This month, Nothing Phone 3a has really caught my eye. After using it for a week, I can’t help but rave about its value. At just $379, this phone is a standout, especially in a market where prices keep climbing. It takes me back to the days when OnePlus made waves with high-quality phones at budget-friendly prices.
The specs are impressive for this price range. The Nothing Phone 3a boasts a 6.77″ FHD+ AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip, and options for up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. Its camera setup includes dual 50MP lenses from Samsung and an 8MP ultra-wide lens from Sony. The 5,000mAh battery supports fast charging at 50W, and it comes with an IP64 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and water. Plus, it runs on Android 15 with Nothing OS 3.1, guaranteeing three years of OS updates and six years of security patches.
What really impressed me is how well it performs. I expected a few hiccups, but it runs incredibly smoothly. Whether I’m scrolling through social media or multitasking, it handles everything effortlessly.
Nothing OS has evolved too. While the early versions had some quirks, now it feels polished. Android 15 enhances the experience, and there are custom apps and widgets that add to the fun. I usually stick to Google Photos, but the built-in Gallery app surprised me with its features and neat themes. For such an affordable phone, the software is hard to beat.
A unique addition is the new button for Essential Space. It’s an AI-driven tool for jotting down notes and making lists. I haven’t fully explored its potential yet, but it could be handy once I get the hang of it. Basically, you press the button to capture screenshots or record audio notes that then get organized by the AI.
This button sits beneath the power button. You can quickly take a screenshot or hold it to record audio. It also lets you open the camera and use it creatively, adding those images to your organized space. It’s a neat concept, but I still need to see how useful it really becomes.
The design deserves a shoutout. Nothing creates visually interesting devices. The clear back and the signature Glyph lights are eye-catching. While I don’t use the lights all the time, they’re a fun addition.
Battery life is another positive. The 5,000mAh battery easily lasts my daily usage, often leaving me with extra charge. Although my overall phone use has dropped recently, I can tell this device would hold up well even with heavier use.
US Availability
For those in the US, the network compatibility is a bit tricky. It works well with AT&T and T-Mobile, but Verizon users might face issues. As of now, it’s available in the US, and at $379, it’s worth considering for anyone exploring new options.
These are just initial thoughts after a week of limited use. While I don’t plan a full review just yet, I look forward to seeing a deeper dive into the Nothing 3a Pro soon. It’s great to have more choices beyond the usual Samsung and Google phones.