Huawei Pura 80 Pro Review: The Camera-First Flagship That Redefines Mobile Photography in 2025
For years, many South Africans have written off Huawei because of its lack of Google Mobile Services. But in 2025, Huawei is rewriting that narrative, boldly. The Huawei Pura 80 Pro is one of the most impressive photography and videography smartphones currently available, and it’s making serious waves despite the Google gap.
If you’re a photographer, content creator, or simply someone who wants the best smartphone camera in South Africa, this device deserves your attention. Here’s a full breakdown of what the Pura 80 Pro brings to the table.
Specs
| Screen / Display | 6.8″ OLED, 2,848 × 1,276, 1–120 Hz adaptive refresh, peak brightness ~3,000 nits (X-True Display) |
| Body / Build | Glazed texture design, “sunburst” pattern (red variant), Kunlun Glass 2nd Generation for tougher protection |
| Weight / Dimensions | ~219 g, 163 × 76.1 × 8.3 mm (for Pura 80 Pro / Pro+ series) |
| OS / Software | EMUI 14.2 / HarmonyOS base (Huawei’s ecosystem, no Google Play |
| Processor | Kirin 9020 (octa-core) |
| Memory & Storage | 12 GB RAM; options for 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB storage |
| Network & Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, NFC, USB-C, stereo speakers |
| Battery & Charging | 5,170 mAh battery; 100 W wired SuperCharge, 80 W wireless SuperCharge |
| Camera System | Triple rear cameras: 50 MP “1-inch Ultra Lighting” main sensor + 48 MP telephoto + 40 MP ultra-wide / macro; front: 13 MP |
| Features | Ultra Chroma XMAGE color, HDR night video, AI cinematic engine, macro telephoto with 5 cm focus |
The massive 1-inch sensor captures significantly more light than most smartphones, producing exceptional detail, color, and dynamic range, even in low light. Shadows, highlights, and color accuracy are all handled with near-professional precision. The telephoto and macro performance is strong enough to replace dedicated gear for many creators, while stabilization ensures smooth, cinematic video footage.
Who Should Buy the Huawei Pura 80 Pro?
- The Pura 80 Pro is perfect for content creators who need unmatched camera performance.
- Perfect for photography, videography, YouTube, TikTok, vlogging, and filmmaking.
- Power users who care more about imaging than Google apps.
- Great for users who can navigate Huawei’s ecosystem or use app alternatives.
- Professionals who need fast charging and strong battery life
- Anyone who wants DSLR-level photography in their pocket
Retail of the Huawei Pura 80 Pro
- Huawei Store: from R24,999
- Vodacom: from R28,999
- Contract deals: starting around R1,380/month
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Best-in-class camera hardware (huge 1-inch sensor)
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Strong telephoto & macro capabilities
- Ultra-fast 100W wired & 80W wireless charging
- Premium design with durable Kunlun Glass
- Excellent connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 7, stereo speakers
Cons
- No Google Services (app compatibility issues)
- Requires sideloading or alternative apps
- Heavy at 219g
- Some regional software update uncertainty
- High price point
Is the Huawei Pura 80 Pro Worth It?
Absolutely, if camera performance matters to you.
The Huawei Pura 80 Pro is one of the boldest, most impressive releases of 2025. Its camera system outperforms many traditional cameras and surpasses most smartphones currently available in South Africa. For creators, this smartphone is a game-changer.
Yes, the lack of Google is a hurdle. But if you’re willing to adapt, the photographic results are unmatched. This device genuinely makes you question whether Google apps matter more than having one of the best cameras ever put in a phone.
Huawei may not have Google.
But with the Pura 80 Pro, they have something arguably more compelling: innovation, power, and a camera system that’s next-level.
If you’re a photographer, videographer, or someone who values imaging above all else—this is a phone you should seriously consider.