ZTE Blade V8 Pro

amazon ZTE Blade V8 Pro reviews

Introduction

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro, released in January 2017, was a smartphone designed to offer a premium experience at a budget-friendly price. It was positioned in the highly competitive mid-range market, aiming to provide users with a solid combination of performance, features, and build quality without breaking the bank. In this review, we’ll delve deep into the various aspects of the ZTE Blade V8 Pro, including its design, display, performance, camera, battery life, software, and overall value for money.

Design and Build Quality

Aesthetic and Ergonomics

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro boasts a design that is both functional and visually appealing. With dimensions of 156 x 77 x 9.1 mm (6.14 x 3.03 x 0.36 in) and a weight of 185 grams (6.53 oz), the device is relatively slim and easy to hold despite its large size. The phone features a metal frame sandwiched between a textured plastic back and a glass front, giving it a sturdy feel while maintaining a level of sophistication. The textured back adds to the grip, making it less likely to slip out of your hand.

The phone’s front is dominated by a 5.5-inch display, with capacitive buttons at the bottom and a front-facing camera, earpiece, and sensors at the top. The fingerprint sensor is embedded in the physical home button, flanked by capacitive keys for back and recent apps. This layout is standard but effective, ensuring that the phone is easy to navigate.

Build Quality

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro is well-built for a budget device. The metal frame adds to the phone’s rigidity, giving it a premium feel that belies its price point. The textured plastic back is resistant to fingerprints and smudges, and the overall construction feels solid. There are no creaks or flexes when pressure is applied, indicating good build quality. The device also comes with a hybrid SIM slot, allowing for either dual SIM functionality or the use of one SIM and one microSD card, which adds to its versatility.

Display

Size and Resolution

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro features a 5.5-inch Full HD IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of around 401 pixels per inch (PPI). This resolution was considered standard for mid-range devices at the time of its release and offers sharp and clear visuals suitable for everyday use.

Display Quality

The display quality of the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is commendable, especially given its price range. The IPS LCD panel provides good color accuracy, with vibrant colors and decent contrast levels. Viewing angles are solid, with minimal color shifting when viewed from different angles. The brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, though visibility in direct sunlight could be better. The display is also responsive to touch, with no noticeable lag or stuttering.

The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which offers some resistance to scratches and minor impacts. While not the latest version of Gorilla Glass at the time, it still provides a reasonable level of durability.

Performance

Processor and Memory

Under the hood, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 625, an octa-core processor clocked at 2.0 GHz. The Snapdragon 625 was known for its balance between performance and power efficiency, making it a popular choice for mid-range smartphones. It is paired with the Adreno 506 GPU, which handles graphics tasks.

The phone comes with 3 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for handling everyday tasks such as web browsing, social media, and light gaming. In terms of storage, the device offers 32 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 256 GB via a microSD card.

Real-World Performance

In real-world use, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro performs admirably for a mid-range device. The Snapdragon 625 processor ensures smooth performance in day-to-day tasks, with apps opening quickly and multitasking being handled without any major issues. The 3 GB of RAM allows for decent multitasking capabilities, though heavy users may occasionally experience some slowdowns if too many apps are running in the background.

Gaming performance is acceptable for a device in this price range. Casual games run smoothly, while more demanding titles may require lower graphics settings to maintain a playable frame rate. The Adreno 506 GPU is not designed for high-end gaming but handles most games available at the time reasonably well.

Overall, the performance of the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is in line with expectations for a mid-range device. It offers a smooth and responsive experience for most everyday tasks, though it may struggle with more intensive applications or heavy multitasking.

Camera

Dual Camera Setup

One of the standout features of the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is its dual-camera setup on the rear. The phone is equipped with two 13 MP sensors, one for capturing color information and the other for capturing depth data. This setup allows for features such as bokeh effects, where the background is blurred while the subject remains in focus, mimicking the effect typically achieved with DSLR cameras.

The camera app offers several modes, including a manual mode that allows users to adjust settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and white balance. There’s also a dual-camera mode specifically for capturing photos with bokeh effects.

Camera Performance

In well-lit conditions, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro’s cameras perform well, capturing images with good detail and accurate colors. The autofocus is relatively fast, and the shutter response is quick, making it easy to capture moments on the go. The bokeh effect is decent, though it can sometimes struggle to accurately separate the subject from the background, resulting in some areas being unintentionally blurred.

In low-light conditions, the camera performance declines, as is common with most mid-range smartphones. Images tend to have more noise, and details can be lost in darker areas. The dual-LED flash helps to some extent, but it cannot fully compensate for the limitations of the camera sensor in low-light scenarios.

The front-facing camera is an 8 MP sensor, which is adequate for selfies and video calls. It performs reasonably well in good lighting, capturing clear and detailed images. However, like the rear cameras, it struggles in low-light conditions, where noise becomes more pronounced.

Video Recording

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro is capable of recording 4K video at 30 frames per second, which is impressive for a device in this price range. The video quality is good in well-lit environments, with sharp details and accurate colors. The phone also supports 1080p recording at 30 frames per second, which may be more suitable for everyday use.

However, the lack of optical image stabilization (OIS) means that videos can be shaky if the phone is not held steady. Electronic image stabilization (EIS) helps to some extent, but it is not as effective as OIS. Overall, the video recording capabilities of the ZTE Blade V8 Pro are solid for its class, offering good quality footage for casual use.

Battery Life

Battery Specifications

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro is equipped with a 3,140 mAh non-removable battery, which is in line with other smartphones in its category. The battery is designed to provide all-day usage on a single charge, depending on the user’s habits and the intensity of their usage.

Battery Performance

In real-world usage, the battery life of the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is generally satisfactory. With moderate use, including web browsing, social media, occasional gaming, and streaming video, the phone can easily last through a full day. More intensive tasks, such as extended gaming sessions or heavy use of GPS, will drain the battery more quickly, but the device should still make it through most of the day on a single charge.

The phone supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0, allowing for faster charging times compared to standard charging. While it’s not the latest version of Quick Charge, it still reduces the amount of time needed to recharge the battery, which is a welcome feature for users on the go.

Software and User Interface

Operating System

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro originally shipped with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, with ZTE’s custom user interface layered on top. While not the latest version of Android at the time, Marshmallow was still a capable operating system, offering a range of features and improvements over previous versions.

ZTE’s custom skin includes a few modifications to the stock Android experience, with some added features and customizations. The interface is relatively clean, with minimal bloatware, which is a plus for users who prefer a more streamlined experience.

Software Features

ZTE included a few software features to enhance the user experience. The phone comes with a built-in file manager, a custom camera app with manual controls, and a number of utility apps. There is also support for gestures, such as double-tapping the screen to wake the device or using three fingers to take a screenshot.

The overall software experience is smooth, with the Snapdragon 625 processor handling the custom skin without any major issues. However, the lack of regular software updates from ZTE means that users may miss out on some of the latest Android features and security patches.

Connectivity

Network and Connectivity Options

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro supports a wide range of connectivity options:

• 4G LTE: The device is compatible with 4G LTE networks, providing fast mobile data speeds for web browsing, streaming, and downloads.
• Wi-Fi: It supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, allowing for stable and fast connections on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.2 is included for connecting to wireless accessories and peripherals, such as headphones, speakers, and fitness trackers.
• GPS: The device features GPS with A-GPS, GLONASS, and BDS support, ensuring accurate location tracking for navigation and other location-based services.
• NFC: The ZTE Blade V8 Pro also includes NFC (Near Field Communication), which is particularly useful for mobile payments and quick pairing with compatible devices.
• USB Type-C: The phone is equipped with a USB Type-C port, a modern and reversible connector that supports fast data transfer and charging. This is a significant upgrade over the older micro-USB standard commonly found on budget devices at the time.

Call Quality and Audio

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro performs well in terms of call quality. Calls are generally clear, with good volume and minimal distortion on both ends. The device also supports HD Voice, which enhances call quality on compatible networks.

The loudspeaker, located on the bottom edge of the phone, provides decent audio output for a budget device. It’s sufficiently loud for calls on speakerphone, casual media consumption, and notifications. However, like many smartphones in this price range, the audio quality from the loudspeaker can be somewhat tinny, lacking in bass and depth. For a better audio experience, using headphones or external speakers is recommended.

The phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that is becoming increasingly rare in modern smartphones. This is a welcome inclusion for users who prefer wired headphones or have a collection of audio gear that relies on the traditional headphone jack.

Security Features

Fingerprint Sensor

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro comes equipped with a fingerprint sensor embedded in the physical home button on the front of the device. The fingerprint sensor is fast and accurate, providing a reliable way to unlock the phone and authenticate purchases or app logins. It’s a feature that adds a layer of convenience and security, especially considering the device’s budget-friendly price point.

Other Security Options

In addition to the fingerprint sensor, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro offers standard Android security features such as PIN, pattern, and password locks. These options are complemented by the ability to encrypt the device, adding another layer of security for users concerned about protecting their data.

Storage and Expandability

Internal Storage

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro comes with 32 GB of internal storage, which was fairly standard for mid-range devices at the time of its release. After accounting for the operating system and pre-installed apps, users have around 24 GB of free space available for their apps, photos, videos, and other files.

Expandable Storage

For users who require more storage, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro supports expandable storage via a microSD card slot. The slot is part of the hybrid SIM tray, meaning users can either use two SIM cards or one SIM card and a microSD card for additional storage. The device supports microSD cards up to 256 GB, providing ample space for those who need more room for their media and apps.

Value for Money

Pricing

At the time of its release, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro was priced competitively, targeting the mid-range segment with a price tag of around $230. This pricing placed it in direct competition with other budget-friendly smartphones that offered similar features and specifications.

Features vs. Price

When considering the features offered by the ZTE Blade V8 Pro, it’s clear that the device provides excellent value for money. The phone’s solid build quality, dual-camera setup, fingerprint sensor, and expandable storage are features typically found in more expensive devices. The inclusion of a USB Type-C port and support for Quick Charge further enhances its appeal.

While the device is not without its shortcomings, such as its average low-light camera performance and the lack of regular software updates, these are minor issues when weighed against the overall package. For users looking for a capable smartphone that won’t break the bank, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro represents a strong value proposition.

Competition

Comparison with Other Devices

In the mid-range market, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro faced competition from several other devices. Notable competitors included the Motorola Moto G5 Plus, the Huawei Honor 6X, and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4. Each of these devices offered its own set of strengths and weaknesses, making the choice between them largely dependent on individual preferences and priorities.

• Motorola Moto G5 Plus: The Moto G5 Plus was known for its near-stock Android experience, which offered a cleaner and faster interface. It also had a slightly better camera performance, particularly in low light. However, it lacked a dual-camera setup and had a smaller battery compared to the Blade V8 Pro.
• Huawei Honor 6X: The Honor 6X also featured a dual-camera setup and a similarly priced proposition. It offered a slightly more refined software experience with Huawei’s EMUI, but some users might prefer the simpler interface of the Blade V8 Pro. The Honor 6X also had a slightly better battery life, but its display was not as bright.
• Xiaomi Redmi Note 4: The Redmi Note 4 was praised for its excellent battery life and strong performance, thanks to the Snapdragon 625 processor, the same as in the Blade V8 Pro. However, it lacked NFC and a dual-camera setup, which gave the Blade V8 Pro an edge in certain areas.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

The ZTE Blade V8 Pro is a compelling option in the mid-range smartphone market. It offers a balanced mix of performance, design, and features that cater to a wide audience. Its dual-camera setup, fingerprint sensor, USB Type-C port, and expandable storage are highlights that set it apart from many competitors in its price range.

While the device does have some drawbacks, such as average low-light camera performance and the lack of consistent software updates, these issues are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things. For users who prioritize value for money and want a phone that can handle everyday tasks with ease, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is an excellent choice.

Overall, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro remains a solid mid-range option even years after its release, proving that budget-friendly smartphones can still offer a satisfying user experience. Whether you’re a casual user, a budget-conscious consumer, or someone looking for a capable backup device, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is worth considering.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Solid build quality with a premium feel
• Dual-camera setup with bokeh effect
• Sharp and vibrant 5.5-inch Full HD display
• Fingerprint sensor with quick and accurate recognition
• Expandable storage via microSD card
• USB Type-C port and Quick Charge support
• Competitive pricing

Cons:

• Average low-light camera performance
• Lack of regular software updates
• No optical image stabilization for video recording
• Slightly heavy and bulky design
• Limited availability in some regions

In conclusion, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro stands out as a well-rounded device in the mid-range market, offering a robust set of features that cater to a variety of users. Its strengths in design, camera capabilities, and overall value make it a strong contender in its class, despite some minor flaws. For anyone looking for a budget-friendly smartphone that doesn’t compromise too much on performance or features, the ZTE Blade V8 Pro is a device worth considering.

where can you get a ZTE Blade V8 Pro online

ZTE 5.5″ Blade V8 Pro Factory Unlocked Phone – Black Diamond: Buy it now