features.
- Everyday Users: This phone works great for daily use in all regards.
- Camera Users: Great camera in all categories for all conditions.
- Price-to-Value: While the provided data doesn’t include pricing, typically, the Samsung FE series offers a good balance between features and cost. The Axon 40 Ultra might be for those looking for unique camera and performance features on a budget.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What do you prioritize the most: Is it raw processing speed and display visibility, or camera versatility and faster charging?
- How important is the latest OS: Do you need the latest Android version or are you okay with an older one?
- Do you need a wide angle lens: Is it something you can’t live without?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- "I want the fastest phone for gaming and everyday tasks": The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is the clear choice.
- "I need the most versatile camera for a variety of shots and fast charging": The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is your better bet.
- "I want the latest software, connectivity, and a great display": The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE would serve you well.
- "I need a device with enhanced audio": The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the better option.
Which phone would I choose?
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. The reasons are as follows:
- Performance: The performance edge of the S24 FE, backed by a significantly higher AnTuTu score and newer chipset, is a major selling point for me. I need a device that can handle anything thrown at it smoothly, and the S24 FE seems to be the better pick.
- Display: The brighter display of the S24 FE will help me when using the device under bright sunlight. This is more practical than a slightly sharper display.
- Software: The device comes with a more up-to-date OS.
- Connectivity: I appreciate the better WiFi and Bluetooth.
- Night Mode 2.0: I often find myself in low-light situations, so a phone with better night time features for the camera is very important for me.
- Wide-Angle Camera: This is a critical feature of modern smartphones, and I wouldn't want a device without it.
While the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra has its advantages, particularly in charging speed and camera system, the overall package of the Galaxy S24 FE suits my daily needs and tech preferences.
