ZTE has made a notable splash into the entry-level and midrange smartphone markets with its latest offerings, the ZTE nubia Focus and the ZTE nubia Focus Pro. These devices are designed to appeal to tech-savvy users who seek high performance without the flagship price tag.
Both models pack a punch with robust specs, including high-refresh-rate displays, powerful cameras, and 5G connectivity. However, they cater to slightly different audiences. Let's meet the two contenders.
ZTE nubia Focus: Entry-level Delight for the Budget-Conscious
The ZTE nubia Focus is a solid entry-level smartphone, balancing impressive features on par with a mid-tier device with affordability. It is an excellent choice for users who want a reliable, feature-rich device without breaking the bank. Ideal for students, young professionals, and budget-conscious tech enthusiasts, the nubia Focus offers a blend of style and functionality.
ZTE nubia Focus Pro: Entering (Lower) Midrange Excellence
Stepping up a notch, the ZTE nubia Focus Pro offers enhanced features and performance, making it an appealing choice for those who want a bit more from their smartphone. Perfect for tech enthusiasts and professionals seeking a high-quality device without entering flagship territory.
Let's now dive into the details and see which model might be the perfect fit for you.
Body
The nubia Focus feels premium in hand, thanks to its glass construction. It's slightly hefty, providing a reassuring solidity. As for the nubia Focus Pro, details on dimensions and weight are unspecified, but expect a similar premium feel as the nubia Focus. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus | nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|---|
| General |
|
|
| Dimensions | H: 163.6 mm (6.44″), W: 74.9 mm (2.95″), D: 8.6 mm (0.34″) | N/A |
| Mass | 205.5 g (7.27 oz) | N/A |
| Material | Glass front; glass back | Back:
|
| Colors | Black, Gold | Black, Gold |
When it comes to the physical attributes of the ZTE nubia Focus, the design and build quality are paramount in determining user comfort and aesthetic appeal. The device strikes a balance between a large screen and manageable dimensions. The 163.6 mm height and 74.9 mm width make it sizable yet still comfortably holdable for extended periods. The thickness of 8.6 mm is quite reasonable, contributing to a sleek profile without feeling overly bulky.
At 205.5 grams, the nubia Focus is on the heavier side, which might be noticeable during prolonged use. However, this weight also contributes to a sturdy, premium feel. The phone's weight distribution appears well-balanced, reducing the risk of hand fatigue. For users accustomed to lighter phones, this might take some adjustment, but the added heft can often be associated with durability and a more substantial build quality.
The size and weight make the nubia Focus relatively comfortable to carry around. It fits nicely in most pockets, though it may protrude slightly in tighter or smaller pockets. When placed in a bag, its slim profile ensures it doesn’t take up much space, and its durable build provides peace of mind against minor bumps and scratches.
The nubia Focus features a glass front and back, adding to its aesthetic appeal and tactile experience. The glass back, also present in one variant of the Pro model, gives the phone a sophisticated look and a premium feel in hand. It provides a smooth, comfortable touch that enhances the overall user experience. Glass allows for vibrant, reflective finishes and can incorporate a range of effects that plastic and metal can't match.
However, glass is more susceptible to shattering upon impact compared to metal or plastic, necessitating the use of protective cases for those prone to drops. Glass surfaces tend to attract fingerprints and smudges, which can require frequent cleaning to maintain a pristine appearance. Also, glass is generally heavier than plastic, contributing to the device's overall weight.
The nubia Focus Pro also offers the option of a back with a vegan leather finish. This provides a unique texture and tactile sensation, adding a touch of luxury to the phone. It also provides better grip and reduces the likelihood of accidental slips. However, it may not be as resistant to scratches and wear as the glass counterpart.
The ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro are available in two colors: Black and Gold. Each color brings its own personality and appeal:
- Black - Classic and Timeless: Black is a classic color that exudes elegance and sophistication. It suits professionals and those who prefer a sleek, understated look. It blends seamlessly in both casual and formal settings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Fingerprints and smudges are less visible on black, helping maintain a cleaner appearance over time.
- Gold - Bold and Luxurious: Gold stands out with a luxurious, eye-catching appeal. It suits individuals who like to make a statement and enjoy a bit of flair in their gadgets. It is often seen as a trendy, fashionable color, appealing to younger users and trendsetters. The gold finish can add a touch of elegance and opulence, making it a popular choice for those who want their phone to reflect a premium vibe.
In summary, the ZTE nubia Focus, with its balanced dimensions and solid weight, offers a premium feel and substantial build. The glass back enhances its aesthetic appeal and tactile experience. The choice of Black and Gold on both phones allows you to pick a style that best fits your personality, whether you prefer the classic sophistication of black or the bold luxury of gold. Overall, the nubia Focus and the nubia Focus Pro are designed to offer a comfortable and stylish experience for those who value both form and function in their smartphone.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
Well, the lack of an official IP rating on the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro is a bit like not having a raincoat for your device, right? Now, if you're the type who occasionally dances in the rain or takes your phone on outdoor adventures, it might be a smidgen concerning. But fear not! There are knight-in-shining-armor solutions.
First off, a protective case. A rugged, shock-absorbing case can be a game-changer, shielding your device from accidental drops and unforeseen tumbles. It's like giving your nubia Focus or nubia Focus Pro a superhero cape - it might not make it completely waterproof, but it certainly adds a layer of defense.
Next is a screen protector. Imagine it as your nubia Focus or nubia Focus Pro's invisible shield against scratches and nicks. A quality screen protector not only maintains the pristine look of your display but also provides an additional layer of protection against the occasional encounter with keys or loose change in your pocket.
As your phone does not have an official IP rating, a bit of common sense goes a long way. Avoid placing it precariously close to liquids - coffee cups and tech rarely make good companions. If you're caught in a sudden downpour, consider stashing your nubia Focus or nubia Focus Pro in a safe pocket or, better yet, inside that stylish bag of yours.
In essence, while the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro might not come with a "waterproof" badge, a thoughtful combination of a protective case, screen protector, and a dash of environmental mindfulness can keep your device gleaming and functional through the twists and turns of daily life.
Display
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
The 120 Hz displays on the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro ensure smooth scrolling and a fluid user experience. The 720p resolution of the nubia Focus might feel a bit underwhelming for pixel peepers, while the Pro variant's larger, sharper 1080p display enhances media consumption and gaming with crisp visuals and smooth performance.
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus | nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.56″ (167 mm) diagonal | 6.72″ (171 mm) diagonal |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120 Hz | IPS LCD, 120 Hz |
| Resolution (px) | 720×1612, about 289 PPI | 1080×2400, about 392 PPI |
The displays of the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro are pivotal to their user experience, offering a mix of features aimed at providing vibrant visuals and smooth performance. IPS (In-Plane Switching) LCDs are known for their excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, ensuring that colors remain consistent from various angles. IPS panels typically offer good brightness levels, making the display usable in various lighting conditions, including direct sunlight. While not as fast as OLED displays, IPS panels provide decent response times, reducing motion blur during fast-paced activities.
The 120 Hz refresh rate enhances the fluidity of interactions, making scrolling through web pages, social media feeds, and app interfaces noticeably smoother compared to the standard 60 Hz displays. A high refresh rate is particularly beneficial for gaming, providing a more responsive and immersive experience by reducing motion blur and screen tearing. Even in daily tasks, the 120 Hz refresh rate contributes to a more refined and responsive feel, elevating the overall user experience.
The nubia Focus's 720×1612 pixels resolution is sufficient for general tasks like web browsing, social media, and streaming videos at standard definitions. Text appears clear and readable, and images look reasonably sharp. However, while adequate for most uses, you might notice a lack of sharpness when viewing high-definition videos or detailed images. For content creators or those who consume a lot of HD media, this resolution may feel limiting, as finer details may not be as crisp compared to higher resolution displays.
The nubia Focus Pro, with a resolution of 1080×2400 pixels and a higher pixel density of about 392 PPI, ensures that images and text appear sharper and more detailed. It’s particularly advantageous for high-definition video streaming, photo editing, and gaming. The 1080p resolution is well-suited for a wide range of content, from HD videos and high-resolution photos to detailed graphics in games and applications. Users who prioritize visual fidelity will appreciate the enhanced clarity.
In conclusion, both devices leverage the strengths of IPS LCD technology and a high refresh rate to enhance user interactions, but the nubia Focus Pro stands out with its higher resolution, catering to users with more demanding visual needs.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Networking is the invisible thread that connects us all in the digital world! The vivo_V29_Pro, with its support for the networking quartet of GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G technologies, is like a well-connected socialite in the world of networks.
The ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro are equipped with comprehensive network support, including GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity.
GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality. And of course, the star of the show - 5G. It's the future, promising blazing-fast download and upload speeds, reduced latency, and a world of possibilities for future applications.
SIM
The ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro support dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by). This capability adds a layer of convenience for those juggling work and personal life on a single device.
Chipset
Powered by the Unisoc T760, the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro deliver reliable performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc T760 (6 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (1×2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 + 3×Cortex-A76 + 4×Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 |
The Unisoc T760 chipset is built on a 6-nm process, which indicates a relatively modern and efficient design. A smaller manufacturing process typically leads to better performance and energy efficiency, which is crucial for maintaining battery life and managing heat during intensive tasks.
The octa-core CPU in both devices features a combination of three types of cores designed to balance performance and efficiency:
- Performance Core (1×Cortex-A76 at 2.2 GHz): This core is designed for high-performance tasks. It handles demanding applications such as gaming, intensive multitasking, and complex computations. The high clock speed of 2.2 GHz ensures quick processing for tasks that require substantial computational power.
- Mid-tier Cores (3×Cortex-A76): These cores provide a balance between performance and power efficiency. They are suitable for moderately intensive tasks such as web browsing, social media, and standard productivity applications.
- Efficiency Cores (4×Cortex-A55): These cores are optimized for energy efficiency, handling background tasks, simple applications, and system-level operations that don’t require significant processing power. They help extend battery life by managing less demanding tasks effectively.
The Mali-G57 GPU provides adequate graphical performance for the entry-level and midrange segments. It handles everyday graphical tasks well, including:
- Multitasking: Switching between multiple apps and running several applications simultaneously.
- Media Consumption: Streaming videos, listening to music, and browsing social media.
- Productivity: Handling office applications, emails, and other productivity tools.
- Casual Gaming: Playing games that don’t require extreme graphical performance.
- Web Browsing: Fast and responsive browsing experience with quick loading of web pages and web applications.
However, while the chipset, CPU, and GPU in the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro handle most everyday tasks efficiently, certain tasks may demand a more powerful configuration, such as:
- High-End Gaming: Running the latest, graphically demanding games at high settings might be challenging. These games typically require a more powerful GPU and faster CPU cores to maintain high frame rates.
- Advanced Video Editing: Editing high-resolution videos, especially 4K content, requires substantial processing power and a more capable GPU for smooth playback and rendering.
- Complex Multitasking: Running multiple demanding applications simultaneously (e.g., intensive gaming while streaming and using heavy productivity apps) may benefit from more high-performance cores.
- Professional Applications: Tasks such as 3D modeling, rendering, and other compute-intensive applications often require more advanced hardware to perform efficiently.
In summary, the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro, with their Unisoc T760 chipset, octa-core CPU configuration, and Mali-G57 GPU, offer solid performance for the entry-level and midrange segments. They handle everyday tasks with ease and provide a good balance of performance and efficiency. However, users with needs for high-end gaming, advanced video editing, and other intensive applications might find the processing power of these devices slightly limiting, and might be better served by higher-end smartphones with more powerful configurations.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus | nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage Type | UFS 3.1 | UFS 3.1 |
| Memory Card Slot | No | Unspecified |
| RAM / Internal Storage Variants | 6 GB / 256 GB, 8 GB / 256 GB, 12 GB / 256 GB | 8 GB / 256 GB |
The choice of RAM (6 GB, 8 GB, or 12 GB) ensures smooth multitasking. The UFS 3.1 storage type ensures swift data access, contributing to a snappy user experience.
Cameras
The 108 MP main cameras in both ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro capture detailed photos. The nubia Focus features a 2 MP depth sensor, which adds bokeh effects. Its 5 MP selfie camera is decent but might not satisfy selfie aficionados.
The Pro variant's 32 MP selfie camera delivers high-quality self-portraits and video calls.
Rear Camera
The camera setups on the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro are designed to offer a versatile photography experience, catering to different needs and scenarios. Let's explore the specifics of their main camera configurations and the features they bring to the table. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus | nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Cameras | 2 (Dual) | 3 (Triple) |
| Resolution (Megapixels) | 108 MP (wide), 2 MP (depth) | 108 MP (wide), unspecified, unspecified |
| Focal Length | 24 mm, N/A | 24 mm, N/A, N/A |
| Aperture | f/1.8, f/2.4 | f/1.7, N/A, N/A |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.67″, N/A | 1/1.67″, N/A, N/A |
| Autofocus | PDAF, N/A | PDAF, N/A, N/A |
| Image Stabilization | N/A, N/A | OIS, N/A, N/A |
| Video Recording | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 30 fps | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 30 fps |
| Other Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
The 108 MP wide lens is the most versatile and commonly used lens, suitable for a range of photography styles from landscapes to portraits. Its 108-megapixel sensor captures an incredible amount of detail, which is useful for cropping images without losing quality. It ensures that photos are sharp and detailed. The relatively wide apertures (f/1.8 and f/1.7) allow more light to enter the sensor, enhancing low-light performance.
The 2 MP depth lens of the nubia Focus assists in creating a depth map of the scene, which is crucial for portrait mode shots where the subject is in focus, and the background is blurred. It improves the accuracy of edge detection around the subject, resulting in more natural and professional-looking portraits.
Among the camera features of both the phones, PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) allows the camera to quickly and accurately lock focus on subjects. This is especially beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects and ensuring sharpness in various lighting conditions. PDAF uses phase detection pixels on the sensor to calculate the correct focus rapidly, which is quicker and more accurate than contrast-detection autofocus used in older systems.
OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), available in nubia Focus Pro, compensates for small movements and shakes of the camera, which is particularly useful in low-light conditions or when shooting video. It stabilizes the image by physically adjusting the lens, allowing for clearer and sharper images. With OIS, the camera can use slower shutter speeds without introducing blur, which helps in capturing well-exposed images in dim environments.
The LED flash, present in both phones, provides additional light in low-light conditions, helping to illuminate subjects and reduce shadows. It’s useful for night photography and indoor shots where natural light is insufficient.
And HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology captures multiple exposures of the same scene and combines them to produce an image with balanced highlights and shadows. This is particularly useful in high-contrast scenes where parts of the image might be too dark or too bright. By merging different exposures, HDR preserves more details in both bright and dark areas, resulting in richer, more dynamic photos.
In conclusion, the camera setups on the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro offer a range of features designed to enhance photographic capabilities. The primary wide lens on both models, with its high-resolution sensor, ensures sharp and detailed images across various scenarios. The depth lens on the nubia Focus adds value to portrait photography, creating more professional-looking shots. The nubia Focus Pro goes a step further with the inclusion of OIS, providing significant advantages for low-light photography and video stabilization.
Front Camera
The selfie camera in both nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro sits inside a centered punch-hole cut-out on the top of the display. Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus | nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 5 MP (wide) | 32 MP |
| Aperture | f/2.2 | N/A |
| Video Recording | Yes | Yes |
Battery and Charging
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Non-removable |
| Capacity | 5000 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 33 W |
A 5000 mAh battery ensures all-day usage, and 33 W charging quickly replenishes the battery.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
| Specification | nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro |
|---|---|
| Loudspeaker | Yes |
| Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | Yes |
Connectivity
The ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro don't skimp on essential connectivity options. Both models feature WLAN capability, with the nubia Focus supporting dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac. This ensures you can connect to common Wi-Fi networks.
The ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro feature Bluetooth capability, with the nubia Focus supporting Bluetooth 5.0 with A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming and LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency.
The ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro feature GPS for accurate navigation and location services.
Depending upon the market where you get your device, the ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro may have NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your device interactions effortless.
Last but not least, the trusty USB-C 2.0 - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C 2.0 ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology.
Sensors
The ZTE nubia Focus comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the nubia Focus.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
The nubia Focus Pro features a fingerprint sensor, in addition to other, unspecified sensors.
In conclusion, the ZTE nubia Focus is perfect for users looking for a balanced, affordable smartphone with solid performance, a decent display, and a powerful camera setup. It's ideal for everyday use, offering a premium feel without the premium price tag.
For those wanting a bit more oomph, the nubia Focus Pro delivers enhanced display resolution, better camera capabilities, and overall superior performance. It stands out in the lower midrange market, offering better experiences at a reasonable price.
Both models excel in providing value for money, catering to different needs within their segments. Whether you prioritize affordability or slightly elevated specs, ZTE's offerings have got you covered.
Feature (top) image credit: ZTE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro release date?
The ZTE nubia Focus and nubia Focus Pro have been released in the 2nd quarter of 2024. They were announced on the 28th February, 2024.