| **OUR VERDICT** |
|---|
| The Huawei Mate X3 is a triumph of foldable engineering, boasting an ultra-slim design, premium displays, and a robust camera system. Its lightweight build and standout features make it a hardware masterpiece, but the absence of Google Mobile Services and 5G connectivity limits its appeal in global markets. For users seeking cutting-edge design and capable of navigating software restrictions, it offers a truly innovative experience. |
The Huawei Mate X3 is a groundbreaking addition to the foldable smartphone market, solidifying Huawei’s position as a leader in mobile technology innovation. Unveiled with much fanfare, this device aims to set a new benchmark for foldable smartphones by integrating state-of-the-art hardware with an elegant and functional design. The Huawei Mate X3 stands out not only for its sleek profile but also for its portability, making it an attractive option for users seeking a foldable that seamlessly balances form and function.
Weighing only 239 grams, the Huawei Mate X3 is among the lightest in its category. Its compact form factor, combined with a durable yet sophisticated construction, makes it ideal for on-the-go use. This phone embodies Huawei’s vision of what the future of mobile technology should look like, transcending conventional limitations.
However, its journey is not without hurdles. The Huawei Mate X3’s hardware excellence is somewhat overshadowed by software challenges linked to restrictions on Google Mobile Services (GMS) and the absence of 5G connectivity. These factors, rooted in geopolitical dynamics, make the Huawei Mate X3 a unique product that simultaneously demonstrates unparalleled engineering and navigates significant obstacles.
This review explores every aspect of the Huawei Mate X3, from its innovative hardware and ergonomic design to the compromises necessitated by its software ecosystem. This device is not just a smartphone—it is a bold statement about the potential of mobile technology when innovation takes center stage.
HUAWEI MATE X3 SPECIFICATIONS
The Huawei Mate X3’s specifications showcase its status as a cutting-edge foldable device. Below is a comprehensive breakdown:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | – Main: 7.85-inch Foldable OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 2496 x 2224 resolution |
| – Cover: 6.4-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 2504 x 1080 resolution | |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4G-only) |
| GPU | Adreno 730 |
| RAM | 12GB |
| Storage | 512GB (expandable via Huawei NM card up to 256GB) |
| Battery | 4800mAh |
| – 66W wired fast charging | |
| – 50W wireless fast charging | |
| – 7.5W reverse wireless charging | |
| Cameras | – Rear: 50MP main sensor (f/1.8, PDAF, OIS) |
| – 13MP ultrawide (f/2.2) | |
| – 12MP telephoto (f/3.4, PDAF, OIS, 5x optical zoom) | |
| – Front: Dual 8MP cameras | |
| Operating System | HarmonyOS 3.1 |
| Connectivity | – 4G LTE |
| – Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | |
| – Bluetooth 5.2 | |
| – NFC | |
| – Infrared (IR) port | |
| Build Quality | – IPX8 water resistance |
| – Kunlun Glass for cover display | |
| Audio | Stereo speakers, no 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Dimensions | – Folded: 156.9 x 72.4 x 11.08 mm |
| – Unfolded: 156.9 x 141.5 x 5.3 mm | |
| Weight | 239g |
| Sensors | – Fingerprint (side-mounted) |
| – Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer | |
| Colors | Glass: Black, White, Green |
| Vegan Leather: Khaki, Dark Blue | |
DESIGN & BUILD
The design of the Huawei Mate X3 is a marvel of engineering and aesthetics. Every element of its construction has been meticulously crafted to deliver a premium experience.
Slim and Lightweight Design
The Huawei Mate X3 redefines portability in foldable smartphones with its slim profile. When unfolded, it measures just 5.3mm, making it the thinnest foldable device on the market. Even when folded, it maintains a compact profile at 11.08mm, ensuring ease of use and storage. At 239 grams, it is remarkably light for a book-style foldable, offering a balance of durability and mobility.
Hinge Mechanism
The standout feature of the Huawei Mate X3’s design is its next-generation hinge system. Engineered for durability and smooth operation, the hinge provides a seamless, gap-free closure, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. This mechanism not only prevents dust and debris from entering but also minimizes the visibility of the screen crease when unfolded. The hinge’s robustness ensures that it can withstand extensive use without compromising on stability or performance.
Materials and Finish
The Huawei Mate X3 is available in two finishes:
- Glass Back: Offers a glossy, reflective appearance, adding to the device’s premium feel.
- Vegan Leather Back: Provides a textured, grippy surface that is both stylish and practical for users seeking a softer, more tactile experience.
The front and cover displays are protected by Kunlun Glass, which significantly enhances durability against scratches and drops. The IPX8 water resistance rating ensures that the Huawei Mate X3 can withstand submersion in water, adding an extra layer of protection for everyday use.
Ergonomics
Huawei has focused on ensuring that the Huawei Mate X3 is as user-friendly as possible. The curved edges and lightweight frame make it comfortable to hold, whether folded or unfolded. The positioning of the side-mounted fingerprint scanner ensures quick and intuitive access, while the tactile buttons provide satisfying feedback.
Camera Module Design
The rear camera module is prominent and circular, housing a powerful triple-camera setup. While this design choice contributes to the device’s photographic capabilities, the slight protrusion of the module might not appeal to everyone. However, the module’s central placement ensures better balance and prevents wobbling when placed on a flat surface.
Colors and Customization
The Huawei Mate X3 comes in a range of sophisticated colors:
- Glass finish: Classic shades like Black, White, and a unique Green variant.
- Vegan leather finish: Khaki and Dark Blue, catering to those who prefer a more subdued, elegant look.
Huawei offers accessories, including protective cases and stylus support, to complement the phone’s design and functionality.
In summary, the Huawei Mate X3 excels in design and build quality, setting new standards for foldable smartphones with its slim profile, advanced hinge, premium materials, and ergonomic features. It combines aesthetics with practicality, making it a standout choice for users prioritizing style and functionality.
DISPLAY
The Huawei Mate X3 features a dual OLED display setup that stands out for its vibrant colors, sharp resolution, and smooth performance, redefining the foldable viewing experience.
Main Display
- Size & Aspect Ratio: The Huawei Mate X3’s 7.85-inch foldable OLED screen offers a near-square aspect ratio, making it ideal for productivity tasks such as document editing, split-screen multitasking, and immersive media consumption.
- Resolution & Refresh Rate: Boasting a resolution of 2496 x 2224 pixels, the main display ensures crisp visuals, while the 120Hz refresh rate delivers fluid animations and a responsive touch experience.
- Color & Brightness: The display supports a wide color gamut with vibrant hues and deep blacks, characteristic of OLED technology. Its peak brightness makes it suitable for outdoor usage, with minimal glare and excellent visibility under direct sunlight.
- Crease Minimization: Huawei has refined its hinge and display technology to reduce the screen crease, making it almost imperceptible during everyday use, providing a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience.
Cover Display
- Size & Aspect Ratio: The 6.4-inch external OLED display adopts a traditional 20:9 aspect ratio, offering a comfortable experience for one-handed tasks such as texting, browsing, or quick app interactions.
- Resolution & Refresh Rate: With a resolution of 2504 x 1080 pixels and the same 120Hz refresh rate, the cover display matches the main screen in quality and fluidity.
- Durability: Protected by Kunlun Glass, the cover display is robust against scratches and drops, ensuring long-term usability.
Both displays are designed for versatile use, catering to various scenarios from casual browsing to intensive multitasking. Huawei’s attention to detail ensures that the Mate X3’s displays offer a premium and consistent visual experience across all applications.
PERFORMANCE
The Huawei Mate X3 delivers robust performance, powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, a high-end chipset tailored for flagship devices. While restricted to 4G connectivity, the hardware provides an excellent balance of power and efficiency.
Processor and GPU
- Chipset: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 is built on a 4nm process, ensuring power efficiency without compromising performance.
- GPU: The Adreno 730 GPU ensures smooth graphics rendering for gaming, video playback, and other demanding tasks.
Multitasking
- With 12GB of RAM, the Huawei Mate X3 handles multitasking effortlessly, allowing users to switch between apps without lag.
- The large, foldable main display enhances productivity, enabling seamless use of split-screen modes or floating windows for simultaneous app use.
Gaming
- The Mate X3 excels in gaming performance, supporting demanding titles at high settings. The 120Hz refresh rate enhances gameplay fluidity, while the Adreno 730 GPU ensures rich graphics rendering.
- However, the lack of 5G connectivity may affect online gaming experiences in areas where 5G speeds are prevalent.
Thermal Management
The device incorporates an advanced cooling system to maintain optimal performance during prolonged use, ensuring sustained efficiency without significant throttling.
While the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 delivers impressive results, enthusiasts may note the absence of newer chipsets like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Despite this, the Huawei Mate X3 offers a reliable and powerful performance package suitable for most high-end use cases.
CAMERA CAPABILITIES
The Huawei Mate X3’s triple-camera setup is versatile, designed to deliver excellent results across various scenarios, complemented by Huawei’s advanced image processing algorithms.
Main Camera (50MP)
- Performance: Captures highly detailed and color-accurate images with excellent dynamic range, making it ideal for both landscapes and close-up shots.
- Daylight Conditions: Performs exceptionally, producing vibrant photos with rich colors and natural contrasts.
- Low-Light Conditions: Uses Huawei’s AI processing to enhance brightness and detail. However, while good, it slightly lags behind competitors like the Google Pixel Fold in extreme low-light scenarios.
Ultrawide Camera (13MP)
- Performance: Produces distortion-free images with consistent color profiles that match the main camera.
- Use Cases: Great for group shots, landscapes, or tight spaces, the ultrawide lens offers versatility without sacrificing quality.
Telephoto Camera (12MP, 5x Optical Zoom)
- Performance: Captures distant subjects with clarity, offering impressive results with 5x optical zoom.
- Digital Zoom: While the optical zoom is excellent, digital zoom beyond 10x starts to introduce noise and reduced sharpness.
- Use Cases: Excels in wildlife photography, event coverage, and capturing fine details from afar.
Front Cameras (2x 8MP)
- Performance: These cameras are sufficient for high-quality video calls and selfies.
- Portrait Mode: Offers decent edge detection, though not as refined as flagship competitors.
Video Capabilities
- Recording Options: Supports 4K video recording with stabilization on all cameras, making it a solid choice for creators.
- Stabilization: The inclusion of OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) ensures smooth video output, even when handheld.
Performance in Different Lighting Conditions
- Daylight:
- All cameras excel, delivering sharp, vibrant images with accurate colors. Dynamic range is impressive, preserving details in both highlights and shadows.
- Low-Light:
- The main camera produces well-lit images with minimal noise, thanks to AI-enhanced night modes.
- The ultrawide and telephoto cameras are slightly less effective in low-light, requiring ample ambient light for optimal results.
- Artificial Lighting:
- Performs well in indoor and artificial lighting scenarios, maintaining natural skin tones and balanced colors.
- Extreme Conditions:
- In very low light, noise becomes noticeable, particularly in telephoto shots. Here, competitors like the Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 offer superior performance.
Overall, the Huawei Mate X3’s cameras deliver a versatile and dependable photography experience. While there is room for improvement in night photography, it holds its ground in most scenarios and surpasses many rivals in telephoto and ultrawide performance.
BATTERY LIEF AND CHARGING
The Huawei Mate X3 is equipped with a 4800mAh battery, designed to provide reliable performance throughout the day. The battery management, combined with efficient hardware, ensures that the device caters to both casual and power users effectively.
Battery Performance
- Daily Use: Under moderate usage, including web browsing, video streaming, and light multitasking, the Huawei Mate X3 comfortably lasts a full day on a single charge.
- Heavy Use: For users engaging in intensive activities like gaming, video recording, or extensive multitasking, the battery life may decrease, but it still offers impressive longevity for a foldable device.
- Power Conservation: The absence of 5G connectivity contributes to lower power consumption, extending battery life compared to many 5G-enabled competitors.
Charging Speeds
- Wired Charging:
- Supports 66W SuperCharge, allowing the device to charge from 0% to approximately 80% in just 30 minutes.
- Ideal for users who need quick top-ups throughout the day.
- Wireless Charging:
- Features 50W wireless fast charging, a rare and premium feature in foldable phones. This provides a cable-free, efficient charging option without compromising speed.
- Reverse Wireless Charging:
- Includes support for reverse wireless charging, allowing the Mate X3 to power other Qi-compatible devices like earbuds or smartwatches.
Battery Optimization Features
- Software Efficiency: HarmonyOS 3.1 incorporates AI-based battery management tools, optimizing app usage and background processes to extend battery life.
- Low Power Mode: The system offers a robust power-saving mode that reduces functionality while maximizing remaining charge for critical tasks.
While the lack of 5G connectivity conserves battery, it could feel limiting for users in regions where 5G networks are prevalent, as the device cannot capitalize on faster data speeds.
SOFTWARE
The Huawei Mate X3 runs on HarmonyOS 3.1, a polished and intuitive operating system designed to provide a seamless user experience. Huawei’s proprietary software serves as a viable alternative to Android but comes with its own set of challenges and advantages.
User Interface
- Smooth Navigation: HarmonyOS 3.1 features a visually appealing interface with fluid animations, customizable widgets, and an easy-to-navigate layout.
- Split-Screen and Multitasking: Optimized for the foldable form factor, it allows users to run multiple apps side-by-side, drag-and-drop files, and seamlessly switch between tasks.
- App Gallery: Huawei’s App Gallery serves as the primary app store, offering a growing selection of applications.
Challenges
- No Google Mobile Services (GMS): The absence of GMS means no native access to Google apps like Gmail, YouTube, or Google Maps. While third-party workarounds exist, they often lack the fluidity and integration of native apps.
- Regional Limitations: Certain apps and services popular in Western markets may be unavailable or harder to access, making the device less appealing to users heavily reliant on these ecosystems.
Ecosystem Integration
- Device Connectivity: HarmonyOS excels in connecting Huawei devices, such as laptops, tablets, and wearables, creating a cohesive ecosystem for those already invested in Huawei’s product lineup.
- Cross-Device Collaboration: Features like drag-and-drop file transfers, shared screens, and synchronized notifications enhance productivity.
- Limited Third-Party Support: The ecosystem is still developing compared to mature platforms like Android or iOS, which could be a drawback for users seeking a wide range of app compatibility.
While HarmonyOS 3.1 offers a smooth experience, its restricted app ecosystem and the need for workarounds to access popular services remain significant barriers for international users.
PRICE & VALUE
At €2,200/£2,000, the Huawei Mate X3 is firmly positioned in the ultra-premium category of foldable smartphones. While it delivers a cutting-edge hardware experience, potential buyers must weigh its price against its software limitations and lack of 5G connectivity.
Hardware Justification
- Premium Design: The Huawei Mate X3’s lightweight, ultra-slim profile, combined with its durable build and water resistance, contributes to its luxury appeal.
- Advanced Displays: Dual 120Hz OLED screens with high resolutions and minimal creases offer one of the best visual experiences in the foldable market.
- Versatile Cameras: The robust triple-camera system, coupled with Huawei’s color science, delivers excellent photography and videography capabilities.
- Fast Charging: Industry-leading charging speeds, both wired and wireless, add significant value.
Software Drawbacks
- No GMS: For users outside of China, the absence of Google Mobile Services is a significant drawback, reducing functionality and convenience.
- Ecosystem Gaps: Compared to Android or iOS, HarmonyOS lacks the depth and breadth of app compatibility.
Market Comparison
When compared to competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 or Google Pixel Fold, the Mate X3 excels in design and display but lags in software support and 5G connectivity.
Value Proposition
- For users in China or regions where Huawei’s ecosystem thrives, the Huawei Mate X3 is a highly competitive option.
- For international users, its value diminishes unless they are comfortable with software workarounds and prioritizing hardware over connectivity and app ecosystem.
While the Huawei Mate X3 is a technological marvel, its price point and software restrictions make it best suited for niche audiences who prioritize hardware innovation over mainstream software conveniences.
PROS AND CONS
Pros:
- Exceptional design and build quality
- High-quality dual OLED displays
- Versatile camera system
- Fast charging capabilities
Cons:
- No Google Mobile Services
- No 5G connectivity
- Expensive price point
- Limited software ecosystem
COMPARISON WITH COMPETITORS
When comparing the Huawei Mate X3, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, and Google Pixel Fold, the differences in design, features, and ecosystem integration become clear. Below is a comprehensive comparison across all specifications:
| Feature | Huawei Mate X3 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 | Google Pixel Fold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Slimmest foldable, IPX8 water resistance, premium materials (glass/vegan leather) | Sturdy build, IPX8 water resistance, S Pen compatibility | Compact when folded, IPX8 water resistance, durable hinge |
| Main Display | 7.85-inch Foldable OLED, 120Hz, 2496×2224 pixels, minimal crease | 7.6-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, 2176×1812 pixels, visible crease | 7.6-inch OLED, 120Hz, 2208×1840 pixels |
| Cover Display | 6.4-inch OLED, 120Hz, 2504×1080 pixels | 6.2-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, 2316×904 pixels | 5.8-inch OLED, 60Hz, 2092×1080 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4G-only) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (5G-enabled) | Google Tensor G2 |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB | 12GB |
| Storage | 512GB (expandable via Huawei NM card) | 256GB/512GB/1TB (non-expandable) | 256GB/512GB (non-expandable) |
| Rear Cameras | Triple: 50MP (main), 13MP (ultrawide), 12MP (5x optical zoom telephoto) | Triple: 50MP (main), 12MP (ultrawide), 10MP (3x optical zoom telephoto) | Triple: 48MP (main), 10.8MP (ultrawide), 10.8MP (5x optical zoom telephoto) |
| Front Cameras | Dual: 8MP (main and cover) | 4MP (main) + 10MP (cover) | 9.5MP (main) + 8MP (cover) |
| Battery | 4800mAh, 66W wired, 50W wireless charging | 4400mAh, 25W wired, 15W wireless charging | 4821mAh, 30W wired, wireless charging |
| Operating System | HarmonyOS 3.1 (no Google Mobile Services) | Android 12L with One UI (GMS supported) | Android 13 (Pixel UI, GMS supported) |
| Build Quality | Ultra-slim at 5.3mm unfolded, Kunlun Glass cover, gapless hinge | Sturdy, gap-visible hinge | Compact, durable hinge |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC | 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC | 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC |
| Price | ~€2,200/£2,000 | ~€1,800/£1,649 | ~€1,900/£1,799 |
Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses
- Huawei Mate X3: Excels in design and display, with minimal creases and a slim profile. Falls short in software ecosystem and lacks 5G support.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4: A robust all-rounder with versatile features like S Pen support, solid cameras, and 5G connectivity, though its crease is more noticeable.
- Google Pixel Fold: Offers compact design and superior computational photography but has a lower refresh rate for the cover display and slower charging speeds.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Huawei Mate X3 is a triumph of engineering, demonstrating what foldable smartphones can achieve in terms of design, display quality, and hardware performance. Its ultra-slim profile, premium materials, and vibrant dual OLED displays set it apart as a hardware masterpiece. The camera system, with versatile lenses and strong color science, further enhances its appeal for photography enthusiasts.
Advantages
- Innovative Hardware: The Huawei Mate X3’s lightweight, gapless hinge design and IPX8 water resistance showcase Huawei’s leadership in foldable technology.
- Top-Notch Displays: Dual 120Hz OLED screens offer an exceptional viewing experience with minimal creases.
- Fast Charging: Leading the foldable category with 66W wired and 50W wireless charging.
Drawbacks
- Software Limitations: The absence of Google Mobile Services (GMS) and reliance on workarounds for Google apps pose significant challenges for users outside of Huawei’s ecosystem.
- No 5G Connectivity: The lack of 5G may feel outdated for users in regions where 5G is prevalent.
- High Price: Positioned at a premium price point, making it less accessible to casual consumers.
Final Verdict
The Huawei Mate X3 is ideal for users who prioritize cutting-edge hardware and design over a seamless software ecosystem. It is best suited for markets where Huawei’s ecosystem is well-supported or for tech-savvy individuals willing to navigate its software challenges. For those seeking a more balanced package with 5G and broader app compatibility, alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 or Google Pixel Fold may offer better overall value.
Verdict: A hardware masterpiece hindered by software limitations. Recommended for enthusiasts who value design and innovation over ecosystem integration.
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