Okay, let's dive deep into the battle of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4. We're not just looking at numbers here; we're figuring out which phone better fits into your life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the key specs, along with a look at their real-world implications:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | The Z Fold4 offers a unique, larger screen experience that’s ideal for multitasking, while the Axon is a typical slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | 155.1 x 130.1 x 6.3 mm (unfolded) | The Axon is taller and thicker but narrower, while the Z Fold4 is much wider and thinner when unfolded. Consider handling and pocket fit. |
| Weight | 204g | 263g | The Axon is notably lighter, which can make a difference in long-term comfort. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 7.6" | The Z Fold4 has a significantly larger screen; great for media consumption and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1812x2176 | The Z Fold4 has a higher resolution, translating to sharper images and text. |
| Pixel Density | 400 PPI | 373 PPI | The Axon boasts a slightly sharper screen in terms of pixel density, though practically this will be hard to see. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED on the Axon offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, while this information is missing on the Z Fold4. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits (data missing) | The Axon's higher brightness means better outdoor visibility in direct sunlight, though data is missing on the Z Fold 4 |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | The Z Fold4 has a more powerful chip, resulting in smoother and faster performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,232,800 | The Z Fold4 scores higher, meaning better performance for demanding games and apps. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 730 | Both have the same GPU, though the configuration differences might lead to better Z Fold4 performance. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72", Sony IMX787 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", Samsung GN3 | The Axon has higher resolution, the Z Fold4 has a larger sensor. These lead to different strengths in various lighting situations. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0, Omnivision | 10MP, f/2.2, Sony IMX374 | The Axon’s front camera has higher resolution and a wider aperture; better for detailed selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2", Omnivision OV64B | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9", Samsung S5K3K1 | The Axon has higher resolution and a larger sensor; useful for detailed telephoto shots, though aperture on the Z Fold4 is a big advantage. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", Sony IMX258 | The Z Fold4 offers a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing expansive scenes, the Axon does not have this dedicated lens. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Yes | No | The Axon includes a ToF sensor for depth information for enhanced portraits or AR applications. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72", Sony IMX787 | No | The Axon can take some high-resolution wide-angle images. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@120fps | Up to 8K@24fps | The Axon offers higher frame rate in video capture, and has great slow-motion video recording. |
| DxOMark Score | Not tested | 124 (Mobile) | The Z Fold4 has a solid camera ranking. This information is missing on the Axon. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 4400 mAh | The Axon's larger battery suggests longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | The Axon charges much faster, getting you back up and running quickly. |
| Wireless Charging | No | 15W | The Z Fold4 has the convenience of wireless charging. |
| SOFTWARE & CONNECTIVITY | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 13) | Android 12 (up to 16) | The Z Fold4 is expected to get longer software updates from Samsung. |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Both offer similar high-speed WiFi connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE + more features | Z Fold4 offers more Bluetooth profile support for better connectivity with accessories. |
| GPS | L1+L5 | L1+L5 + more systems | The Z Fold4 has better global positioning accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | The Z Fold4 has a digital SIM, for more flexibility in switching carriers, and the Axon has 2 physical SIM slots. |
| STORAGE & AUDIO | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB-1024GB | 256GB - 1024GB | Both have large storage options, suitable for storing many files. |
| RAM | 8GB-18GB | 12GB | The Axon offers higher RAM options for multitasking, though this may not always translate to real-world performance improvements. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage. |
| Audio Quality | DTS / DTS X, 3 mics, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | The Axon's DTS and 3-mic setup may provide a more immersive audio and voice recording experience. |
| SECURITY & BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | The Z Fold4's side-mounted sensor may be more convenient to use. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | The Z Fold4 offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Basic array | Full sensor array + Barometer | The Z Fold4 has added sensors, useful in gaming, augmented reality or weather apps. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:
- Lighter Build: Significantly more comfortable for long use.
- Brighter Display: Better outdoor visibility with its 1500 nits screen.
- Impressive Camera Specs: Higher megapixel counts on all of the cameras, great video recording and a macro lens.
- Faster Charging: 65W charging is significantly quicker than the 25W on the Z Fold4.
- Larger Battery: The 5000 mAh battery should provide longer usage.
- Audio: It has high quality audio due to the DTS and 3-microphone configuration.
- RAM: It offers up to 18GB of RAM.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 Strengths:
- Foldable Design: Unique, larger screen for multitasking and media.
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, though missing display technology.
- More Powerful Chip: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 provides better raw performance.
- Wide-Angle Lens: Captures expansive scenes not possible on the Axon.
- Wireless Charging: Offers added convenience.
- eSIM Support: Greater flexibility in switching carriers.
- Superior Build: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ is much stronger.
- Software Updates: Likely to get longer software support from Samsung.
- Better Camera Ranking: Has an official DxOMark camera test.
- More Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Includes an altimeter.
- Bluetooth: Has better bluetooth support for headphones and other devices.
Significant Trade-Offs and Limitations
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: Lacks a wide-angle lens, wireless charging, foldable screen and good screen protection.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4: Heavier, slower charging, smaller battery, missing some camera and video recording features and the foldable design means the screen is far more fragile.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is best for:
- Content Creators: High resolution cameras, 8K video recording at high frame rates, with slow-motion and a good display, it's a good option for this.
- Mobile Gamers: Plenty of ram and storage, and a great display for gaming.
- Users Who Prioritize Battery Life and Fast Charging: The larger battery and faster charging make this a phone that will last.
- Users who want a phone that is easy to use: The phone is a typical form factor and is easy to handle due to its light weight.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 is best for:
- Multitaskers: The large foldable screen enhances productivity.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who value innovative design and the latest tech.
- Media Consumers: Ideal for watching videos and browsing the web.
- Users who need a compact phone when folded: The phone is compact when folded but very large unfolded, meaning it's better for those who need portability and the big screen.
- Users who need screen protection: The Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ is highly rated for screen protection.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Do I prioritize a large, foldable screen for productivity or a more traditional form factor with a focus on camera capabilities?
- Is a lighter weight and longer battery life more important, or do I value wireless charging and a more compact form when folded?
- Am I a serious photographer/videographer or am I interested in a better screen and portability?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- If you are always on the go and need a phone that lasts: Choose the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra for its longer battery life, faster charging and higher megapixel camera.
- If you’re a power user seeking the ultimate multitasking experience and are not afraid of a heavier phone: Opt for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 for its foldable display and stronger processor, better screen and portability.
- If you need a high-end camera with some cutting-edge video recording features: Choose the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra.
- If you need a good all-arounder: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4
What I Would Choose and Why!
If I were personally choosing between these two, I'd lean towards the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra.
While the Z Fold 4 is innovative and powerful, the Axon 40 Ultra's combination of lighter weight, faster charging, higher megapixel cameras, and longer battery life is more aligned with my daily needs. As a tech journalist, I often take photos and videos while on the move, and I need my phone to last all day. The better video capture features of the Axon and macro camera are a big plus, and the weight saving makes it easier to handle for long periods of time, something the Z Fold 4 does not offer. While I appreciate the Z Fold 4's innovation and unique form factor, the Axon 40 Ultra’s strengths make it a more practical choice for me.
