The Huawei Mate 20 Pro, released on November 16, 2018, was Huawei’s flagship smartphone, succeeding the Mate 10 Pro. Priced at approximately $1,050 for the base model, it targeted the premium market with a 6.39-inch AMOLED display, a pioneering triple camera system, and a robust feature set. It aimed to compete with devices like the iPhone XS Max and Samsung Galaxy Note 9, emphasizing advanced cameras, a large battery, and innovative features like reverse wireless charging. This review provides a detailed analysis of the Mate 20 Pro’s hardware and software specifications, evaluates its performance, and compares it with other 2018 smartphones in a similar price range to assess its market position.
Hardware Specifications
Physical Design and Build
The Mate 20 Pro features a glass body with an aluminum frame, supporting wireless charging. Measuring 157.8 x 72.3 x 8.6 mm and weighing 189 grams, it’s lighter than the iPhone XS Max (208g) and Galaxy Note 9 (201g), offering a comfortable grip despite its large display. The curved glass back, available in Emerald Green, Midnight Blue, Twilight, Black, and Pink Gold, has a “hyper optical” texture to reduce fingerprints and scratches. Durability tests (e.g., JerryRigEverything) showed scratches at level 6 Mohs hardness and a cracked back under extreme stress, suggesting a case for protection. Screen repairs cost ~$200–$250 without warranty.
The IP68 rating (2 meters for 30 minutes) ensures robust water and dust resistance, matching the iPhone XS Max and surpassing the iPhone XR’s IP67. The curved display and slim bezels give it a premium aesthetic, with an 87.9% screen-to-body ratio, enhanced by a small notch housing the 3D face unlock system.
Display
The Mate 20 Pro sports a 6.39-inch AMOLED display (3120 x 1440 resolution, 538 ppi), supporting HDR10 for vibrant colors and deep blacks. With a peak brightness of 600 nits, it’s slightly dimmer than the Galaxy Note 9 (710 nits) but comparable to the iPhone XS Max (625 nits), offering good outdoor visibility. The 19.5:9 aspect ratio and curved edges provide an immersive experience, and the display covers DCI-P3 and sRGB gamuts with accurate colors, though some noted slight oversaturation in default settings. The in-display fingerprint sensor, a first for Huawei, adds a futuristic touch but is slower than traditional sensors.
Processor and Performance
Powered by the Kirin 980 (7nm, 8-core, 2.6 GHz Cortex-A76/A55), the Mate 20 Pro was among the first smartphones with a 7nm chipset, alongside the iPhone XS’s A12 Bionic. Paired with 6GB or 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, it delivers excellent performance for multitasking, gaming (e.g., PUBG, Asphalt 9), and AI-driven tasks like camera processing. Benchmarks like AnTuTu (650,000) and Geekbench (Single-core: ~3,400, Multi-core: ~10,000) show it trailing the A12 Bionic (690,000) but outperforming the Snapdragon 845 in the Galaxy Note 9 (~630,000) in efficiency due to the 7nm process. The dual NPU enhances AI features like scene recognition.
Storage
Available in 128GB (6GB RAM) and 256GB (8GB RAM) variants (UFS 2.1), the Mate 20 Pro supports Huawei’s proprietary NM card (up to 256GB) instead of microSD, a limitation compared to the Galaxy Note 9’s microSD slot. The 128GB base model was sufficient for most users, though the NM card’s rarity and cost were criticized.
Battery
The 4,200mAh battery, one of the largest in 2018, supports up to 20 hours of video playback or 80 hours of audio. Real-world tests show 8–9 hours of screen-on time, outlasting the iPhone XS Max (3,174mAh), Galaxy Note 9 (4,000mAh), and Pixel 3 XL (3,430mAh). It supports 40W SuperCharge (70% in 30 minutes with included charger), 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging (2.5W) to charge other devices—a novel feature at the time. Battery life is exceptional, handling heavy use (gaming, streaming, GPS) with ease.
Cameras
The Mate 20 Pro features a triple rear camera system, co-engineered with Leica: a 40MP main sensor (f/1.8, 1/1.7” sensor, OIS), a 20MP ultra-wide sensor (f/2.2), and an 8MP telephoto sensor (f/2.4, 3x optical zoom, OIS). Features include AI scene recognition, Night Mode, and 5x hybrid zoom. It records 4K video at 30fps (no 60fps, unlike competitors) with stereo audio. The 24MP front camera (f/2.0) supports 3D face unlock and Portrait Mode, delivering sharp selfies.
Camera performance is outstanding, with excellent dynamic range, vibrant colors, and class-leading low-light shots via Night Mode, rivaling the Pixel 3 XL’s Night Sight and surpassing the iPhone XS Max in versatility. The ultra-wide lens adds creative flexibility, though video stabilization and 4K 60fps absence lag behind the iPhone XS Max.
Connectivity
The Mate 20 Pro supports dual SIM (nano-SIM or NM card slot), LTE Cat.21 (up to 1,400 Mbps), Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and an IR blaster. It includes USB-C 3.1, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BDS. Connectivity is robust, outperforming the iPhone XS Max’s early LTE issues. The lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack was a drawback, though a USB-C adapter is included.
Sensors
Includes an in-display fingerprint sensor, 3D face unlock (comparable to iPhone’s Face ID in security), accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity, ambient light, barometer, and IR sensor. The face unlock is fast and reliable, even in low light, and the fingerprint sensor is functional but slower than physical sensors.
Audio
Dual speakers (using the earpiece and bottom-firing speaker) deliver loud, clear sound with decent stereo separation, though not as immersive as the Pixel 3 XL or Galaxy Note 9. No 3.5mm jack, but bundled USB-C earbuds offer average quality. Audio performance is solid but not a highlight.
Software Specifications
Operating System
The Mate 20 Pro shipped with Android 9.0 Pie and EMUI 9.0, Huawei’s custom skin. Key features included:
- AI Features: Scene recognition, battery optimization, and translation via HiVision.
- Gesture Navigation: Swipe-based controls, customizable but less intuitive than stock Android.
- Desktop Mode: PC-like interface via USB-C (similar to Samsung DeX).
- App Twin: Run two instances of apps like WhatsApp.
- Knuckle Gestures: Screen capture and app launching via knuckle taps.
It received updates to Android 10 with EMUI 10, but US trade restrictions halted further major updates after 2020, limiting support to ~2 years of major updates and 4 years of security patches (until 2022), far shorter than the iPhone XS Max’s seven years (up to iOS 18). EMUI is feature-rich but cluttered with bloatware (e.g., Huawei apps) and less polished than OxygenOS or stock Android.
Software Issues
Early EMUI 9 builds had issues like aggressive battery optimization closing apps and notification delays, improved in updates. The lack of Google Mobile Services (GMS) on later Huawei devices (post-2019 ban) didn’t affect the Mate 20 Pro, but its short update cycle and heavy skin were criticized compared to the Pixel 3 XL’s stock Android or iPhone’s iOS.
Performance and User Experience
The Mate 20 Pro delivers a smooth experience, with fast app launches, fluid animations, and robust multitasking, especially with 8GB RAM. The Kirin 980 handles demanding tasks like gaming and 4K video editing without overheating, matching the Snapdragon 845 in theDevice performance is excellent, with vibrant colors and versatile lenses, though the Pixel 3 XL edges out in low-light quality. The AMOLED display is stunning for media and productivity, and the 4,200mAh battery ensures all-day usage with fast 40W charging. EMUI 9 is feature-packed but bloated, and the in-display fingerprint sensor and 3D face unlock are innovative, though the former is slightly slow.
Comparison with Smartphones in the Same Range
The Mate 20 Pro launched at ~$1,050 (128GB), placing it in the ultra-premium segment. Below is a comparison with 2018 competitors in a similar price range: iPhone XS Max ($1,099), Samsung Galaxy Note 9 ($999), Google Pixel 3 XL ($899), and OnePlus 6T ($599, included for value context). Prices reflect 2018 MSRP for base models.
| Feature | Huawei Mate 20 Pro | iPhone XS Max | Samsung Galaxy Note 9 | Google Pixel 3 XL | OnePlus 6T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Base) | ~$1,050 (128GB) | $1,099 (64GB) | $999 (128GB) | $899 (64GB) | $599 (128GB) |
| Display | 6.39″ AMOLED, 3120×1440, 538 ppi, HDR | 6.5″ OLED, 2688×1242, 458 ppi, HDR10 | 6.4″ AMOLED, 2960×1440, 516 ppi, HDR10 | 6.3″ OLED, 2960×1440, 523 ppi, HDR | 6.41″ AMOLED, 2340×1080, 402 ppi, HDR |
| Processor | Kirin 980 (7nm, 8-core) | A12 Bionic (7nm, 6-core) | Snapdragon 845/Exynos 9810 (10nm, 8-core) | Snapdragon 845 (10nm, 8-core) | Snapdragon 845 (10nm, 8-core) |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 4GB | 6GB/8GB | 4GB | 6GB/8GB |
| Storage | 128/256GB + NM card | 64/256/512GB | 128/512GB + microSD | 64/128GB | 128/256GB |
| Battery | 4,200mAh, 40W fast, 15W wireless | 3,174mAh, 15W fast, 7.5W wireless | 4,000mAh, 15W fast, 9W wireless | 3,430mAh, 18W fast, 10W wireless | 3,700mAh, 20W fast, no wireless |
| Rear Camera | Triple 40MP (f/1.8) + 20MP + 8MP (3x zoom) | Dual 12MP (f/1.8 wide, f/2.4 tele, 2x zoom) | Dual 12MP (f/1.5-2.4 wide, f/2.4 tele) | Single 12.2MP (f/1.8 wide) | Dual 16MP (f/1.7 wide) + 20MP (f/1.7) |
| Front Camera | 24MP (f/2.0) | 7MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/1.7) | Dual 8MP (f/1.8 wide, f/2.2 ultra-wide) | 16MP (f/2.0) |
| OS | Android 9.0 (up to Android 10) | iOS 12 (up to iOS 18) | Android 8.1 (up to Android 10) | Android 9.0 (up to Android 12) | Android 9.0 (up to Android 11) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 (2m, 30 min) | IP68 (2m, 30 min) | IP68 (1.5m, 30 min) | IP68 (1.5m, 30 min) | None (splash resistant) |
| Connectivity | Dual SIM, LTE Cat.21, Wi-Fi ac, BT 5.0, IR | Dual SIM (eSIM), LTE Cat.16, Wi-Fi ac, BT 5.0 | Dual SIM, LTE Cat.18, Wi-Fi ac, BT 5.0, 3.5mm | Single SIM (eSIM), LTE Cat.16, Wi-Fi ac, BT 5.0 | Dual SIM, LTE Cat.16, Wi-Fi ac, BT 5.0 |
| Dimensions | 157.8 x 72.3 x 8.6mm, 189g | 157.5 x 77.4 x 7.7mm, 208g | 161.9 x 76.4 x 8.8mm, 201g | 158 x 76.7 x 7.9mm, 184g | 157.5 x 74.8 x 8.2mm, 185g |
| Additional Features | In-display fingerprint, 3D face unlock, IR blaster | Face ID, stereo speakers, no 3.5mm jack | S Pen, fingerprint, iris scanner, 3.5mm jack | Active Edge, stereo speakers, no 3.5mm jack | In-display fingerprint, no 3.5mm jack |
Analysis
- Huawei Mate 20 Pro: Excels with its triple camera, 4,200mAh battery, 40W fast charging, and reverse wireless charging. The Kirin 980 is efficient, but short software support and US trade restrictions limited its reach.
- iPhone XS Max: Offers superior performance and seven-year software support. Its smaller battery and lack of 3.5mm jack or expandable storage are drawbacks at a higher price.
- Galaxy Note 9: Features a bright AMOLED display, S Pen, and microSD slot. Its battery is slightly smaller, and updates stopped at Android 10, but the 3.5mm jack adds versatility.
- Pixel 3 XL: Leads in low-light photography and stock Android, but 4GB RAM, average battery life, and a dated notch are weaknesses. Updates to Android 12 are shorter than iPhone’s.
- OnePlus 6T: Delivers flagship performance and fast charging at half the price. Its lack of IP rating, wireless charging, and weaker cameras are trade-offs, with updates to Android 11.
The Mate 20 Pro’s camera versatility and battery life were class-leading, but its software support and US availability were significant drawbacks compared to the iPhone XS Max and Note 9.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional triple camera with ultra-wide and 3x zoom.
- Large 4,200mAh battery with 40W fast and reverse wireless charging.
- Vibrant 6.39-inch AMOLED display with HDR10.
- Powerful Kirin 980 with 7nm efficiency.
- IP68 water resistance and premium design.
- In-display fingerprint and 3D face unlock.
- IR blaster and Desktop Mode for productivity.
Cons
- Software support limited to Android 10 (2 years of major updates).
- EMUI 9 is bloated and less polished than stock Android or iOS.
- No 3.5mm headphone jack or microSD slot (NM card less accessible).
- Limited US availability due to trade restrictions.
- In-display fingerprint sensor slower than traditional sensors.
- Video recording lacks 4K 60fps support.
Conclusion
The Huawei Mate 20 Pro was a technological marvel in 2018, offering a versatile triple camera, exceptional battery life, and innovative features like reverse wireless charging and 3D face unlock. Its Kirin 980 chipset, AMOLED display, and premium build made it a strong competitor to the iPhone XS Max, Galaxy Note 9, Pixel 3 XL, and OnePlus 6T, particularly in camera performance and battery endurance. However, its short software support (two years of major updates), EMUI’s bloatware, and limited US availability due to trade restrictions hindered its global impact.
For users prioritizing cameras and battery life, the Mate 20 Pro was a top choice in 2018, especially in markets like Europe and Asia. In 2025, its lack of further updates and dated hardware make newer models like the Huawei Pura 70 or Galaxy S24 Ultra more appealing, though its camera legacy remains influential.