Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. These are two very different phones, each with its own strengths, and it’s important to understand the details before choosing one over the other.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table to get us started:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | 161.4 x 75.3 x 9.2 mm | ZTE is taller, Xiaomi is wider and thicker, impacting handling and pocketability. |
| Weight | 204g | 229.5g | ZTE is significantly lighter, better for extended use and portability. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.73" | Negligible difference; both offer large, immersive screens. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1440x3200 | Xiaomi's screen will be noticeably sharper, thanks to the higher pixel count. |
| Pixel Density | 400 PPI | 522 PPI | Xiaomi's higher PPI offers significantly crisper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both phones. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 3000 nits | Xiaomi’s display is much brighter, offering significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Xiaomi has a significantly more powerful and efficient processor for all tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 2,100,000 | Xiaomi's performance will be far superior in everything from apps to gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 | Xiaomi has the more powerful GPU, leading to better graphics performance and rendering. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72", 0.7µm | 50MP, f/1.63, 1”, 1.6µm | Xiaomi has a larger sensor with larger pixels, suggesting better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0, 1.22µm | 32MP, f/2.0, 0.7µm | Xiaomi’s selfie camera is higher resolution, with smaller pixel sizes. |
| Telephoto | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2", 0.7µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.51”, 0.64µm | ZTE has higher resolution and slightly larger sensor, but Xiaomi has a wider aperture. |
| Wide/Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72", 0.7µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.51", 0.64µm | ZTE has higher resolution and larger sensor, but Xiaomi has a wider aperture. |
| ToF 3D | 0.3MP | None | ZTE has a dedicated ToF 3D sensor, useful for depth mapping. |
| Video | Up to 4K@120fps | Up to 8K@24/30fps, 4K@120fps | Xiaomi has more video recording options at 8K and a much better slow-motion capability. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Available | Mobile: 149 (Photo: 144, Video: 150) | Xiaomi is a proven high-scorer in camera performance. |
| Camera Features | Under-display, RAW | Tracking AF, Flicker sensor, Noise reduction, Time-Lapse, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, RAW 14 bits | Xiaomi has much more extensive camera features and video features. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both have similar battery capacity. |
| Charging | 65W wired | 90W wired, 80W wireless | Xiaomi charges much faster, wired and wirelessly, with added reverse wireless charging |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable, 80W wireless charge, 10W wireless reverse charge, Paper P2 smart fast charging chip, Paper G1 battery management chip | Xiaomi has superior battery charging features and capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (max 13) | Android 14 (max 18) | Xiaomi offers a more up-to-date Android version and better long term support |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | Xiaomi uses newer Wi-Fi standard which is faster and more efficient |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.4 | Xiaomi has the newer Bluetooth version with better codecs for audio quality |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | Xiaomi has more robust satellite support for better location accuracy |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512GB/1TB | 256/512GB/1TB | Both offer up to 1TB storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12/16/18GB | 12/16GB | ZTE has a higher RAM option (18GB), for more demanding usage |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi offers superior audio features and spatial audio. |
| Microphones | 3 microphones | 4 microphones | Xiaomi has more mics, implying better voice capture. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer standard fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Xiaomi uses a more durable glass for better screen protection |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Xiaomi has additional environmental sensors like barometer and compass. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra Strengths:
- Lighter Design: The Axon 40 Ultra is significantly lighter at 204g, making it more comfortable for extended use.
- Potentially Better Camera Resolution: On paper, the ZTE has higher MP resolution on some lenses.
- High RAM Options: Offers up to 18GB of RAM, great for intense multitasking.
- ToF 3D Sensor: This gives a depth mapping capability not available on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
- Under-Display Camera: Unique feature for a truly full-screen experience.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra Strengths:
- Superior Display: The Xiaomi’s screen is significantly sharper and brighter, offering a superior viewing experience, especially outdoors.
- Massively Enhanced Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is a huge leap over the 8 Gen 1, offering much faster performance across the board.
- Better Main Camera Performance: The larger sensor and pixels in the main camera suggest significantly better low-light performance, despite the lower resolution.
- Significantly Better Video Capabilities: Superior 8K Video and enhanced slow motion capabilities.
- Faster Charging: 90W wired and 80W wireless charging capabilities.
- More Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio provide a richer audio experience.
- Newer Software and Long-term Support: The Xiaomi comes with Android 14 and should get more software updates.
- Superior Connectivity: Faster Wi-Fi 7 and a newer version of Bluetooth with better codecs.
- More Robust Satellite Support: Better location accuracy for demanding applications
- Better Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers superior scratch and drop resistance.
- More extensive camera features: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has additional features like tracking AF, flicker sensor, noise reduction, Time-Lapse and Ultra stable video.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: Its older processor lags behind the competition; it is overall an older phone, and its display is dimmer and has lower pixel density.
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra: It’s heavier and slightly bulkier, so not the most comfortable for extended use.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize a lighter, more comfortable phone with a unique under-display camera.
- Use Case: Casual users who value a sleek design and aren't pushing their phone to the limits. Those interested in experimentation with the unique under display camera.
- Price/Value: Might be more affordable due to its older components, potentially offering good value for certain needs.
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra:
- Ideal for: Tech enthusiasts, professional photographers, and heavy users.
- Use Case: Content creators who require top-tier camera quality and processing power, gamers, and anyone who wants the best possible performance and display.
- Price/Value: Higher price point but offers cutting-edge features and superior overall performance.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Do you value performance and cutting-edge tech?
- If yes, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is the clear winner with its superior processor, display, and camera features.
- Do you prioritize a lightweight and comfortable phone?
- If so, the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is the better choice, but you will sacrifice significant overall performance.
- Do you need professional-level photography and videography capabilities?
- If so, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers a superior camera system with advanced features and better video capabilities.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: A user wants a phone primarily for social media, browsing, and watching videos. They value a comfortable phone for every day use.
- Recommendation: ZTE Axon 40 Ultra for its lightweight design and good-enough performance.
- Scenario 2: A user wants a phone for mobile gaming, professional photography, and high-end video production. They need a top-tier display and processor.
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 14 Ultra, for its superior processing, display, camera, and overall capabilities.
- Scenario 3: A user is a casual user with an appreciation for niche tech, such as under display camera, and does not push the phone to its limit.
- Recommendation: ZTE Axon 40 Ultra, for its experimental and niche features.
My Choice
If I had to pick, I would choose the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Here’s why:
As a tech journalist and someone who loves to push phones to their limits, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers the most compelling combination of cutting-edge performance, superior display, and an advanced camera system. While I appreciate the ZTE’s lighter build and unique under-display camera, I find that the overall experience and capabilities of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra are far superior and more aligned with my daily needs and workflow. The enhanced video capabilities, superior display for my content consumption, the cutting-edge performance for gaming and demanding apps, and the overall polish of the phone makes it the clear choice. The Xiaomi feels like a phone built for tomorrow, while the Axon 40 Ultra feels like it was built for yesterday, no matter how sleek and lightweight it may be.
This detailed analysis should help you make the right choice for your needs. Feel free to ask if you have any more questions!
