Huawei’s new Pura 70 series features three primary models. While the Ultra has grabbed attention with its retractable camera, the standard Pura 70 and the Pura 70 Pro are also compelling devices. In this review, we focus on the standard Pura 70, the most compact and budget-friendly option in the lineup. With its 6.6-inch screen, it stands out as the only model in Huawei’s flagship series to offer a flat display and flat edges, reminiscent of the iPhone’s design.
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Design & Build
The Huawei Pura 70 distinguishes itself from the other models in the Pura 70-series with its boxy, flat design, devoid of curved edges. I personally appreciate this styling; while curved-edge devices might offer slightly more comfort in the hand, there’s an undeniable premium feel to a well-crafted flat-edged phone.
The Pura 70 is offered in four colour variants, each featuring a pearlescent semi-matte frosted glass back panel. The aluminium frame boasts a high-gloss metallic finish, subtly tinted to match each colour option. Apart from the unique camera placement, the design reminds me of the Samsung Galaxy S24, although the pink variant is noticeably more vibrant than anything Samsung offers. While we were sent the white model to review, the other options might be more your style, especially the striking pink colourway. If you are considering this device, we would recommend seeing the different colours in person, as photos don’t do them justice.
Like the Pura 70 Ultra, the Pura 70 has an arrow-shaped camera bump housing a trio of rear lenses. However, this model’s camera bump is smaller, and it lacks the advanced retractable lens. Additionally, the shiny Xmage badge is absent from this model, contributing to a more minimalist aesthetic.
For those who want to add a bit of flair, the case options are far from minimalist. Many cases feature repeating patterns similar to those provided with the Ultra-series, with some bold designs available for those who like to stand out. However, unlike the Ultra, these cases are optional accessories, and the only included case is a clear one.
Display
The Huawei Pura 70 boasts a remarkable 6.6-inch display that delivers exceptional brightness. While Huawei officially states a peak brightness of 2500 nits, the screen’s performance under direct sunlight rivals that of the Honor Magic 6 Pro, which claims a significantly higher peak brightness. Regardless of the technical specifications, the Pura 70’s display is consistently impressive, offering excellent visibility in various lighting conditions.
Employing LTPO technology, the display dynamically adjusts refresh rates between 1Hz and 120Hz, optimizing performance while conserving battery life. The result is a fluid and responsive user experience, whether navigating the operating system or engaging in fast-paced gaming.
The flat display design eliminates distracting reflections and accidental touches, providing a comfortable and precise interaction. Despite the absence of curved edges, the screen maintains a smooth and seamless feel for gesture-based controls.
While the display offers customization options, the level of control is somewhat limited compared to competing devices. Users can select between Standard and Vivid colour profiles and adjust colour temperature, with a colour wheel available for further fine-tuning. While sufficient for most users, those seeking advanced colour calibration may find the options somewhat restrictive.
Overall, the Pura 70’s display is a standout feature, offering a vibrant, responsive, and visually pleasing viewing experience.
Software
The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra runs EMUI 14.2, a heavily customized version of Android 14 that borrows design cues from iOS. EMUI veterans will feel right at home with the familiar split notification and quick settings shade, accessed by swiping from opposite sides of the screen. The app drawer also remains disabled by default.
While EMUI offers extensive customization, a learning curve exists for those accustomed to stock Android. However, EMUI shines in its speed, aesthetics, and seamless integration with other Huawei products.
The major drawback? The lack of Google Mobile Services (GMS) support. For users heavily reliant on Google apps and services, the Pura 70 might be a non-starter without alternative solutions.
Despite the Google hurdle, EMUI boasts some unique features unseen on other phones. One standout is the eye-tracking animated lock screen. Compatible themes react to your gaze, like characters playing tennis or bouncing around the screen. It’s a quirky but undeniably fun addition.
However, the bloatware situation is a blemish on the otherwise premium experience. While Huawei’s own app alternatives are expected, the inclusion of random “junk” apps like games, social media, and travel booking feels unnecessary. Thankfully, these can be uninstalled, but it’s an annoyance for a high-end device.
In summary, EMUI 14.2 presents a feature-rich, customizable interface with a significant caveat: the lack of Google Mobile Services. Users who can navigate this obstacle will find a unique and engaging experience, while others may have to prioritize seamless Google integration.
Performance
The Huawei Pura 70 is powered by the Kirin 9010 processor, a 7nm chip manufactured by SMIC. Due to ongoing US sanctions, Huawei has been unable to utilize more advanced chipsets like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
Despite these limitations, the Pura 70 delivers a surprisingly smooth user experience. Huawei’s software optimizations ensure snappy navigation, rapid app launches, and fluid scrolling. However, the phone’s capabilities become more apparent under demanding tasks.
Image processing is noticeably slower compared to competing flagships. Photos often appear lacklustre initially, only to reveal their full detail after a brief processing delay. This phenomenon, while intriguing, suggests that the processor is working at its limits. Additionally, prolonged photography or videography sessions can lead to increased device temperature, further indicating the chipset’s workload.
The Pura 70’s dual stereo speakers offer decent audio quality with satisfactory bass response. While not capable of earth-shattering volume, they provide an above-average listening experience. For optimal audio output, users may prefer to use headphones or external speakers.
Overall, the Pura 70’s performance is commendable given the constraints imposed by the Kirin 9010 processor. While it may not match the raw power of top-tier competitors, Huawei’s software optimizations ensure a respectable user experience.
Camera(s)
The Pura 70’s camera system, while not reaching the zenith of its Ultra counterpart, offers a robust photographic experience. At its core is a 50MP Ultra Lighting Camera equipped with an F1.4~F4.0 aperture and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). This configuration enables the capture of detailed, vibrant images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Complementing the main sensor is a versatile 13MP Ultra-Wide Angle Camera with an F2.2 aperture, ideal for capturing expansive landscapes without compromising image quality. Additionally, a dedicated 12MP Telephoto Camera featuring an F3.4 aperture and OIS provides enhanced zoom capabilities. The 13MP front-facing camera, equipped with autofocus and a wide field of view, caters to selfie enthusiasts and video conferencing needs.
While the Pura 70’s camera system might not match the groundbreaking specifications of the Ultra model, it delivers exceptional performance for the majority of users. Its ability to capture vivid colours, sharp details, and impressive low-light shots positions it as a strong contender in the mid-to-high-end smartphone market.
While photography professionals may yearn for the larger sensor found in the Ultra model, the Pura 70’s camera setup provides a compelling and satisfying experience for most users.
Battery
The battery in this device has a 4,900mAh capacity and uses a standard LiPo pack, without the advanced silicon-carbon technology seen in the Honor Magic 6. Nonetheless, its larger capacity compared to most competitors results in an impressive runtime.
The battery easily lasted me through the day, often leaving me with 40% remaining by bedtime, even during heavy use. With lighter use, you could potentially stretch it to two days on a single charge.
Battery life isn’t much of a concern with this device, thanks to its fast-charging capabilities. Using the included wall adapter, you can charge at 66W, which takes the battery from empty to full in just over an hour. With a compatible wireless charger, you can charge almost as fast without needing to plug in.
Conclusion
The Huawei Pura 70 is a compelling device in many ways. We found it enjoyable to use overall, with impressive cameras, a stunning display, and a premium design. However, the outdated processor architecture and the significant effort required to get Google services running make it a difficult choice for many users.
If your primary concern is camera performance, the Pura 70 remains a strong contender, offering excellent camera quality at its price point. However, for most people, it might be wiser to choose an alternative from Vivo, Xiaomi, or Samsung, which offer not only robust camera systems but also faster performance and seamless Google support.
