This device is a review unit provided by @nothingindia as part of the community review program. However, they have had no input on my impressions or views—everything shared here is entirely based on my experience with the device.
Nothing Phone (3a) – Full Review.
The Nothing Phone (3a) stands out in the competitive under-₹25,000 segment by combining unique design, smooth performance, and thoughtful features that go beyond the typical mid-range offering. Here’s a comprehensive look at what makes it one of the best-value smartphones right now.
Design & Display
• Truly Unique Design
Unlike most phones that follow the same design formula, Nothing takes a bold and futuristic approach. The transparent back and signature Glyph lighting give it a distinctive personality that turns heads.
• Impressive Glyph Interface
The Glyph lights flash intelligently for calls, messages, alarms, and app notifications making the phone more interactive and futuristic while also being genuinely useful.
• Vibrant 120Hz AMOLED Display
The display is smooth and responsive, making it perfect for scrolling, gaming, and watching videos. The high refresh rate ensures fluid motion and better touch response.
Performance
• Powerful Snapdragon Processor
The Snapdragon chipset ensures smooth, lag-free performance in daily use, whether you’re multitasking, streaming, or gaming.
• Smooth Gaming Performance
Games like BGMI, Call of Duty Mobile, and Genshin Impact run smoothly with good graphics and minimal frame drops. The combination of the 120Hz display and optimized performance makes it a great pick for mobile gamers.
Camera & Editing Features
• Best Camera in the Segment
The Phone (3a) offers a camera setup that outperforms most competitors in its price range. Portrait and telephoto shots come out clear, sharp, and natural-looking.
• Excellent Portrait & Telephoto Performance
Telephoto shots retain detail even when zoomed, and portraits look professional with strong edge detection and background blur.
• Impressive Built-in Editing Tools
The built-in editing tools are powerful enough that you don’t need third-party apps. You can easily enhance photos directly in the gallery.
• Gallery Sorting Issue
One minor drawback: edited photos don’t appear next to the original in the gallery, making them harder to find.
Video Quality & Editing
• Good 4K Video Recording
The phone records crisp 4K video with good detail and color accuracy. Zoomed-in video quality is also impressive.
• Missing 0.6x Ultra-Wide Mode in 4K
The only downside is the lack of 0.6x ultra-wide video recording at 4K resolution.
• Built-in Video Editor
Another plus is the phone’s built-in video editor—meaning you don’t need any third-party apps to trim, add effects, or adjust your videos right on the device.
Audio & Sound
• Great Sound Quality
Stereo speakers provide loud, clear, and immersive audio whether you’re watching content, playing games, or taking calls. The balanced sound is impressive for this price point.
Battery & Charging
• Great Battery Life
The phone easily lasts a full day with regular use, including media, gaming, and photography. Fast charging support ensures you’re quickly back to full power when needed.
Software Features
• Clean & Smooth Software (Nothing OS)
Nothing OS is a clean, minimal interface with no bloatware. It keeps the phone running efficiently and enhances the user experience.
• AI Wallpaper Generation
One standout software feature is the ability to generate wallpapers using AI. It’s a creative and fun tool that lets users personalize their home screen easily.
Essential Key
• Essential Key
The Essential Key on the Nothing Phone (3a) is a handy and versatile feature. It makes taking screenshots super easy, and you can quickly add text or audio notes right after capturing the screen, which is really impressive and boosts productivity. However, its current placement just below the lock (power) button can be confusing, as it often leads to accidental presses. Repositioning this key would improve usability without compromising convenience.
Value for Money
• Outstanding Value
For under ₹25,000, the Nothing Phone (3a) gives you:
• A premium design
• Flagship-level camera features
• Smooth performance with a Snapdragon processor
• Great sound and battery life
• Creative tools like AI wallpapers and Glyph lighting
It’s hard to find another phone that checks this many boxes at this price point.
Final Verdict
The Nothing Phone (3a) is a rare blend of performance, design, and innovation at an affordable price. Whether you’re into photography, gaming, design, or just want something different from the usual, this phone delivers.
