Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the ZTE nubia Z50S Pro. These two phones from ZTE showcase some interesting design choices and feature sets, catering to slightly different user needs. I'll break down the specs, provide real-world context, and help you figure out which one might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
First, let's take a look at the specifications, putting them in a user-friendly table with a focus on real-world implications.
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | ZTE nubia Z50S Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-13 | 2023-07-27 | Z50S Pro is newer, with potentially more up-to-date software and features. |
| Size | 163.3 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 163.9 × 76.3 × 8.3 mm | Z50S Pro is slightly wider, potentially less comfortable for single-handed use. |
| Weight | 204g | 228g | Axon 40 Ultra is significantly lighter, better for long periods of use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.8" | Both have large displays, great for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1260x2800 | Z50S Pro has a sharper, more detailed display. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 400 | 452 | Z50S Pro's screen appears crisper with noticeably higher sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both are smooth and responsive, great for gaming and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1500 nits | Both are very bright, usable even in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 (4 nm) | Z50S Pro has a significantly more powerful and efficient chipset. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 1,579,720 | Z50S Pro offers considerably smoother operation and faster app loading speeds. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 740 | Z50S Pro has a more advanced GPU, better for graphics-intensive games and tasks. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5100mAh | Both have similar battery life, likely to last a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 80W Fast Charging | Z50S Pro charges faster, reducing waiting times. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72" Sony IMX787 | 54MP, f/1.6, 1/1.49" Sony IMX800 | Z50S Pro has a larger sensor for better light capture. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | No | 8MP, f/2.4, Hynix HI-847 | Z50S Pro offers an additional camera for portraits. |
| Selfie | 16MP, f/2.0, Omnivision | 16MP, f/2.5, 1/3.06" Omnivision OV16A10 | Axon 40 Ultra has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" Omnivision OV64B | No | Axon 40 Ultra has a dedicated telephoto zoom capability. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | 50MP, f/2.0, 1/2.88" Omnivision OV50D40 | Z50S Pro has an dedicated wide-angle lens for expansive shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" Sony IMX787 | No | Axon 40 Ultra has a macro capability on the wide-angle lens. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | 0.3MP | No | Axon 40 Ultra has depth-sensing capabilities. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@30fps, HDR, EIS | Up to 8K@30fps, EIS | Both offer similar high-quality video capabilities with stabilization. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 | Z50S Pro comes with a newer version of Android out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7 | Z50S Pro is future-proofed and supports newer, faster WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Z50S Pro has a newer version with additional audio codec support for better audio quality. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, NavIC | Z50S Pro has more support for satellite systems which increases accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512/1024GB | 256/1024GB | Both offer plenty of storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12/16/18GB | 12/16GB | Axon 40 Ultra has a higher max RAM capacity, for heavy multitaskers. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage, so choose storage wisely. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Axon 40 Ultra may have slightly better audio clarity with 3 mics. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both use a similar basic biometric fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Z50S Pro offers a compass for better orientation capabilities. |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Strengths: Lighter design, higher max RAM option, more diverse camera setup with a telephoto and a dedicated macro camera, better selfie camera aperture, and a ToF 3D sensor for depth sensing.
- Competitive Advantages: Lighter and more compact feel in hand; very versatile camera setup which is great for users wanting a camera for all situations.
- Trade-offs: Older chipset and lower display resolution and pixel density; missing dedicated wide angle lens; Slightly older software.
ZTE nubia Z50S Pro:
- Strengths: Newer and much more powerful chipset, significantly higher display resolution and pixel density for crisper visuals, faster charging, a dedicated wide-angle lens, and a newer Bluetooth and Wi-Fi standards for faster wireless connections.
- Competitive Advantages: Significantly better performance for gaming and heavy tasks, sharper display, and faster connectivity with WiFi 7.
- Trade-offs: Heavier build and larger size; slightly slower selfie camera aperture; missing a ToF 3D sensor and dedicated telephoto lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- For the Power User (ZTE nubia Z50S Pro): If you prioritize performance, a sharper display, and the latest connectivity, the Z50S Pro is the clear winner. This phone is built for gaming, heavy multitasking, and media consumption. The faster charging is also a great convenience.
- For the Camera Enthusiast (ZTE Axon 40 Ultra): If you value a more versatile camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens, the Axon 40 Ultra may be more appealing. The macro camera and depth sensor add extra flexibility to your photography.
- For the Daily User (Balanced Approach): If you want a balanced phone with a more premium feel in hand, lighter and comfortable for long use periods with a great camera, the Axon 40 Ultra is a good option if you don't mind losing a bit of gaming performance. If you prefer to play games and do heavier work, the Z50S Pro is a great option even if heavier.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you choose:
- How important is raw performance? If you are a gamer or frequently use demanding applications, the Z50S Pro with its Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 is the better choice.
- Which camera features do you value the most? If you prioritize versatile cameras for various photo opportunities with a better telephoto and macro, go for the Axon 40 Ultra. If you prioritize overall quality with a wide angle lens, the Z50S Pro is a better option.
- Do you prioritize weight and size or battery charging speed? If you prioritize a lighter phone that is more comfortable to hold, go for the Axon 40 Ultra. If you want faster charging speed with slightly heavier weight go with the Z50S Pro.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile Gamer: The ZTE nubia Z50S Pro is the better choice due to its higher benchmark scores, better GPU, and faster connectivity.
- Scenario 2: Photography Enthusiast: The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra may be more suitable for versatility, but if you want the overall quality with a wide angle, the ZTE nubia Z50S Pro is a great choice.
- Scenario 3: Multitasking Professional: The ZTE nubia Z50S Pro with its more powerful chipset is ideal for smooth multitasking.
- Scenario 4: General Media Consumption & Daily Use: Both phones excel here, but if you want lighter and comfortable handling go for the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. If you want the best screen and a very smooth experience, go for the ZTE nubia Z50S Pro.
My Choice:
If I had to choose, I'd lean towards the ZTE nubia Z50S Pro. The raw performance jump from the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 is significant, and the improvements to the display are noticeable. While I appreciate the versatility of the Axon 40 Ultra's camera setup, the Z50S Pro's overall performance and display quality make it a better all-around device for my needs. The faster charging is also a welcome convenience. The difference is pretty close and it's not an obvious winner, but if performance and smoothness are the priority, the Z50S Pro is better in this regard. If versatility in camera and lighter phone is your priority, the Axon 40 Ultra is a great option as well.
