The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra burst onto the scene in 2024, instantly staking its claim as a mobile photography titan. Now, in mid-2025, as the smartphone landscape continues its rapid evolution, many tech enthusiasts, mobile photographers, and potential buyers are asking: does the Pura 70 Ultra still hold its ground? This comprehensive guide delves deep into the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra specs, camera capabilities, real-world performance, and how it stacks up against the latest flagships.
Introduction – Why the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra Remains a Standout in 2025
Huawei’s Pura series, formerly the renowned P-series, has always signified a commitment to cutting-edge photography and elegant design. The Pura 70 Ultra, as the pinnacle of this line, carried that torch forward with groundbreaking camera technology and premium craftsmanship.
In 2025, while newer models have emerged, the Pura 70 Ultra continues to be a compelling option for those prioritizing photographic excellence. Its unique features, refined software experience with HarmonyOS, and powerful hardware ensure it remains a topic of discussion and a strong contender in the premium smartphone market. This review will explore if its initial brilliance has lasting power.
Quick Overview – Pura 70 Ultra at a Glance (Revisited in 2025)
Even a year on, the Pura 70 Ultra’s key highlights continue to impress:
- Groundbreaking Retractable Camera: A 1-inch sensor main camera with a physically retractable lens mechanism.
- Powerful Kirin Chipset: The Kirin 9010 chipset (region-dependent) delivering robust performance.
- Stunning Display: A vibrant and smooth LTPO OLED display.
- Ultra-Fast Charging: Impressive wired and wireless charging speeds.
- Premium Build: Sophisticated design with durable materials.
- Expected Price Range (2025 Relevancy): While prices may have adjusted since launch, it remains a premium-tier device. We’ll touch on current market positioning later.
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Design & Display – Enduring Elegance and Visual Excellence
The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra’s design language is a blend of sophistication and durability.
- Dimensions & Materials: It features a distinctive textured back (often vegan leather) and a robust aluminum alloy frame. Its dimensions typically offer a substantial yet comfortable grip. (Initial dimensions: Approx. 162.6 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm; Weight: Approx. 226g)
- IP Rating: IP68 dust and water resistance, providing peace of mind against accidental spills and exposure.
- Display Type: LTPO OLED, offering adaptive refresh rates typically from 1Hz to 120Hz.
- Size & Resolution: A large, immersive display around 6.8 inches with a high resolution (e.g., 2844 x 1260 pixels).
- Brightness: Excellent peak brightness for clear outdoor visibility, often exceeding 2500 nits.
- Protection: Kunlun Glass (Basalt-enhanced) for enhanced drop and scratch resistance.
Even in 2025, the Pura 70 Ultra’s display remains a top-tier experience, perfect for media consumption, gaming, and, crucially, previewing the stunning photos its camera system captures.
Camera System – The Undisputed Jewel in the Crown
The camera system is where the Pura 70 Ultra truly made its mark and continues to shine. It’s not just about megapixels; it’s about innovation and image quality.
- Main Camera: A revolutionary 1-inch type sensor (approx. 50MP) with a retractable lens mechanism. This allows for a variable aperture (e.g., f/1.6 to f/4.0) and sensor-shift OIS, delivering exceptional light-gathering capabilities and sharpness.
- Ultra-Wide Camera: A high-resolution ultra-wide lens (e.g., 40MP, f/2.2) with autofocus, also excelling at macro shots.
- Telephoto Camera: An advanced periscope telephoto lens (e.g., 50MP, f/2.1, 3.5x optical zoom) with OIS, enabling incredible zoom performance and detailed close-ups. It also features a telephoto macro mode.
- Leica Optics & Color Science: While Huawei’s partnership with Leica concluded prior to the “Pura” rebranding, the legacy of imaging excellence continues with Huawei’s own XMAGE imaging technology, focusing on true-to-life colors, excellent dynamic range, and detailed textures.
- AI Photography: Advanced AI algorithms enhance scene recognition, optimize settings, and power features like Ultra Speed Snapshot for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- Video Modes: Comprehensive video capabilities including 4K at 60fps, HDR Vivid, and advanced stabilization.
Visual Suggestion: A gallery of sample images showcasing different scenarios – low light, zoom, portrait, macro – would be highly effective here. An infographic detailing the retractable lens mechanism would also be engaging.
Huawei Pura 70 Ultra Camera Specs Breakdown
| Feature | Main Camera | Ultra-Wide Camera | Telephoto Camera (Periscope) |
| Megapixels | 50 MP (1-inch type) | 40 MP | 50 MP |
| Aperture | f/1.6 – f/4.0 (Variable) | f/2.2 | f/2.1 |
| Focal Length | ~23mm equivalent | ~13mm equivalent | ~90mm equivalent (3.5x optical zoom) |
| Stabilization | Sensor-Shift OIS | EIS | OIS |
| Autofocus | PDAF, Laser AF | AF | PDAF |
| Key Features | Retractable Lens, Ultra Speed Snapshot, XD Motion Engine | Macro capabilities | Telephoto Macro, Up to 100x digital zoom |
| Imaging Tech | Huawei XMAGE | Huawei XMAGE | Huawei XMAGE |
The Pura 70 Ultra camera test results from various reputable sources (like DXOMARK, if updated or relevant in 2025) would typically place it among the top performers, even when compared to newer 2025 devices. Its strength lies in its versatile hardware and refined image processing.
Performance & Hardware – Still a Powerhouse?
Under the hood, the Pura 70 Ultra is equipped to handle demanding tasks with ease.
- Processor: Powered by the Kirin 9010 chipset (typically a 7nm or improved process). While direct comparisons to the latest Snapdragon or Apple A-series chips in 2025 require nuance (especially considering GPU performance and NPU capabilities for AI), the Kirin 9010 provides a fluid and responsive user experience for everyday tasks and even heavy gaming.
- RAM: Generous RAM options, typically 16GB.
- Storage Options: Ample internal storage, often available in 512GB and 1TB variants (UFS standard).
- Thermal Management: Advanced cooling systems to maintain performance during intensive tasks.
- Software Version: Launched with HarmonyOS 4.2. By mid-2025, it would likely have received updates, potentially to HarmonyOS 5.0 or later, bringing new features, security patches, and optimizations. The availability of Google Mobile Services (GMS) remains a key consideration for users outside of China, with workarounds being the common solution.
While 2025 flagships might boast newer chipsets, the Pura 70 Ultra’s hardware, optimized with HarmonyOS, ensures it remains a high-performing device for the vast majority of users.
Huawei Pura 70 Ultra Full Specifications (Key Specs)
| Category | Specification |
| Display | ~6.8-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz, ~2844×1260 pixels, Kunlun Glass (Basalt-enhanced) |
| Chipset | Kirin 9010 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB / 1TB |
| Main Camera | 50MP (1-inch, f/1.6-f/4.0 retractable lens, Sensor-shift OIS) + 40MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2) + 50MP Periscope Telephoto (f/2.1, 3.5x optical, OIS) |
| Front Camera | 13MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.4, Autofocus) |
| Battery | ~5200 mAh |
| Charging | 100W Wired, 80W Wireless, 20W Reverse Wireless |
| OS | HarmonyOS (Launched with 4.2, upgradable) |
| Connectivity | 5G (region dependent), Wi-Fi 6/6E (potentially Wi-Fi 7 support via updates or in later batches), Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, Satellite Calling/Messaging (China only) |
| Dimensions | Approx. 162.6 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 226g |
| Durability | IP68 Dust/Water Resistant |
Battery Life & Charging – All-Day Power and Rapid Refills
The Pura 70 Ultra is equipped with a substantial battery and some of the fastest charging technologies available.
- Battery Capacity: Around 5200 mAh, designed to provide all-day usage for most users.
- Fast Charging Speed: Supports blazing-fast 100W wired charging, capable of significantly charging the device in minutes.
- Wireless Charging Support: Impressive 80W wireless charging and also supports 20W reverse wireless charging to power up other compatible devices.
- Realistic Usage Estimates (2025 Perspective): Even with demanding use, including photography and video recording, the Pura 70 Ultra should comfortably last a full day. HarmonyOS’s power optimization also plays a crucial role. Compared to 2025 flagships, its battery endurance and charging speeds remain highly competitive.
Connectivity & Features – Modern Essentials
The Pura 70 Ultra is packed with modern connectivity options and thoughtful features.
- 5G Support: While 5G capabilities can be region-dependent due to ongoing restrictions, the hardware supports it.
- Wi-Fi: Launched with Wi-Fi 6/6E. Some 2025 flagships will feature Wi-Fi 7, but the practical difference for most users may be minimal for now.
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2 with support for high-quality audio codecs.
- Other Features: Stereo speakers tuned for immersive audio, an IR blaster for controlling home appliances, and an under-display optical fingerprint sensor. Satellite calling and messaging features were initially available in China.
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Huawei Pura 70 Ultra vs Competitors (Looking at Q2 2025 Landscape)
This table provides a speculative comparison against potential 2025 flagships. Features for Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max are based on industry expectations and rumors as of mid-2025.
| Feature | Huawei Pura 70 Ultra (Released 2024) | Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (Expected H1 2025) | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (Expected Q3 2024/Early 2025 availability) |
| Est. Release | April 2024 | Q1 2025 | Q3 2024 |
| Main Camera Innovation | 1-inch sensor, Retractable Lens, Variable Aperture | Potentially ~200MP+ sensor, improved zoom | Potentially larger sensor, enhanced computational photography, advanced ProRes video |
| Chipset | Kirin 9010 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 / Exynos (region-specific) | A18 Bionic (or equivalent) |
| Display | ~6.8″ LTPO OLED, 120Hz | ~6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz+ | ~6.9″ ProMotion XDR, 120Hz |
| Battery | ~5200 mAh | ~5000-5300 mAh | ~4800-5000 mAh |
| Wired Charging | 100W | 45W-65W (expected) | ~30-35W (expected) |
| Wireless Charging | 80W | 15W-25W (expected) | ~15W MagSafe (expected) |
| OS Ecosystem | HarmonyOS (No native GMS outside China) | Android with One UI (Full GMS) | iOS |
| Unique Selling Points | Unmatched camera versatility, ultra-fast charging | S Pen, DeX, strong overall balance | Seamless ecosystem, powerful video, long-term software support |
Price & Availability – Current Standing in 2025
- Launch Price (2024): The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra launched at a premium price point, typically around €1,499 in Europe for the 16GB/512GB version. Prices varied by region.
- Estimated Price in 2025: By mid-2025, the price would have likely seen some adjustments, potentially making it a more attractive deal, especially in markets where it’s readily available. However, due to its specialized camera technology, it will probably retain a relatively high value.
- Availability: Availability has always been a crucial factor for Huawei phones globally. In 2025, it can typically be found through select retailers and online marketplaces in parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Availability in North America remains restricted.
Pros & Cons of Buying the Pura 70 Ultra in 2025
| Pros | Cons |
| Exceptional and versatile camera system, still top-tier | Lack of native Google Mobile Services (GMS) outside China |
| Innovative retractable lens technology | Limited availability in some regions (e.g., North America) |
| Stunning LTPO OLED display with high brightness | Chipset may not benchmark as high as the latest 2025 competitors in raw GPU power |
| Ultra-fast 100W wired and 80W wireless charging | Software update cadence and long-term support outside China can be a concern for some |
| Premium design and build quality with IP68 rating | Resale value might be lower than some competitors in certain markets |
| Smooth performance with HarmonyOS and ample RAM/storage | |
| Unique features like satellite messaging (China) |
Buyer’s Guide – Who Should Buy the Pura 70 Ultra in 2025?
Even with newer models on the market, the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra remains an excellent choice for specific users:
- Mobile Photography Aficionados: If your primary concern is having one of the most advanced and versatile camera systems in a smartphone, capable of capturing breathtaking photos in various conditions, the Pura 70 Ultra is still a king. Its unique retractable lens and 1-inch sensor are hard to beat.
- Tech Enthusiasts Seeking Innovation: For those who appreciate groundbreaking technology and want a device that stands out from the crowd, the Pura 70 Ultra’s retractable camera and overall design philosophy are highly appealing.
- Huawei Fans Upgrading: Users already within the Huawei ecosystem or upgrading from older Huawei flagships (like the P50 Pro or Mate 50 Pro) will find the Pura 70 Ultra a significant step up, offering a familiar yet enhanced HarmonyOS experience.
- Users Comfortable with HarmonyOS & No GMS (or using workarounds): If you are in a region where GMS is less critical, or you are comfortable using alternatives like Huawei’s AppGallery, GBox, or other workarounds, the Pura 70 Ultra’s core hardware and software experience is excellent.
FAQs – Huawei Pura 70 Ultra
When was the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra released?
The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra was officially announced and released in April 2024.
What are the standout camera features of the Pura 70 Ultra?
Its key camera features include a 1-inch main sensor with a retractable lens mechanism, variable aperture (f/1.6-f/4.0), sensor-shift OIS, a powerful 50MP periscope telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom and telephoto macro, and a 40MP ultra-wide camera with macro capabilities, all powered by Huawei’s XMAGE imaging technology.
Does the Pura 70 Ultra display support 120Hz?
Yes, the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra features an LTPO OLED display with an adaptive refresh rate of 1-120Hz.
Does the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra have a Leica lens?
No, Huawei’s partnership with Leica ended before the Pura series. The Pura 70 Ultra uses Huawei’s own advanced XMAGE imaging technology, which builds upon its extensive expertise in mobile optics and image processing.
Is the Pura 70 Ultra waterproof?
Yes, the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes.
Does Pura 70 Ultra have Google?
No, the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra does not come with pre-installed Google Mobile Services (GMS) or the Google Play Store outside of China due to ongoing restrictions. It runs on HarmonyOS and uses Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) and AppGallery. Users can explore workarounds like GBox or Lighthouse to access some Google apps.
Is Huawei Pura 70 Ultra better than iPhone 16 Pro Max or Galaxy S25 Ultra?
This is subjective and depends on priorities. The Pura 70 Ultra likely maintains an edge in certain camera hardware innovations and charging speeds. However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max (expected Q3/Q4 2024) and Galaxy S25 Ultra (expected Q1 2025) will feature newer chipsets, potentially different AI capabilities, and full GMS/iOS ecosystem benefits. For pure camera versatility, the Pura 70 Ultra is a strong contender, but overall value depends on individual needs, including software preference and app availability.
What is the price of the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra in 2025?
While original launch prices were around €1,499, by 2025, you may find it at varied prices depending on region and retailer, possibly with some discounts from its initial launch price. Check local listings for current pricing.
Expert Verdict – Is It Worth Waiting For, Or Buying Now in 2025?
As the Pura 70 Ultra has been available since April 2024, the “waiting for” aspect is less relevant unless you’re waiting for a specific price drop or wider availability in your region.
Is it worth buying in mid-2025?
- Strengths: Unparalleled camera hardware innovation (retractable lens, 1-inch sensor), exceptional photographic output across various scenarios, incredibly fast wired and wireless charging, a beautiful and durable design, and a fluid HarmonyOS experience (for those comfortable with it).
- Weaknesses: The primary hurdle remains the lack of native Google Mobile Services for many international users. While its Kirin 9010 chip is powerful, the newest 2025 flagship processors from Qualcomm and Apple might offer better raw performance benchmarks, particularly in GPU-intensive tasks. Global availability and after-sales support can also vary.
Value for Money and Long-Term Ownership:
If mobile photography is your absolute top priority and you’re willing to navigate the GMS situation (or don’t rely on it heavily), the Pura 70 Ultra still offers immense value in 2025. Its camera system is built to last in terms of innovation. Long-term software updates on HarmonyOS are generally good within China, but international update consistency can be a point to consider.
The Pura 70 Ultra is less of a mainstream all-rounder like a Galaxy or iPhone and more of a specialized tool for those who want the peak of mobile imaging technology. If that’s you, and the software ecosystem fits your needs, it remains a highly compelling purchase.
Recent Updates – Software Developments and Market Position in 2025
By mid-2025, the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra would have received several software updates to HarmonyOS, likely enhancing system stability, security, and potentially adding new camera features or optimizations. Keep an eye on official Huawei announcements or tech news for HarmonyOS version upgrades (e.g., to HarmonyOS 5.0 or beyond) and their rollout schedule for the Pura 70 Ultra.
Its market position in 2025 is that of a slightly older but still incredibly capable niche flagship, particularly attractive to photography purists. Competitors will have launched newer models, but the Pura 70 Ultra’s unique camera hardware ensures it doesn’t easily become obsolete.
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