Is The Huawei P30 Still Worth It In 2024 Or Is It Time To Switch To A Samsung Galaxy

The Huawei P30 was a flagship powerhouse when it launched in 2019, praised for its groundbreaking camera system and sleek design. But as we move deeper into 2024, technology has evolved rapidly. Samsung’s Galaxy series continues to dominate the Android market with cutting-edge features, timely updates, and robust ecosystem integration. For users still holding onto their P30, the question isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s practical: does this phone still deliver in today’s app-heavy, AI-driven mobile landscape, or is it time to make the switch?

Performance and Hardware: How the P30 Holds Up

Under the hood, the Huawei P30 runs on the Kirin 980 chipset—a high-end processor at launch but now over four years old. While it handled multitasking and gaming smoothly back then, modern apps demand more processing power, especially those leveraging AI, augmented reality, or high-resolution video streaming.

In real-world use, users may notice lag when switching between memory-intensive apps like Chrome, Instagram, and Google Maps simultaneously. The 6GB of RAM, once standard, now feels constrained compared to current mid-range devices offering 8GB or more. Storage options (128GB base) remain decent, but lack expandable storage via microSD limits flexibility.

In contrast, even Samsung’s mid-tier 2024 models, like the Galaxy A54 or S23 FE, come with newer Exynos or Snapdragon chips, 6–8GB RAM, and better thermal management. Flagships like the Galaxy S24 boast 12GB RAM and AI-enhanced processors that optimize performance dynamically.

Tip: If you're keeping your P30, disable background app refresh and limit widgets to improve responsiveness.

Software and Security: The Hidden Cost of Staying Behind

One of the most critical drawbacks of the P30 in 2024 is software support. Huawei stopped delivering major Android OS updates after EMUI 12 (based on Android 10), and security patches have become infrequent or ceased entirely. This means no access to Android 11, 12, 13, or 14 features—many of which improve privacy, battery life, and user interface fluidity.

Additionally, due to U.S. trade restrictions, the P30 lacks Google Mobile Services (GMS). No Google Play Store, Gmail, YouTube, or Google Maps pre-installed. Users rely on Huawei’s AppGallery and third-party workarounds like Petal Search or APK installations, which can be unreliable and pose security risks.

Samsung, by contrast, guarantees four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security patches for its recent flagships. The Galaxy S24, for example, will receive updates through 2028. With One UI 6 and upcoming AI integrations, Samsung offers a future-proof experience aligned with evolving digital habits.

“Long-term device value isn’t just about hardware—it’s sustained software support. Without regular updates, even the best phones become vulnerable and obsolete.” — Lena Park, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Insights

Camera Comparison: Does the P30 Still Shine?

The P30 was legendary for its triple-lens rear setup: a 40MP main sensor, 16MP ultra-wide, and an 8MP periscope telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom. Its low-light photography, powered by RYYB sensor technology, outperformed many contemporaries.

In 2024, while the image quality from the main sensor remains impressive for casual shots, the lack of computational photography updates hampers dynamic range and HDR processing. Night mode, while present, doesn’t match the refined AI-powered versions seen in Samsung’s latest devices.

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series introduces 200MP main sensors, advanced multi-frame processing, and AI-enhanced zoom up to 50x with remarkable clarity. Features like Expert RAW, Director’s View, and improved front-facing cameras give creators far more control.

Feature	Huawei P30 (2019)	Samsung Galaxy S24 (2024)
Main Camera	40MP RYYB Sensor	200MP HP2 Sensor
Zoom Capability	5x Optical, 10x Hybrid	3x Optical, 10x Hybrid, 50x AI Zoom
Low-Light Performance	Excellent for its time	AI Nightography with motion deblur
Front Camera	32MP	12MP Dual Pixel AF + Auto-Framing
Video Recording	4K @ 30fps	8K @ 30fps, Super Steady Mode

Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency Over Time

The P30’s 3650mAh battery was average in 2019. Today, with degraded capacity and inefficient background processes due to outdated software, many users report needing to charge twice daily under moderate use.

It supports 22.5W Huawei SuperCharge, which was fast then, but now lags behind Samsung’s 25W fast charging (S24) and 45W on select models. More importantly, Samsung optimizes battery longevity through adaptive charging and AI-based usage learning.

Moreover, the P30 lacks wireless charging—standard on most Galaxy flagships since the S10 era. Reverse wireless charging, available on newer Galaxies, adds utility for charging earbuds or smartwatches on the go.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Dilemma

Maria, a freelance photographer based in Lisbon, has used her Huawei P30 since 2019. She loved the color accuracy and zoom capabilities for urban landscapes. But by early 2023, she began experiencing issues: apps crashing, slow upload speeds due to outdated cloud integrations, and difficulty sharing files seamlessly with clients using Google Drive.

She tried sideloading apps, but security warnings and compatibility issues frustrated her workflow. In January 2024, she switched to a Galaxy S23. The transition was smooth—her photos synced instantly via Samsung Cloud and Google Photos, and she gained access to Lightroom Mobile without workarounds. “The camera is sharper, yes,” she said, “but the real win is how everything just works together now.”

When to Keep the P30 vs. When to Upgrade

For some, the P30 may still serve as a secondary device or a basic phone for calls, texts, and offline media. If you’re not reliant on Google services, use minimal apps, and appreciate the compact design, it could last another year—especially with a battery replacement.

But if you depend on mobile banking, social media, navigation, productivity tools, or cloud storage, the limitations will grow increasingly frustrating. Slow app launches, security vulnerabilities, and poor integration with modern ecosystems reduce both convenience and safety.

📋 **Upgrade Checklist: Is It Time for a Samsung Galaxy?**

1. You frequently encounter app crashes or compatibility errors.
2. You miss having Google apps like Maps, Gmail, or YouTube natively.
3. Your battery drains within half a day despite light use.
4. You want access to newer camera features like AI editing or 8K video.
5. You value long-term software updates and security patches.
6. You use smart home devices or wearables that integrate better with Samsung.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install Google apps on my Huawei P30 safely?

While possible using tools like GSpace or LZPlay, these are unofficial methods that may expose your device to malware or violate terms of service. Performance is often unstable, and apps may stop working after updates. It's not recommended for sensitive tasks like online banking.

Is the Huawei P30 waterproof?

No, the P30 lacks official IP certification for water resistance. Unlike Samsung’s Galaxy S24 (IP68 rated), it should not be exposed to moisture or submerged.

Will the P30 get Android 14?

No. Huawei has ended major OS updates for the P30. It remains on Android 10 with EMUI 12, with no further upgrades planned.

Final Verdict: To Switch or Not to Switch?

The Huawei P30 was a pioneer in mobile photography and design. In 2024, however, it functions more as a relic than a reliable daily driver. While it can handle basic tasks, the absence of Google services, outdated software, diminishing performance, and lack of future support make it a liability for connected lifestyles.

Samsung Galaxy devices offer seamless integration, longer update cycles, superior hardware, and a mature ecosystem including Bixby, SmartThings, and Galaxy Watch compatibility. Even mid-range models outperform the P30 in key areas like display quality (120Hz AMOLED), connectivity (5G), and biometrics (ultrasonic fingerprint sensors).

If you value efficiency, security, and staying current with digital trends, upgrading makes sense. The investment pays off in smoother experiences, better photo editing, faster browsing, and peace of mind knowing your device won’t fall behind next year.

🚀 Ready to make the leap? Explore Samsung’s trade-in programs—many accept older Huawei devices. Upgrade your tech, simplify your life, and step into a more connected 2024.