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Nothing Phone 3a Pro Review: A Great 3X Zoom And Some Attitude
In a world where budget-friendly Android phones are often expected to compromise on design, functionality, and features, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a refreshing exception. Priced at $460, this device is a powerhouse that punches well above its weight.
First and foremost, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the phone’s aesthetics. The faux-transparent back design, which appears transparent while actually showcasing the internal components, is undeniably striking. Add to that the Glyph Interface – three light strips wrapped around the camera module that can display customizable patterns to indicate notifications or even provide visual feedback for music playback – and you have a device that screams “style” from every angle.
But it’s not just about looks; the 3a Pro also boasts some remarkable hardware. The inclusion of a Periscope zoom lens, typically reserved for flagship devices priced in excess of $800, is a major coup for Nothing. The resulting 3X zoom shots are nothing short of exceptional – lossless at 70mm zoom, with subtle natural bokeh and excellent color rendition. It’s a game-changer for photography enthusiasts on a budget.
While the other lenses don’t quite reach the same heights, they’re still solid performers. However, there is some noticeable lag when switching between them, which might be frustrating for heavy camera users.
Under the hood, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip handles most productivity tasks with ease. Sure, it’s not going to keep up with flagship-grade performance, but for general use, it more than holds its own. You will, however, notice some lag when switching between apps or playing demanding games, and video editing on CapCut might take a few extra seconds longer compared to a more expensive iPhone 16e.
The 6.77-inch OLED panel is also noteworthy, with marketing numbers that boast up to 3000 nits of brightness and 120Hz refresh rate. In reality, it’s not the most impressive display I’ve seen this year – but considering the price, it’s an unfair comparison. The glass does struggle a bit in direct sunlight, but many phones suffer from this issue.
In terms of software, Nothing has always prided itself on its minimalist approach, eschewing bloatware for a clean and streamlined user experience. While some might find the monochrome aesthetic a tad bland, it’s hard to argue with the lack of pre-installed third-party apps or duplicate services like calendar or web browsers. It is worth noting that Google’s suite of apps, while technically not bloatware, do feel overwhelming and are difficult to customize.
In conclusion, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is a remarkable device that checks all the right boxes at an unbeatable price point. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly powerhouse with some serious photographic chops, this is the phone to beat – and at $460, it’s an absolute steal.
