ZTE offers a range of budget-friendly smartphones, and the Axon 40 SE and Blade V40s are two popular contenders. Both share a similar core chipset, but subtle differences in features and design might make one a better fit for you. Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Axon 40 SE and Blade V40s are remarkably similar, sharing the same Unisoc T618 chipset and 22.5W charging. The Axon 40 SE often edges out slightly due to potentially better software support and a slightly more premium design, but the Blade V40s can offer better value depending on pricing and promotions.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 28, 66 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, October 20 | 2022, October 04 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, October 25 | Available. Released 2022, October 04 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.5 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm (6.44 x 2.98 x 0.30 in) | 163.5 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm (6.44 x 2.98 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 182 g (6.42 oz) | 184 g (6.49 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~86.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~86.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc UMS512T T618 (12 nm) | Unisoc UMS512T T618 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MP2 | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| OS | Android 12, MyOS 12 | Android 12, MyOS 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
5 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
5 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 22.5W wired | 22.5W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4500 mAh | Li-Ion 4500 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Black | Blue, Black |
| Models | 9047 | - |
| Price | About 300 EUR | About 170 EUR |
ZTE Axon 40 SE
- Potentially better software support
- Slightly more premium design
- Possible 90Hz display (unconfirmed)
- May be slightly more expensive
- Camera performance not significantly better than Blade V40s
ZTE Blade V40s
- Potentially lower price
- 64MP main camera (potentially better detail)
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks
- May have less frequent software updates
- Design might be less premium
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a 6.6-inch display, potentially with an FHD+ resolution. The Axon 40 SE might have a slightly higher refresh rate (90Hz vs 60Hz on the Blade V40s, though this is not confirmed), leading to smoother scrolling and animations. We'll need to confirm panel technology (LCD vs AMOLED) for a more accurate comparison.
Camera Comparison
The Axon 40 SE is rumored to have a 50MP main camera, while the Blade V40s has a 64MP main camera. While megapixels aren't everything, the Blade V40s *could* offer slightly better detail in well-lit conditions. Both likely include ultrawide and macro lenses. Image processing and software features will play a significant role in the final image quality.
Performance
Performance is expected to be very similar given the identical Unisoc T618 chipset. Day-to-day tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming should run smoothly on both devices. Demanding games might struggle, but both are adequate for casual gaming. Software optimization could be a differentiating factor here.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. The 22.5W wired charging is standard for this price range, offering a reasonable charging speed.
Buying Guide
The ZTE Axon 40 SE is ideal for users who prioritize a slightly more refined design and potentially longer software support. The ZTE Blade V40s is a great choice for those seeking a reliable, budget-friendly smartphone with a focus on essential features and a potentially lower price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are the cameras on these phones significantly different?
While the Blade V40s has a higher megapixel count, the Axon 40 SE's image processing and software features could compensate. Real-world camera performance will depend on testing.
❓ Which phone will receive software updates for longer?
Historically, ZTE's software support has been inconsistent. The Axon series *may* receive slightly longer support, but it's not guaranteed. Check ZTE's official website for update policies.