Huawei has unveiled its Mate 70 series, a powerhouse lineup consisting of the Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and the ultra-luxurious Mate 70 RS Ultimate. These smartphones cater to diverse audiences, from flagship hunters to luxury enthusiasts. Here's a closer look at each device, who they're for, and whether they live up to their hype.
Huawei Mate 70: The Entry-Level Flagship
The Huawei Mate 70 is the most affordable model in the series, designed for users seeking flagship-grade features without breaking the bank. It's perfect for general users who value camera capabilities, display quality, and robust performance in a premium design. However, hardcore gamers or power users might want to look at the Pro+ or RS models for the ultimate experience.
Huawei Mate 70 Pro: The All-Rounder
Stepping up, the Mate 70 Pro is for tech-savvy professionals and creatives looking for advanced camera capabilities and premium design. Its satellite connectivity feature is a game-changer for adventurers and travelers.
Huawei Mate 70 Pro+: The Powerhouse
For those who demand the best, the Mate 70 Pro+ offers top-tier performance, a luxurious titanium build, and maxed-out specs. Gamers, mobile photographers, and performance aficionados will feel at home here.
Huawei Mate 70 RS Ultimate: Luxury Redefined
The Mate 70 RS Ultimate is for those who want their smartphone to be a status symbol. With unparalleled craftsmanship, it's a blend of art and tech.
Let's now dive into the specs and features of these phones and see what they bring to the table.
Build and Design
The Mate 70 is slim at 7.8 mm and weighs 203 g, ensuring a comfortable in-hand feel. The Mate 70 Pro is a bit larger and heftier. The Kunlun Glass 2 display protection on both adds ruggedness. The four colors - Hyacinth Purple, Obsidian Black, Snow White, and Spruce Green - are elegant and understated.
The Mate 70 Pro+'s titanium alloy frame adds a premium feel and extra durability, though it increases the weight slightly to 226 g. The Mate 70 RS Ultimate is available in Black, Red, and White. Its titanium alloy frame and 256 g weight give it a substantial, high-end feel.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70 | Mate 70 Pro | Mate 70 Pro+ | Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
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General |
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Dimensions | H: 160.9 mm (6.33″), W: 75.9 mm (2.99″), D: 7.8 mm (0.31″) | H: 164.6 mm (6.48″), W: 79.5 mm (3.13″), D: 8.2 mm (0.32″) | H: 164.6 mm (6.48″), W: 79.5 mm (3.13″), D: 8.3 mm (0.33″) | H: 164.6 mm (6.48″), W: 79.5 mm (3.13″), D: 8.3 mm (0.33″) |
Mass | 203 g (7.16 oz) | 221 g (7.8 oz) | 226 g (7.97 oz) |
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Material | Huawei Kunlun Glass 2 (Basalt-tempered) for display protection; aluminum alloy frame | Huawei Kunlun Glass 2 (Basalt-tempered) for display protection; aluminum alloy frame | Huawei Kunlun Glass 2 (Basalt-tempered) for display protection; titanium alloy frame | Huawei Kunlun Glass (Basalt-tempered) for display protection; titanium alloy frame |
Colors | Hyacinth Purple, Obsidian Black, Snow White, Spruce Green | Hyacinth Purple, Obsidian Black, Snow White, Spruce Green | Feather White, Flying Blue, Gold-Silver Brocade, Ink Black | Black, Red, White |
When it comes to the hardware and aesthetics of the Huawei Mate 70 series, the phones' build quality and material choices are some of their most standout aspects, designed to cater to comfort, durability, and style while offering variety to match personal preferences.
The Huawei Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and Mate 70 RS Ultimate are ergonomically designed with carefully calibrated dimensions and weight distribution. Their smooth, rounded edges and contoured backs make them comfortable to hold, even during long browsing or gaming sessions.
The lighter weight of the Mate 70 makes it particularly pocket-friendly, while the slightly heavier models (Pro and Pro+) still strike a balance between heft and premium feel.
The phones fit well in most pockets and bags, thanks to slim profiles and thoughtful dimension management. Users with smaller hands might prefer the Mate 70 or Pro for ease of use with one hand.
The Basalt-tempered Kunlun Glass and Kunlun Glass 2 offer next-level durability for the displays, which is crucial given the rising cost of repairs and increasing expectations for longevity. Basalt tempering involves reinforcing the glass structure to enhance its resistance to scratches and accidental drops, which is perfect for those prone to mishaps.
Kunlun Glass 2 takes this a step further with superior shock absorption and reduced likelihood of shattering, making it a robust option for users in rugged environments or those who frequently carry their phones without additional protection.
The frames not only define the structural integrity of the Mate 70 series but also contribute to their premium feel. The aluminum alloy frame in the Huawei Mate 70 and Mate 70 Pro is lightweight and durable, ensuring that the phones remain easy to handle without sacrificing strength. It's highly resistant to corrosion, giving the phones a long-lasting shine and robustness against everyday wear and tear.
The titanium alloy used in the Huawei Mate 70 Pro+ and Mate 70 RS Ultimate is known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, offering unmatched durability while keeping the phones relatively light. The material has a sleek, futuristic aesthetic and is more scratch-resistant than aluminum, perfect for those looking for a cutting-edge design with added ruggedness.
Huawei offers an impressive range of colors in the Mate 70 series, each appealing to different tastes and personalities:
- Black: Classic, sophisticated, and professional. It suits users who prefer timeless elegance.
- Feather White: Clean, minimalistic, and modern. Great for those who appreciate simplicity with a touch of luxury.
- Flying Blue: Energetic and adventurous, this shade is perfect for creative minds and risk-takers.
- Gold-Silver Brocade: Luxurious and opulent, ideal for users who like to make a statement.
- Hyacinth Purple: Playful yet regal, appealing to those who enjoy standing out with a bold yet elegant color.
- Ink Black: A slightly deeper take on black, exuding mystery and authority.
- Obsidian Black: Sleek and commanding, fitting for tech enthusiasts with a taste for stealthy aesthetics.
- Red: Passionate and daring, ideal for extroverts and individuals who want their phone to turn heads.
- Snow White: Pure and serene, perfect for those with a calming presence or an appreciation for refined beauty.
- Spruce Green: Natural and earthy, suited to eco-conscious users or anyone who loves subtle, unique tones.
- White: Neutral yet premium, ideal for users looking for understated sophistication.
In sum, the Huawei Mate 70 series isn't just about powerful specs but also about offering a thoughtfully designed experience. The material choices, dimensions, and weight make them both durable and stylish, catering to users across various needs and preferences. From the elegant titanium frames of the high-end models to the versatile color palette, there's something here for everyone - whether you prioritize practicality, aesthetics, or durability.
If we compare the four phones to their respective predecessors in the Huawei Mate 60 series, they've gotten slightly larger except the vanilla Mate 70, which is a hair smaller. The Mate 60 was 161.4×76×8 mm and 209 g; the other three shared the dimensions of 163.7×79×8.1 mm; the two Pro variants (Mate 60 Pro and Mate 60 Pro+) were 225 g each; and the Mate 60 RS Ultimate was 242 g or 246 g. The Huawei Mate 60, Mate 60 Pro, and Mate 60 Pro+ featured a glass front and back, and an aluminum frame. All four models sported the Huawei Kunlun Glass 2 for display protection.
IP Rating
(Related: IP ratings explained.)
All four phones boast an IP68/IP69 rating, adding ruggedness and protecting against dust and water (up to 4 m for 30 minutes in case of the vanilla Mate 70; up to 6 m for 30 minutes in case of the other three models).
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system classifies and rates the degree of protection provided against the intrusion of solid objects (first digit) and liquids (second digit) into mechanical and electrical enclosures. In the case of the Huawei Mate 70 series, the digits 6, 8, and 9 in the IP68/IP69 rating signify the level of protection against dust and water ingress.
The digit 6 indicates that the device is "dust-tight", meaning it offers complete protection against the ingress of dust particles. This ensures that the internal components of the phone remain unaffected by dust, even in the most challenging environments.
The digit 8 in IP68 signifies the device's resistance to water. It indicates that the phone is capable of withstanding immersion in water up to a certain depth (4 m or 6 m) for a certain duration (30 minutes here). So, whether it accidentally takes a plunge into a puddle or gets caught in a rainstorm, your Mate 70 series phone will emerge unscathed, ready for action.
The digit 9 indicates the highest level of water resistance, providing protection against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets from all directions. In practical terms, this means the Huawei Mate 70 series can withstand powerful water jets without water penetrating its enclosure, making it highly resistant to water ingress in various conditions.
In summary, the IP68/IP69 rating of the Huawei Mate 70 series signifies exceptional dust and water resistance, offering durability and resilience across a broad range of environmental factors.
For comparison, the predecessor Huawei Mate 60 series came with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance (up to 4 m for 30 minutes in case of the Mate 60, and up to 6 m for 30 minutes in case of the other three models).
Display
(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)
The Mate 70's 6.7-inch LTPO OLED panel delivers buttery-smooth scrolling with its 1 - 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate. Boasting 2500 nits of peak brightness and support for 1 billion colors, the display is dazzling in any light.
With a slightly larger 6.9-inch LTPO OLED panel, the other three models improve on the Mate 70's display with higher resolution (1316×2832 pixels, about 453 PPI). In particular, the Mate 70 RS Ultimate's dual-layer LTPO OLED screen sets a new standard with a peak brightness of 3500 nits, making it the brightest in the series.
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70 | Mate 70 Pro and Mate 70 Pro+ | Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
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Size | 6.7″ (170 mm) diagonal | 6.9″ (175 mm) diagonal | 6.9″ (175 mm) diagonal |
Type | LTPO OLED, 1 - 120 Hz (adaptive) | LTPO OLED, 1 - 120 Hz (adaptive) | Dual-layer LTPO OLED, 120 Hz (adaptive) |
Resolution (px) | 1216×2688, about 440 PPI | 1316×2832, about 453 PPI | 1316×2832, about 453 PPI |
Brightness | Peak: 2500 nits | Peak: 2500 nits | Peak: 3500 nits |
Features | 1 billion colors | 1 billion colors | 1 billion colors |
The Huawei Mate 70 series boasts some of the most impressive displays in the smartphone market, catering to users who demand exceptional visuals, fluidity, and brightness. Each model features cutting-edge LTPO OLED technology, with the Mate 70 RS Ultimate boasting a dual-layer LTPO OLED display that sets it apart.
LTPO OLED displays offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and industry-leading performance. The LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology allows for a dynamically adjustable refresh rate (between 1 Hz and 120 Hz in case of the Mate 70 series).
The Mate 70 RS Ultimate stands out with its game-changer, dual-layer LTPO OLED display, a significant evolution over regular LTPO OLED. The dual-layer structure incorporates two OLED emission layers, effectively doubling the light output. This is the main reason behind the RS Ultimate's industry-leading 3500 nits peak brightness, which is significantly higher than the other models' 2500 nits.
The dual-layer design boosts luminance without requiring a proportional increase in power, offering brighter visuals while maintaining efficient battery usage. This setup allows for more precise light control, improving contrast ratios and achieving better color fidelity. This results in deeper blacks and richer, more natural hues, perfect for HDR content.
The additional OLED layer can also improve resilience, offering better uniformity over time and minimizing potential burn-in effects.
The 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate, featured in all four models, ensures buttery-smooth visuals during high-motion activities (like gaming and scrolling) and energy efficiency during static content (like reading), significantly improving battery life.
Whether you're scrolling through apps, gaming, or reading, the adaptive refresh rate provides smooth transitions and optimizes battery consumption. For gamers, the instant shift to 120 Hz ensures no lag, while for static content, 1 Hz conserves energy.
The Mate 70's 1216×2688 pixels (around 440 PPI) provides sharp and detailed visuals, making it great for multimedia consumption and daily use. The Pro models and the RS Ultimate step up with a 1316×2832 pixel resolution (around 453 PPI), offering an even sharper and more immersive experience for larger screen sizes.
Both resolutions offer excellent sharpness. With 440 PPI on the Mate 70 and 453 PPI on the other three models, you get crisp text, detailed images, and an immersive viewing experience, particularly on the slightly larger 6.9-inch displays.
The Huawei Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, and Mate 70 Pro+ achieve a remarkable 2500 nits peak brightness, ensuring excellent readability in harsh sunlight and stunning HDR performance. The Mate 70 RS Ultimate takes brightness to another level with an astounding 3500 nits, making it one of the brightest displays on the market. This ensures exceptional visibility even in extremely bright conditions.
At 2500 nits, the Huawei Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, and Mate 70 Pro+ already deliver outstanding brightness for visibility in challenging lighting. The Mate 70 RS Ultimate's 3500 nits elevates this further, making it perfect for outdoor use in direct sunlight or showcasing HDR10+ content in all its glory.
All four displays support 1 billion colors, delivering exceptional color depth and smooth gradients. This is perfect for content creators, streamers, and users who enjoy vibrant visuals, making everything from HDR movies to high-res images look lifelike.
This feature ensures seamless color gradations, supporting professional-grade accuracy for photographers, videographers, and anyone who values visual fidelity. The wide DCI-P3 color gamut support complements this to deliver vivid, true-to-life colors.
In conclusion, the Huawei Mate 70 series offers best-in-class displays tailored for users who appreciate both stunning visuals and practical functionality. The LTPO OLED technology ensures a balance between performance and power efficiency, while the dual-layer LTPO OLED in the Mate 70 RS Ultimate redefines brightness and clarity. Whether you're into gaming, binge-watching HDR content, or simply scrolling through social media, these displays deliver an unparalleled experience.
For comparison, the predecessor Mate 60 featured a 6.69-inch, 1216×2688 px LTPO OLED display, whereas the other three models had a 6.82-inch, 1260×2720 px LTPO OLED display. All four models supported 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate and 1 billion colors.
Networks
(Related: Cellular networks explained.)
Equipped with GSM, CDMA, HSPA, CDMA2000, LTE, and 5G capabilities, the Huawei Mate 70 series ensures you stay connected at all times.
GSM, the reliable workhorse, lays the foundation for 2G connectivity, ensuring seamless voice calls and text messages. CDMA is a parallel powerhouse, offering a different approach to network communication with distinct coding techniques. Then, HSPA steps up to the plate, championing 3G connectivity, providing faster data transfer rates and improved multimedia capabilities.
CDMA2000, another evolution in CDMA technology, further refines high-speed data transmission, enhancing the user experience.
LTE, the bedrock of 4G networks, elevates the user experience with swift internet speeds and enhanced call quality. And of course, the star of the show - 5G. This powerhouse not only promises lightning-fast download and upload speeds but also significantly reduces latency, opening up a realm of possibilities for innovative applications and technologies that will shape the future.
Besides, the vanilla Mate 70 supports 2-way BDS Satellite Message, and the other three models support BDS Satellite Calling and Message - catering to those who need communication beyond traditional networks. BDS, or BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, is China's answer to global navigation satellite systems like GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO. The Huawei Mate 70 series takes a leap forward by integrating BDS not just for navigation but also for communication through the Satellite Calling and/or Message feature.
These features leverage the constellation of BeiDou satellites orbiting the Earth. Instead of relying on traditional networks, this technology allows you to make calls and/or send messages even in remote areas where conventional communication infrastructure might be scarce.
When you engage the Satellite Calling or Message feature, your smartphone connects to BeiDou satellites, transforming it into a communication hub independent of terrestrial networks. This is particularly beneficial in situations where standard cellular connectivity is unreliable or unavailable.
Whether you're an adventurer scaling remote mountains or exploring vast deserts, the Satellite Calling and/or Message feature ensures you stay connected even in the most secluded locations. In emergencies where regular communication networks might be down, your Mate 70 series phone becomes a lifeline. You can reach out for help or coordinate rescue efforts using satellite communication. Boaters and sailors navigating open waters can benefit from this feature, ensuring communication continuity beyond coastal coverage areas. And during natural disasters that disrupt traditional communication infrastructure, a phone equipped with BDS Satellite Calling or Message can facilitate crucial communication for both individuals and emergency responders.
In short, the BDS Satellite Calling and/or Message feature of the Huawei Mate 70 series is a game-changer in connectivity. It opens doors to communication in uncharted territories, making the series not just a technological marvel but a reliable companion in situations where staying connected is paramount.
SIM
The Huawei Mate 70 series supports dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by). This capability adds a layer of convenience for those juggling work and personal life on a single device.
Chipset - Performance
Huawei hasn't disclosed the chipset, but we expect the hardware to ensure a seamless experience. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
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Chipset | Unspecified |
CPU | Unspecified |
GPU | Unspecified |
For comparison, the predecessor Mate 60 series featured the Kirin 9000S (7 nm) chipset, housing an octa-core CPU (1×2.62 GHz Taishan Big + 3×2.15 GHz Taishan Mid + 4×1.53GHz Cortex-A510) and the Maleoon 910 MP4 GPU.
Memory and Storage
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70 and Mate 70 Pro | Mate 70 Pro+ and Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
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RAM | 12 GB | 16 GB |
Memory Card Slot | No | No |
Internal Storage Variants | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB | 512 GB, 1 TB |
The 12 GB RAM variants of the Huawei Mate 70 and Mate 70 Pro offer ample room for multitasking, paired with up to 1 TB storage. The Huawei Mate 70 Pro+ and Mate 70 RS Ultimate are ready for any task from editing videos to playing graphics-intensive games with 16 GB of RAM and up to 1 TB storage.
For comparison, the predecessor Mate 60 series came in similar variants, using UFS 3.1 as the internal storage type. All four models supported up to 256 GB Nano Memory (NM) card in a hybrid SIM slot.
Cameras
A 50 MP variable-aperture lens, a 12 MP (in the Mate 70) or 48 MP (in the other three models) telephoto with 5.5x or 4x optical zoom, and a 40 MP ultrawide camera create a versatile setup. Expect stunning low-light shots and ultra-steady videos with gyro-EIS and 4K recording.
Rear Camera
The Huawei Mate 70 series main camera setups represent the pinnacle of mobile photography, offering versatility and cutting-edge technology. From the Mate 70's powerful triple-camera system to the RS Ultimate's RYYB-enhanced sensors, these setups cater to casual users and photography enthusiasts alike. Let's break down their capabilities and features. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70 | Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
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Number of Cameras | 3 (Triple) | 3 (Triple) |
Resolution (Megapixels) | 50 MP (wide), 12 MP (periscope telephoto), 40 MP (ultrawide) | 50 MP (wide), 48 MP (periscope telephoto), 40 MP (ultrawide) |
Focal Length | 24 mm, 125 mm, 13 mm | 24 mm, 92.5 mm, 13 mm |
Aperture | f/1.4 - f/4.0 (variable); f/3.4, f/2.2 | f/1.4 - f/4.0 (variable); f/2.1, f/2.2 |
Autofocus | PDAF, PDAF, PDAF | PDAF, PDAF, PDAF |
Image Stabilization | OIS, OIS, N/A | OIS, OIS, N/A |
Field of View | N/A, N/A, 120° | N/A, N/A, 120° |
Optical Zoom | N/A, 5.5x, N/A | N/A, 4x, N/A |
Video Recording | 4K, 1080p, gyro-EIS, OIS, HDR | 4K, 1080p, gyro-EIS, OIS, HDR |
Other Features | Laser AF module, LED flash, panorama, HDR | Laser AF module, LED flash, panorama, HDR |
The wide lens is the primary camera with a 50 MP resolution across all models, offering high detail and excellent dynamic range. It has a variable aperture that adjusts the amount of light hitting the sensor and provides control over exposure and focus depth, offering unparalleled flexibility.
At higher values like f/1.4, the aperture is wide open, perfect for low-light photography, creating creamy bokeh in portraits, and capturing intricate details. At lower values like f/4.0, it narrows, increasing the depth of field for sharper backgrounds in landscape shots.
All four setups feature a periscope telephoto lens. The Mate 70's 12 MP lens achieves 5.5x optical zoom for capturing distant subjects with clarity. The other three models' 48 MP lens provides 4x optical zoom, with slightly shorter focal lengths, ideal for both portraits and zoomed-in compositions.
This lens supports OIS, ensuring shake-free images and videos, even at high zoom levels.
All models feature a 40 MP ultrawide camera for high-quality wide-angle shots. It provides a 120° field of view.
This is perfect for landscapes, group photos, or creative perspectives. It handles distortion effectively, ensuring crisp, natural-looking ultrawide shots.
The Mate 70 RS Ultimate features RYYB (Red-Yellow-Yellow-Blue) sensors on all three lenses. Traditional sensors use an RGB (Red-Green-Blue) Bayer filter, while RYYB replaces green pixels with yellow. Yellow pixels allow more light to pass through, improving low-light performance and overall brightness.
The RYYB sensors provide enhanced low-light photography; they have up to 40% more light intake compared to RGB sensors. They have better dynamic range and captures more detail in shadows and highlights. And they offer improved color fidelity, producing vibrant but natural tones, even in challenging lighting.
Among the camera features, PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) ensures fast and accurate focusing, especially useful for capturing moving subjects or quickly changing scenes.
OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) compensates for hand movements during photography, reducing blur and ensuring sharp images, particularly in low-light or zoomed-in shots.
Laser AF module provides rapid and precise autofocus by measuring distances using laser beams, crucial for close-up or fast-moving subjects.
LED flash illuminates scenes in dark environments, offering sufficient light for photos and videos.
Panorama stitches multiple images together, ideal for capturing wide scenes.
And HDR (High Dynamic Range) blends exposures to ensure well-lit, balanced photos with preserved highlights and shadows.
Among the video recording features, gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) uses a gyroscope to digitally stabilize video footage, reducing shakes during handheld recording.
This works seamlessly with OIS for smoother motion, even in action-packed scenarios like sports or vlogging.
OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is critical for maintaining stable video quality, especially during zoomed or low-light recordings.
It minimizes jitter and shake for professional-looking results.
And HDR maintains balance between bright and dark areas in a scene, ensuring videos are well-exposed and visually appealing.
This is particularly beneficial for high-contrast environments like sunsets or brightly lit urban scenes.
Key takeaway: The Huawei Mate 70 series offers unparalleled flexibility in photography. The variable aperture on the wide lens adapts to any lighting or depth-of-field requirement; the RYYB sensors on the Mate 70 RS Ultimate elevate low-light and dynamic range performance.
The periscope telephoto lenses offer long-range clarity, while the ultrawide lens brings creative versatility. Advanced features like PDAF, OIS, Laser AF, HDR, and gyro-EIS ensure exceptional quality for both photos and videos.
With these setups, Huawei continues to lead the mobile photography revolution, providing tools for amateurs and pros alike.
For comparison, the older Mate 60 series had triple camera setups. The Huawei Mate 60 and Mate 60 Pro shared the 50 MP (24 mm, f/1.4 - f/4.0) wide lens (with PDAF and OIS) and the 12 MP (13 mm, f/2.2) ultrawide lens (with PDAF and 120° field of view). For their third cameras, the Mate 60 featured a 12 MP (125 mm, f/3.4) periscope telephoto lens (with PDAF, OIS, and 5x optical zoom), whereas the Mate 60 Pro had a 48 MP (90 mm, f/3,5) periscope telephoto lens (with PDAF, OIS, and 3.5x optical zoom).
The Huawei Mate 60 Pro+ and Mate 60 RS Ultimate had identical camera setups, consisting of a 48 MP (24 mm, f/1.4 - f/4.0) wide lens (with PDAF and OIS), a 48 MP periscope telephoto lens similar to that of the Mate 60 Pro, and a 40 MP ultrawide lens similar to that in the Mate 70 series.
The Mate 60 series' video recording capabilities included 4K at 30/60 fps, 1080p at 30/60/120/240/480 fps, 720p at 960 fps, and 720p at 3840 fps, with gyro-EIS and HDR support. And its feature set matched that of the Mate 70 series.
Front Camera
In all four models, the selfie camera sits inside a punch-hole cut-out on the top of the display. All except the vanilla Mate 70 have additional punch-hole cut-out for the ToF 3D sensor. Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70 | Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
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Resolution | 13 MP (ultrawide) | 13 MP (ultrawide) |
Focal Length | 18 mm | 18 mm |
Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.4 |
Video Recording | 4K, 1080p | 4K, 1080p |
Other Features | Panorama, HDR | Panorama, HDR, ToF 3D sensor (depth / biometrics) |
The Time-of-Flight (ToF) 3D (depth / biometrics) scanner accurately measures depth information, enabling advanced depth-sensing capabilities for portrait photography, augmented reality applications, and accurate subject segmentation.
For comparison, the predecessors Mate 60, Mate 60 Pro, Mate 60 Pro+, and Mate 60 RS Ultimate featured selfie camera setups and feature sets similar to their respective Mate 70 counterparts. Their video recording capabilities included 4K at 30/60 fps and 1080p at 30/60/240 fps.
Battery and Charging
(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70 | Mate 70 Pro | Mate 70 Pro+ and Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
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Battery Type | Non-removable | Non-removable | Si-C (non-removable) |
Capacity | 5300 mAh | 5500 mAh | 5700 mAh |
Wired Charging | 66 W | 100 W | 100 W |
Wireless Charging | 50 W | 80 W | 80 W |
Others | 5 W reverse wired, 7.5 W reverse wireless | 18 W reverse wired, 20 W reverse wireless | 18 W reverse wired, 20 W reverse wireless |
The Mate 70's 5300 mAh battery with 66 W wired and 50 W wireless charging is commendable. Reverse charging adds flexibility. The Mate 70 Pro's 5500 mAh battery ensures longevity, while 100 W wired and 80 W wireless charging make recharging lightning-fast. The other two models' 5700 mAh silicon-carbon battery offers unmatched longevity.
For comparison, the older Mate 60 came with a 4750 mAh Li-Po battery with 66 W wired, 50 W wireless, and 5 W reverse wireless charging. The other three models featured a 5000 mAh Li-Po battery with 88 W wired, 50 W wireless, and 20 W reverse wireless charging.
Sound
(Related: Know more about the sound specs and features.)
Here are the relevant specs:
Specification | Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, and Mate 70 Pro+ | Mate 70 RS Ultimate |
---|---|---|
Loudspeaker | Yes (stereo speakers) | Yes (stereo speakers, separate speakers for high and low frequencies) |
Audio | Hi-Definition | Hi-Definition |
Headphone (3.5 mm) Jack | No | No |
Hi-Definition (Hi-Def) audio supported by the Huawei Mate 70 series is a broad term often used to indicate high-quality sound. It focuses on optimizing audio playback within the hardware and software limitations of the device. It improves clarity and reduces distortion in playback.
Hi-Def audio provides better volume management across different audio ranges. It offers balanced frequency reproduction, ensuring the treble, midrange, and bass frequencies are well-distributed for a natural sound signature. It is often paired with support for advanced codecs for high-quality wireless streaming.
Hi-Def audio is not the same as the Hi-Res audio, though both are aimed at delivering superior sound quality. Hi-Res audio refers to sound quality that exceeds CD quality. Its high bit depth and sampling rate allow for capturing more nuanced audio details, providing a richer and more lifelike sound. While it caters to ultra-high-end sound quality for audiophiles, Hi-Def audio is designed for accessible, high-quality listening in everyday scenarios.
The Huawei Mate 70 RS Ultimate takes audio fidelity to the next level with its separate speakers for high and low frequencies. With dedicated drivers for specific frequencies, the high-frequency speaker handles treble sounds, such as cymbals, vocals, and sharp instrument notes; and the low-frequency speaker focuses on bass and lower midrange, such as drums, bass guitars, and deep sound effects. This separation ensures that each driver reproduces its assigned frequency range with precision, avoiding overlap or distortion.
This results in superior sound quality with clarity, balance, and better dynamic range. Highs and lows are reproduced without interference, making the sound more distinct and natural. The audio is well-balanced, with neither treble nor bass overpowering the other. And the separate drivers enhance the contrast between the quiet and loud parts of a track, making it feel more lifelike.
The stereo setup paired with distinct drivers creates a more immersive and expansive soundstage, simulating the effect of listening to music or watching movies on premium external speakers. Since each driver focuses on a narrower frequency range, it reduces strain, minimizing distortion even at high volumes.
Whether you're an audiophile or someone who enjoys high-quality music playback, these configurations make the Mate 70 series stand out as audio powerhouses in the smartphone market.
Connectivity
In the connectivity department, the Huawei Mate 70 series offers a comprehensive range of options. With support for dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6/7, all four phones in the series cover all the bases, ensuring you can connect to any Wi-Fi network, old or new. Also, there's Wi-Fi Direct, a feature that allows direct device-to-device connections without the need for a router. It's perfect for fast file transfers and seamless collaboration.
The Mate 70 series boasts Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With features like A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming, LE (Low Energy) for power efficiency, and L2HC (Low Latency High-Definition Audio Codec), your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.
Low Latency High-Definition Audio Codec (L2HC) is a Huawei-proprietary advanced audio codec used in Bluetooth technology. It is designed to optimize the efficiency of audio transmission while maintaining high-quality sound. The audio bitrate range for this codec is from 320 to 960 kbps (kilobits per second). The bitrate refers to the amount of data transmitted per second over Bluetooth.
The use of L2HC ensures a high-definition (HD) audio experience during Bluetooth playback. The bitrate range is indicative of the high-quality audio data that can be transmitted, allowing for richer and more detailed sound reproduction.
L2HC is classified as a "Low Latency" codec, meaning it achieves impressive audio quality with efficient transmission. This is crucial for wireless audio, as it strikes a balance between delivering exceptional sound and maintaining low latency for seamless connectivity. Further, L2HC goes beyond traditional Bluetooth audio codecs by delivering a wider bandwidth for audio transmission. This results in improved audio fidelity, especially noticeable in nuanced soundscapes, intricate melodies, and dynamic ranges.
Lost? Not with the positioning capabilities of the Huawei Mate 70 series! All four phones support multiple global navigation satellite systems, including GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BDS (B1I+B1c+B2a+B2b), GALILEO (E1+E5a+E5b), QZSS (L1+L5), and NavIC. This means your device always knows where you are, no matter where you travel in the world. Whether you're navigating through bustling cities or remote wilderness, your device's positioning technology ensures you're always on the right path.
The Huawei Mate 70 series features NFC, the digital magician! This technology allows you to make contactless payments, share files, and connect with other NFC-enabled devices with just a tap. It's like having a digital handshake, simplifying tasks and making your device interactions effortless.
The Mate 70 RS Ultimate supports UWB (Ultra Wideband) - a wireless communication technology that operates over a broad spectrum of frequencies, allowing for incredibly precise (centimeter-level) spatial awareness and location tracking.
The Huawei Mate 70 series also sports infrared port.
Last but not least, all four phones in the series support the trusty USB-C 3.1 - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C 3.1 ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology. And the support for OTG (USB On-The-Go) enables your device to act as host and connect to other USB devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, cameras, and more, without needing a computer as an intermediary.
The USB-C connector can be used for DisplayPort 1.2, a digital video and audio interface that's used for connecting displays to devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets. It's like the bridge that carries the sights and sounds from your device to your monitor or TV.
Sensors
The Huawei Mate 70 series comes equipped with the following sensors:
- Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in all four models.
- Gyro: The gyroscope can detect when your device is being twisted or turned in any direction. It enhances the accuracy of apps and games that rely on precise motion, like augmented reality (AR) apps and racing games.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
- Barometer: (Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and Mate 70 RS Ultimate only.) Measures atmospheric pressure. It tells you about your altitude and improves GPS elevation results. You can also use it to make weather predictions.
- Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.
- Color Spectrum Sensor: Measures and analyzes the colors of ambient light in the visible spectrum, ensuring that the device's camera and display consistently deliver true-to-life colors, regardless of the lighting conditions.
- Face ID: (Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and Mate 70 RS Ultimate only.) Developed and popularized by Apple, Face ID is a biometric authentication method that scans and recognizes the unique features of a user's face to grant access to the device. This secure and convenient technology employs a sophisticated facial mapping technique to create a detailed 3D map of the user's face. At the time of unlocking, infrared light is projected onto the user's face, enabling the sensor to capture precise details, even in low-light conditions or complete darkness.
In short, the Mate 70 is an excellent choice for casual flagship users, though its gaming chops and missing expandable storage might limit some. The Mate 70 Pro offers fantastic value for photography enthusiasts and heavy users, though casual users may not need the added features. The Mate 70 Pro+ is pricey but worth it for users who need bleeding-edge specs and premium materials. And at it price point, the Mate 70 RS Ultimate is not for the faint-hearted but will appeal to those who value exclusivity and advanced technology in equal measure.
The Huawei Mate 70 series offers something for everyone, from value-seekers (Mate 70) to luxury lovers (Mate 70 RS Ultimate). While the Pro and Pro+ deliver excellent value for their price with standout cameras, displays, and performance, the RS Ultimate's exorbitant price feels justified only for niche buyers.
For most users, the Mate 70 Pro strikes the perfect balance between price and performance, making it the standout model in the lineup. If you're ready to invest in cutting-edge tech, Huawei has a Mate 70 for you!
Feature (top) image credit: Huawei.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Huawei Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, and Mate 70 Pro+ release date?
The Huawei Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, and Mate 70 Pro+ have been announced and released on the 26th November, 2024.
What is Huawei Mate 70 RS Ultimate release date?
The Huawei Mate 70 RS Ultimate has been announced on the 26th November, 2024. It is expected to release in December 2024.
What is Huawei Mate 70 price?
The Huawei Mate 70 is priced starting from CNY 5499 (about USD 758) for the 12 GB / 256 GB variant, and goes up to CNY 6999 (about USD 965) for the 12 GB / 1 TB variant.
What is Huawei Mate 70 Pro price?
The Huawei Mate 70 Pro is priced starting from CNY 6499 (about USD 896) for the 12 GB / 256 GB variant, and goes up to CNY 7999 (about USD 1103) for the 12 GB / 1 TB variant.
What is Huawei Mate 70 Pro+ price?
The Huawei Mate 70 Pro+ is priced at CNY 8499 (about USD 1172) for the 16 GB / 512 GB variant, and CNY 9499 (about USD 1310) for the 16 GB / 1 TB variant.
What is Huawei Mate 70 RS Ultimate price?
The Huawei Mate 70 RS Ultimate is priced at CNY 11999 (about USD 1655) for the 16 GB / 512 GB variant, and CNY 12999 (about USD 1793) for the 16 GB / 1 TB variant.