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In this article, I give you my ZTE Axon 30 5G review with specs included. The ZTE Axon 30 5G emerges as a compelling contender in the Android smartphone market, boasting several noteworthy features at an attractive price point. In this thorough analysis, we’ll explore its key specifications, design elements, software experience, and both the strengths and weaknesses that shape its overall appeal.

Key Specifications:

At the heart of the ZTE Axon 30 5G lies a nearly seven-inch OLED display, providing users with an expansive canvas for immersive multimedia experiences. Powered by a Snapdragon 870 CPU, the device delivers impressive performance comparable to higher-tier processors, making it well-suited for a variety of tasks, including gaming and multimedia consumption. Furthermore, the inclusion of 5G connectivity ensures future-proofing and fast data speeds for seamless browsing and streaming.

Design and Build Quality:

While the ZTE Axon 30 5G may not boast the premium materials found in flagship smartphones, it offers a practical and ergonomic design tailored to the needs of modern consumers. The device features a plastic back panel, available in gloss black or an aqua blue-green hue, complemented by an aluminum frame for added durability. Despite its plastic construction, the device maintains a lightweight profile, weighing in at just 189 grams, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.

Software Experience:

ZTE’s approach to software with the Axon 30 5G is commendable, with the device running Android 11 overlaid with the company’s own MyOS 11 interface. Unlike previous iterations, MyOS 11 offers a clean and intuitive user experience, closely resembling stock Android with minimal bloatware and unnecessary additions. While some unique features are present, such as creative settings for optimizing Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity, they do not detract from the overall usability of the device.

Storage and Memory Options:

The ZTE Axon 30 5G is available in two configurations: one with 8 gigabytes (GB) of RAM and 128 GB of storage, and another with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. This versatility allows users to choose the option that best suits their needs, whether it be for multitasking or storing large amounts of multimedia content. Additionally, the inclusion of a microSD card slot provides further flexibility for expanding storage capacity as needed.

Strengths:

1. Affordable Pricing: Priced at just $499, the ZTE Axon 30 5G offers exceptional value for its feature set, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a capable smartphone without breaking the bank.
2. Large OLED Display: The device’s nearly seven-inch OLED display provides users with a vibrant and immersive viewing experience, ideal for multimedia consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks.
3. Powerful Processor: Equipped with a Snapdragon 870 CPU, the Axon 30 5G delivers impressive performance comparable to higher-end smartphones, ensuring smooth multitasking and responsive navigation.
4. 5G Connectivity: With support for 5G connectivity, the device offers fast and reliable data speeds, enabling seamless browsing, streaming, and downloading of content.
5. Clean Software Experience: ZTE’s MyOS 11 interface offers a clean and intuitive user experience, closely resembling stock Android with minimal bloatware and added features, ensuring optimal performance and usability.
6. Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD card slot allows users to expand storage capacity as needed, providing flexibility for storing large amounts of multimedia content, apps, and files.
7. Lightweight Design: Despite its large display size, the ZTE Axon 30 5G maintains a lightweight profile, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods without causing fatigue or discomfort.

Weaknesses:

1. Plastic Build: While the device’s plastic construction contributes to its lightweight design, it lacks the premium feel of flagship smartphones with glass or metal backs, potentially compromising its aesthetic appeal.
2. Lack of Water Resistance: Unlike some competing models, the ZTE Axon 30 5G does not offer any form of water resistance, making it vulnerable to damage from exposure to moisture or liquids.
3. Absence of Wireless Charging: Despite its fast-charging capabilities, the device does not support wireless charging, which may be a drawback for users who prefer the convenience of cable-free charging solutions.
4. Wi-Fi 5 Support: While Wi-Fi 5 connectivity is sufficient for most users, some may lament the absence of Wi-Fi 6 support, which offers faster speeds and improved performance in congested network environments.
5. Mono Speaker Configuration: The device features a single mono speaker located at the bottom, lacking the stereo sound experience found in some competing models. While the speaker is adequately loud, the absence of dual speakers may detract from the overall audio quality and immersion during multimedia playback.

The ZTE Axon 30 5G presents a compelling option for users seeking a feature-rich smartphone at an affordable price point. With its large OLED display, powerful processor, and clean software experience, the device offers excellent value for budget-conscious consumers. While it may lack some premium features found in higher-end models, such as water resistance and wireless charging, its competitive pricing and impressive performance make it a worthy contender in the mid-range smartphone segment.

The ZTE Axon 30 5G stands out in the competitive landscape of Android smartphones, offering a compelling blend of features and performance at an affordable price point. In this detailed review, we’ll delve into its key aspects, from camera capabilities to battery life, providing a comprehensive understanding of what this device brings to the table.

Camera Performance:

Starting with the cameras, the ZTE Axon 30 5G impresses with its main camera’s quality, delivering sharp, colorful, and contrast-rich images reminiscent of Samsung’s imaging prowess. The camera’s ability to capture vivid scenes with enhanced contrast sets it apart, making it a suitable choice for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, its stabilization capabilities and 4K video recording at 60 frames per second further enhance its versatility.

However, the device falls short in other camera departments. The ultra-wide camera, with its 8-megapixel resolution, struggles to capture detailed images, lacking the clarity and depth found in higher-resolution counterparts. Similarly, the macro camera, while present, offers limited utility and struggles to find the optimal focus point, diminishing its overall usefulness. The depth-sensing camera, on the other hand, compensates for the lack of a dedicated telephoto lens by providing a competent digital zoom experience, leveraging the ample pixels from the main camera sensor for satisfactory results.

Under-Display Camera Innovation:

One of the most intriguing features of the ZTE Axon 30 5G is its under-display camera technology, representing a significant step forward in smartphone design. Unlike the lackluster performance of similar implementations seen in other devices, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3, ZTE’s approach delivers commendable results. The under-display camera, while not flawless, offers decent image quality under favorable lighting conditions, showcasing notable advancements in this emerging technology.

Performance and Thermal Management:

Powered by a Snapdragon 870 CPU, the ZTE Axon 30 5G delivers commendable performance comparable to higher-end flagship devices. Despite its overclocked nature, the device maintains efficient thermal management, thanks to its vapor chamber cooling system and innovative mix of materials. While gaming may lead to some warmth, the device remains comfortable to use, even during extended usage sessions.

Battery Life and Connectivity:

Equipped with a 4200 milliampere-hour (mAh) battery, the ZTE Axon 30 5G offers respectable battery life, capable of lasting through a full day of moderate usage. However, factors such as the high refresh rate display and 5G connectivity may impact battery longevity, necessitating occasional recharging. Despite this, the inclusion of a fast 65-watt charger mitigates concerns, providing rapid charging capabilities for quick refueling.

Speaking of connectivity, the device supports low and mid-band 5G, offering fast data speeds for seamless browsing and streaming. While some users may experience discrepancies in network performance based on carrier restrictions, the overall 5G experience is satisfactory, providing a glimpse into the future of mobile connectivity.

Display and Additional Features:

The ZTE Axon 30 5G’s display serves as a highlight feature, boasting a high-resolution OLED panel with HDR10+ support. With a pixel density of 400 pixels per inch (PPI) and vibrant colors, the display offers an immersive viewing experience ideal for multimedia consumption. Additionally, the inclusion of a 120-hertz refresh rate and a 360-hertz touch response further enhances the device’s responsiveness, making it suitable for gaming and interactive usage scenarios.

In terms of additional features, the device offers Voice over LTE (VoLTE) support and Wi-Fi calling, ensuring reliable voice communication across various network environments. However, the absence of facial recognition for quick unlocking may disappoint some users, although the in-display fingerprint scanner provides a secure and convenient alternative.

The ZTE Axon 30 5G presents a compelling option for users seeking a feature-rich smartphone at an affordable price point. With its impressive camera performance, innovative under-display camera technology, robust performance, and vibrant display, the device offers excellent value for budget-conscious consumers. While certain areas, such as battery life and connectivity, may present minor drawbacks, the overall package provided by the Axon 30 5G makes it a worthy contender in the mid-range smartphone segment.

Comparing the ZTE Axon 30 5G with Competitors

In a head-to-head comparison with the Pixel 5a, the decision largely hinges on several key factors, primarily the screen size and performance level. The Pixel 5a may not boast the fastest CPU, and its screen is smaller, but for those prioritizing top-tier photography, particularly with Google’s renowned computational photography prowess, the Pixel 5a emerges as a strong contender despite its compact display.

Similarly, juxtaposing the ZTE Axon 30 5G with the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G, which shares a comparable price point, introduces another dimension of consideration. While the Galaxy A52 5G sports a slightly smaller 6.5-inch display, it compensates with superior camera quality across all lenses, offering a more well-rounded photography experience. Additionally, the Samsung brand carries weight in terms of name recognition, and its widespread carrier support often ensures seamless access to 5G networks.

Priced at $500, the ZTE Axon 30 5G shines in its own right, catering to users seeking a combination of expansive screen real estate and robust performance. With its large display and snappy performance courtesy of the Snapdragon 870 CPU, the Axon 30 5G appeals to those prioritizing multimedia consumption and productivity. Moreover, the device offers a relatively clean Android experience, running on Android 11 with minimal bloatware, contributing to its overall appeal.

However, when it comes to long-term software support, the Axon 30 5G may fall short compared to competitors like the Pixel 5a and Samsung Galaxy A52 5G. While these devices are expected to receive multiple major OS updates, the Axon 30 5G may be limited to just one major update, potentially affecting its longevity and relevance in the rapidly evolving smartphone landscape.

Despite this limitation, ZTE’s efforts with the Axon 30 5G demonstrate promise, and increased market share could pave the way for greater adoption and recognition among consumers. As the smartphone market continues to evolve, it’s essential for manufacturers to strike a balance between affordability, performance, and software support to meet the diverse needs of consumers worldwide.