Huawei P40 Pro Overview, Features, and Buying Guide
The Huawei P40 Pro represents a flagship smartphone that pushed photography boundaries when it launched in April 2020. Built around an exceptional Leica-engineered camera system, this device caters to users who prioritize imaging capabilities alongside premium build quality and powerful performance. The phone’s curved OLED display, sophisticated multi-camera array, and robust hardware create a compelling package despite some significant software considerations.
Huawei’s collaboration with Leica produces remarkable results with the P40 Pro’s quad-camera setup. The 50MP primary sensor with a large 1/1.28″ size captures stunning detail, while the 12MP periscope telephoto lens delivers genuine 5x optical zoom—a rarity even among flagships. An ultrawide 40MP shooter and TOF 3D depth sensor complete the versatile imaging toolkit. This combination enables everything from expansive landscape shots to tightly cropped distant subjects without quality degradation.
The 6.58-inch OLED screen curves elegantly along the edges, providing an immersive viewing experience with its 90Hz refresh rate. Colors appear vibrant and accurate, while HDR10 support enhances compatible video content. The display occupies 91.6% of the front surface, minimizing bezels and maximizing usable screen area. Peak brightness and the 441 ppi density ensure crisp text and comfortable outdoor visibility.
Performance comes from Huawei’s Kirin 990 5G chipset, built on a 7nm+ process. The octa-core CPU configuration balances high-performance Cortex-A76 cores with efficient A55 cores for demanding tasks and everyday operations. The Mali-G76 MP16 GPU handles graphics-intensive applications smoothly. Multiple storage options—128GB, 256GB, or 512GB paired with 8GB RAM—all utilize fast UFS 3.0 technology for quick app launches and file transfers.
Battery endurance receives a boost from 40W wired charging, 27W wireless charging, and even 27W reverse wireless charging. The 4200mAh capacity powers through a full day of mixed use, while the fast charging options minimize downtime. Wireless charging convenience and the ability to charge other devices wirelessly add practical versatility.
What Makes the Huawei P40 Pro Worth Buying?
Photography capabilities distinguish the P40 Pro from most competitors. The Leica partnership produces cameras tuned for exceptional color science and image processing. That massive 50MP main sensor excels in various lighting conditions, capturing detail that rivals dedicated cameras in many scenarios. The sensor’s large physical size allows more light collection, resulting in cleaner low-light images and better dynamic range.
Optical image stabilization on both the main camera and periscope telephoto lens ensures sharp handheld shots. The 5x optical zoom reaches subjects distant photography typically struggles with—sporting events, wildlife, architectural details—without resorting to quality-destroying digital zoom. Push to 10x hybrid zoom and results remain impressive. The 40MP ultrawide camera doesn’t compromise on resolution like many implementations, preserving detail across the entire frame.
Video recording reaches professional-grade with 4K at 60fps from both rear and front cameras. Gyro-EIS stabilization smooths handheld footage effectively. Slow-motion capabilities extend to an astounding 7680fps at 720p and 960fps at 1080p, enabling creative super-slow-motion captures that freeze fleeting moments dramatically.
The premium build quality feels substantial yet refined. Glass front and back panels sandwich an aluminum frame, creating a device that looks and feels expensive. IP68 water resistance provides peace of mind—the phone survives submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. This protection handles accidental spills, rain exposure, and beach environments without worry.
Connectivity options span the full spectrum. Wi-Fi 6 support ensures fast wireless networking, while Bluetooth 5.1 handles audio devices and accessories efficiently. Comprehensive positioning support across GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS, and NavIC provides accurate location tracking globally. NFC enables contactless payments and quick pairing, while the infrared port controls home entertainment systems.
The dual SIM implementation offers flexibility—either Nano-SIM plus eSIM or dual Nano-SIM configurations suit different user needs. International travelers appreciate this versatility for managing multiple carriers. The Nano Memory card slot expands storage, though it requires sacrificing the second SIM slot.
Things to Know Before Choosing the Huawei P40 Pro
The absence of Google Play Services represents the most significant limitation. Huawei’s AppGallery has grown substantially, but gaps remain compared to Google’s ecosystem. Popular apps like Gmail, Google Maps, YouTube, and many banking applications either require workarounds or simply don’t function. Users deeply invested in Google services will face considerable friction transitioning to alternatives.
Workarounds exist—sideloading apps, using web versions, or alternative app stores—but these solutions require technical comfort and patience. Banking apps particularly problematic, as security concerns prevent many institutions from supporting unofficial installation methods. Social media apps often lack feature parity in their AppGallery versions compared to Google Play releases.
The 4200mAh battery capacity, while adequate, doesn’t match larger competitors. Heavy users streaming video, gaming extensively, or using the camera system aggressively may find themselves reaching for chargers by evening. The excellent camera hardware and high-refresh display consume power noticeably under intensive use.
Software updates present uncertainty. EMUI 12 runs atop Android 10, but Huawei’s future Android access remains complicated by trade restrictions. Security patches continue, but major OS updates face challenges. Buyers should consider this device’s software support lifespan carefully compared to manufacturers with guaranteed multi-year update commitments.
The curved display edges, while visually striking, can cause accidental touch inputs. Palm rejection works reasonably well, but users occasionally trigger unintended actions when gripping the phone. Screen protector application becomes more challenging with curved glass, and replacement costs run higher than flat screens.
Gaming performance, while generally strong, doesn’t quite match Snapdragon 865 flagships from the same period. The Mali-G76 GPU handles most titles competently, but demanding games at maximum settings may show occasional frame drops. Competitive mobile gamers seeking absolute peak performance might notice the difference.
Is the Huawei P40 Pro Right for You?
Photography enthusiasts prioritizing camera quality above all else will find tremendous value here. The Leica optics and computational photography produce images with character and technical excellence that many smartphones can’t match. Landscape photographers benefit from the high-resolution ultrawide, portrait shooters appreciate the natural background separation, and zoom lovers enjoy reaching distant subjects clearly.
Content creators working outside the Google ecosystem can leverage the outstanding video capabilities. The slow-motion features enable creative storytelling, while 4K60 recording from both cameras maintains quality whether vlogging or capturing B-roll. Gyro-stabilized footage reduces the need for gimbals on many projects.
Users comfortable with technical workarounds or those already using alternative app ecosystems can navigate the Google services absence. The Chinese market, where Google services aren’t standard anyway, represents the ideal audience. International buyers need realistic expectations about app availability and willingness to invest time finding alternatives.
Business professionals requiring reliable communication, email, and productivity tools can function well if their specific applications exist on AppGallery or run via browser. Video calling, document editing, and calendar management work fine through alternative providers. Corporate environments mandating specific security or compliance apps should verify compatibility first.
Travelers appreciate the dual SIM flexibility, comprehensive navigation satellite support, and premium build quality. The camera system captures vacation memories exceptionally. However, reliance on Google Maps for navigation requires finding suitable alternatives like HERE WeGo or Petal Maps.
The P40 Pro struggles serving users deeply embedded in Google’s ecosystem—YouTube Premium subscribers, Google One storage users, Gmail-dependent workers, Google Photos backup users. These individuals face constant frustration working around service absences. Casual smartphone users wanting simplicity should also look elsewhere, as the device requires more setup effort than typical Android phones.
Best Alternatives to the Huawei P40 Pro
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra offers comparable camera versatility with full Google services support. Its 108MP sensor and Space Zoom provide alternative approaches to mobile photography, though at a higher price point with more conventional software experience.
The Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro delivers similar flagship specifications with Snapdragon 865 power and full Google integration. Camera quality approaches the P40 Pro in many scenarios while maintaining ecosystem compatibility and typically undercutting Huawei’s pricing.
OnePlus 8 Pro provides a cleaner software experience with guaranteed updates, stellar performance, and strong cameras, though it can’t quite match the P40 Pro’s photographic prowess. The trade-off favors software support and gaming performance over ultimate imaging capabilities.
Apple’s iPhone 11 Pro offers a completely different ecosystem but matches the premium build quality and camera excellence. Users willing to switch operating systems gain reliable long-term support and seamless service integration, though at the cost of Android’s customization flexibility.
Huawei P40 Pro Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install Google apps on the Huawei P40 Pro?
The Huawei P40 Pro ships without Google Play Services due to trade restrictions. While various workarounds and unofficial installation methods circulate online, these solutions violate Google’s terms of service and may expose security risks. Huawei’s AppGallery serves as the official app store, which has expanded significantly but doesn’t include Google apps like Gmail, YouTube, Google Maps, or the Play Store itself. Users must rely on alternative services, web-based versions, or other app stores. Banking apps and applications requiring Google Play Services for security features typically won’t function even with workarounds.
How good is the camera compared to other flagship phones?
The P40 Pro’s camera system ranks among the best smartphone cameras ever produced. The Leica partnership delivers exceptional color science and image processing that many competitors struggle to match. The 50MP main sensor with its large 1/1.28″ size captures remarkable detail and handles challenging lighting beautifully. The 5x optical zoom from the periscope telephoto lens provides genuine reach without quality loss—something rare even among current flagships. The 40MP ultrawide maintains resolution better than most implementations. Low-light performance particularly impresses, with the large sensor gathering sufficient light for clean nighttime shots. Video capabilities including 4K60fps and super slow-motion options rival professional cameras.
Does the P40 Pro support 5G networks?
Yes, the Huawei P40 Pro includes 5G connectivity through its integrated Kirin 990 5G chipset. The phone supports both standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) 5G network configurations, along with GSM, HSPA, and LTE for comprehensive network compatibility. 5G performance depends on carrier support and coverage availability in specific regions. The integrated 5G modem provides better power efficiency compared to phones using separate modem chips, contributing to overall battery life.
Is the phone waterproof and can it be used underwater?
The Huawei P40 Pro carries an IP68 rating, meaning it’s dust-tight and water-resistant up to 1.5 meters depth for 30 minutes. This protection handles accidental drops in water, rain exposure, and splashes without damage. However, IP68 doesn’t mean “waterproof”—the phone shouldn’t be deliberately used underwater for extended periods or taken swimming. Water resistance can degrade over time through normal wear, and water damage isn’t typically covered under warranty. The rating protects against accidents but doesn’t invite underwater photography sessions.
How long does the battery last and how fast does it charge?
Battery life from the 4200mAh cell typically provides a full day of moderate use, though heavy usage with extensive camera work, gaming, or video streaming may require charging before day’s end. The 90Hz display and powerful processor consume energy noticeably under intensive use. Charging speed compensates somewhat—40W wired charging fills the battery quickly, usually reaching 70% in about 30 minutes. The 27W wireless charging offers convenience without cables, though it’s slower than wired charging. Reverse wireless charging at 27W allows the P40 Pro to charge other devices wirelessly, useful for topping up earbuds or smartwatches.