Tech Blog #204 | Infinix Zero 40 5G - Continuously Improving...

The Infinix Zero 40 5G enters the competitive mid-range smartphone market at a starting price of approximately $340, positioning it as a strong player with features that appeal to both casual users and content creators. However, its performance and specifications must be evaluated against other smartphones in the same price bracket to determine its true value.

The Zero 40 5G features a sleek design with a 6.78-inch LTPS AMOLED display that supports a 144Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and an impressive 93.4% screen-to-body ratio thanks to the curved edges. It enhances its aesthetic vibe. It is lightweight at 195 grams and phone's build quality does not feel premium compared to contenders like the Realme 11 Pro+ or Samsung Galaxy A54, which offer more robust materials and finishes. The display is bright enough for indoor use but can struggle under direct sunlight, which may be a drawback for users who frequently use their phones outdoors.

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 Ultimate chipset, the Zero 40 5G delivers solid performance for day-to-day tasks and gaming. It comes with 12GB of RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512GB, utilizing UFS 3.1 technology for faster data access. While it performs well in most scenarios, it falls short compared to competitors like the Poco F5, which features a more powerful Snapdragon processor, providing better gaming performance without overheating issues during extended use.

The Zero 40 5G features a 108MP main camera, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor, along with a 50MP front camera capable of recording in 4K at 60fps. This is a notable feature, especially for vloggers, as few phones in this price range offer such capabilities. However, while the camera setup performs well in good lighting conditions thanks to its high Megapixel count, it struggles with dynamic range and low-light photography when compared to competitors like the Google Pixel 6a, which excels in these areas.

The device is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, offering decent longevity but not exceptional when put through extreme battery testing. It supports 45W wired charging and 20W wireless charging, which is competitive but not groundbreaking. In contrast, devices like the OnePlus Nord CE3 Lite provide faster charging options, making them more appealing for users who prioritize quick top-ups. However, having wireless charging makes a smartphone more premium.

Running on Android 14 with XOS 14.5, the software experience is relatively clean, lacking bloatware that often plagues other brands' Android skins. They have baked some AI into that skin too. Infinix promises two major Android updates, which is good; however, brands like Samsung offer longer support periods, making them more attractive for long-term users.

The Infinix Zero 40 5G offers an impressive array of features for its price point—particularly in display quality and camera hardware. However, it faces stiff competition from established brands that provide superior performance and build quality. For users who like vlogging capabilities or an attractive design at an affordable price, it could be a suitable choice; however, those seeking top-tier performance or durability might find better options elsewhere.