Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Sony Xperia 5 IV. These two phones are aimed at slightly different audiences, and understanding their strengths will help you figure out which one might be the better fit for you. I'll break down everything, focusing on what these specs actually mean for your day-to-day life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 156 × 67 × 8.2 mm | The ZTE is significantly larger and may feel less comfortable in smaller hands or pockets. The Sony is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 204g | 172g | The Sony is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build | Unknown Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Sony has the more durable screen, offering better protection against scratches and drops. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.1" | ZTE has a much larger screen, better for media consumption. Sony is more compact, better for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1116 x 2480 | 1080 x 2520 | Very similar resolutions, not a major difference in sharpness. |
| Pixel Density | 400 PPI | 449 PPI | Sony has slightly sharper visuals due to the higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer excellent color reproduction and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide a smooth scrolling and gaming experience. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 0 nits | ZTE has superior visibility in bright sunlight. Sony lacks brightness data, making it less suited to bright conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Both phones deliver similar high-end performance, capable of handling demanding games and apps. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,021,542 | Both offer very similar high-performance, capable of handling demanding games and apps. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 730 | Both phones have similar graphics performance, identical for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6 | 12MP, f/1.7 | ZTE's higher resolution captures more detail, but Sony's larger pixel size may perform better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 12MP, f/2.0 | ZTE has a slightly higher resolution. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5 | 12MP, f/2.4 | ZTE's higher resolution with a larger sensor may provide better zoom capabilities, despite the aperture. |
| Wide Angle | N/A | 12MP, f/2.2 | Sony has a dedicated wide-angle lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3 | N/A | ZTE has a dedicated wide-angle lens with macro functionality. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | 0.3MP | N/A | ZTE has a dedicated ToF 3D sensor. |
| Video | Up to 8K@30fps | Up to 4K@120fps | ZTE supports higher video resolution, Sony offers better stabilization. Both have similar video features in other regards. |
| DxoMark | N/A | Main score: 119 | Sony has a higher quality rating from Dxomark. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer similar all-day battery life for moderate users. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | ZTE charges much faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Sony offers additional charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12, upgradable to 13 | Android 12, upgradable to 13 | Both phones offer the same basic Android experience, slight updates may be more stable on Sony due to testing. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6, Wi-Fi MiMO | WiFi 6 | ZTE offers additional Wi-Fi MiMO for better connection stability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE, basic profiles | 5.2 LE, extensive profiles | Sony offers more comprehensive Bluetooth functionality, ideal for audio enthusiasts. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a), QZSS | Sony offers more satellite system coverage for more accurate tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Sony allows you to have a virtual sim and a physical sim, while the ZTE can only have 2 physical sims. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | Up to 1 TB | Up to 256 GB | ZTE offers significantly more storage options. |
| RAM | Up to 18 GB | 8 GB | ZTE allows for much more memory, making it easier to multitask on higher memory demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, meaning what you get is what you have. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | Both offer high-quality audio. Sony has additional audio features and may be preferable for those who listen to music regularly. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor is more convenient and faster. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Gravity | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass, Barometer, Proximity | Sony offers additional sensors, including an altimeter for more comprehensive use cases. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Strengths:
- Massive Display: Ideal for media lovers and gamers who crave screen real estate.
- Fast Charging: The 65W charging is a game-changer for quickly topping up the battery.
- Higher Resolution Camera System: With more megapixels, this phone has the potential for detailed shots.
- Storage and RAM: With up to 1 TB storage and 18 GB of RAM it can handle all tasks easily.
- Competitive Advantages:
- The display is significantly bigger and can get brighter, which is a win for people who are often in bright settings.
- Faster charging and the extra storage will please those looking for speed and space on their phone.
- Trade-offs:
- The larger size and weight may not be ideal for everyone.
- It lacks the wide angle lens of the Sony and advanced bluetooth profiles.
Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- Strengths:
- Compact Design: More pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use.
- Advanced Audio: Features like Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res audio, ideal for music lovers.
- Well-Rounded Camera System: It has a dedicated wide-angle lens, and great low-light performance.
- Bluetooth Profile: The inclusion of more profiles makes it ideal for audio lovers.
- Competitive Advantages:
- The compact and light design is ideal for those who don't want a large phone.
- Advanced Bluetooth features are ideal for those who enjoy music.
- Trade-offs:
- The smaller display won't be ideal for media-heavy users.
- Slower charging speeds.
- Less storage and RAM compared to the ZTE.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Best For:
- Gamers: The large, 120Hz screen and powerful chipset make it great for gaming.
- Media Consumers: If you often watch videos or browse a lot this display will be an advantage.
- Power Users: Those who need lots of storage and memory for apps or media will find this better suited for them.
- Users in Bright Conditions: With the much brighter screen it is more suitable for bright sunny days.
- Use Cases: Gaming, watching movies, storing high-resolution media files.
- Best For:
- Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- Best For:
- Audio Enthusiasts: The Sony delivers the premium sound experience with advanced bluetooth profiles.
- Compact Phone Seekers: Those who need a phone that is light and easy to use with one hand.
- Photography Lovers: The wide angle lens and improved Dxomark rating are an advantage for photographers.
- Use Cases: Casual browsing, listening to music, professional photography.
- Best For:
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, ask yourself these questions:
- How important is screen size to me?
- ZTE: If you want a big, immersive screen, the ZTE is the way to go.
- Sony: If you value compactness, then the Sony is the better option.
- What are my battery charging habits?
- ZTE: If fast charging is a must, ZTE takes the lead.
- Sony: If you don't mind waiting longer for your phone to charge.
- What are my media consumption habits?
- ZTE: If you prioritize storing a lot of media, ZTE is ideal.
- Sony: If you prioritize audio quality and want the best sound, Sony will be better for you.
Scenario Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The On-the-Go Media Lover: Choose the ZTE for its large, bright screen and faster charging.
- Scenario 2: The Music Aficionado: Choose the Sony with its emphasis on audio quality and better bluetooth support.
- Scenario 3: The Casual User: Choose the Sony for its easier one-handed use and pocketable form.
- Scenario 4: The Power User: Choose the ZTE for its larger storage and memory.
My Pick
If I were to choose between these two, I would lean towards the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. While I appreciate the Sony's compact size and focus on audio, the ZTE's massive screen, incredibly fast charging, and higher storage and RAM would be incredibly appealing to me. As someone who frequently multitasks, edits media, and occasionally games on my phone, the ZTE feels like the better fit for my use cases. The bigger screen is a win for me in my daily use cases. Although I appreciate the Sony's audio features, they are not something I use as much.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your priorities, but I hope this breakdown helps you make a confident and informed decision!
