London-based tech firm Nothing has made waves in the smartphone market with its innovative and playful approach to design. The company's latest offerings, the Nothing Phone 3A and 3A Pro, continue this trend, providing a refreshing alternative to the mundane, gray smartphones that dominate the market. These new models combine solid specifications, competitive pricing, and an eye-catching LED-infused design that sets them apart from their competitors.
The Nothing Phone 3A serves as the base model in this new series, starting at an affordable price of $379 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. In the UK, consumers can opt for a more streamlined version with 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage for just £329, while the 12GB/256GB model is available for £379. On the other hand, the Nothing Phone 3A Pro offers a more advanced camera system while maintaining the same processor, display, and battery specifications as the base model. It is priced at $459 (£449) for the 12GB/256GB variant.
Having tested the Nothing Phone 3A Pro during this year's Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, I am impressed by its balance of price and performance. I am eager to see how it competes against other budget-friendly smartphones, such as the new Samsung Galaxy A series and the Google Pixel 8A, as well as higher-end budget options like the iPhone 16E.
The design of the Nothing Phone 3A and 3A Pro is truly a standout feature. With a glass back that reveals visible screws and data ribbons, these phones present an industrial aesthetic that many users will find appealing. The unique LED lights, known as Glyph, are strategically placed around the camera units and illuminate to notify users of incoming messages and alerts. This playful feature adds a fun twist that is not found in most smartphones today.
Both models come equipped with vibrant 6.7-inch displays that remain bright and clear, even in Barcelona's often gray weather. Those using the phones in sunnier locales may experience different visibility. Moreover, with an IP68 water resistance rating, users can confidently take calls in the rain without worry.
Under the hood, the Nothing Phone 3A series is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor. This processor delivers commendable performance, especially for its price point. While it does not compete with flagship models, the 3A Pro's benchmark results align closely with those of the Pixel 8A and Galaxy A35 5G, both of which are well-regarded in the budget smartphone market. In everyday usage, the phone provides ample power for basic tasks, and gaming experiences, such as Alto's Odyssey and Vampire Survivors, run smoothly.
Both devices operate on Android 15, but Nothing has customized the interface, providing a sleek, monochrome aesthetic. While this design is visually appealing, some users may find it challenging to distinguish app icons due to the minimalist black-and-white layout. However, users have the option to personalize their layouts as desired. Notably, Nothing promises an impressive six years of software and security support, enhancing the value of these devices.
Among the features included in the Nothing Phone 3A series is a tool called Essential Space. This innovative feature acts as a central hub for storing notes, thoughts, screenshots, and ideas throughout the day. For example, if you see a pair of shoes you like, you can take a picture using the dedicated Essential Space button and add a voice note about it. This functionality is limited at present, but its potential is evident, and Nothing has indicated that further enhancements are forthcoming.
Both the Nothing Phone 3A and 3A Pro feature impressive 50-megapixel main cameras. While the Pro model boasts upgraded autofocus and dynamic range, my impressions are primarily based on my experiences with the Phone 3A Pro. The base model features a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, while the Pro version offers a 50-megapixel periscope camera that provides 3x optical zoom and 6x in-sensor zoom for enhanced photography capabilities. Additionally, the 3A Pro is equipped with a larger 50-megapixel front-facing camera for sharper selfies.
Surprisingly, the differences between the Nothing Phone 3A and 3A Pro are minimal. Both models share the same processor, display, and a robust 5,000mAh battery with 50W fast charging. The primary variations lie in the added periscope zoom of the Pro model and its higher-resolution front-facing camera. If photography is a crucial factor for you, it may be worth investing in the Pro model. However, for those who prioritize affordability, the base model offers excellent value without sacrificing essential features.
