Huawei P40 Review: Hardware Excellence, Software Limitation
Introduction
The Huawei P40, launched in 2020, remains relevant in 2024 for one key reason: top-tier camera performance at a lower price. Its sleek design, powerful hardware, and Leica-powered camera system make it a serious device—on paper.But there’s one massive limitation: no Google services due to U.S. trade restrictions. That alone reshapes how usable the phone is, especially outside China.
So, is the P40 still worth considering in 2024? Depends on what you value—and what you can live without.
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Section 1: Core Specs
•Display: 6.1” OLED, 2340 x 1080, 60Hz
•Processor: Kirin 990 5G
•RAM: 8GB
•Storage: 128GB (expandable via NM card)
•Battery: 3,800mAh with 22.5W fast charging
•Rear Cameras:
•50MP main (RYYB sensor, f/1.9)
•16MP ultra-wide
•8MP 3x telephoto
•Front Camera: 32MP + IR sensor (dual)
•OS: EMUI 10 (based on Android 10, no Google Play Services)
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Section 2: Design and Build
•Premium glass and metal frame
•Sleek, compact form factor compared to larger modern flagships
•Matte and glossy finishes available
•No IP68 rating (only IP53—resistant, not waterproof)
It’s comfortable to hold, well-built, and doesn’t feel outdated even by 2024 design standards. The punch-hole dual front camera is the only thing that feels slightly dated.
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Section 3: Display Quality•OLED panel is bright, colorful, and sharp
•60Hz refresh rate feels behind today’s 90–120Hz norm
•Great viewing angles, solid outdoor visibility
•No HDR certification, but real-world color and contrast are still excellent
It’s not a cutting-edge display anymore, but it’s still very good for most uses.
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Section 4: Performance
•Kirin 990 5G still holds up surprisingly well
•App launches and multitasking are smooth
•5G support (where available)
•Gaming performance is solid, though newer chipsets edge it out
No overheating or lag in everyday use. EMUI remains efficient—if you can live with its quirks.
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Section 5: Camera System
This is where the P40 shines—still.
Rear Camera:•50MP main sensor captures sharp, vibrant photos with excellent low-light performance
•3x optical zoom is solid and usable
•Ultra-wide lens is average—usable, but not best in class
•AI processing is heavy-handed but effective for casual users
Front Camera:
•32MP shooter produces detailed selfies
•Depth sensor helps with accurate portrait mode
Video maxes at 4K 60fps—crisp quality, good stabilization.
Camera Rating: 9/10
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Section 6: Software and App Situation
The Major Limitation:
•No Google Play Store or Google apps
•No native Google Maps, YouTube, Gmail, Drive, etc.
•Huawei AppGallery is growing, but still missing key apps in many regions
You can:
•Use Petal Search to sideload some apps
•Rely on web apps or third-party app stores
•Or accept that some apps won’t work
For most Western users, this is the dealbreaker. If you depend on Google services, this phone isn’t for you.
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Section 7: Battery Life and Charging
•3,800mAh battery lasts all day with moderate use
•Fast charging at 22.5W (no wireless charging)
•Battery life is solid thanks to efficient hardware and EMUI optimization
Not class-leading, but very respectable.
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Section 8: Pros and Cons
Pros:
•Fantastic main camera
•Compact and premium design
•Smooth performance
•5G support
•All-day battery
•Great value on secondary markets
Cons:
•No Google apps or Play Store
•60Hz display feels outdated in 2024
•Limited app support in some regions
•No waterproofing or wireless charging
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Section 9: Who It’s Best For
Buy it if:
•You want flagship-level camera performance on a budget
•You don’t rely heavily on Google apps
•You’re comfortable sideloading or using Huawei’s ecosystem
•You value compact phone design
Skip it if:
•You’re in the U.S. or EU and depend on Google services
•You want the latest display or gaming specs
•App availability is a top priority
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Conclusion: Final Verdict
The Huawei P40 is a technical powerhouse with a stellar camera, sleek build, and solid battery—but its lack of Google services remains its Achilles’ heel in 2024. For users in Huawei-friendly markets or those who can live without Google, it’s a great phone. For everyone else, it’s hard to recommend over similarly priced Android phones with full app support.
Final Score: 7.8/10