The Nothing Phone 3a has taken the budget smartphone market by storm, offering a compelling mix of style, performance, and affordability. Launched in early 2025, this device builds on the legacy of Nothing’s innovative design philosophy while introducing upgrades that make it a standout in the mid-range segment.
In this in-depth review, we explore the Nothing Phone 3a’s specifications, features, and performance to help you decide if it’s the right smartphone for you.
Design and Build: Signature Nothing Aesthetics
Nothing’s design ethos is unmistakable in the Phone 3a. The device sports a transparent back, showcasing internal components in a visually striking manner.
Its flat 6.77-inch AMOLED display, protected by Panda Glass, delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it ideal for media consumption. With an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, the Nothing Phone 3a is built to withstand splashes and light rain, adding durability to its sleek form factor.
Weighing just under 200 grams, the Phone 3a feels lightweight yet premium. The in-display fingerprint sensor and stereo speakers enhance usability, while the minimalist design ensures it stands out in a crowded market.
The signature Glyph Interface, a series of LED lights on the back, offers customizable notifications, adding a unique touch that blends functionality with flair.
Display: Smooth and Vivid
The Nothing Phone 3a features a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or browsing, the display delivers crisp visuals with a peak brightness suitable for outdoor use.
The flat panel design minimizes accidental touches, and the Panda Glass protection adds a layer of resilience against scratches.
Compared to competitors like the Google Pixel 8a or Samsung Galaxy A55, the Nothing Phone 3a’s display holds its own, offering a balance of quality and efficiency. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures fluid animations, making it a great choice for gamers and heavy users alike.
Performance: Powered by Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
Under the hood, the Nothing Phone 3a is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, a capable mid-range processor that handles everyday tasks with ease.
From multitasking to gaming, the chipset delivers reliable performance without overheating. Paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, the Phone 3a ensures smooth operation, even with demanding apps.
Running on Android 15 with Nothing OS 3.1, the software experience is clean and bloatware-free. Nothing OS emphasizes customization, with intuitive widgets and a visually appealing interface. Regular software updates ensure the device remains secure and up-to-date, a key factor for long-term usability.
Camera: A Leap Forward
The Nothing Phone 3a’s camera system is a significant upgrade over its predecessors. It features a triple-camera setup: a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x zoom (3x in the Pro variant).
The main camera captures detailed, vibrant images, even in low-light conditions, thanks to improved processing and OIS. The ultra-wide lens is serviceable for landscapes, though it struggles in dim lighting.
The 32MP front camera (50MP in the Pro model) delivers sharp selfies with natural skin tones. Video recording supports 4K at 30fps, with decent stabilization for casual creators. Posts on X praise the camera’s ability to rival flagship devices, with one user noting, “It’s impressive how close this $379 phone gets to feeling like a $1000 flagship”.
Battery and Charging: All-Day Power
Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, the Nothing Phone 3a offers excellent battery life, lasting over a day with moderate use. The 50W fast charging ensures quick top-ups, taking the device from 0 to 50% in about 25 minutes. While wireless charging is absent, the included fast charger and USB-C cable make wired charging convenient.
Compared to competitors, the Nothing Phone 3a’s battery performance is a strong point, especially for users who prioritize longevity over gimmicky features. The device also supports reverse charging, allowing it to power accessories like earbuds.
Software and Features: Nothing OS Shines
Nothing OS 3.1, built on Android 15, offers a refreshing take on Android with its minimalist design and thoughtful features. The AI-integrated Essential Key, a customizable button, allows users to trigger shortcuts or apps, enhancing productivity. The Glyph Interface remains a fan favorite, offering visual cues for notifications and calls.
The software is optimized for performance, with no unnecessary bloatware. Nothing promises three years of OS updates and four years of security patches, ensuring the Phone 3a remains relevant for years.
Pricing and Value: A Budget Champion
Priced around $379, the Nothing Phone 3a delivers exceptional value. It competes with devices like the Poco F6 and Redmi Note 14 Pro, offering a premium experience at a fraction of the cost. The combination of a high-quality display, capable cameras, and unique design makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Unique, premium design with Glyph Interface
- Strong performance with Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
- Impressive camera system for the price
- Long battery life with fast charging
Cons:
- Ultra-wide camera struggles in low light
- No wireless charging
- Limited availability in some regions
Should You Buy the Nothing Phone 3a?
The Nothing Phone 3a is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a budget smartphone that doesn’t compromise on style or performance. Its vibrant display, capable cameras, and clean software make it a standout in the mid-range market. While it lacks wireless charging and the ultra-wide camera could be better, these are minor drawbacks given the price.
For users who value design and a bloatware-free experience, the Nothing Phone 3a is hard to beat. Check it out if you’re looking for a device that feels premium without breaking the bank.