Why the Hype?

The predecessor, the Nothing Phone 2a, was already a triumph in 2024, marrying affordability with impressive specs—a fast display, solid battery life, and a unique design. Instead of just iterating on the 2a, Nothing has opted for substantial upgrades, most notably with the introduction of a periscope telephoto camera on the 3a Pro, a rarity in this price range. It promises almost flagship-level photography capabilities for under $500, making it a tempting choice for keen shutterbugs.

The Good, The Bad, and The Connectivity

Before diving deeper, it's crucial to address some caveats regarding connectivity. The 3a and 3a Pro are being sold in the U.S. through a beta program, which offers just 14 days of after-sale support. This limited warranty can leave buyers in a tricky situation should issues arise beyond the return period. Furthermore, while the phones support basic connectivity with major U.S. carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, users may not gain access to all 5G bands, particularly mmWave, which can limit the experience in some areas.

Design that Stands Out

Both models feature a refined aesthetic, boasting a premium glass backing that feels akin to high-end devices, giving them a solid feel in hand. The two variants sport an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, a notable improvement from their predecessor's IP54 rating. However, design metrics like the Essential Key—a new button that allows for quick functions—seem subpar in comparison to the overall quality.

Available in a pleasing palette, including black, white, and a striking blue (which unfortunately isn’t available in North America), Nothing’s smartphones remain distinctive. Though the 3a Pro resembles a modern-day Lumia 1020, some may find its quirky design a bit polarizing.

Display Delight

A step up from the previous model, the 3a and 3a Pro feature a 6.77-inch AMOLED display that is remarkably bright, reaching peak brightness levels of 1,300 nits. With a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, the screens provide a snappy experience—making it an excellent choice for consuming media or browsing.

Camera: A Midrange Marvel

Both devices house impressive camera setups. The 3a includes a 50MP main camera, tailoring its offering to enthusiasts with an 8MP ultra-wide and a new 50MP telephoto with 2x optical zoom. Users can expect high-quality shots but should be mindful of low light conditions.

On the 3a Pro, the periscope camera raises the stakes, delivering detailed 3x optical zoom while also offering a macro mode. The camera functions not only well for distant subjects but excels in versatility, making it a worthy rival to more expensive options like the Galaxy S24 FE.

Performance and Gaming

Equipped with Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, the phones promise a noticeable improvement over their predecessor with a 33% faster CPU and enhanced GPU capabilities. However, while they perform well for everyday tasks, gaming enthusiasts might find themselves disappointed, as high-end games suffer from occasional frame drops.

Battery and Charging: A Quick Power Up

Both models are equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery. Users can expect impressive longevity, with the 3a running for nearly 20 hours under video playback tests. Charging is facilitated by 50W fast charging (a step up from 45W), though users should note that a power adapter isn’t included in the box.

Software that Seams Seamless

Out of the box, both devices run Android 15 and the latest iteration of Nothing OS. Notably, Nothing promises three years of software updates, competing well against its peers in terms of longevity. The minimal bloatware and intuitive interface will appeal to the majority.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro are undoubtedly fantastic choices for anyone looking for unique designs, solid performance, and competitive pricing. However, potential buyers should weigh the limited warranty and potential connectivity concerns. If you're excited about new tech and willing to take a chance, these phones could be the best midrange investment you make this year! For more cautious consumers, established models like the Pixel 9a or Galaxy S24 FE may be safer bets with longer support and greater reliability. Dive into the digital world with the Nothing phones, but choose wisely!