In the evolving world of smartphones, the Nothing Phone 2a made a significant impact in 2024 with its impressive features, including a fast display, a large battery, and a unique personality, all at an affordable price of just $349. Rather than simply refreshing the existing model, Nothing has taken a bold step in the smartphone market by launching not only an updated version of the 2a but also introducing a brand-new device: the Nothing Phone 3a Pro. This new model boasts a standout feature not commonly found in midrange smartphones—a periscope telephoto camera. If you can overlook its slightly heavier design, the 3a Pro offers a nearly flagship camera experience at a competitive price of $459.
Before delving deeper into the review of the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro, it’s crucial to discuss some important details regarding carrier compatibility and customer support. In the United States, Nothing is distributing the 3a and 3a Pro through a beta program, which includes only 14 days of after-sale support. This means if you encounter any issues after this short return window, you may find yourself in a difficult situation. However, Nothing has committed to providing three years of Android upgrades and six years of security patches for both models, in addition to regular corrective updates.
It's also worth noting that these smartphones do not support all 5G bands used by major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. While basic connectivity is available, mmWave speeds are not supported. AT&T and Verizon customers should contact their carriers to register their device’s IMEI for 5G access. While the 3a and 3a Pro are compelling options, the limitations in customer service and carrier support may deter some potential buyers.
When it comes to design, the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro feel premium, challenging the perception of sub-$500 handsets. Both models feature a sleek glass backing that gives them an Apple-like aesthetic, especially in comparison to my iPhone 12. The coating used on the outer casing provides a ceramic feel, enhancing grip and comfort. The new design also offers improved waterproofing with an IP64 rating, which is a noticeable upgrade from the IP54 rating of the 2a. However, if you often find yourself around water, consider alternatives with better waterproofing, like the Pixel 9a.
Additionally, both devices include a unique feature known as the Essential Key, located on the right side beneath the power button. Although it feels less robust than the other physical buttons, it adds a unique touch to the overall design. The 3a is available in three colors (black, white, and blue), while the 3a Pro comes in two (gray and black). Unfortunately, the blue option is not available in North America, which is a disappointment for potential buyers.
Both the 3a and 3a Pro feature a stunning 6.77-inch AMOLED display, slightly larger than the 2a's screen. This time, Nothing has opted for Panda Glass to safeguard the display, which some may consider a downgrade from the Gorilla Glass used in the previous model. Nonetheless, the display performs admirably, delivering vibrant colors and a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz.
With a peak brightness of 1,300 nits, visibility in direct sunlight is exceptional. Even on sunny days, I had no trouble viewing the screen, which speaks volumes about the quality of the display. However, it’s worth noting that the choice of an optical in-display fingerprint sensor rather than an ultrasonic one may be a drawback for some users. Despite this, I found the fingerprint recognition to be efficient, with only minor delays during setup.
The camera capabilities of the 3a and 3a Pro are remarkable, especially considering their price points. The 3a features a 50-megapixel Samsung GN9 sensor, paired with an f/1.88 lens and optical image stabilization (OIS). Unlike the prior model, the 3a now includes an 8MP ultrawide sensor with a wider 120-degree field of view. The highlight is the newly integrated 50-megapixel telephoto camera that offers 2x optical zoom, a feature increasingly seen in midrange devices.
For $379, the performance of the telephoto camera is impressive, often yielding surprising detail in images. The image processing software does a commendable job, delivering warm and inviting colors, though it may struggle in low-light conditions. Notably, the 3a Pro takes camera performance a step further with its periscope camera, which utilizes a 50MP Sony sensor with an f/2.55 lens, providing 3x optical zoom and the ability to achieve 6x zoom with a lossless crop.
Equipped with the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, both the 3a and 3a Pro promise enhanced performance compared to the previous generation. While the Snapdragon chip offers a 33% faster CPU and an 11% faster GPU compared to the MediaTek processor in the 2a, it’s important to set expectations accordingly. For everyday tasks, the performance is more than adequate, but serious gaming may lead to occasional frame drops.
Battery life remains a strong point, with both models housing a 5,000mAh battery. During testing, the 3a lasted an impressive 19.5 hours on a single charge while looping a video. For mixed usage, I managed close to 14 hours, making it a reliable option for daily activities. Both models support 50W fast charging, allowing for a full charge in under an hour with the appropriate charger—though it’s important to note that no power adapter is included in the box.
Launching with Android 15 and the latest version of Nothing OS, the 3a and 3a Pro provide a clean and user-friendly experience. Nothing promises three years of Android updates, which is commendable in the current market. My experience with Nothing OS was largely positive, as it retains much of stock Android while avoiding bloatware.
The Essential Key feature brings a new functionality to the software, allowing users to take screenshots, record voice memos, and access the Essential Space app for organization. While this feature may not resonate with all users, it adds a unique twist to the overall experience.
In conclusion, the Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro deliver extraordinary value at their respective prices of $379 and $459. With exceptional camera capabilities, strong performance, and a unique design, these phones are certainly worthy of consideration. However, potential buyers should take into account the limited warranty and support in the US. For those who prioritize a longer warranty and robust support, exploring options like the Pixel 9a or Galaxy S24 FE may be wiser choices.
