When I first heard about the ZTE Nubia Z70 Ultra, I was intrigued by its promise to blend top-tier performance with sleek design. As a tech enthusiast who values both functionality and aesthetics, I decided to dive deep into what this smartphone has to offer. Here’s my comprehensive review covering all aspects of the ZTE Nubia Z70 Ultra, including its pros, cons, and essential features you need to know.
Introduction
The ZTE Nubia Z70 Ultra caught my attention with its impressive specs and stylish design. Featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a massive 6150mAh battery, and an innovative under-display camera, this phone promises to deliver a top-notch experience for gamers, photographers, and everyday users alike. Let’s explore whether it truly lives up to the hype.
Design and Build Quality
Minimalist Trend and Clean Design
From the moment I held the Z70 Ultra, its minimalist design stood out. The flat sides and the Starry Night Edition variant give it a premium feel. ZTE has used high-quality materials like AG frosted glass, which not only looks great but also feels sturdy in hand. I appreciate the attention to sustainability, as the materials used have a lower environmental impact compared to other flagship phones.
Ergonomics and Durability
Durability is a major concern for me, and the Z70 Ultra does not disappoint. It boasts an IP68/IP69 rating, ensuring it’s dust and water-resistant. This means I can confidently use it in various environments without worrying about damage from spills or light rain. The high-pressure water resistance adds an extra layer of protection, making it one of the more durable phones I’ve used.
True Full-Screen Experience
One of the standout features is the under-display camera, which offers a true full-screen experience. This bezel-free design not only looks sleek but also enhances the overall aesthetic. The biomimetic design elements make the phone comfortable to hold, aligning perfectly with current trends in smartphone design.
Display Performance
AMOLED Display with 144 Hz Refresh Rate
The AMOLED display on the Z70 Ultra is stunning. With a 144 Hz refresh rate, the screen is incredibly smooth, making everything from scrolling through social media to playing high-speed games a joy. The BOE Q9+ display technology ensures vibrant colors and deep blacks, enhancing both visual content and gaming sessions.
Color Accuracy and Resolution
I was impressed by the display’s color accuracy, supporting high color gamuts like sRGB and DCI-P3. This means that photos and videos look true to life, with excellent color rendering and resolution. Whether I’m watching a movie or editing photos, the display performs exceptionally well.
Eye Protection and User Preferences
Long hours on the phone can strain the eyes, but the Z70 Ultra’s PWM dimming and blue light certification help reduce eye fatigue. The AI-powered features optimize visuals based on usage, providing a comfortable viewing experience. Plus, the aesthetic color schemes like Shampoo and Star Dome Soft Sand add a personal touch to the display.
Camera Capabilities
Advanced Camera System
The camera system on the Z70 Ultra is impressive. The main camera features a Sony IMX906 sensor with a variable aperture lens, allowing for excellent low-light performance and versatile shooting options. The ultra-wide shooter and telephoto macro lens add flexibility, making it easy to capture stunning photos in various settings.
Versatile Zoom Levels
One feature I particularly liked is the periscope telephoto camera, which offers impressive zoom levels without compromising image quality. Whether I’m taking distant shots or detailed macro photos, the camera zoom functionality delivers sharp and clear images every time.
Video and Selfie Performance
The under-display camera for selfies is a neat innovation, providing a clean look while still capturing great self-portraits. Video quality is top-notch, with AI stabilization ensuring smooth footage even when moving. The AI enhancements in night modes and Future Mode add creative options for video recording, making it a versatile tool for both casual and professional use.
Performance and Gaming
Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor delivers outstanding performance. Multitasking is seamless, and demanding applications run smoothly without any lag. When compared to competitors like the Realme GT 7 Pro and OnePlus 13, the Z70 Ultra stands out with its robust processing power and efficient AI experience.
Gaming Capabilities
As a gamer, the Z70 Ultra’s gaming prowess is impressive. The 144 Hz refresh rate ensures ultra-smooth gameplay, while the enhanced user interface provides an immersive experience. The phone handles high-intensity games effortlessly, making it one of the best gaming smartphones I’ve used.
Battery Life and Charging
Massive 6150mAh Battery
Battery life is a crucial factor for me, and the Z70 Ultra excels here with its 6150mAh battery. It easily lasts a full day of heavy usage, including gaming, streaming, and multitasking. Even with intensive use, I rarely find myself needing to recharge before the day is out.
Fast Charging Features
Fast charging is another highlight. The Z70 Ultra can quickly recharge, ensuring minimal downtime. However, the lack of wireless charging is a downside. While wired fast charging is efficient, wireless charging would have added more convenience for users who prefer a cable-free experience.
Unique Features
Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor
The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is both fast and reliable, providing enhanced security and quick access to the phone. It’s seamlessly integrated into the design, maintaining the clean aesthetic without compromising on functionality.
AI-Powered Innovations
The AI-powered features on the Z70 Ultra enhance the overall user experience. From voice control to camera tricks, the AI integrations make the phone smarter and more intuitive to use. These features add a layer of convenience that I find incredibly useful in daily tasks.
Specialized Buttons
The dedicated camera button is a thoughtful addition, allowing for quick access to the camera without navigating through menus. This feature is particularly handy for capturing spontaneous moments, ensuring I never miss a shot.
Comparisons with Other Flagships
Competing Models
In comparison to other flagship models like the Xiaomi 15, iQOO 13, Oppo Find X8, and Realme GT 7 Pro, the Z70 Ultra holds its own. Its camera system and performance are on par or better, while the design is more minimalist and premium.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Z70 Ultra shines with its advanced camera system and powerful performance. However, the absence of wireless charging is a noticeable trade-off. Additionally, while the phone is priced competitively at $640, some might find it slightly steep considering the missing wireless charging feature.
Pros and Cons
Pricing and Availability
The ZTE Nubia Z70 Ultra is priced at $640, which is competitive for a flagship model with such high-end features. It’s available globally, with different memory configurations to suit various needs. The Starry Night Edition offers a unique aesthetic option for those looking to personalize their device further.
Final Verdict
Is the ZTE Nubia Z70 Ultra worth it? In my opinion, absolutely. It offers a perfect blend of performance, design, and camera capabilities that cater to gamers, photographers, and everyday users alike. While the lack of wireless charging is a drawback, the overall value proposition is strong. If you’re looking for a premium smartphone that doesn’t compromise on any front, the Z70 Ultra is a solid choice.
FAQ
Does the Z70 Ultra have wireless charging?
No, the ZTE Nubia Z70 Ultra does not support wireless charging. It relies on fast wired charging to keep your device powered up quickly.
What makes the Nubia Z70 Ultra stand out for mobile photography?
The Z70 Ultra features a Sony IMX906 sensor with a variable aperture lens, versatile zoom levels, and advanced AI enhancements, making it a top choice for mobile photography enthusiasts.
How does the battery life of the Z70 Ultra compare to other flagships?
With a 6150mAh battery, the Z70 Ultra offers superior battery endurance, easily lasting a full day of heavy use compared to many other flagship smartphones.
Is the display on the Z70 Ultra good for gaming?
Yes, the AMOLED display with a 144 Hz refresh rate provides a smooth and immersive gaming experience, making it one of the best displays for gaming available.
How does the Z70 Ultra’s performance compare to the Snapdragon 8 Elite competitors?
The Snapdragon 8 Elite in the Z70 Ultra delivers outstanding performance, handling multitasking and gaming with ease, and it stands up well against other flagship processors in the market.
