Huawei is taking a swing at the premium mid-tier with the Mate 80, the most affordable model in its latest lineup. While it undercuts the Pro, Pro Max, and RS Ultimate Design variants, the Mate 80 doesn’t just show up to play, it brings serious hardware to the table.
Mate 80 display and camera rival top-tier devices
Despite being the entry point, the Mate 80 doesn’t cut corners on its visuals. It boasts a 6.75-inch LTPO OLED display with a crisp 2,832 x 1,280 resolution and a 1–120 Hz adaptive refresh rate. The panel peaks at a blinding 8,000 nits right on par with Huawei’s top models. It’s also wrapped in Kunlun Glass 2 for added durability.
The rear camera setup adds to the appeal. A 50 MP primary sensor with optical image stabilization and a variable f/1.4–f/4.0 aperture is the centerpiece. You also get a 40 MP ultra-wide lens, a 12 MP telephoto with 5.5x zoom, and a 13 MP front-facing camera plus a 3D sensor for secure face unlock.
Tecno Slim 5G offers strong display and design features for $200, but build quirks and limited software support hold it back.
Huawei Mate 80 specs don’t disappoint
Under the hood, things are a bit more restrained. The Mate 80 runs on the Kirin 9020 chip an older generation compared to what powers the higher-tier models. Even so, the performance should hold steady for most users thanks to memory options reaching up to 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage.
The 5,750 mAh battery supports 66 W wired and 50 W wireless charging, ensuring the phone stays ready with minimal downtime. While it’s not leading the charge in terms of raw performance, it finds the right balance between speed and endurance.
Mate 80 price makes premium feel accessible
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Mate 80’s main highlights:
- 6.75-inch LTPO OLED, 8,000 nits, 120 Hz adaptive refresh
- 50 MP variable aperture main camera with OIS
- 40 MP ultra-wide, 12 MP 5.5x telephoto, 13 MP front cam with 3D face unlock
- Kirin 9020 chipset
- Up to 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage
- 5,750 mAh battery with 66 W wired / 50 W wireless charging
Starting at CNY 4,699 (roughly $663), the base model includes 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. The higher configuration costs CNY 5,499 (~$776), offering extra memory and storage without pushing the phone into ultra-premium territory.
Affordable doesn’t mean underwhelming
The Mate 80 may lack the newest chip, but that’s about the only area where it compromises. Huawei packed in a standout display, advanced camera hardware, and robust battery specs then priced it below much of the competition. For users who want high-end features without chasing logos, this might be the most tempting option yet.
