Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: A promising mid-ranger? Find out here

New Delhi:

Nothing has recently launched its new products, the Nothing Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro, in India. The starting price for the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is Rs 27,999 for the base model, which includes 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, while the top-tier variant with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage is priced at Rs 31,999. This new Phone 3a Pro introduces several features that enhance the user experience compared to last year's Phone 2a Plus. After having the opportunity to use Phone 3a Pro for a few days, I’m excited to share my initial impressions to help you determine whether this smartphone aligns with your needs and is a worthy investment.

To start this review, let's take a moment to explore the details specifications of this device. 

Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: Specifications

Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: Design and display 

When you open the box of the Nothing Phone 3a Pro smartphone, you'll find the device itself, user guides, a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, and a handy tool for easy SIM card slot access. One thoughtful feature is the built-in screen protector that comes with the smartphone, helping to safeguard the display right from the start. However, it's important to note that the package does not include a protective case or a charging adapter, which may lead to additional costs for customers who wish to purchase these items separately.

Let's take a closer look at the design of this smartphone. At first glance, it shares some similarities with the recently launched Realme models, particularly due to its prominent rear camera module, which aligns with current design trends. The back panel is made from plastic and showcases Nothing's distinctive transparent design, which is not only visually appealing but also resistant to fingerprints. The rear camera module is slightly bulky and does protrude from the device; however, this can be easily managed with the addition of a back cover, offering a practical solution for those who prefer a more streamlined look.

The device weighs 211 grams, which gives it a sturdy feel in hand, though some users might find it a bit bulky to hold for extended periods.

The smartphone is designed with speakers positioned at the bottom. The volume buttons are conveniently located on the left side, making them easily accessible for quick adjustments. On the right side, the lock key is well-placed for user convenience, and just below it, there’s an additional key that can be used to invoke Gemini, allowing for quick access to that feature. Users can also capture screenshots by long-pressing this key, although it’s important to note that its customisation options are not available currently, which restricts its usability.

The mid-frame of this smartphone has a matte finish and is made of plastic. This design choice contributes positively to the overall feel and ergonomics of the device. The sound quality of the device is quite good, but adding an extra speaker would enhance the experience even further, especially in noisy environments like parks and other open spaces.

(Image Source : OM/INDIA TV)Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Bottom edge

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro boasts a display designed for optimal visibility, even under direct sunlight, making it a great choice for outdoor usage. Additionally, the device includes a convenient in-screen fingerprint sensor that ensures quick and efficient access.

(Image Source : OM/INDIA TV)Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Display

Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: Performace and battery

The device performs reasonably well, especially when playing Call of Duty at high-definition graphics settings. However, I experienced some lag and frame freezing during gameplay, which raises concerns about its ability to handle multitasking efficiently. On a positive note, the absence of pre-installed apps provides a clutter-free experience.

The battery life is noteworthy, lasting around two days with light usage and a full day under heavier use. Additionally, charging is impressively fast, taking about 18 minutes to reach 30 percent and roughly an hour for a full charge with a 30W charger. Overall, this device shows strong performance with a few areas that could benefit from improvement.

Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: Glyph interface

The Glyph interface is an innovative feature of Nothing's smartphones. This smartphone allows users to customise the functionality of the glyphs to suit their preferences. The interface lights up during calls and notifications, providing clear visual feedback. 

Additionally, it offers music integration and feedback that lets users easily see the volume level and monitor the progress of food deliveries or ride-hailing services through third-party integration. 
For those interested in further customisation, users can take advantage of the Glyph composer, enabling a personalised experience tailored to their needs.

 

(Image Source : OM/INDIA TV)Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: Glyph interface

Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: Camera

The camera app on the Nothing Phone 3a Pro presents a variety of useful features that can significantly enhance your photography experience. These include Portrait mode, Night mode, Panorama, and a Pro mode for those who prefer greater control over their images. 

In bright daylight, the camera excels at capturing detailed and vibrant colours, resulting in impressive images. Selfie shots are also noteworthy, providing excellent quality. The Night mode performs admirably as well, producing impressive results in low-light conditions. 

The ultra-wide camera offers good images, though it could benefit from more detail. While the Portrait mode has potential, it may struggle with edge detection at times. On a positive note, the camera performs well for macro photography, capturing intricate details effectively. 

For zoom shots, the quality remains good if the subject is within 50 meters, although detail tends to diminish beyond this range. Overall, the camera delivers a solid performance, with room for improvement in certain areas.

Check out some sample photos below to evaluate the camera's quality for yourself.

Nothing Phone 3a Pro review: Verdict 

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro catches the eye with its unique transparent design and Glyph interface. It boasts impressive battery life and rapid charging, alongside a streamlined software experience. While the camera performs admirably in good lighting conditions, there’s room for improvement in certain areas. The phone handles everyday tasks with ease, but it can fall short during intense multitasking. 

In summary, it’s a solid mid-range choice for those who value distinctive aesthetics and essential features over high-end performance or an array of bundled accessories.

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