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Huawei P10 Memory Review

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Memory Specifications of the Huawei P10

The Huawei P10 came in various configurations in terms of memory, catering to different regions and markets. Here is a breakdown of the P10’s memory specifications:

  1. RAM (Random Access Memory):
    • 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM: Most models of the Huawei P10 were equipped with 4 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, providing sufficient memory for multitasking, app handling, and smooth operation of the operating system.
  2. Internal Storage (ROM):
    • 64 GB / 32 GB Storage: The Huawei P10 was offered in two main storage variants—64 GB and 32 GB. The 64 GB variant was more commonly available globally, while the 32 GB version was typically sold in certain regions and may have been a more budget-conscious option.
    • UFS 2.1 / eMMC 5.1: Huawei used both UFS 2.1 and eMMC 5.1 storage technologies in the P10, but this became a controversial topic, as not all units shipped with the faster UFS 2.1. Devices with UFS 2.1 had significantly faster read and write speeds, which directly impacted the phone’s overall performance.
  3. Expandable Storage:
    • MicroSD Card Slot: The Huawei P10 also came with the option to expand storage via a microSD card, supporting up to 256 GB of external storage. This was a critical feature for users who needed additional storage space beyond the internal memory offered by the device.

RAM Performance and Multitasking

4 GB of LPDDR4 RAM was quite standard in 2017 for high-end smartphones, and it allowed the Huawei P10 to maintain smooth performance across a variety of tasks. LPDDR4, which stands for Low-Power Double Data Rate 4, is a type of RAM that operates at lower voltages, thereby reducing power consumption while improving performance compared to older LPDDR3 memory.

In practical use, the 4 GB of RAM enabled seamless multitasking and ensured that multiple apps could run simultaneously without significant lag or slowdown. The following are key aspects of RAM performance in the Huawei P10:

  1. App Management: The RAM in the Huawei P10 handled app switching with ease, keeping multiple apps open in the background and allowing for quick and responsive app transitions. This is particularly important for power users who frequently switch between applications like social media, messaging apps, and productivity tools.
  2. Gaming: For gaming, 4 GB of RAM was generally sufficient at the time of release. Popular games like Asphalt 8, PUBG Mobile, and Clash Royale ran smoothly without significant stuttering, thanks to the combination of RAM and the Kirin 960 chipset. However, for more graphic-intensive games, the performance was influenced more by the GPU (Mali-G71) and the processor.
  3. Memory Management: Huawei’s EMUI, based on Android, includes aggressive memory management techniques to prevent apps from consuming too much RAM in the background. While this improves battery life and performance for the average user, it occasionally leads to apps being force-closed prematurely, which might be frustrating for heavy multitaskers.
  4. Limitations: While 4 GB of RAM was sufficient at the time of the P10’s launch, the demands of modern apps and operating systems have increased since then. Today, flagship smartphones typically come with 6 GB, 8 GB, or even 12 GB of RAM, and as a result, the P10’s 4 GB of RAM may struggle with more resource-intensive tasks, especially in terms of future-proofing.

Internal Storage: UFS 2.1 vs. eMMC 5.1 Controversy

One of the most significant aspects of the Huawei P10’s memory system was its use of different storage technologies—UFS 2.1 and eMMC 5.1—across different units of the phone. The discrepancy caused quite a stir among users, as UFS 2.1 storage offered much faster read and write speeds than eMMC 5.1, impacting the device’s overall performance.

UFS 2.1 (Universal Flash Storage)

UFS 2.1 is a faster storage technology that offers improved read and write speeds compared to eMMC storage. For the Huawei P10, devices with UFS 2.1 storage delivered the following advantages:

  1. Faster App Launch Times: Apps stored on UFS 2.1 opened much faster compared to those on eMMC 5.1, significantly enhancing the user experience. This was especially noticeable for large apps and games that require a lot of storage space and bandwidth to operate efficiently.
  2. Improved Data Transfer Speeds: UFS 2.1 storage allowed for faster data transfer between the device and a computer or another storage device. This was a critical advantage for users who frequently transfer large files, such as videos and photos, from their smartphone to other devices.
  3. Faster Boot Times: Devices with UFS 2.1 could boot up faster than those with eMMC 5.1. This improved startup performance enhanced the overall smoothness and responsiveness of the P10.

eMMC 5.1 (Embedded MultiMediaCard)

While eMMC 5.1 was still considered reasonably fast at the time, it paled in comparison to UFS 2.1, particularly in terms of sequential and random read/write speeds. Here’s how eMMC 5.1 impacted the user experience:

  1. Slower Performance: Users with Huawei P10 units featuring eMMC 5.1 storage reported slower app loading times and reduced responsiveness when compared to UFS 2.1 models. This was especially noticeable when running large or resource-intensive apps.
  2. Lower Sequential Read/Write Speeds: eMMC 5.1 devices had lower read and write speeds when compared to UFS 2.1 models, affecting tasks like installing apps, copying files, and loading game assets. These operations took longer on eMMC 5.1 variants of the P10.
  3. Fragmentation: Over time, the performance of eMMC storage can degrade due to fragmentation, causing the device to slow down as more files are stored and deleted. This can lead to a more sluggish experience as the phone ages, making UFS 2.1 a more durable option for long-term performance.

Consumer Backlash

The discovery that Huawei used both UFS 2.1 and eMMC 5.1 storage in the P10 sparked significant backlash from consumers. Since there was no clear indication of which storage type would be in any given unit, many users felt deceived, especially those who expected the faster UFS 2.1 storage but ended up with the slower eMMC 5.1. Huawei eventually issued a statement clarifying the situation but did not offer a clear resolution for affected users, leaving many frustrated.

Expandable Storage: MicroSD Card Support

One area where the Huawei P10 shines is its inclusion of a microSD card slot, which allows users to expand their storage by up to 256 GB. This feature is increasingly rare in flagship devices today, as many manufacturers have moved away from offering expandable storage in favor of pushing users toward cloud services or higher-priced models with larger internal storage.

The microSD card slot in the Huawei P10 provides the following benefits:

  1. Cost-Effective Storage Expansion: For users who need more than the 32 GB or 64 GB of internal storage offered by the P10, adding a microSD card is a cost-effective solution. A high-capacity microSD card can be purchased at a relatively low price, providing ample space for photos, videos, music, and apps.
  2. Flexible Storage Management: Users can easily manage their files by moving photos, videos, and other media to the microSD card, freeing up the internal storage for apps and system files. This is particularly useful for users who capture a lot of high-resolution photos or 4K videos, which can quickly fill up the internal storage.
  3. App Support on MicroSD: While not all apps can be installed on external storage, some Android apps allow users to store data on a microSD card. This can help free up internal storage for more critical tasks, although the performance of apps stored on a microSD card is typically slower than those stored on internal UFS or eMMC storage.
  4. Backup and Data Transfer: The microSD card slot allows for easy data backup and transfer. Users can remove the card and insert it into another device or card reader to quickly transfer files. This feature is especially useful when upgrading to a new phone or sharing large files without using a cloud service.

Impact of Memory on Camera Performance

One of the standout features of the Huawei P10 is its dual-camera system, co-engineered with Leica. The camera system relies heavily on the device’s memory (both RAM and storage) to process and store high-resolution images and videos efficiently.

  1. Image Processing: The Huawei P10’s 4 GB of RAM plays a crucial role in the rapid processing of images captured by the dual-camera system. The P10 features a 12 MP RGB sensor and a 20 MP monochrome sensor, both working in tandem to produce sharp and detailed photos. The RAM ensures that the phone can quickly process high-resolution images, apply post-processing effects, and store the results without significant delays.
    • RAW Image Files: Photographers who use the P10 to shoot in RAW format will notice the phone’s memory plays a key role in handling these large file sizes. RAW images contain uncompressed data and require significant storage and RAM for processing. The more substantial the available RAM, the smoother and quicker the image processing, especially when applying filters, adjustments, or exporting them to other apps.
  2. 4K Video Recording: The P10 can record 4K video at 30fps, and this requires considerable processing power and memory to ensure smooth capture and playback. The combination of the Kirin 960 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and UFS 2.1 (or eMMC 5.1 in some variants) storage allows for seamless video capture without noticeable frame drops or delays. However, for units with the slower eMMC 5.1 storage, 4K video recording can be more prone to slower write speeds, leading to potential stuttering or reduced video quality over extended recording periods.
  3. Photo and Video Storage: High-resolution photos and 4K videos require significant amounts of storage. While the P10’s internal storage variants (32 GB or 64 GB) provide sufficient space for the average user, heavy photographers and videographers will quickly fill up the available space. Here, the microSD card support becomes invaluable, allowing users to offload media onto external storage without impacting performance.

Performance of EMUI and Android OS with 4 GB RAM

The Huawei P10 runs EMUI 5.1 on top of Android 7.0 Nougat, with updates later bringing it up to Android 9.0 Pie. EMUI, Huawei’s custom user interface, is known for its sleek design, numerous customization options, and aggressive memory management techniques. While these features improve battery life and overall system efficiency, they can sometimes affect user experience, especially in the context of memory management.

  1. Memory Optimization: Huawei’s EMUI 5.1 employs several memory optimization techniques designed to prioritize foreground apps and reduce the load of background processes. This helps to preserve system resources and improve the phone’s responsiveness. For example, EMUI can clear apps from memory that are not being actively used, freeing up more RAM for the currently running app.

    However, this can sometimes be a double-edged sword. While it helps prevent sluggishness and improves battery life, EMUI’s aggressive memory management can sometimes close background apps prematurely, which may frustrate users who expect certain apps (e.g., messaging apps or fitness trackers) to run continuously in the background.

  2. App Launch Speeds: With 4 GB of RAM and a streamlined EMUI interface, the Huawei P10 offers fast app launch speeds, especially on devices with UFS 2.1 storage. This ensures a smooth user experience during everyday use. Users can open and switch between apps such as email, messaging, social media, and browsing with minimal delay. However, on devices equipped with eMMC 5.1 storage, users might notice slightly slower launch times and lag during app transitions due to the slower read/write speeds.
  3. Future Software Updates and RAM Limitations: One of the challenges the P10 faces is that as new updates to Android OS and apps are released, the demand for memory increases. Modern apps are more resource-intensive, which could push the limits of the P10’s 4 GB RAM in future usage. As of Android 9.0 Pie, the phone still functions well, but future updates beyond this version might strain the device’s memory further.

Huawei P10’s Storage Capacity: Real-World Use

Storage capacity is a key consideration for most smartphone users, and the Huawei P10’s internal storage options (32 GB or 64 GB) are crucial in determining its ability to store apps, media, and other data.

  1. 32 GB Model:
    • The 32 GB model of the P10 is somewhat limited for users who store a lot of apps, games, and media content (photos, videos, music). Out of the box, a portion of this storage is occupied by the operating system and pre-installed apps, leaving about 20–24 GB available for the user.
    • Heavy app users or those who frequently download large files (e.g., 4K videos or high-quality games) will find themselves running out of storage quickly. In such cases, the microSD card slot is essential for offloading files and maintaining internal storage space.
  2. 64 GB Model:
    • The 64 GB variant provides more breathing room for users. With about 50–55 GB of usable space after accounting for the OS and pre-installed apps, most users will find this model more comfortable for everyday use. The added storage capacity makes it easier to store high-resolution images, 4K videos, and large apps without worrying about running out of space.
  3. Expandable Storage:
    • The ability to add up to 256 GB via a microSD card provides an excellent backup for users who need additional storage. This is particularly useful for individuals who take a lot of photos and videos or download large amounts of media content.
    • However, it’s important to note that apps cannot be fully moved to the microSD card. While some app data can be stored externally, the bulk of the app and system data remains on the internal storage, limiting the microSD’s effectiveness for freeing up space for apps.

Comparative Analysis with Modern Smartphones

When evaluating the Huawei P10’s memory in the context of modern smartphones, it’s clear that the device holds up well for its time but falls short in some areas when compared to more recent flagships.

  1. RAM: While 4 GB of RAM was a standard and even generous amount in 2017, many modern smartphones now feature 6 GB, 8 GB, or 12 GB of RAM. This increase in memory allows newer devices to handle more apps simultaneously, improve multitasking, and future-proof devices for more resource-intensive applications.
  2. Internal Storage: The 32 GB and 64 GB storage options were sufficient in the P10’s release era, but modern smartphones often start with 128 GB or 256 GB as standard. This shift reflects the growing demand for storage space due to higher-resolution media, larger app sizes, and an increasing reliance on smartphones for productivity tasks.
  3. Storage Technology: The use of UFS 2.1 in some P10 models was competitive at the time, offering fast read and write speeds. However, newer devices have adopted UFS 3.0 or UFS 3.1, which deliver even faster performance, reducing app load times and improving file transfer speeds further.
  4. Expandable Storage: Many modern smartphones, particularly high-end models from companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google, have removed the option for expandable storage. In this regard, the Huawei P10 stands out as it continues to offer microSD support—a feature that appeals to users who need additional space without relying on cloud storage or purchasing higher internal storage variants.

Longevity of Memory Performance

As smartphones age, their memory systems tend to face more challenges in keeping up with new apps and system updates. In the case of the Huawei P10, the device’s 4 GB of RAM and its varying storage technologies (UFS 2.1 or eMMC 5.1) present a mixed picture of longevity.

  1. RAM Limitations Over Time: While 4 GB of RAM was more than adequate in 2017, newer apps and system updates demand more memory, potentially leading to slower performance over time. Users may notice occasional slowdowns, especially when running resource-heavy applications or multitasking with numerous apps open.
  2. Storage Wear and Tear: As with any flash storage, both UFS 2.1 and eMMC 5.1 storage degrade over time due to the nature of flash memory cells. Frequent writing, deleting, and rewriting of data can wear out storage, causing slower read/write speeds as the phone ages. This may be particularly noticeable in the eMMC 5.1 models, which are already slower than their UFS 2.1 counterparts.
  3. Expandable Storage as a Lifesaver: For users who rely on their P10 for photography or video recording, the microSD card slot offers an essential fallback. By offloading media to external storage, users can extend the life of the phone’s internal storage and maintain performance for longer.

Conclusion

The Huawei P10’s memory—comprising 4 GB of RAM and internal storage options of 32 GB or 64 GB—offers a solid foundation for the device’s performance. While the RAM provides smooth multitasking and app management, the controversy surrounding the use of UFS 2.1 and eMMC 5.1 storage created a divided user experience, with UFS 2.1 units delivering faster performance. Despite this, the inclusion of expandable storage via microSD is a significant plus, especially as many modern flagship smartphones no longer offer this feature.

Overall, while the Huawei P10’s memory configuration was competitive at the time of release, it shows signs of aging when compared to modern smartphones with more advanced memory and storage technologies. The 4 GB of RAM, though sufficient for many tasks, is starting to feel limited as applications and operating systems become more demanding. Additionally, the split between UFS 2.1 and eMMC 5.1 storage technologies meant that users with the latter experience slower performance over time, especially in memory-intensive tasks such as video recording and gaming.

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