Alright, let's dive deep into the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra. These two phones, while sharing a brand and a few core similarities, represent a generational leap in some key areas. As a tech journalist with an engineering background, I'm not just going to throw specs at you; I'll explain what they mean for your day-to-day experience. Let's get started!
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on how the tech translates into your real life:
| Feature | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-13 | 2023-12-29 | Z60 Ultra has newer tech |
| Dimensions | 163.3x73.6x8.4 mm | 164x76.4x8.8 mm | Z60 Ultra is slightly larger & bulkier, might feel less comfortable in hand |
| Weight | 204g | 246g | Axon 40 Ultra is noticeably lighter, better for extended use, pocketability |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.8" | 6.8" | Identical large screen for immersive viewing |
| Resolution | 1116x2480 | 1116x2480 | Sharps visuals, good pixel density |
| PPI | 400 | 400 | Sharp text, detailed images |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors, deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling, fluid animations |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1500 nits | Good outdoor visibility, bright in direct sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Z60 Ultra is significantly faster, smoother, for gaming and demanding apps |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,061,300 | 2,017,588 | Z60 Ultra has 90% higher performance, noticeable in everyday use |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 | Z60 Ultra has much better graphics performance for gaming and multimedia |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | Z60 Ultra likely has substantially better battery life |
| Charging | 65W | 80W | Z60 Ultra charges faster |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72" | 54MP, f/1.6, 1/1.49" | Z60 Ultra captures more light, larger sensor, better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 12MP, f/2.0, 1/2.4" | Axon 40 Ultra higher resolution selfie, Z60 Ultra has a smaller sensor |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | 64MP, f/3.3, 1/2" | Z60 Ultra with wider aperture, slightly better zoom capabilities |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" | Z60 Ultra has a dedicated wide-angle lens, more versatile photography |
| ToF 3D sensor | 0.3MP | N/A | Axon 40 has a ToF 3D sensor |
| Wide Angle+Macro | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" | N/A | Axon 40 Ultra with macro capabilities |
| Video Recording | 8K, 4K@120fps | 8K, 4K@120fps | Both offer top-tier video features, but the Z60 Ultra has more advanced stabilization |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 13) | Android 14 | Z60 Ultra has a newer OS, better future proof |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | Z60 Ultra has faster and more stable Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.4 | Z60 Ultra has a newer Bluetooth version with better audio codecs |
| GPS | GPS, Galileo | GPS, QZSS, Galileo, Beidou | Z60 Ultra has more comprehensive satellite support for more accurate GPS |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM for flexibility |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128, 256, 512, 1024 GB | 256, 512, 1024 GB | Plenty of storage for both, though options vary a bit |
| RAM | 8, 12, 16, 18 GB | 8, 12, 16, 24 GB | Z60 Ultra offers up to 24 GB of RAM, better for demanding use cases |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo | DTS/DTS X, Stereo | Both offer excellent audio quality |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both offer basic biometric security |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Z60 Ultra has improved screen protection |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, RGB | Z60 Ultra with more sensors |
2. Key Insights
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Strengths: Lighter and more compact, it provides a more comfortable feel for extended usage. The Axon 40 Ultra, in certain camera setups, such as the standard camera, offers higher resolution photos. It also offers a macro lens for taking close-up pictures, and a ToF 3D sensor, features absent on the Z60 Ultra.
- Competitive Advantages: If price is a primary concern, this phone is likely more affordable and still provides a very solid experience for everyday tasks.
- Limitations: It’s a generation behind in performance, battery, and some camera capabilities, meaning it might not satisfy the most demanding users.
ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra:
- Strengths: Significant upgrades in performance with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, substantially improved battery life thanks to a 6000mAh battery, much faster charging with 80W support, and a dedicated wide-angle lens for more versatile photography. A newer OS, with android 14, provides better future proofing
- Competitive Advantages: It's the clear winner in terms of raw performance, multitasking, gaming, photography versatility, battery endurance and overall future-proofing.
- Limitations: It’s heavier and bulkier, which may not be ideal for users who prefer a lighter, more compact device.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra: This is an excellent option for users who prioritize a lightweight and comfortable phone that is also competent in everyday tasks. It would be ideal for:
- Casual Users: Those who primarily use their phone for browsing, social media, messaging, and light media consumption.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Individuals who want a solid smartphone experience without breaking the bank.
- Ergonomic Lovers: People who value comfort and lightness.
ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra: This phone is for users who demand top-tier performance, cutting-edge tech, and future-proof features. It excels for:
- Power Users: Those who need the fastest processing speeds for heavy multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want the most versatile camera system for a variety of shooting scenarios.
- Tech Early Adopters: Individuals who want to be at the forefront of mobile technology, with the latest chip and features.
- Heavy Media Consumers: Users who watch lots of videos or need long battery life for travel or extended use.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to ask yourself to help decide:
- How important is raw performance and future-proofing to you? If you want the most advanced tech and need the fastest speeds, the Z60 Ultra is the way to go. If you're satisfied with great performance, the Axon 40 Ultra is acceptable.
- What is more important for you - battery life or light weight? The Z60 Ultra has much better battery life but is significantly heavier than the Axon 40 Ultra.
- How much photography versatility do you need? While both offer decent camera systems, the Z60 Ultra has a dedicated wide-angle lens, which is better if you need that specific functionality.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: "The Daily Driver" You need a reliable phone for everyday use. Both phones are solid choices, but if you want better battery life and do not mind a slightly heavier phone, then the Z60 Ultra is the better pick. Otherwise, the Axon 40 Ultra is also acceptable.
- Scenario 2: "The Mobile Gamer" You’re a mobile gamer who requires top-tier performance. The ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra is the clear choice thanks to its powerful chipset and graphics performance.
- Scenario 3: "The Casual Photographer" You enjoy taking photos. The ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra, with its dedicated wide-angle lens, is better than the Axon 40 Ultra.
- Scenario 4: "The Budget Buyer" You need a capable smartphone but are on a tight budget. The ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is probably going to be more affordable and still gives you a solid phone.
My Choice:
If I were choosing between these two, I would go for the ZTE nubia Z60 Ultra. As someone who appreciates bleeding-edge technology and demands top-notch performance from my phone, the Z60 Ultra is the clear winner. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip is a huge leap forward, providing a noticeably smoother experience in everything from gaming to everyday multitasking. I also value the improved battery life – being able to go through a full day of heavy usage without reaching for a charger is a game-changer for me. While the weight increase is noticeable, the performance benefits, better camera system, and superior future proofing far outweigh the minor inconvenience. While the Axon 40 Ultra is still a capable phone, it simply can't compete with the performance of the newer Z60 Ultra.
I hope this helps you decide! If you have any other questions, just let me know!
