The 20 best Chinese smartphones

The camera in this model is “symbolic” – 8 megapixel rear and 5 megapixel front. Again, for basic photography without too many complaints will do. Battery capacity of 2000 mAh is also far from perfect, but the power consumption of the smartphone in general is not too high, so its “working day” it will quite honestly draw.

Advantages

• Support for two sim cards;
• control with touch buttons, not on-screen (for those who care about this);
• Not bad quality of communication, as for the super budget model;
• super affordable price.

Disadvantages

• No 4G support;
• TN-matrix with narrow viewing angles.

DOOGEE X90

Rating: 4.5

The second in the selection will be a representative of another brand known for its super affordable prices – DOOGEE, namely, the model X90. This model is about one and a half times more expensive than the previous one, but also much more interesting in terms of features.

With its size 72.8×153.9×9.9 mm smartphone is quite lightweight – 150 g. The case is classic and unremarkable, but there is at least a choice of colors – black, blue and gold.

The diagonal screen of this model is more than a whole inch larger than the previous one – 6.1″. And the 1280×600 resolution looks serious at 232 pixel density too. And the most important difference is the matrix based on IPS technology. Not the most expensive and not the highest quality, but at least it provides the standard IPS viewing angles of 178 degrees.

With communications DOOGEE X90 exactly the same state of affairs, as in the above model. That is, support for two SIM cards is present (nano SIM), but there is no 4G, and this in this case is even more tangible problem than in the previous version, from which by definition nothing outstanding is expected. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is also the most ordinary, the navigation is only supported by GPS.

In terms of performance, the picture is also almost identical to the previous smartphone – the processor is also a quad-core with a frequency of 1.3 GHz, but a different brand – MediaTek MT6580, and built-in graphics module, respectively – Ma

If you compare the battery this and previous models, then here in absolute terms, everything looks much better – 3400 mAh although not a record capacity, but compared with Wize U3 is something. The manufacturer claims the battery life up to 19 hours of talk time, but this is an exaggeration. Nevertheless, the ratio of battery capacity to power consumption is better here.

There is one disadvantage that users point out in reviews, but it can not be considered a direct disadvantage. SIM-cards can not get a key “clip” – access can only be obtained by completely removing the lid.

Advantages

• IPS matrix;
• lightweight;
• Comparatively good battery life;
• Rear camera can shoot in 4K.

Disadvantages

• 1GB of RAM;
• no 4G support.

DIGMA

NX PAY 4G

Rating: 4.4

Completes the selection of the most inexpensive smartphones the most “budget” Chinese brands Vsmart Star model, which for many looks quite blatant “noonem”. In principle, it is, because the origin of the brand is very mysterious, but the fact that the smartphone is Chinese, there is no doubt. But at a comparable price to the same TP-

First of all, the smartphone can attract those who want to get for a minimum of money something more than a faceless single rear camera, as in almost all of the above models. Here we have a dual camera unit of 13Mpix with an aperture of F/2 and 5Mpix with an aperture of F/2.40. Of course, this configuration is not even close to the average Chinese smartphones of famous brands, but it can already give you the opportunity to get at least some photo quality comparable to modern concepts. Front camera is usual – 5 megapixels. The maximum resolution limit for shooting video is F

lHD 1920×1080.

The second thing in which this smartphone is quite good is communication. Of course, we don’t expect any records from it, but it has high-quality 4G LTE support, and that’s a big plus. The rest of the wireless connection is Wi-Fi 802.11n and Bluetooth 4.2. Satellite navigation – GPS with cold start A-GPS and GLONASS.

The screen also deserves approval. The IPS matrix will provide comfortable viewing angles, and a resolution of 1520×720 at a diagonal of 5.7 – quality “picture” due to the high pixel density of 295 pixels per inch.

As for performance, here the smartphone is more than ordinary. I’m glad that the manufacturer has equipped the system with at least two gigabytes of RAM. And the processor here is pretty mediocre – dual-core Qualcomm 215 with Adreno 308 video module. Built-in memory has 16GB, flash memory is supported up to 64GB.

Autonomy here is average, in a good way – installed lithium polymer battery capacity of 3050 mA⋅h, as on a huge number of smartphones in almost any price range.

Advantages

• IPS matrix;
• high resolution;
• image quality;
• 4G LTE support;
• not a bad rear camera;
• sufficient autonomy.

Shortcomings

• Lack of sound volume.

The best inexpensive Chinese smartphones

The second selection of the review of the best Chinese smartphones according to Expertology magazine is also devoted to inexpensive models, but already more famous brands, including the undisputed market leaders.

ZTE Blade A5 (2019) 2/32GB

Rating: 4.8



Let’s start with the brand model, which to some extent may cause doubts about the ability to make good smartphones. But the fears are in vain. Indeed, the Chinese company ZTE is known throughout the world for its good telecommunications equipment, and began making smartphones recently. Nevertheless, the success of ZTE in this field is much more tangible than the same TP-

• NK.

  ZTE Blade A5 – the most popular smartphone announced in 2019. Many of the specs in it are comparable to the models above, but it’s a head above any of them in terms of performance. So, here the center of electronics is already 8-core processor – Unisoc SC9863A with a core frequency of 1.6GHz. RAM is not much – 2GB, but for this price and against other characteristics it is acceptable. Built-in memory of 32GB, of which the system “will eat” part, and available for use are 26GB. Flash cards are supported up to 256GB, and the slot is dedicated, not combined with a second SIM card, which is a definite plus. In particular, it allows you to combine the built-in memory of the smartphone and the external.

  The picture quality of this model is already worthy of praise. It provides a good IPS-matrix resolution of 1440 × 720, which at a diagonal of 5.The 45 inch gives a pixel density of 295 per inch. The rear main camera is the only one here, not in camera-block format, but with 13 MP sensor resolution, which already gives at least some acceptable photo quality. Maximum resolution when shooting video – F

  lHD 1920×1080. Front camera – 8MP.

  The means of communication is not particularly outstanding – standard GSM telephony, there is support for 4G. But with 4G, according to user reviews, this model may have problems – the smartphone does not always confidently receive a signal over 4G. This is not always and not everyone, but cases of this are noticeable in the mass. Navigation unit – GLONASS, GPS. Standard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules without any obvious advantages and disadvantages.

  Another detail that this model can be charged as a minus – it’s very weak battery. Its capacity of 2600 mA⋅h should be sufficient in the passport for 12 hours of talk time, but in fact the smartphone in a continuous conversation is not nearly enough time. Charging via micro-USB and very long – optimal to put on charging at night, but even here particularly the choice will not be, because in active use of the device longer than a day will not work.

  Advantages

  • high resolution and pixel density;
  • a stock of brightness and decent quality “picture” in general;
  • A relatively powerful processor;
  • The ability to combine internal and external memory;
  • dedicated slot for flash memory cards.

  Disadvantages

  • weak battery;
  • Not always confidently gets 4G.

  HONOR 8S

  Rating: 4.8

  

  We continue the selection of smartphone trademark HONOR, which belongs to the well-known brand of Chinese electronics Huawei. This is a classic low-cost smartphone on Android 9 with mediocre specs, but the credibility of the brand adds to its points. And in general, reviews of the model 8S are mostly positive, both from experts and from ordinary users.

  Against the background of the previous model at a cursory glance, there may be questions about the performance of the HONOR 8S due to the fact that the processor here is a 4-core – MediaTek He

  • o A22 (MT6761). Not a problem in this case because the “nuclear” is compensated by an increased clock frequency of 2 GHz. With RAM and integrated permanent memory here the situation is the same as in the ZTE Blade A5 – 2 and 32 gigabytes, respectively. And the memory card supports a very impressive amount of up to 512GB. There are modifications with a smaller maximum capacity – up to 128GB, but the slot is in any case separate, and this is the main thing.

    Very well implemented here the screen part, and in this respect, the smartphone is also similar to the above-described. At a diagonal of 5.71 IPS-matrix resolution is 1520×720, and this combination provides a dense arrangement of pixels – 295 per inch, and thus a complete invisibility of the pixels themselves and the naturalness of the image. Rear main camera is also the only one and the same resolution – 13 pixels. 5Mpix front-facing camera. You can shoot video up to 1920×1080.

    In terms of communications this model is more interesting than the previous one, but not dramatically. For example, here already more advanced Bluetooth 5 module.0, support for three satellite navigation systems – BeiDou, GLONASS, GPS. Otherwise, everything is the same, there is no NFC module contrary to some inflated expectations.

    The battery in this model is the most basic with the most widespread capacity of 3020 mA⋅h, non-removable. But the “iron” and the system as a whole is well optimized, so that with moderate use smartphone can last longer than similar models with the same battery. Users often have it without problems and confidently works two days without recharging.

    Another thing worth praising is the case – it’s not faceless plastic, but durable polycarbonate. Dimensions – 70.78×147.13×8.45 mm, weight – 146 g.

    Users to this model surprisingly few critical remarks, judging by real reviews. Individual, of course, there are, but few systematic. Of these, the most noticeable is not quite obvious principle of working applications in the background. You may have to keep track of every important application to know for sure.

    Advantages

    • Lightweight enough;
    • Rugged polycarbonate case;
    • picture quality;
    • Bluetooth 5.0;
    • Support for high-capacity memory cards;
    • A dedicated slot for flash memory;
    • Well optimized;
    • good battery life.

    Disadvantages

    • Unobvious scheme of work of applications in the background mode.

    Xiaomi Redmi 9A

    Rating: 4.8

    

    The third inexpensive Chinese smartphone Expertology recommended in the review model Redmi 9A by Xiaomi. This is a new product, announced just “yesterday” – in July 2020. Characterized by very good for its price properties, in some places even surprisingly good.

    This model has a noticeably larger screen diagonal than all of the above – 6.53 inches for the overall size of the device 77.07×164.9×9 mm. The resolution of the matrix is decent – 1600×720, and at this diagonal is the density of points 269 per inch, which is also very good for the most natural images without visible pixels. The proportions of the screen – 20:9.

    Performance is determined by an 8-core MediaTek processor He

  • o G25 with PowerVR GE8320 graphics core. 2GB of RAM – not a record, but acceptable for this category. Built-in memory – 32GB, plus a slot for flash cards up to 512GB. Slot dedicated, which is a definite plus.

    The communication characteristics are quite good. In addition to the Wi-Fi 802 module.11n, there is also support for direct connection between devices using Wi-Fi Direct technology. Bluetooth module of the latest generation 5.0. Supports all three major satellite navigation systems – BeiDou, GLONASS, GPS with cold start A-GPS.

    The main camera here is the only one with a 13MP sensor. The selfie camera – 5 MP. Video can be shot in resolution up to F

    lHD 1920×1080. Judging by the reviews of users, the buyers in the mass highly appreciate the quality of the main camera, and by objective indicators, it is really not bad for its class.

    Brilliantly stands out against the background of the above solutions the battery. The capacity of non-removable lithium-ion battery is as much as 5000 mA⋅h. Charging via micro-USB.

    Advantages

    • image quality;
    • large screen;
    • Bluetooth 5.0;
    • Wi-Fi Direct;
    • quite a powerful processor;
    • dedicated slot for flash cards.

    Disadvantages

    • Individual complaints and comments from users to the brightness of the screen and sound volume.

    Xiaomi Redmi 9 3/32GB (NFC)

    Rating: 4.7

    

    And another Xiaomi in the selection of inexpensive Chinese smartphones. The name of the series differs from the previous one only by one symbol, but the characteristics make this model look like a real gadget compared to the 9A. Indeed, it has flagship specs at a very affordable price.

    You can start the description with almost any characteristic, and for the most part this model will be a head above any of the above. For example, let’s take the most “noticeable” in all respects – the screen. Its diagonal size is 6.53, that is, quite a lot. But the pixel density is prohibitive – 395, which means a flawless image without the slightest hint of visible pixelation. It’s all about the IPS matrix with a resolution of 2340×1080. The proportions of the screen – 19.5:9. True, the matrix itself is frankly one of the cheapest, and this strange economy of the manufacturer spoils the impression of the smartphone.

    Continuing the theme of “visuals”, let’s consider cameras. The rear camera unit is also far ahead of any model described above. Leading the way here is the wide-angle camera with a 13MP sensor and F/2 lens/aperture.20. Next is an 8MP ultra-wide-angle with F/2 lens.20, 5MP macro camera with F/2 aperture.40 and a depth-defining camera – 2Mpix with F/2 lens.40. All this looks certainly impressive, but the maximum resolution for shooting video is no more than F

    lHD 1920×1080. But that’s probably even better than if the manufacturer had driven the buyer into inflated expectations about 4K. Front camera is also very good with a resolution of 8 megapixels.

    Now let’s have a look at the characteristics that determine performance. The processor here is quite powerful – 8-core MediaTek He

    • o G80 with the Ma graphics subsystem
    • -G52 MC2. 3GB of RAM, and that’s already considered a lot for this price range. For data storage allocated internal memory 32 GB, of which part goes to the system. External memory card slot is dedicated and does not overlap with the second sim card.

      Against the backdrop of all these quite impressive characteristics, the battery capacity of as much as 5000 mA⋅h looks even more impressive. Battery is built-in, not removable. Charging is via USB Type-C. There is a fast charging feature.

      Advantages

      • High resolution and pixel density;
      • a powerful processor;
      • relatively a lot of RAM;
      • A dedicated slot for flash memory;
      • USB Type-C;
      • Capacity battery;
      • fast charging;
      • fingerprint scanner;
      • Overall flagship features at an affordable price.

      Disadvantages

      • Cheap IPS matrix with noticeable color rendering deficiencies.

      HUAWEI P40

      te E NFC

      Rating: 4.6

      

      At the top of the list is a bright and still very inexpensive classic smartphone from XIAOMI – “nine” brilliant series Redmi Note. It is more expensive than HUAWEI P40

    • Te E NFC, but far from times and is completely devoid of its disadvantages, while still having clear advantages.

      As it is XIAOMI, there is already no problem with support for Google services, and NFC-module is also available. This means that there will be no problems with paying with your smartphone at POS terminals – that is the way NFC is most often used, and it is for this function that such smartphones are often bought.

      In terms of performance the smartphone is not inferior HUAWEI P40

    • te E. It has the same powerful eight-core processor, but another brand – MediaTek He
    • o G85. Another thing is that in the mid-price category buyers are already expecting something more, and this “stone” is still inferior to the same Snapdragon 720 and even 665. But still we will not consider it a disadvantage, because for the price of the smartphone is still actually a budget smartphone.

      The built-in video card here corresponds to the processor itself – Ma

    • -G52 MC2. The same amount of RAM as the HUAWEI P40
    • Te E – 4GB, but the internal memory is twice as much – 128GB. Slot for memory cards dedicated, which is very nice, because it allows you to use both two SIM cards (nano SIM) and memory itself.

      In terms of screen parameters, this model is a head above the previous one. It can be compared to its “sibling” – Xiaomi Redmi 9 3/32GB (NFC), but without the offensive miscalculation with a cheap matrix. Screen resolution 2340×1080 at a diagonal of 6.53 inches and proportions of 19.5:9 gives an excellent natural image without the slightest pixelation (density – 395 pixels per inch).

      The camera unit here four-component and is well worthy of respect. The leading camera – 48Mpix with a lens F/1.79, then an ultra-wide angle with a 8MP sensor and an aperture of F/2.20, macro camera and depth sensor – both 2Mpix with F/2 lenses.40. As you can see, the configuration is decent, but still a particularly sophisticated users cause comments, however, rather inarticulate.

      In terms of communications here are almost flagship features: Advanced Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, supports 4G LTE and VoLTE, satellite navigation supports all systems, including even the European Ga

    • leo. Already mentioned that there is an NFC-module, and there is even an infrared IRDA.

      And it is also worth noting in a positive way autonomy. All of the above hardware components are quite voracious in terms of power consumption, and the battery capacity of 5020 mA⋅h quite well cope. For charging, it uses a wired method via USB Type-C connector. There is a fingerprint scanner.

      Advantages

      • large screen;
      • high resolution and quality images;
      • a wide range of communication features;
      • a large battery;
      • USB Type-C;
      • fingerprint scanner;
      • a dedicated slot for memory cards;
      • NFC without limits.

      Disadvantages

      • no LED notification indicator.

      HONOR 9X 4/128GB

      Rating: 4.8

      

      Now we propose to consider a smartphone series 9X brand HONOR, which belongs to the Chinese company Huawei Technologies. It is by no means better in everything compared to the aforementioned Redmi Note, and at the same time more expensive, but some of its advantages are fundamental, which determines the more than impressive demand.

      Let’s start with the main difference. The main camera unit here though consists of only two components, but the unit itself is retractable. This solves a major problem of smartphones, where the active part of the screen occupies the entire area of the front surface and is forced to conflict with the place for the camera. Many users in this regard can not reconcile with such a discomfort neighbors. Here, however, there are no “eyebrows” or “drops” or any other perfectionism violations. The cameras themselves are the main one at 48MPix with a lens F/1.80, and a second at 2Mpixel. The front is 16Mpix.

      The screen here is big – 6.59 inches diagonally. Resolution perfectly complements such dimensions – 2340×1080, creating a complete “pixel-free” (391 pixels per inch). The proportions are 19.5:9. Video can be shot at resolutions up to F

      lHD 1920×1080. Overall case size is 77.3×163.5×8.8 mm, the weight of the device – 197 g.

      In terms of communications, this model does not have a particularly remarkable, but it does not have a clear lack of anything. There is support for 4G LTE, the usual Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2, there is NFC. Satellite navigation covers three systems – BeiDou, GLONASS and GPS.

      A few words about performance. Here too, everything is quite on par, but without any obvious advantages. Processor octa-core HiSi

      • con Kirin 710 with a nice clocked 2200 MHz cores and a graphics core Ma
      • -G51 MP4. RAM is enough, even quite a lot – 4GB. Built-in – 128GB. Supports external storage up to 512GB, but the slot is combined with a second sim card. This can even be considered a drawback, though complaints about this circumstance in real reviews are practically not observed.

        Powered by a non-removable battery with a good capacity – 4000 mAh. The smartphone’s hardware itself is not badly optimized, so for the most part, users note the smartphone’s battery life as high.

        Advantages

        • bright and high-quality image;
        • large screen;
        • High resolution and pixel density;
        • photo quality;
        • performance;
        • convenient side location of the fingerprint scanner;
        • Retractable camera unit (the selfie camera does not take surface from the screen).

        Disadvantages

        • no indicators on the body;
        • a slot for memory cards is combined with a second SIM card.

        Xiaomi Mi Note 10

        te

        Rating: 4.8

        

        Again in the review of the best Chinese smartphones according to Expertology brand HUAWEI, and this time we get acquainted with a series of Nova on the example of Nova 5T. In almost all characteristics of this smartphone is not inferior to the previous one, as well as it does not have any tangible advantages over it. It will suit those who, for whatever reason, either have a prejudice against Xiaomi or, on the other hand, have special feelings for HUAWEI.

        This model differs from the previous screen technology in the opposite direction – it is not OLED-matrix, but IPS, but a high-quality, high resolution – 2340×1080. Screen size – 6.26 inches diagonally. The proportions are 19.5:9. Pixel density is outrageous – 412 pixels per inch.

        The camera configuration of this model is weaker than the Mi Note 10

      • te, but not to say fundamentally and significantly. The rear camera unit also consists of four camera components: 48, 16, 2 and 2 megapixels with F/1 lenses.80, F/2.20, F/2.40 and F/2.40 accordingly. But the front camera is impressive – as much as 32 megapixels.

        Communications capabilities in HUAWEI Nova 5T without much frills and surprises, but also worthy. There is support for 4G LTE and VoLTE, the standard Wi-Fi 802.11ac, “advanced” Bluetooth 5.0, a module of short-range wireless communication NFC. Satellite navigation – BeiDou, GLONASS and GPS with a cold start with A-GPS.

        The performance of this model is quite decent, even good, given the good optimization of the system. At the center of everything is the HiSi

      • con Kirin 980 on eight cores with a graphics module Ma
      • -G76 MP10. RAM as much as 6GB, integrated permanent memory – 128GB.

        The battery here is characterized by a capacity of 3750 mA⋅h, which looks rather “pale” in comparison with the previous Mi Note 10, but if you compare it with the same HONOR 9X, the difference is not so big. At any rate, there are no systematic complaints about the lack of battery life. Nevertheless, Expertology experts have imputed this point to the smartphone as a disadvantage, because even this small difference already leads to some limitations in autonomy. Charging via USB Type-C.

        And that can be considered a clear disadvantage, especially for a smartphone on Android is the lack of support for external flash memory.

        Advantages

        • quality color rendering;
        • Increased pixel density;
        • high resolution;
        • not a bad camera unit;
        • A powerful front camera;
        • sufficient performance;
        • USB Type-C;
        • attractive appearance;
        • stable firmware, no ads.

        Disadvantages

        • no memory card slot;
        • Just a little bit lack of battery capacity.

        Xiaomi Poco F2 Pro 6/128GB

        Rating: 4.7

        

        Completes the selection of the best Chinese smartphones in the medium price category according to Expertology magazine prominent model Poco F2 Pro manufactured by Xiaomi. The smartphone was announced in May 2020. The model with its impressive characteristics almost brings us to the final selection of flagships, but the price still keeps it on the verge, but in the category of medium-price.

        The screen of this model echoes the above Xiaomi Mi Note 10

      • te. It has an AMOLED matrix with a resolution of 2400×1080 pixels. The screen diagonal is large – 6.67 inch, but thanks to the resolution there is no pixelation at all – the density of 395 dots per inch does not give any chance to distinguish the pixels. The proportions of the screen – 20:9.

        What else in this model deserves unquestionable praise is the performance. Everything is decided by the top-end octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor with Adreno 650 graphics module. Qualitatively complements its 6 gigabytes of RAM. Built-in permanent memory in this modification – 128GB.

        The rear camera unit consists of four cameras: the main camera with a sensor resolution of 64MP and a lens F/1.89, followed by an ultra-wide-angle 13MP lens F/2.40, 5Mpix macro camera and F/2.20 aperture respectively, and a depth sensor with a 2MP sensor and F/2 aperture.40. crowns all this impressive picture with the ability to record video in ultrahigh quality, up to 8K! In this case, in resolutions up to and including 4K frame rate can be 60 fps or more. The maximum frame rate at minimum resolution is absolutely exorbitant – 960 frames per second. The selfie camera here is retractable and also powerful – 20 megapixels.

        The communication unit of this model is also absolutely top-notch and actually the flagship. Even ordinary modules like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are the most advanced possible in 2020 – Wi-Fi 802.11ax and Bluetooth 5.1. Also has NFC and IRDA. The mobile communications support all the most popular technologies up to 5G! Satellite navigation supports all the current systems, including European Ga

      • leo.

        All this splendor runs on a non-removable battery with a capacity of 4700 mA⋅h. Unfortunately, though in absolute terms it looks good, but the configuration of the “iron” is such that even such a battery “melts” quite quickly. Wired charging – via USB Type-C connector. There is a function of fast charging with updated technology Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+.

        Advantages

        • high-quality AMOLED matrix;
        • high resolution;
        • large brightness reserve;
        • Recording videos in quality up to 8K;
        • A retractable and powerful selfie camera;
        • high performance;
        • 4G and 5G support;
        • fast charging feature.

        Disadvantages

        • “raw” firmware;
        • The battery, although capacious, but quickly runs down.

        The best top Chinese smartphones

        The final selection of the review of the best Chinese smartphones according to Expertology is dedicated to the most interesting – the top smartphones of famous Chinese brands. This is a really “stuffed” models with exceptional performance and implemented the most advanced technology. They are steadily competing with the flagships from Apple and Samsung.

        HUAWEI P30 Pro 8/256GB

        Rating: 4.9

        

        Opens the premium selection of the best Chinese smartphones popular model P30 Pro production HUAWEI. It is still far from the most expensive, and there is a more advanced model in the series, which we will also consider, but the prefix Pro in the name unequivocally hints at the flagship characteristics.

        This is a classic smartphone on the ninth Android. The high class is already evident in the materials of the body – it is not anonymous plastic and even not polycarbonate, but a combination of tempered glass and metal. They add weight to the device, but not too pronounced – 192 g. Size – 73.4x158x8.41mm. Implemented a good waterproofing level IP68 – one hundred percent protection from dust, the smartphone will withstand immersion under water below 1 meter for a long time.

        The visual part here is implemented in the best way – OLED-screen with a resolution of 2340×1080, the size of the diagonal 6.47, proportions of 19.5:9 and, accordingly, the pixel density of 398 per inch.

        Separately and in-depth should consider the configuration of the cameras, it deserves it. The camera unit here is a four-piece, but with features that command respect. The system was developed at the Max Bereck Innovation Lab, in close cooperation with Leica. The main camera is a wide-angle 40MP resolution with an F1.6 aperture. There is optical stabilization and two-factor autofocus – phase-laser. Ultra-wide-angle camera with a lens equivalent to 16mm and an aperture of F2.2, the sensor resolution – 20MP. Also equipped with autofocus. Even more interesting point is 8-megapixel zoom camera with fivefold physical zoom and F3,4 aperture. Also equipped with optical stabilization and phase autofocus. This brilliant set is crowned with ToF-camera which defines scene depth – such cameras are called in reviews as depth sensor also. The video shooting capabilities are exhaustive – quality is possible up to 4K. Headphones are connected via USB on the Type-C jack, and this is not to many people’s liking.

        A bundle of processor and RAM delivers impressive performance. The processor – octa-core HiSi

      • con Kirin 980 with Ma graphics
      • -G76 MP10. RAM – as much as 8 gigabytes, integrated data storage – 256GB. And even with this amount of internal memory, the smartphone allows the connection of external flash memory cards. Although the slot is combined with a second SIM card, but the mere fact that such a possibility is a big plus.

        At first glance at the battery capacity, one might question whether the 4200 mA⋅h battery is capable of pulling this configuration for any length of time. In fact the “iron” here is not too power-consuming, the system is well optimized, and autonomy HUAWEI P30 Pro many define as very good – a full charge, as a rule, confidently enough for two days of work

        Advantages

        • tempered glass and metal body;
        • IP68 protection;
        • OLED screen;
        • High resolution and the quality of “picture” in general;
        • High-tech camera block, created in cooperation with Leica;
        • 8 gigabytes of RAM;
        • high performance overall;
        • autonomy.

        Disadvantages

        • USB Type-C for headphones, an adapter for 3.5mm is not included.

        OnePlus 7T Pro

        Rating: 4.8

        

        In a premium selection of the best Chinese smartphones according to Expertology magazine found a place for two models of the brand OnePlus. This brand is quite young in the market of portable electronics, but undoubtedly successful. The company-manufacturer of the same name is a division of the well-known large company BBK Electronics.

        This is a powerful modern smartphone in a classic design, running on the tenth Android. Size – 75.9×162.6×8.8 mm. The materials of the body and the density of the electronic stuffing determine its weight – 206 g. This is not critically large, but for some users will be felt.

        The screen is expectedly large – 6.67 inch. Display on a high-quality AMOLED-type matrix. At first sight, some users are surprised by the resolution – 3120×1440. With this combination of size and proportions 19.5:9 it gives an absolutely forbidding density of dots – 515. Plus the refresh rate of 90Hz – the quality of the “picture” is impeccable.

        The camera unit allows you to shoot video in 4K at 60 fps. It consists of three main components: the main camera – 48MP resolution with f/1.6 aperture, the second – 8MP resolution and f/2.4 aperture, the third – 16MP and f/2.2 respectively. In general, this is an average performance, we can not say that they are bad, but also not a record. The front selfie camera is 16MP with an aperture of f/2.0. The selfies camera is retractable – the best solution for perfectionists and controversial for those who do not spare a few pixels of the screen area. But for the most part this solution is welcomed, and we write this smartphone advantages.

        The communication unit here is quite usual, flagship “gizmos” like support for 5G is not provided. There is support for 4G LTE and LTE-A. Standard Wi-Fi 802.11ac, fifth generation Bluetooth, plus NFC. From the satellite navigation systems only GLONASS and GPS are supported. SIM card slot here two format nanoSIM with hot swap – a tangible plus.

        Performance is clearly worthy of high marks. The powerful octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Plus processor with Adreno 640 graphics is perfectly complemented by 8 gigabytes of RAM and 256 built-in.

        The smartphone is powered by a non-removable battery with a capacity of 4,085 mA⋅h. In this context, there are no particularly pleasant surprises – in the normal mode of operation it will need to be put on a daily charge. This is neither good nor bad – this is how the vast majority of modern smartphones work, even flagship ones. The charging method is wired via USB Type-C. Fast charging is implemented by OnePlus Warp Charge 30 technology.

        Advantages

        • Exceptionally high resolution and pixel density;
        • AMOLED matrix with a large margin of brightness;
        • impeccable color reproduction and image quality in general;
        • Quite a high-quality versatile rear camera unit;
        • Shooting video in 4K at 60 fps;
        • retractable selfie camera;
        • A powerful processor and performance in total;
        • hot-swappable sim cards;
        • fast charging.

        Disadvantages

        • No memory card support.

        OnePlus 8 Pro 12/256GB

        Rating: 4.7

        

        And immediately consider another OnePlus, more advanced and half the price of the previous one. The model was announced in April of this year 2020, and here we have a truly flagship set of characteristics with few exceptions. Runs on Android 10.

        The smartphone has a lot in common with the previous one, so in the description we will focus mainly on the differences. Dimensions and weight are comparable – 74.3×165.3×8.5 mm and 199 g, respectively. Reliable protection against dust and moisture – IP68.

        The screen characteristics are also almost the same as in the previous generation of OnePlus, but with a higher refresh rate – 120Hz. The size of the diagonal – 6.78, the resolution and pixel density are the same high – 3168×1440 and 513, respectively. The proportions – 19.5:9. Matrix type is AMOLED. Touch speed is 240Hz, so the responsiveness of the screen is at a more than decent level. The brightness of the screen is very high – measurements show about 800 cd/sq. meter – very few wearable gadgets have such characteristics.

        If in the previous model, the camera unit was, as for the flagship, quite average, then here you can already see a noticeable difference for the better. Front components – four. The main wide-angle camera with a sensor resolution of 48Mpixel with an aperture of f/1.8, laser autofocus, omnidirectional PDAF and other landmark features. 8MP tele-camera with f/2 aperture.4 and hybrid triple zoom. The ultra-wide-angle camera, like the main camera has a sensor resolution of 48MP, the aperture is f/2.2. Depth and color filter – 5 megapixels and f/2 lenses.4. Video can be recorded in 4K at up to 60 fps. The front camera is wide-angle with 16MP sensor resolution and f/2 aperture.45.

        Now let’s briefly walk through the communication capabilities of this bright in every sense of the word flagship. Briefly because there is nothing much to describe – the characteristics are “just” top-notch. Cellular connectivity includes 5G support, and that says it all. The Wi-Fi module is the most advanced to date – the 802 standard.11ax. Bluetooth is also no question – version 5.1. Of course, there is an NFC module. Navigation supports all systems, including Ga

      • leo.

        In terms of performance, it would seem that the previous model is difficult to surpass, but perfection, as you know, there is no limit. Here stands an improved Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor on eight cores with Adreno 650 graphics module. This is even in absolute terms one of the fastest mobile processors in the world. The amount of RAM is crushing – 12GB. Built-in memory is 256GB. But things didn’t go well with memory card support for this model, just like the one described above.

        Its battery life is better than that of the OnePlus 7T Pro. Although the non-removable battery with a capacity of 4510 mA⋅h looks in comparison with the previous model is not revolutionary, users and experts agree in high evaluations of battery life. A huge plus is the presence of such flagship features as OnePlus Warp Charge 30 fast charging and wireless charging support.

        Advantages

        • quality AMOLED matrix with top resolution and other characteristics;
        • Color rendering and brightness margin;
        • high touch processing rate;
        • Quality camera block with a threefold zoom;
        • 4K video recording at up to 60 fps;
        • Top communication features, including 5G support;
        • One of the fastest mobile processors in the world in 2020;
        • Fast and wireless charging;
        • autonomy.

        Disadvantages

        • No memory card support.

        Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro 12/256GB

        Rating: 4.7

        

        A selection of the best Chinese top-level smartphones according to Expertology could not do without the brand Xiaomi. And here we take a look at the Mi 10 Pro with flagship specs and an equally flagship price. The smartphone was announced in February of this year 2020.

        In terms of size and weight, this model is comparable to the previous 74.8×162.6×8.96mm and 208g, respectively. That is, the smartphone is quite weighty, but also not a “brick”. The materials of the body is fully consistent with the class of the device – a “sandwich” of tempered glass Gorilla Glass 5 with protection against scratches. Between the front and rear surfaces a thin aluminum frame.

        The screen is big – 6.67 inches diagonally. The Matrix – AMOLED. Resolution is no longer as prohibitive as the previous two OnePlus, but also more than decent – 2340×1080. With proportions of 19.5:9 this gives a pixel density of 386 per inch. The screen updates at 90 Hz. The brightness margin of this model is also high – from 500 up to 800 cd/m in automatic mode. kv.

        If the characteristics of the screen and this model loses to the above described the two OnePlus, then in terms of multimedia capabilities beats him with a large margin. The four-component camera unit here is “ultra-flagship”. In fact, this is almost the only real tangible difference between the model and the previous generation, which determines the meaning of purchase.

        The leading rear camera is characterized by a prohibitive sensor resolution – 108Mpix, aperture f/1.69, optical stabilization, laser autofocus. Improved 20MP ultra-wide-angle camera with f/2.2 aperture. It also takes over the function of macro-shooting, a separate macro-camera is not here, but not particularly necessary, as ultrawide fully copes. But there are two television cameras – 12 MP with 2x zoom and 8 MP with 5x.

        The communications of this model is almost exactly the same as the OnePlus 8 Pro described above, that is, the top. There is also support for 5G, and Bluetooth 5.1, and NFC, and IRDA. The only difference – the Wi-Fi module is not so advanced, and “usual” standard 802.11ac.

        The key components that determine performance, this smartphone is exactly the same as the OnePlus 8 Pro: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, 12GB of RAM, 256GB of internal memory. No memory card support, like most flagships.

        And finally, a few words about the autonomy. Here too, everyone agrees in high opinion. The battery capacity of 4500 mA⋅h in a normal moderate mode of operation can easily provide a smartphone a couple of days of work. There is wireless charging and fast charging Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+.

        Advantages

        • high-quality AMOLED matrix;
        • a large margin of brightness;
        • A fairly high resolution and pixel density;
        • Advanced and high-tech camera block;
        • a powerful processor;
        • 12GB of RAM;
        • Support for 5G;
        • decent autonomy.

        Disadvantages

        • No memory card support.

        HUAWEI P40 Pro Plus

        Rating: 4.7

        

        Completes the review of the best Chinese smartphones according to Expertology the topmost in the premium selection of the model manufactured by HUAWEI. The smartphone was announced in March of this year 2020. Despite the fact that the model is noticeably more expensive than the Mi 10 Pro described above, it is far from better in everything. But in some places it is definitely better or approximately equal, plus the average cost of Xiaomi and HUAWEI electronics is still different. Finally, this is not just a simple P40 Pro, but the P40 Pro Plus, that is “top of the top”, and this Plus significantly adds value to the device. But, since this is the top premium class, Expertology experts did not consider the price as a disadvantage at all.

        Let’s start with a caveat – this model does not have Google services. But let’s reassure our audience right away – it’s not as terrible a problem as they say it is. There is a full-fledged app store Huawei AppGallery. Difficulties with paying with your smartphone at the cash desk through NFC is also a myth – the Wallet app works fine and so does SberPay from Sberbank. So if the user’s requirements are not critically tied specifically to Google services, then no tangible problems in operation will not arise.

        Now directly on the features. The screen here has a typically for flagships large screen size – 6.58 on the diagonal. OLED matrix with excellent color rendering. The resolution is also not as exorbitant as in OnePlus, but this is not a minus of this model, but an exclusive feature of OnePlus. The proportions are 19.5:9, the pixel density – 441 per inch.

        About the rear camera unit here can write a lot and a long time, we will point out only the key characteristics, which will be clear that this is a top configuration. At least in HUAWEI brilliantly implemented a wide-angle telemodule, and otherwise any failure is impossible to find. The camera unit consists of the already classic four components: the leading wide-angle camera with 50MP resolution and aperture f/1.9; super-wide angle module with 40MP resolution and aperture f/1.8; telephoto module with 13MP resolution and aperture f/3.4; and depth sensor TOF 3D. Quite expectedly, you can shoot 4K video at a high frame rate.

        The configuration of communications in this model is the most top-end of the possible. There is support for 5G, the latest generation of Wi-Fi – the standard 802.11ax, the latest Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, support for all satellite positioning systems, including the European Ga

      • leo.

        There are no questions about performance here either. Everything is controlled by a powerful processor HiSi

      • con Kirin 990 5G on eight cores with a Ma
      • -G76 MP16. 8GB of RAM and as much as 512GB of built-in memory. There is even support for memory cards, which is a relative rarity for a flagship. In general, the performance in pure form this model is inferior to many competitors, but this is just in pure form, and in fact this configuration is more than enough for comfortable use.

        Finally, autonomy. Here too, in absolute terms the battery is not record-breaking at 4200mA⋅h. But in the normal mode of operation, if you do not watch hours of high quality video, and the same hours do not play games, it is completely sufficient. Fast and wireless charging methods are available.

        Advantages

        • high quality OLED display;
        • High resolution and overall impeccable image quality;
        • large margin of brightness;
        • high-tech camera block;
        • Shooting video in 4K;
        • Top communications capabilities (including support for 5G);
        • 512GB of internal memory;
        • Support for memory cards;
        • Fast charging and wireless charging;
        • reliable moisture protection.

        Disadvantages

        • No stereo speakers (sound only mono);
        • no google services.
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