Infinix is a company that I put in the same category as Realme. They offer some of the most affordable devices in the market while trying to optimize the value that you receive in return — plus, they also majorly focus on developing markets where affordability is a major consideration. So, while you might not have heard of Infinix, many markets have.
Infinix just launched its new Zero 40 series, which includes the Infinix Zero 40 4G and Zero 40 5G. There’s a lot more to both phones than a simple difference in their network capabilities, so let’s dive right into what makes each device special.
The Infinix Zero 40 4G And 5G Offer A Whole Lot Of Value
At first glance, one might think that the only difference between the Infinix Zero 4G and the Infinix Zero 5G is, well, that one has 5G and the other doesn’t. Unfortunately (or fortunately?), it’s not as simple as that, and the 5G model actually brings quite a few improvements over the 4G model. Let’s get into the fine print on these purpose-built vlogging smartphones.
The Designs
The Infinix Zero 40 4G and 5G have a similar design. There’s a large circular camera module at the upper part of the back panel, an LED flash in the upper left corner, and a minimal dual-tone design. One notable difference is that the Zero 40 4G has a dark window covering the entire camera module while the Zero 40 5G leaves each lens exposed. Odd choice, since I like the lower-end phone’s design more.
Both devices come with IP54 certification. The 4G model comes in Misty Aqua, Blossom Glow, and Rock Black colorways, while the 5G option shares Rock Black but also has a Violet Garden and Moving Titanium option.
The Screens
Both devices have very similar displays — 6.78-inch AMOLED units with an FHD+ resolution. Both devices have fast refresh rates, with 120Hz on the Zero 40 4G and 144Hz on the Zero 40 5G. Both can go as high as 1,300 nits in high-brightness mode.
The Internal Hardware
The internal hardware is perhaps where you’ll see the biggest distinctions between the two devices. They’re similar enough in that they both offer 256GB and 512GB storage configurations, however, not only does the Zero 40 4G settle for UFS 2.2 storage while the 5G model goes for UFS 3.1, but the 4G model also has to make do with 8GB of RAM as opposed to 12GB with the 5G option.
The SoC at play is also different. The MediaTek Helio G100 powers the Zero 40 4G but the Zero 40 5G gets the more powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8200 Ultimate. The Zero 40 5G also gets Wi-Fi 6E.
In the battery realm, both phones share a 5,000 mAh cell with 45W fast charging. The Zero 40 5G gets 20W wireless charging too.
The Cameras
Both phones have the exact same camera hardware but the better processor in the Zero 40 5G enables some additional things that the 4G model simply doesn’t get.
The primary camera on both is a 108MP unit with OIS, paired with a 50MP ultrawide — pretty impressive for the price range — and a 2MP depth sensor. On the front is a 50MP primary lens, needed for the vlogging focus Infinix intended for these phones. The “ProStable” video tech should make them even better for that purpose.
Now, part of the perks of a much better SoC is that the 5G phone (would have been nice if Infinix just called it the Zero 40 Pro/Plus or something) has support for recording 4K at 60fps (on the front and back) and FHD at up to 240fps. However, the Zero 40 4G can only record up to 1440p at 30fps and FHD at 60fps. Content creators need to keep that in mind.
The Software
We can’t walk past without talking about some of the software capabilities of the Infinix Zero 40 phones. One of the biggest aspects is their ability to link up with your GoPro camera thanks to a GoPro Mode in the camera app. You can use this to adjust the settings of your GoPro camera and to monitor its footage as well. All of that is built right in.
Needless to say, as a device released in 2024, there are quite a few AI features on this device too, such as an AI Eraser, an AI Wallpaper Generator, and a Smart Cutout feature. You’ll get up to the Android 16 update as well, along with three years of security updates.
The Pricing
One big question is how much you’re going to need to hand over to Infinix to get these smartphones. The Infinix Zero 40 4G will start at $289 and the Infinix Zero 40 5G will cost $399.
For a $110 difference, you get more RAM, faster storage, wireless charging, a higher refresh rate on the screen, a much better SoC, and 4K video support. Does that justify the price difference though? It’s a big jump but I’d personally consider it to be worth it.
