The Nothing Phone 2a is the latest coup from the visionary technology company Nothing. Founded by Carl Pei, the former co-founder of OnePlus, Nothing has set itself the ambitious goal of revolutionizing the technology market with minimalist, transparent and extremely functional products since 2021. The Nothing Phone 2a marks an exciting milestone: As the company's first budget smartphone, it promises to redefine the balance between affordable price and innovative technology. In this article, we take a detailed look at the device and see whether the Nothing Phone 2a actually has the potential to compete with the budget smartphones.
The new member of the Nothing family
The Nothing Phone 2a enriches the offering of the dynamic technology company Nothing, best known for its innovative smartphones, the Nothing Phone (1) and (2). In addition to these established models, Nothing has also entered the audio market with in-ears, the Nothing Ears and Ear Sticks. However, the Nothing Phone 2a represents an interesting twist by offering a more affordable alternative to its smartphone predecessors.
Design: Creative and Elegant
Design familiar: These changes are available
The most noticeable change compared to the previous model, the Nothing Phone 2, is the placement of the cameras. On the Nothing Phone 2a, the cameras have moved from the edges to the center of the device. However, despite these adjustments, Nothing remains true to its design philosophy, as the company continues to focus on simplicity, transparency and elegance. These design elements give the smartphone a unique and modern look that underlines Nothing's brand identity.
Performance for everyday life
The Nothing Phone 2a is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro processor, which ensures solid performance and efficiency. The Dimensity processor was released by MediaTek in 2023 and can also be found in the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, among others.
The processor offers balanced performance for everyday tasks, multitasking and even some more demanding applications such as gaming or multimedia streaming.
Lots of power, enough memory
The Nothing Phone 2a will be available in two configurations: one variant has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, while the other comes with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage.
The smartphone with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage offers a cost-effective solution for users who do not need to use a large number of apps or store a large number of photos in their everyday lives. The larger version with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage is aimed at power users who are willing to invest in additional storage and improved performance for demanding applications.
camera of the Nothing Phone 2a
The smartphone has a 50-megapixel camera with a Samsung S5KGN9 sensor, good for photos in low light. It stabilizes images with optical and electronic technology to prevent blurring. HDR improves image quality in low light. The camera captures movements sharply and takes clear nighttime photos. Portraits come with a blurred background and the super-res zoom brings even distant details closer.
Limitless selfie magic: The revolutionary front camera of the Nothing Phone 2a
The selfie camera on this device features a 32-megapixel Sony IMX615 sensor, which is a significant improvement over previous models. This sensor produces very clear selfies and crisp video calls. It is supported by features like HDR, which ensures balanced exposure in different lighting conditions. There is also a night mode that enables good selfies even in low light.
The battery capacity - longer and stronger
The new 2a model has a larger battery at 5000 mAh, while the older Nothing Phone 2 only had 4700 mAh. This means the phone now lasts longer before it needs to be recharged.
Charging only with cable?
The charging speed of the budget smartphone has not changed compared to the Nothing Phone 2 and still offers the option to charge the battery with a 45 watt fast charging function via cable. This fast charging function means that even short charging times can be enough to give the device enough energy for several hours of use.
The Nothing Phone 2a does not support wireless charging or reverse charging. This decision could be due to the fact that it is positioned as a cheaper alternative to the Nothing Phone 2. Features such as wireless charging were probably left out to make the phone more attractive in terms of price.
What does the tech community think about the budget smartphone?
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Nothing Phone 2a, we have compiled the opinions and analyses of two prominent voices from the tech community. From the impressive display technology to the innovative use of lighting effects to possible compromises in the choice of materials - we give you an overview of all the facets that are relevant for an informed purchasing decision.
Marques Brownlee: Balanced mix of design, performance and price with minor compromises
Highlights:
- design: The eye-catching, transparent design and the light effects make the smartphone particularly appealing. It is probably the cheapest smartphone with the best design.
- display: A large display with thin bezels and good brightness improves the viewing experience. The AMOLED panel along with the optical fingerprint sensor under the glass is impressive, especially considering the price.
- battery: A large battery supports fast charging, even if wireless charging is missing.
- features: Many of the functions and software features of the more expensive Nothing models are also found in the 2a, with a few artificial limitations.
- Price-performance: The device offers good value for money and is ideal for everyday use.
Criticism:
- camera: The camera quality is practical but not outstanding. It is sufficient for everyday tasks, but can disappoint when it comes to demanding photography needs.
- performance limits: The built-in chip is not suitable for high-end tasks such as gaming, which can limit the possible uses.
iKnowReview: Impressive technology and design, marred by simple material
Highlights:
- Impressive display: 120 Hz OLED, large and thin frame, HDR support
- Large battery: The largest that Nothing has ever built
- LEDs on the back: These have various functions, such as notification lights or act as a flashlight
- software: Based on pure Android, with some special Nothing design elements, intuitive and beautifully designed, good long-term support through Android updates
- camera: Surprisingly good quality for the price, both the main and ultra-wide-angle cameras deliver natural images with good colors and contrasts, the selfies are also convincing
Criticism:
- haptics: The plastic frame, back and buttons give the device a cheap feel, reminiscent of a cheap protective case.
Conclusion: Is it worth buying the Nothing Phone 2a?
The Nothing Phone 2a, developed by the innovative company Nothing, aims to revolutionize the budget smartphone market with its unique blend of affordable pricing and advanced technology. A more affordable alternative to its predecessors, the Nothing Phone (1) and (2), and complemented by the already established Nothing Ears and Ear Sticks, the Nothing Phone 2a represents an interesting new addition to the product line. With its striking design that maintains Nothing's signature aesthetic, this device promises to be both functional and visually appealing.
Technical highlights of the Nothing Phone 2a:
- Design: Transparent back design and glyph lighting, typical for Nothing.
- Perfomance: MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro for reliable everyday performance.
- Storage options: Available with 8GB/128GB or 12GB/256GB.
- Camera: 50 MP main camera with HDR and night mode, 32 MP selfie camera.
- Battery: 5000mAh with 45W fast charging function, without wireless charging.
Personal opinion:
The Nothing Phone 2a impresses with its design and price-performance ratio in the budget range. It combines an attractive appearance with solid technical specifications, making it an attractive choice for price-conscious buyers who do not want to compromise on style. You get a solid smartphone for around €300.
Purchase recommendation Nothing Phone 2a:
The Nothing Phone 2a is ideal for users who want a visually appealing smartphone with good everyday performance without having to dig deep into their pockets. It is ideal for those who value a balance between functionality, design and price.
