Huawei P30 Vs Huawei P30 Pro

Huawei P30
Huawei P30
Starting at

£129.00

£399.00 new

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Huawei P30 Pro
Huawei P30 Pro
Starting at

£154.00

£489.20 new

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Ratings

The Huawei P30 and P30 Pro, both released in March 2019, are flagship smartphones that share a common foundation but cater to slightly different user needs. While both run on the Android operating system with Huawei's EMUI interface, the P30 Pro distinguishes itself with a larger display, a more advanced camera system, and enhanced battery capabilities.

Scores

Durability

As devices from 2019, both the Huawei P30 and P30 Pro have received their major Android and EMUI updates, and ongoing software support is now primarily for security patches. Their practical lifespan will depend on individual usage and the availability of replacement parts.

  • Software Longevity: Both models have reached the end of their major OS update cycle, meaning future Android versions are unlikely. Security updates may continue for a limited period.
  • Repairability: Both devices generally offer moderate repairability, with common components like batteries and screens being replaceable by skilled technicians. The availability of parts may decrease over time.
  • Expected Lifespan: Users can expect these phones to remain functional for everyday tasks for several more years, though performance for demanding new applications may diminish.

Year of Release

2019

2019

Compatible with latest Update

No

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the Huawei P30 and P30 Pro are equipped with the same capable processor, offering a consistent performance experience across the two models for most tasks.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: Both devices handle daily applications, web browsing, and social media smoothly, providing a fluid user experience.
  • Multitasking: With ample RAM, both phones manage multiple open applications effectively, allowing for quick switching without significant slowdowns.
  • Gaming Performance: Demanding mobile games run well on both the P30 and P30 Pro, though newer, graphically intensive titles might require lower settings for optimal frame rates as the hardware ages.

Memory

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both the Huawei P30 and P30 Pro feature vibrant OLED displays, offering excellent contrast and color reproduction, though they differ in size and overall viewing experience.

  • Display Technology: Both phones utilize OLED panels, which provide deep blacks and vivid colors, enhancing media consumption and general viewing.
  • Screen Size: The P30 features a 6.1-inch display, offering a more compact feel, while the P30 Pro has a larger 6.47-inch screen, providing more screen real estate for content.
  • Clarity and Brightness: Both displays offer Full HD+ resolution, ensuring sharp text and images. They also provide sufficient brightness for comfortable outdoor viewing in most conditions.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2340

Screen type

OLED

OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems are a primary differentiator between these two models, with the P30 Pro offering more advanced capabilities, particularly in zoom and low-light performance.

  • Main Camera: Both phones feature a high-resolution main sensor, excelling in capturing detailed photos in various lighting conditions. The P30 Pro's wider aperture allows it to gather more light, slightly improving low-light shots.
  • Zoom Capabilities: The P30 offers 3x optical zoom, while the P30 Pro boasts a more powerful 5x optical zoom through its periscope lens, allowing for greater reach without significant loss of quality.
  • Video and Audio: Both devices record stable video at up to 4K resolution. The P30 Pro includes a Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor for improved depth sensing in portraits and augmented reality applications.

Main camera

40 megapixels

40 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

32 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and camera, several practical features distinguish the Huawei P30 and P30 Pro, impacting daily usability and durability.

  • Battery and Charging: The P30 Pro has a larger battery capacity (4200 mAh vs. 3650 mAh) and supports faster wired charging (40W vs. 22.5W), as well as wireless and reverse wireless charging, features absent on the standard P30.
  • Durability and Ports: The P30 Pro offers superior dust and water resistance with an IP68 rating, compared to the P30's IP53 splash resistance. The P30 retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which the P30 Pro omits.
  • Connectivity: Both models support modern connectivity standards including 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring reliable wireless performance for data and accessories.

Weight

165 g

192 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.47

Network

4G

4G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

USB-C

User feedback often praises both the Huawei P30 and P30 Pro for their strong camera performance, particularly their low-light capabilities, which were notable at their release. The P30 Pro frequently receives commendation for its exceptional zoom and extended battery life, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts and heavy users.

Some common criticisms for both models include the lack of stereo speakers and, for the P30 Pro, the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack. The curved display edges of the P30 Pro, while aesthetically pleasing, can sometimes lead to accidental touches for some users.

Users prioritizing a more compact device with a traditional headphone jack may find the Huawei P30 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value a larger screen, superior camera zoom, enhanced battery endurance, and higher water resistance will likely lean towards the Huawei P30 Pro. Both devices, available as quality-assured refurbished options, present an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking capable smartphones without the premium price of new models, enabling informed and sustainable choices.