Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword exclusive to premium devices. It’s become a centerpiece even in the mid-range space, and TECNO is leaning hard into that with the CAMON 40 Pro 5G. The pitch is simple: high-end features at an accessible price point. What sets this device apart is how it packages AI smarts, durability, and solid camera tech without pushing the price into uncomfortable territory.

But did TECNO get the formula right? Let’s break it down.

Camera

The CAMON 40 Pro 5G skips gimmicks and leans on quality where it matters most. A 50MP Sony LYT-700C Ultra Night main sensor leads the charge, delivering sharp, detailed shots with impressive clarity in both daylight and low-light conditions. The colors lean natural, avoiding the oversaturated tones often seen in competitors—something that’ll be appreciated by those who prefer realistic tones over vivid exaggeration.

On the front, a 50MP selfie shooter with autofocus is a standout feature—still a rarity at this price. Selfies are crisp, and focus accuracy makes a real difference, especially in group shots or quick snaps.

Where the camera system falls short is the supporting cast. The ultra-wide camera is just 8MP and offers average performance at best, especially when the lighting isn’t ideal. And there’s no telephoto lens, which limits the shooting range. It’s a bit of a step down from the previous generation that had more functional secondary cameras.

That said, the AI camera enhancements and privacy-focused red LED indicators during camera use are welcome touches, giving both functionality and peace of mind.

Performance and Battery

Under the hood is the MediaTek Dimensity 7300—a capable chip, though slightly less powerful than last year’s model. It’s paired with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and while it won’t outgun flagship devices, it gets the job done for everyday tasks: social media, streaming, browsing, and light gaming are handled without drama. Push it harder, and you’ll feel the limits, especially in heavier games or multitasking scenarios.

Where it impresses again is in the display. A 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with a 144Hz refresh rate isn’t common at this price. The visuals are smooth, colorful, and punchy. The curved edges are more about aesthetics than utility, but they do give a sense of premium flair—even if they sometimes distort the content slightly at the edges.

Battery-wise, the phone packs a large 5,200mAh cell. It easily makes it through a full day, even under moderate to heavy usage. Charging, however, is slower than expected—only 45W fast charging, which is a bit of a regression considering where the market is heading. Still, it’s a trade-off that many might accept in exchange for the bigger battery.

Design and Build

The CAMON 40 Pro 5G wears its design ambitions proudly. From the triple camera layout reminiscent of the Galaxy S25 series to the tapered, swan-inspired curvature on the back, this phone has a look that demands attention. The matte “Fantasy Art Texture” finish tries to be unique, though under certain lighting, it ends up looking like smudges—a small misstep in an otherwise polished design.

The build uses a plastic frame, which keeps the device light. Normally, lightweight phones can feel cheap—but this one doesn’t. It strikes a solid balance between feeling sturdy and being comfortable to hold. The curved panels help with grip, and button placement is ergonomically spot-on. There’s even a customizable One-Tap FlashSnap button for instant access to the camera or other features—simple, but smart.

What really adds value here is the IP68/69 water and dust resistance—almost unheard of in mid-range devices. Combined with Gorilla Glass 7i protection, this phone is built to take a few hits and last a while.

Verdict

The CAMON 40 Pro 5G doesn’t try to be the fastest or the most feature-packed phone in the market. What it does do is focus on the things that truly matter to most users—display, main camera quality, durability, and AI integration. TECNO took a thoughtful approach here, bringing smart features and rugged design to a more affordable crowd.

Sure, there are compromises. The ultra-wide camera is weak, fast charging is slower than it should be, and the performance won’t blow you away. But when you consider what’s on offer—50MP main and front cameras, 144Hz AMOLED screen, Gorilla Glass 7i, IP68/69 rating, and AI features that actually help rather than get in the way—it’s easy to forgive the shortcomings.

At around $250 USD, the CAMON 40 Pro 5G hits a sweet spot. It’s not perfect, but it’s a well-rounded phone that makes flagship perks available to more people. And that’s a win.