Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. I'm going to approach this like I'm explaining it to a friend who wants to know which phone is right for them, focusing on what really matters in daily use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key specs, organized for clarity, with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm | The S24 Ultra is slightly wider and thicker, which may make it feel less comfortable in smaller hands. The Axon 40 Ultra is more pocketable due to its slimmer profile. |
| Weight | 204g | 232g | The Axon 40 Ultra is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and reducing wrist fatigue. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.8" | Both have large screens, great for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1116 x 2480 | 1440 x 3120 | The S24 Ultra's higher resolution results in significantly sharper text and images, particularly noticeable when viewing high-resolution content. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 505 | The S24 Ultra has a much clearer and crisper display due to its higher pixel density, resulting in a more visually appealing experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | (Unknown) | AMOLED technology on Axon 40 Ultra means deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors, especially noticeable in dark mode. This is a major plus. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both screens offer buttery-smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 2600 nits | The S24 Ultra's brighter display is crucial for excellent visibility in direct sunlight. Axon 40 Ultra will struggle outdoors compared to the S24 Ultra. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | The S24 Ultra has the latest, more powerful chip resulting in significantly faster processing, quicker app launches and smoother gaming experience. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,814,869 | The S24 Ultra has significantly better benchmark performance indicating it handles demanding tasks and games far better than the Axon 40 Ultra. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 | S24 Ultra's advanced GPU allows for more advanced gaming and graphic-intensive applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72" | 200MP, f/1.7, 1/1.3" | S24 Ultra's main sensor captures much more detail, offering higher resolution images. Axon 40 Ultra's wider aperture potentially does better in low light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | - | 50MP, f/2.4, 1/1.56" | S24 Ultra offers a dedicated telephoto portrait lens that Axon 40 Ultra lacks. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 12MP, f/2.2 | Axon 40 Ultra has a higher resolution front camera with a wider aperture, potentially making it better in low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | 10MP, f/3.4, 1/3.52" | Axon 40 Ultra has a higher resolution telephoto lens. S24 Ultra has a slightly wider aperture and larger pixel size which helps in low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | - | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | S24 Ultra has a dedicated wide angle lens which Axon 40 Ultra lacks. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | 0.3MP | - | ZTE includes a depth sensor, which some users might find useful for AR or more advanced bokeh effects. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" | - | Axon 40 Ultra has a wide-angle macro lens which the S24 Ultra lacks. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@120fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Both have excellent video capabilities with support for high-resolution recording and stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | - | 144 | The S24 Ultra has a better DXOMark score for photography/videography performance, suggesting superior image quality. Axon 40 Ultra has not been tested. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have identical capacities, suggesting comparable endurance. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | The Axon 40 Ultra charges faster, which is helpful for quickly topping up when in a rush. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless | S24 Ultra has advanced features, including wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, which Axon 40 Ultra does not support |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (Up to 13) | Android 14 (Up to 21) | The S24 Ultra comes with a newer version of Android and has a longer software support lifetime. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | S24 Ultra has faster Wi-Fi speeds, lower latency and improved performance in congested networks as well as access to 6GHz spectrum. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | The S24 Ultra has a newer Bluetooth version with wider audio codec support (e.g. aptX) |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1 + L5) | S24 Ultra has more comprehensive support for location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM / eSIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | S24 Ultra's Dual SIM and eSIM support is more flexible for global travelers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512/1024 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | Both offer multiple storage options, with ample space for most users. |
| RAM | 8/12/16/18 GB | 12 GB | Axon 40 Ultra offers more RAM in some configurations. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, so pick the right storage option to suit your needs. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Axon 40 Ultra offers more advanced surround sound and better voice capture with 3 microphones and DTS/DTS X. S24 Ultra includes Noise cancellation microphone. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both have fingerprint security, although the specifics like sensor type and placement aren't indicated. |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Armor | S24 Ultra uses a superior screen protection technology compared to Axon 40 Ultra which is unknown |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | S24 Ultra includes environmental sensors for advanced functionalities; Axon 40 Ultra features gravity sensor |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:
- Lighter and More Compact: The Axon 40 Ultra is significantly lighter and slightly slimmer, making it more comfortable to hold and carry, especially for those with smaller hands.
- Faster Charging: The 65W charging is a big plus for those who need quick power boosts.
- Potentially Better Low-Light Selfies: Wider aperture on the selfie camera might do better in low light
- Potentially Better Audio Experience: DTS/DTS X and 3 microphones might result in a superior audio experience compared to the S24 Ultra.
- Higher Resolution Telephoto and Wide Angle + Macro Lens: Offers a higher resolution telephoto lens than S24 Ultra and also offers a wide-angle macro lens which the S24 Ultra lacks.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Strengths:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness result in a significantly sharper, crisper, and more vibrant screen, especially noticeable outdoors.
- More Powerful Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset provides a massive performance boost, making it ideal for heavy multitasking, gaming, and resource-intensive apps.
- Better Camera System: Higher resolution main sensor, dedicated telephoto portrait lens, and overall better DXOMark score give the S24 Ultra an edge in image quality and versatility.
- Advanced Battery Features: The S24 Ultra's wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and bypass charging make it more versatile and convenient in different situations.
- Longer Software Support: The S24 Ultra comes with a newer version of Android and has a longer software support lifetime.
- Better Screen Protection Uses superior screen protection (Corning Gorilla Glass Armor)
- More Comprehensive Connectivity Includes newer WiFi and Bluetooth versions and more comprehensive GPS/location support
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Axon 40 Ultra: Its older chipset and lower-resolution display limit its performance compared to the S24 Ultra and struggles in bright sunlight compared to S24 Ultra. No wireless charging and less sophisticated camera system
- S24 Ultra: Significantly heavier and more expensive
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is Best For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who want flagship-level specs at a lower price point and do not require top tier performance and cameras
- Users Who Prioritize Comfort and Portability: Those who prefer a lighter, more comfortable device for extended use.
- Users Who Need Fast Charging: Those who value quick charging to quickly top-up.
- Users Who Want a Good Front Camera: Those who prioritize front-facing camera quality.
- Users who need advanced Audio capabilities: Those who value advanced surround sound and better voice capture
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is Best For:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Those who need the best possible performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who want the most versatile and high-quality camera system.
- Heavy Media Consumers: Those who prioritize the best possible display for watching videos, browsing images, and reading.
- Professionals and Power Users: Those who need the latest features, wireless charging, and a device that can handle heavy workloads.
- Travelers: Those who need the more flexible dual SIM solution with eSIM
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is top-tier performance and display quality to you? If it's crucial for gaming, multitasking, and video consumption, the S24 Ultra is the clear winner. If you're more budget-conscious and okay with slightly less powerful performance, the Axon 40 Ultra could be a viable option.
- Do you prioritize comfort and portability over having the latest technology? If you prefer a lighter, more comfortable device and can live with a less-advanced display and camera, the Axon 40 Ultra may be a better fit. However, if you don't mind a larger and heavier phone, then the S24 Ultra is the better choice due to it's superior performance and features.
- What is your budget? The S24 Ultra is a premium device and demands a higher price tag. The Axon 40 Ultra will be more budget friendly.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Casual User: If your priority is a phone that's good enough for daily use, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra may work well for you due to its good front camera and fast charging. If money is not an issue, then the S24 Ultra may work due to its superior screen.
- For the Mobile Gamer/Power User: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the superior option due to its high performance and enhanced features such as bypass charging
- For the Aspiring Photographer: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra's more sophisticated camera system, coupled with a better DXOMark score, make it the ideal choice for photographers.
My Choice
If I had to pick one, I'd go with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Here's why:
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I prioritize performance, cutting-edge features, and a best-in-class display. The S24 Ultra's superior performance, higher resolution and brightness screen, and more versatile camera system align with my needs and usage patterns. Although it's heavier, the benefits it brings to performance and camera are worth it to me. While the Axon 40 Ultra has its merits, especially in terms of fast charging and weight, the S24 Ultra's robust package of cutting-edge technology, superior display and camera, and longer software support make it the clear choice for me.
