nubia Z50S Pro review

Competition

The nubia Z50S Pro starts at €650 in Europe for the 12GB/256GB version, and goes up to €800 for the top-spec 16GB/1TB model - that's directly from nubia. The same numbers also apply to UK and US prices in their respective currencies. When writing this, there's a discount of 70 units of each currency, which couldn't hurt. We reckon the base memory option is plenty, though you're obviously free to make your own storage decisions.

The first immediate rival we can think of is the OnePlus 11 - so what if the 12 was just announced. The 11 has an IP64 rating (not quite submersible, but better than nothing), more easily likeable software (and likely longer update policy), and faster charging. The nubia wins for endurance, and it's seemingly the better cameraphone.

The Xiaomi 13T Pro is another solid alternative. This one has a proper IP68 rating, a nicer display and faster charging. The comparable battery life may not help settle this, and there's no clear camera favorite either. The Xiaomi is a little cheaper for a matching 12GB/256GB version, and doubling the storage doesn't add too much to the price tag, so that could untie this knot.

The Motorola Edge 40 Pro goes for a little over €700 for a 12GB/256GB spec, so it's a bit pricier than the nubia. Its US-specific alter ego, the Edge+ (2023), is apparently continually discounted to $600 (for an 8GB/512GB configuration), so it may make more sense there, when comparing against the nubia. Either way, the Moto will get you wireless charging, IP68-rated dust and water resistance, and Ready For PC-like functionality - to which the Z50S Pro has no answer. Perhaps the nubia is the better cameraphone in this bout, though.

You can also get wireless charging, an IP68 rating, and PC-like functionality if you opt for the Galaxy S23 FE; plus, Samsung's software is more refined, and you'll be getting more updates. However, sacrifices will be made, going the Galaxy route - shorter batter life, slower charging, last year's chipset, not quite as capable cameras. At $530, the FE is a bargain, though, only not so much at €700 - all for 8GB/128GB spec.

OnePlus 11 • Xiaomi 13T Pro • Motorola Edge 40 Pro • Motorola Edge+ (2023) • Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

Verdict

The long-lasting special formula for ZTE/nubia cameras scores points for the Z50S Pro as well - the 35mm primary is thoroughly great, be it in daylight or in the dark. Offering top quality at an unusual focal length (for a smartphone) is sure to attract a specific crowd that no one else really caters to with dedicated efforts. It's not all roses, though, and to keep costs down, Nubia went with a rather uninspiring telephoto camera; plus, the selfie unit isn't too amazing, either.

Some of the choices surrounding the nubia's body don't quite work for us like the blocky design which made the phone awkward to handle, if admittedly attractive-looking. The lack of wireless charging and IP rating don't work in the Z50S Pro's favor either. And that slider, while a good idea, is limited in its functionality - at least in the software build of our review unit. The software, actually, could be what sets the phone back - key rivals offer more refined UX.

That said, even if the Z50S Pro might appear to be a one-trick pony, our experience with it proved that not to be the case - in fact, it was rock-solid on the fundamentals. We got great battery life out of it, charging was fast, the display was all sorts of excellent and the speakers were louder than most. With that in mind, the nubia Z50S Pro is a compelling all-rounder with a standout camera - it's worth considering.

Pros

• Eye-catching design, solid build, slider can be useful.
• Excellent display - sharp, bright, color-accurate.
• Above average battery life, speedy charging.
• Loud stereo speakers.
• Flagship-grade performance, great stability too.
• Excellent main camera across all shooting conditions, 35mm focal length can be just what you're looking for.

Cons

• No IP rating.
• No wireless charging.
• A little bulky, kinda slippery, not very comfortable to hold.
• More options for the slider could be even more useful.
• No HFR gaming, less polished software than competitors.
• Wide gap in coverage between ultrawide and main camera.
• So-so telephoto and selfie cameras.