Huawei has always had a knack for balancing innovation and value. The Pura 70 is a testament to this, offering many of the premium features found in its pricier sibling, the Pura 70 Ultra, but at a more accessible price point. Yet, the trade-offs are apparent, particularly in the camera department, which has historically been Huawei’s forte.

Design and Display: A Boxy Throwback with Modern Flair

The first thing you’ll notice about the Huawei Pura 70 is its unique design. Unlike the curved edges that have dominated the smartphone market in recent years, this model opts for a flat display and flat edges, giving it a boxy, almost retro look. It’s a design choice that sets it apart from the rest of the Pura 70 series.

The Pura 70’s 6.6-inch display is no slouch, either. It’s an LTPO OLED panel with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, which ensures smooth scrolling and sharp visuals, whether you’re gaming or just browsing social media. The resolution clocks in at 2760 x 1256, providing crisp detail, while the peak brightness of 2500 nits means you’ll have no trouble using it outdoors, even in bright sunlight.

Performance and Features: Power on a Budget

Under the hood, the Huawei Pura 70 is powered by the Kirin 9010 SoC, paired with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. This combination promises smooth performance for most tasks, from multitasking to gaming. The device handles high-speed snapshots with ease, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects without the dreaded motion blur. However, it’s worth noting that while the Pura 70 shares the same chipset as its Ultra counterpart, it does scale back on some of the more advanced camera features.

The triple-lens setup on the rear includes a 50MP primary sensor, a 13MP ultra-wide, and a 12MP telephoto lens. One of the standout features of the Pura 70 series is the EMUI software. It’s loaded with useful and fun features, including eye-tracking reactive wallpapers that follow your gaze, creating a more immersive experience. If you’re already invested in the Huawei ecosystem, the seamless integration between devices is another plus. However, the elephant in the room remains the lack of Google services, which is a significant downside for many potential buyers.

Battery life is another area where the Pura 70 shines. The 4900 mAh battery supports 66W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, ensuring that you’re never far from a full charge.

Final Thoughts: Is the Pura 70 Worth It?

The Huawei Pura 70 is a compelling option for those who want a flagship experience without breaking the bank. It offers a lot of what makes the Pura 70 Ultra great—a high-quality display, solid performance, and a premium design—at a more affordable price. However, the compromises, particularly in the camera department and the absence of Google services, might make it a tough sell for some. If you’re not heavily reliant on Google apps and are looking for a stylish, powerful phone with some cool features, the Pura 70 is worth considering. But if top-tier camera performance is a priority, or if you need Google services for your day-to-day tasks, you might find yourself looking elsewhere. Ultimately, the Pura 70 is a strong contender, but whether it’s the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.