Honor's ecosystem for the 2025 mid-range has been reinforced with two very different protagonists: the Honor 400, with a vocation as a premium contender, and the Honor 400 Smart 5G, which focuses on endurance, autonomy, and useful AI featuresThe interesting thing is that, despite targeting different users, they share the same ambition: to deliver high-level features without raising the price.
If you're wondering what really sets them apart, the key is how they balance screen, camera, battery and softwareThe Honor 400 offers a visual and photographic experience with a 200 MP main sensor and 5.000 nits HDR brightness, while the Honor 400 Smart prefers durability (SGS, IP and reinforced corners), a huge battery and a physical button dedicated to AI for immediate shortcuts.
Honor 400 vs Honor 400 Smart: Overview and Positioning
The Honor 400 is positioned as the "middle brother" of its family, above the Lite and below the Pro, with a technical sheet oriented to OLED display, 200 MP photography and 66 W fast charging. For its part, the Honor 400 Smart 5G was born as an affordable alternative focused on durability and practicality, with massive battery (6.000–6.500 mAh), 35W charging, large HD+ display and an efficient Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 processor.
In practice, if you prioritize camera and panel, the Honor 400 is staring you in the face; if you're looking for a phone that can withstand knocks, rain and marathon days, the 400 Smart is the one that puts more emphasis on the day-to-day reliability.
Design, construction and ergonomics
Honor 400: Although the exact material is not detailed, the hand feel is very neat and light, with flat edges and a thickness of around 7,3 mm. The dimensions are contained (approx. 156,5 x 74,6 x 7,3 mm) and the weight varies according to sources and tested units between about 171 and 184 gThe rear module integrates two cameras into a well-designed trapezoidal casing, and the front features very thin, symmetrical bezels.
Honor 400 Smart: here the emphasis is on the physical resistance. Incorporates reinforced corners, internal protection structure and certification SGS Premium Performance against falls, with promises of survival from 1,8 to 2 meters according to various communications from the brand. It also has IP certification (mentioned in the data sheets) IP54 or IP65 depending on market/operator) and a treatment that improves use with a wet screen (Wet-hand/Super Rainproof Touch), something unusual in its price range.
Both models feature a modern and practical design; the 400 feels more "premium" in terms of finish and ergonomics, while the 400 Smart conveys robustness and peace of mind in the event of minor accidents.
Display: Extreme Brightness vs. All-Round Size
Honor 400: mount a panel 6,55″ AMOLED with 1264 x 2736 resolution (19,5:9 format), coverage DCI‑P3, 120 Hz and a peak HDR that reaches 5.000 nits. Outdoor visibility is outstanding and the calibration tends towards balanced colors. For eye protection, it adds PWM dimming of 3.840 Hz, hardware-level blue light reduction, dynamic dimming, AI circadian night mode, and even a sleep function. AI Defocus Display that softens focus to reduce fatigue. It also includes comfortable reading options and a curious Motion Sickness Relief designed for those who get carsick.
Honor 400 Smart: opt for a larger diagonal with 6,77 ″ HD + LCD and refresh rate of 120 Hz. The declared maximum brightness ranges between 700 and 850 nits according to the specifications, sufficient for good performance in the sun in its segment. It does not seek the color and contrast finesse of the 400's OLED, but rather a balance between consumption and visibility in a wide and comfortable panel for content and networks.
Audio, ports and biometrics
In the Honor 400 we find speakers stereo with a balanced sound and hardly any distortion except at maximum volume, although with contained bass; there is no 3,5 mm jack, so it is advisable to use TWS or an external DAC. Biometrics combines 2D facial recognition (correct in good light, erratic in low light) and a under-screen optical fingerprint reader fast and precise, very well placed.
The 400 Smart shares the practical spirit: fingerprint reader, face unlock, USB-C and active noise cancellation with dedicated microphone on calls, for a solid and without complications.
Performance and temperature
Honor 400: equip the Snapdragon 7 Gen3 with 8GB of RAM. On paper, it's a solid chip; if you need guidance on processors, consult how to choose the best processor. Some jerks and jerks have been observed Occasional lag in the interface or when opening lightweight apps like Maps in some scenarios. Curiously, in demanding games like Genshin or when editing video with CapCut, the performance improves, allowing for above-average quality with occasional frame drops. Thermal management is very successful: even in full sunlight, it was difficult to overcome the 42 ° C in short sessions, and the terminal remains manageable.
Honor 400 Smart: Switch the focus to Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, oriented towards efficiency and stability. Part of 4 GB of physical RAM and adds RAM Turbo to virtualize an extra 4 GB (up to 8 GB effective), with versions and markets where an option is mentioned 12 GB of RAM. It is ideal for everyday use, networking, messaging and multimedia apps, with predictable performance and content consumption.
Battery and charging: two comfortable days
Honor 400: integrates a battery of 5.300 mAh silicon-carbon with SuperCharge charging 66 W. Autonomy is one of its strong points: with 120 Hz active and high brightness, it frequently reaches more than 7 hours of screen time and one to two day cycles depending on usage. Charging takes just 15 minutes to reach 44%, and a full charge takes around 46–65 minutes depending on the charger (not included in the box). Honor boasts good performance at low temperatures (up to -20 °C) and maintain more than 80% health after several years.
Honor 400 Smart: Raises the ante on capacity with 6.000-6.500mAh (according to the brand's data sheets and communications) and loading of 35 WThey talk about up to 33 hours of conversation and very high standby times (1.560 h), plus dual-cell architecture for safety and speed. It is designed to last from -20 °C to 55 °C And with an advertised five-year lifespan while maintaining optimal performance, it's clearly a phone you can forget about charging. during very long days.
AI Software and Features
Both arrive with MagicOS 9 on Android 15 and a strong commitment to AI. The Honor 400, in addition to integration with Google (Gemini, third-party app compatibility), features the Honor AI suite, which includes features such as: AI Suggestions (habit-based shortcuts), Magic text (OCR on images), Magic portal (knuckle cut and search instantly), AI Subtitles (simultaneous translation in videos), Translate with AI (live conversations), Writing with AI (summarize, expand, rewrite) and Deepfake Detection in video calls.
The interface offers its own control center, differentiated iconography, customization and Magic Capsules as an alternative to the "dynamic island" for managing notifications and tasks. Magic Portal 2.0 understands the context (addresses, product images, etc.) and suggests the appropriate app. There is pre-installed bloatware that should be uninstalled or disabled if you're looking for a cleaner experience. Honor promises 6+1 years of support (six with Android updates and one extra with security patches) in the 400.
The 400 Smart shines with Instant AI physical button: One tap opens an app or clears the system, and a long press invokes functions like real time translation or creative tools with AI. It also integrates Circle to Search, Magic Portal, Magic Capsule and access to Gemini, bringing intelligent automations without complications.
Cameras: from 200 MP to practical focus
Honor 400: Its main camera is the big draw. We're talking about a sensor 200 MP (1/1,4″) with OIS and wide opening, accompanied by a 12 MP ultra wide angle (112º, with macro) and a 50 MP front. In automatic mode, it merges pixels and shoots at 12 MP to optimize light and size; if you need maximum detail, you can activate the high resolutionThe processing performs very well: precise colorimetry, great level of detail, and an AI-supported digital zoom that reaches 30x with results worthy of its range. The portrait mode separates the subject and background well, even in complex hair or ears, and the night mode provides extra light without exaggeration, although the detail drops somewhat —the ultra wide angle It is the weakest, with a tendency to lighten too much and deform the sides.
In video, the 400 records up to 4K is 30 fps (and 1080p at 60 fps), with effective OIS/EIS stabilization. The front camera also reaches 4K @ 30 In some configurations, ideal for creators. The app is simple, with quick access, sortable modes, and clear quality settings, so don't miss the shot when the scene doesn't wait.
Honor 400 Smart: bet on the essentials with a main 50 SM and a sensor 2 SM for depth, plus a 5 MP selfie. The difference lies in the AI ​​algorithms: night vision enhancement, video stabilization, and more detailed portraits. It incorporates AI-powered creative modes such as Image to Video (developed with Google Cloud), Film Simulation, AI Portrait Snap, or Harcourt Portrait. It doesn't compete in numbers with the 400, but it offers tools that help you get the most out of it. effective photos without being an expert.
Connectivity and sensors
Honor 400: 5G, WiFi 2,4/5 GHz, Bluetooth 5.4, GPS, NFC, eSIM, USB‑C and a full set of sensors (optical fingerprint on screen, infrared, gyroscope, compass, ambient sensor, etc.). Its proposal is well-rounded for everyday use and mobile payments.
Honor 400 Smart: 5G connectivity, NFC, USB-C, fingerprint reader, facial recognition and everything you would expect in this range, with the plus of its IP certification and construction oriented to survive the daily grind.
Versions, colors, prices and offers
Honor 400: available with 8 GB of RAM y 256 / 512 GB storage per € 499 (8/256) and € 549 (8/512). In color Black, Gold and Silver. It is a competitive cost if you value its screen, autonomy and main camera, although the overall performance - especially the system fluidity— could be better tuned.
Honor 400 Smart: launch price € 199 (depending on distribution), with options in Meteor Silver and Velvet Black, 4GB of physical RAM expandable by RAM Turbo and up to 256 GB storage. There are mentions of a configuration of 12 GB of RAM in some markets. In operators, Orange has listed it (48 terms of 0,50 € / month in an early publication), and Vodafone offers interest-free financing for up to 36 months and a promotion of HONOR CHOICE Earbuds Clip valued at €149 until July 31, 2025 with limited units.
Examples of financing at Vodafone for the 400 (512 GB): with unlimited mobile 150 GB, €7,60/month x 36 plus the fee; with initial payment (€ 86,40) and the same rate, €7,60/month; with fiber + unlimited mobile, €5/month x 36 plus the €50/month rate fee. Options from €180–360 associated with fare combinations. It is advisable to review conditions and stock before deciding, because these promos are temporary.
Real experience and important nuances
Honor 400: The design, panel, and battery combo is hard to beat for under €500, and the main camera is among the most ambitious in the segment. The downside is that, despite shining in games, it's missing some serious performance. greater fluidity and stability in basic interactions; nothing serious, but it is noticeable if you come from a highly optimized Android. Even so, with its 6+1 years of support, utilitarian AI and outstanding display, it's a solid choice if you prioritize multimedia and photography.
Honor 400 Smart: the grace is that it brings to the entry range the Certified endurance, a gigantic battery and an AI button that simplifies useful shortcuts. Its camera is modest in hardware, but AI adds to the improvement. It's a phone that can last two days without breaking a sweat, withstand splashes, accidental drops, and still be Easy to use.
Looking at the big picture, Honor has set the tone: the 400 is aimed at those who want a powerful camera, a top-notch display, and long battery life, while accepting the occasional power outage; the 400 Smart is aimed at those who prioritize battery life, durability, and AI shortcuts in everyday use. If you choose by that yardstick, both deliver on their promise and cover very specific needs with a price-performance ratio that remains Very aggressive in 2025. Share this information so more people know about the Honor 400 Smart and Honor 400.