Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S24+. Both are compelling smartphones, but they cater to different priorities and user preferences. I'll break down the specs, offer real-world insights, and help you decide which one best fits your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these phones stack up, with an emphasis on what these specs mean for your daily usage:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4mm | 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7mm | The Axon is taller and thicker, while the S24+ is wider, may impact one-hand use |
| Weight | 204g | 196g | The S24+ is slightly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.7" | Both are large, but the Axon provides a slightly more expansive visual experience |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1440x3120 | S24+ has significantly sharper visuals, with higher detail and clarity |
| Pixel Density | 400 PPI | 513 PPI | S24+ display will be noticeably sharper and smoother |
| Technology | AMOLED | Axon's AMOLED offers rich colors and deep blacks, but Samsung's technology likely is of similar quality | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 2600 nits | S24+ is much better in bright sunlight, offering superior outdoor visibility |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | S24+ has a newer, significantly faster chipset for enhanced overall performance |
| Antutu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,639,695 | The S24+ is significantly faster in everyday tasks, app loading, and gaming |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 | S24+ has better graphics, smoother for visually intensive tasks and games |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Axon has slightly higher resolution and wider aperture, potentially better in low light |
| Front Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 12MP, f/2.2 | Axon has a higher resolution front-facing camera |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5 | 10MP, f/2.4 | Axon has a high-resolution telephoto with a smaller aperture, the S24+ has better zoom in lower light with a larger aperture |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | S24+ offers a dedicated wide-angle lens, the Axon integrates it in the ultrawide lens |
| ToF 3D Sensor | 0.3MP | N/A | Axon has a ToF sensor for depth mapping, potentially better bokeh effects |
| Ultrawide + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3 | N/A | Axon has a dedicated ultrawide lens for macro and wide angle photos |
| Video | 8K@30fps, various | 8K@30fps, various | Both can record 8K video, with various frame rate and stabilization options |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4900mAh | Both offer similar battery capacities for a full day's usage |
| Charging | 65W Fast | 45W Fast | Axon charges significantly faster; S24+ offers wireless and reverse charging |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass, Wireless, Reverse | S24+ offers bypass charging, wireless and reverse wireless charging |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | S24+ comes with the latest Android version for a more modern experience |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | S24+ supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster speeds on compatible networks |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | S24+ has newer Bluetooth with more advanced audio codecs |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, etc | GPS, GLONASS, etc | S24+ offers more satellite systems for precise location accuracy |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano/eSIM | S24+ includes eSIM support for more flexibility. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | Up to 1TB | Up to 512GB | Axon offers more storage options, with some variants having 1TB |
| RAM | Up to 18GB | 12GB | Axon has higher RAM variants for intensive multitasking |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS:X | Noise Cancellation | Axon offers DTS support, while S24+ has a noise-canceling mic |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S24+ has more durable screen protection, reducing risk of screen damage |
| Security | |||
| Security | basic fingerprint | basic fingerprint | Both offer basic fingerprint sensor technology |
| Sensors | Acc, Gyro | Acc, Gyro, Barometer | S24+ has an additional barometer sensor for environmental data. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: Strengths
- Unique Camera Setup: The under-display front camera and the triple 64MP rear setup with a dedicated macro wide lens are unique and provide versatility in photography.
- Fast Charging: 65W charging means you'll spend less time tethered to the wall.
- Potentially Higher RAM/Storage: Variants with up to 18GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, great for power users and those who need to store tons of files.
Samsung Galaxy S24+: Strengths
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, sharper PPI, and significantly brighter screen for excellent visibility, even in sunlight.
- Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset is a substantial leap forward in performance, making the S24+ noticeably faster and more responsive.
- Software & Ecosystem: Comes with the latest Android version, and the benefits of Samsung's well-established software and ecosystem.
- Advanced Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and e-SIM support, which offers a more convenient user experience for the modern user.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: The older chipset, lower resolution display, lack of advanced features like wireless charging, and less-durable screen protection, make it a step down from the Galaxy S24+.
- Samsung Galaxy S24+: Lacks a dedicated macro lens and high resolution telephoto lens, which the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra offers.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Ideal For: Users who want a unique camera setup for both selfie shots and main photography, with high-resolution ultrawide and telephoto lenses.
- Use Cases: Photography enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different lenses, and users who prioritize fast charging and larger amounts of storage/RAM.
- Price-to-Value: Provides a lot of unique camera technology and fast charging at a more affordable price.
Samsung Galaxy S24+:
- Ideal For: Users who want top-tier performance, a vibrant and sharp display, and a modern user experience with the latest software.
- Use Cases: Users who value performance in games and multitasking, those who consume a lot of video content, and those who want the latest in wireless and charging technology.
- Price-to-Value: The S24+ is a premium flagship with features and performance to match its high price tag.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to ask yourself when choosing between these phones:
- Display Clarity and Brightness: Is a super-sharp and bright display (S24+) a priority, or is a vibrant display with an expansive screen (Axon) good enough?
- Performance or Camera Features: Do you need the latest chipset for peak performance (S24+), or do you value unique camera specs and fast charging (Axon)?
- Ecosystem and Features: Do you need a more modern ecosystem and advanced features such as wireless and reverse wireless charging (S24+) or is the basic approach offered by ZTE enough?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Content Creator: If you shoot a lot of photos and videos, the unique camera setup of the Axon may be appealing, but if you need a wide angle and super clear and bright display, you would opt for the Samsung S24+
- Gamer: The S24+ is the clear winner here with its superior chipset and GPU.
- Everyday User: If you value performance, display quality, the latest features, and software, the S24+ is a great choice. If you are on a tighter budget and need faster charging with good performance, the Axon will not disappoint.
My Choice
For my use case, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24+. While I find the unique camera system and charging capabilities of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra compelling, the significantly better display, faster processor, more comprehensive feature set, and updated software on the Samsung Galaxy S24+ outweigh those advantages. As someone who values a smooth, responsive, and cutting-edge user experience, along with the extra durability of the screen and additional connectivity features, the S24+ would be my daily driver. I also value the ability to quickly use my phone in bright daylight, which the S24+ does far better. The superior performance and ecosystem also make it a great pick for both work and play.
