Just launched in early March 2024, the Nothing Phone (2a) is the latest offering from the tech newcomer Nothing. Following the success of the Phone (1), the Phone (2a) positions itself as a more affordable option in the mid-range smartphone market. But does it skimp on features to achieve that price point? Let’s delve into the details.
Striking a Balance: Display and Design
The Phone (2a) boasts a large 6.7-inch display with a FHD+ (1080×2412) resolution. While it doesn’t quite reach the QHD+ territory of some flagships, the display offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for a buttery viewing experience. Protected by what Nothing calls a “highly durable” material (though the exact composition remains undisclosed), the display presents content vividly, thanks to a peak brightness of 1600 nits.
Continuing the design philosophy of its predecessor, the Phone (2a) features a transparent back that showcases some of its internal components. This time, however, the transparent area is slightly smaller, offering a glimpse of a redesigned cooling system with a large graphite layer for efficient heat dissipation. The phone comes in two classic colors, Black and White, with a rumored “Milk” color option yet to be officially confirmed.
Performance Packed: Processor, RAM, and Storage
The Phone (2a) is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro processor. This mid-range chipset is designed to offer a balance between performance and battery efficiency. It’s paired with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and handling demanding applications. Storage options come in 128GB and 256GB configurations, catering to users with varying needs.
While some early benchmarks suggest the Phone (2a) might not compete with top-of-the-line processors in raw power, it should be more than capable of handling everyday tasks, social media browsing, and even some light gaming.
Dual Camera System and Capable Battery
On the camera front, the Phone (2a) sports a dual-camera system on the rear. The main sensor is a 50-megapixel unit, accompanied by another 50-megapixel sensor with the purpose yet to be officially revealed (ultrawide or telephoto capabilities are possibilities). While megapixel count doesn’t guarantee image quality, it suggests the Phone (2a) has the potential to capture decent photos in good lighting conditions. The front-facing camera for selfies comes in at 32 megapixels.
The Phone (2a) packs a sizable 5000mAh battery, which should offer all-day use for most users. It also supports 45W fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed.
Software Experience: Stock Android with a Twist
The Phone (2a) runs Nothing OS 2.5, which is based on the latest Android 14. This ensures a clean and bloatware-free experience, with some additional customization options offered by Nothing OS. While it’s still early to say how well optimized the software is, the stock Android base is a welcome sight for users who prefer a clutter-free experience.
Verdict: A Promising Mid-Ranger with a Unique Style
The Nothing Phone (2a) appears to be a compelling option in the mid-range segment. It offers a large display with a smooth refresh rate, a capable processor with ample RAM options, and a long-lasting battery. The dual-camera system might surprise with its capabilities, and the transparent design remains a head-turner.
If you’re looking for a phone that balances performance, features, and affordability, with a dash of unique style, the Nothing Phone (2a) is definitely worth considering. However, if raw processing power or the absolute best camera experience are your top priorities, you might want to look elsewhere.
