nubia Z80 Ultra Review: A Camera System with a Twist
The nubia Z80 Ultra's camera system is a bit of a rollercoaster, with a mix of familiar and surprising features. Let's dive into the details and see what makes this phone's camera stand out (or not).
The Camera Trio: A Blend of Old and New
- Main Camera: The 35mm equivalent lens is a trusty companion, capturing sharp images with great detail and natural subject separation. It's a reliable choice for everyday photography.
- Telephoto Camera: 70mm is the hidden gem here. While the default 85mm setting is a bit soft, tapping twice on the button reveals the true focal length. It's a versatile option for close-ups and portraits.
- Ultrawide Camera: 18mm is the new 13mm! This camera offers a wider field of view, but the lens isn't as wide as advertised. It's a decent choice for landscape shots, but don't expect the same level of detail as the main camera.
Selfies: A Trade-off for Uninterrupted Display
The underdisplay selfie camera is a trade-off for a seamless display. It's serviceable, but don't expect stunning results. Low-light selfies will be a challenge.
Low-Light Performance: Impressive, But Not Perfect
The Z80 Ultra shines in low light, with well-judged exposures and good detail retention. The main camera and ultrawide camera excel, while the telephoto camera holds its own.
Video Recording: Impressively Good, But with Some Caveats
The Z80 Ultra records video at impressive resolutions, but stabilization can be hit or miss. The main camera shines with excellent detail and color, while the ultrawide camera is decent, but the 24mm zoom level is a bit soft. The telephoto camera delivers vibrant colors and good detail.
The Camera Interface: A Blend of Convenience and Customization
The camera interface offers a mix of convenience and customization. The two-stage shutter release button is a mechanical delight, and the slider on the left adds street mode for manual focus and exposure control. It's a photographer's dream, but smartphone purists might miss the dedicated physical buttons.
The Verdict: A Camera System with Potential
The nubia Z80 Ultra's camera system is a work in progress. It offers a blend of familiar and innovative features, but some inconsistencies persist. It's a phone for those who appreciate a camera system that's both versatile and customizable.
