ZTE Axon 10 Pro hands-on - A return to value

Exploring the ZTE Axon 10 Pro: A High-Specification Smartphone with a Twist

We are currently located in San Francisco, and today we are taking a look at the ZTE Axon 10 Pro, a smartphone that is packed with high-end features. To get things out of the way, let's start by examining its specifications. The Axon 10 Pro boasts a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, which provides top-notch performance for gaming and other demanding tasks. Additionally, it comes equipped with six to eight gigabytes of RAM, depending on the model chosen, as well as 128 or 256 gigabytes of storage.

One surprising aspect of this phone is that both the 4G and 5G models share an identical design. While the 5G version has a unique liquid cooling system that sets it apart from its 4G counterpart, it's worth noting that the 4G model won't be experiencing as much heat due to its lower power consumption. Moving on, the Axon 10 Pro features a four thousand milliampere-hour battery, which can be charged quickly using either the included fast charger or wireless charging pad. This offers users multiple options for rapidly replenishing their device's power.

The phone's display is another notable feature. Measuring 6.47 inches diagonally, it boasts an FHD+ AMOLED panel with curved sides that give it a sleek, premium look reminiscent of high-end smartphones like those from Huawei and Samsung. The Axon 10 Pro also incorporates motion smoothing functionality, which upscales the frame rate to enhance visuals for gaming and other visually demanding activities.

The front-facing camera takes center stage on this device, featuring a water drop notch that houses a 20-megapixel sensor. This high-resolution camera is an excellent addition to the phone's already impressive feature list. However, one drawback of the Axon 10 Pro is the absence of a headphone jack, which may be disappointing for some users.

On the rear side, things become even more interesting with the presence of three cameras. These include a wide-angle camera, a standard camera that utilizes a new Sony sensor to produce high-quality images, and a 3x telephoto zoom lens. This multi-camera setup provides excellent versatility for photography enthusiasts, allowing them to capture stunning landscapes, portraits, and other types of shots.

When it comes to the user interface, ZTE's "Stock Plus" operating system takes cues from traditional Android experiences while incorporating some unique features. For example, Google Photos is built-in to the gallery app, and Google Lens has been integrated directly into the camera software for enhanced image recognition capabilities. Hardcore Android fans will appreciate these additions.

Lastly, it's worth noting that the 5G version of the Axon 10 Pro will be available for purchase in June at a price point of €899, while its 4G counterpart was released just a few days ago on May 7th for €599. While this phone may not offer all the bells and whistles of the latest flagships, it certainly delivers an impressive package of performance, features, and design at a more affordable price point.

In conclusion, the ZTE Axon 10 Pro is a smartphone that is sure to appeal to users seeking high-end specifications without breaking the bank. With its powerful processor, versatile camera setup, and sleek design, this device offers a compelling alternative to pricier flagships. As we continue to explore the world of smartphones, it will be interesting to see how this phone compares to other offerings in its class.