While brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo often dominate the headlines, the Chinese smartphone market is a hotbed of innovation. Many manufacturers produce flagship devices that are impressive yet often underappreciated.
These “underrated” flagships feature remarkable specifications, unique features, and competitive pricing, making them excellent choices for anyone seeking a high-end smartphone experience. This article explores three such devices launched in 2024: Nubia Z70 Ultra, Meizu 21 Pro, and Tecno Phantom V Fold 2.
- Nubia Z70 Ultra
The Nubia Z70 Ultra stands out for its focus on imaging and raw performance. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, it boasts up to 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, making it a true powerhouse. Its 6.85-inch 1.5K OLED display offers a 144Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 2000 nits, delivering a stunning visual experience.
The device is equipped with an impressive camera system, including:
A 50MP Sony IMX906 main sensor with variable aperture (f/1.59-f/4.0).
A 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens with macro capabilities.
A 64MP periscope telephoto lens.
Additionally, it features a 16MP under-display front camera for a seamless, uninterrupted screen.
Other highlights include:
AI-powered Nebula OS features, such as real-time multilingual translation.
IP68 and IP69 water and dust resistance ratings.
A 6150mAh battery with 80W fast charging.
While global availability might be limited, the Z70 Ultra presents a compelling alternative to mainstream flagships.
- Meizu 21 Pro
The Meizu 21 Pro is another strong contender on this list, emphasizing a sleek, flat design crafted with premium materials, including Meizu Titan Glass 2.0 and IP68 certification. Its 6.79-inch 2K+ LTPO display features a 120Hz refresh rate, a 21:9 aspect ratio, and peak brightness of 1250 nits for an immersive viewing experience.
Key features:
Camera system:
A 50MP main sensor with OIS and EIS.
A 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens.
A 10MP optical telephoto lens.
Ultrasonic fingerprint scanner with heart rate detection.
Performance-wise, it is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, with up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. The 5050mAh battery supports:
80W wired charging.
50W wireless charging.
10W reverse wireless charging.
Running on Flyme OS (based on Android 14), it offers a customizable and AI-enhanced user experience.
- Tecno Phantom V Fold 2
The Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 marks a significant leap in foldable smartphone technology. Its book-style design features a 6.42-inch external screen and a 7.85-inch internal foldable display, both with a 120Hz refresh rate. The device is noticeably thinner and lighter than its predecessor, making it more practical for daily use.
Key highlights:
MediaTek Dimensity 9000+ chipset, paired with 24GB RAM and 512GB storage.
5750mAh battery with 70W fast charging and 15W wireless charging.
Camera system:
Triple 50MP rear cameras (main, ultra-wide, and portrait with 2x optical zoom).
Dual 32MP front cameras.
Tecno also enhances productivity with features like a dock for multitasking and support for the Phantom V Pen stylus. It runs on HiOS (based on Android 14), integrating AI-powered tools such as Google Gemini-powered assistant, Ella, and AI-driven image editing and productivity features.
Conclusion
While these three smartphones may be overshadowed by more prominent brands, they offer compelling propositions for discerning consumers:
Nubia Z70 Ultra excels in imaging and performance.
Meizu 21 Pro showcases refined design and premium build quality.
Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 pushes the boundaries of foldable technology with AI-driven features.
These devices highlight the relentless innovation in China’s smartphone market and offer unique, attractive options for global users.
