Nubia Z80 Ultra review
The Nubia Nubia Z80 Ultra ranks as the #31 phones globally, achieving a LibraScore of 82. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #18-ranked performance among 800 phones. Consider the Nothing Phone (3) or Xiaomi 14 Ultra, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Build Quality and Design
The Nubia Z80 Ultra boasts a premium build with a sleek, slim profile (8.6 mm thickness) and a sturdy aluminum alloy frame paired with durable glass, offering an IP68 water-resistant design. Its 6.8-inch AMOLED display features a 144Hz refresh rate, 10-bit color depth, and 3D curved edges for an immersive visual experience. The device balances robustness with elegance, housing a massive 7200mAh battery without compromising portability. Despite its gaming-focused hardware, the phone maintains a refined aesthetic, with precise craftsmanship and a weight of 225g that feels substantial yet manageable. The combination of high-quality materials, advanced display technology, and thoughtful ergonomics ensures both durability and a luxurious feel, making it a standout in its class. For a superior design, Nothing Phone (3) could be the right choice.
Battery Life
The Nubia Z80 Ultra features a massive 7200mAh battery, ensuring all-day endurance for intensive gaming and multimedia use. Powered by Si-Carbon Li-Ion technology, it supports ultra-fast 90W wired charging, fully replenishing the battery in under 40 minutes, and 80W wireless charging for added convenience. Reverse charging at 22.5W allows sharing power with accessories. Despite its size, the battery is seamlessly integrated into the device’s slim 8.6 mm profile, balancing portability with longevity. The non-removable design prioritizes durability and water resistance (IP68), making it ideal for users who demand uninterrupted performance without frequent recharging. A better alternative might be Nubia RedMagic 11 Pro+, featuring a next-level battery.
Display
The Nubia Z80 Ultra’s display is a visual masterpiece, featuring a 6.8-inch AMOLED panel with a 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth scrolling, gaming, and video playback. Its 10-bit color depth and 2000 nits peak brightness deliver vibrant, lifelike visuals, while the 428 PPI resolution (1216 x 2668 pixels) ensures razor-sharp clarity. The 3D curved glass design adds a premium feel and immersive edge-to-edge viewing, complemented by SGS certification for durability and eye comfort. With a 20:9 aspect ratio, DC dimming, and 2592 PWM for reduced flicker, the screen excels in both performance and ergonomics. The 91.6% screen-to-body ratio and scratch-resistant construction further enhance its appeal, making it ideal for multimedia enthusiasts and gamers seeking a seamless, high-impact visual experience. You may find Nubia RedMagic 11 Pro+ a better fit, thanks to its superior display.
Camera
The Nubia Z80 Ultra’s camera system combines versatility and performance, featuring a triple-lens rear setup. The main sensor delivers sharp, detailed photos with dynamic range, aided by optical stabilization and a wide aperture. The ultra-wide lens excels in capturing expansive scenes, while the telephoto offers impressive reach for portraits and distant subjects. All lenses support 4K@120fps video, ensuring smooth, high-quality footage. Night mode leverages advanced processing for reduced noise, though low-light performance on the telephoto remains a limitation. The front-facing camera, while adequate for daylight use, struggles in dim lighting, as noted in user feedback. With 8K video recording, 240fps slow-motion, and adaptive zoom capabilities, the system caters to both casual and enthusiast photographers. However, the UI for video settings is described as complex, requiring refinement for seamless creativity. Overall, the hardware lays a strong foundation for versatile imaging, though software polish could elevate the experience. If you’re after a better camera, Nothing CMF Phone 2 Pro could be the ideal option.
Price and Value
The Nubia Z80 Ultra offers flagship performance and premium features at a competitive price, undercutting rivals like the Oppo Find X9 Pro. Priced at £579, it delivers a gaming-centric design, advanced camera hardware, and a massive battery, making it an excellent value for power users and multimedia enthusiasts seeking top-tier specs without premium pricing.
Performance
The Nubia Z80 Ultra delivers flagship performance with a cutting-edge processor and 16GB RAM, ensuring lag-free multitasking and intense gaming. Its advanced GPU powers smooth graphics rendering, while an active cooling system maintains stability during extended sessions. The 144Hz display and haptic feedback enhance responsiveness, creating an immersive experience. Whether gaming, streaming, or handling demanding apps, the device excels in speed and efficiency, solidifying its reputation as a high-performance powerhouse for power users and gamers alike. For an improved performance, Nubia RedMagic 11 Pro+ is worth considering.
Pros
1. Massive 7200mAh battery with 90W fast charging and 80W wireless charging for all-day endurance.
2. Flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor with 16GB RAM ensures lag-free gaming and multitasking.
3. 144Hz AMOLED display with 2000 nits peak brightness and 10-bit color depth for vibrant visuals.
4. Advanced triple-lens camera system with 4K@120fps video and 8K recording capabilities.
5. Premium build with IP68 water resistance, aluminum alloy frame, and 3D curved glass design.
6. Competitive pricing at £579 for flagship specs, undercutting major rivals like Oppo Find X9 Pro.
Cons
1. Front camera struggles in low light due to smaller sensor and lower resolution.
2. Clunky video interface with limited manual controls and UI complexity.
3. 225g weight may feel heavy for some users due to large battery and robust build.
4. No headphone jack, relying solely on USB-C and Bluetooth for audio.
5. Telephoto lens underperforms in low-light scenarios despite 64MP resolution.
6. Software polish for camera and video features needs refinement for seamless user experience.
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