Nothing Phone 2A Review: Something Else – A Mid-Range Marvel at $349
The Nothing Phone 2A has arrived, and it’s quickly capturing attention with its unique design and affordable price. At $349, this phone offers a lot for the budget-conscious tech enthusiast. But is it truly something special, or is it just another budget phone? After spending a few days with the phone, traveling from New York to San Francisco, I’m here to give you a deep dive into the Nothing Phone 2A and why it may just be the most interesting mid-range phone of 2024.
Design: Bold, Unique, and Memorable
One of the most standout features of the Nothing Phone 2A is its design, which builds on the signature transparent back that has made Nothing’s phones so visually distinct. While I received the black version for review, I must admit I was hoping for the milk white variant, as the white trim pops much more. Nonetheless, the transparent back reveals the inner workings of the phone, giving it a unique and futuristic aesthetic. The design was actually the original one the company worked with internally right after the launch of Nothing in 2020, and it’s clear that the brand has stuck to its roots with this model.
The dual cameras are nestled within the NFC coil, and the design intentionally evokes the image of eyes. While not everyone may love the look, it certainly offers an uncommon symmetry and stability when placed on a surface. The sides of the phone are covered in a finger-friendly friction coat, contributing to a premium feel, but unfortunately, the glossy back feels cheap in comparison. It’s easily smudged and attracts dust, making the white colorway an attractive option.
The Glyph System: More Than Just a Gimmick
The Glyph system is the Nothing Phone 2A‘s biggest design standout. This system consists of LEDs on the back of the phone, which serve various functions like notifications, calls, and even as a light source when taking pictures. While some may see it as a gimmick, Nothing has integrated a surprising amount of utility into the Glyph lights. For instance, the lights will illuminate when a notification comes through, and they can also be set to stay on for important apps until you acknowledge them.
Another feature of the Glyph system is its timer function. When you use the timer for photos or other tasks, the lights will count down the remaining time. You can even customize the lights and sounds to create unique ringtones or patterns, giving you a fun way to personalize your phone experience. While these features may not revolutionize the smartphone world, they add a touch of flair and fun to the phone, making it stand out in a sea of mid-range devices.
Software: Clean and Simple
One of the things that I truly enjoy about Nothing OS 2.5 on the Phone 2A is the minimal, modern design that the company has carried over from its more premium models. The clean layout allows for a visually appealing home screen with glanceable data and one-tap toggles. The design reminds me of my years spent with a Windows phone—it’s an aesthetic that’s rare on Android phones today. The interface is easy to navigate, and it offers a fresh take compared to the typical Android experience. Whether it’s the glyph timer or the voice recorder trigger, these elements make the phone feel personal, functional, and visually delightful.
Despite its minimalism, Nothing OS offers the same ease of use as any Android 14 device, but with added character and uniqueness. It’s not just functional; it feels special, and that’s something you don’t get from many mid-range phones.
Performance: Solid for the Price
Under the hood, the Nothing Phone 2A is powered by a capable processor and RAM combo, which keeps the software running smoothly. While there are moments where you might experience a slight lag, such as after taking several photos, the phone generally performs admirably for a mid-range device. The battery life is another highlight, with its large 5,000mAh battery lasting me from 8:30 AM to dinner time even on heavy usage days, including filming, maps, and hotspotting. This longevity means you can get through a full day without having to worry about recharging constantly.
However, 5G band support in the U.S. is incomplete, which could be a dealbreaker for some users. I encountered issues with my Google Fi SIM, which wasn’t recognized at all by the phone. While this issue hasn’t been widely reported, it’s something to consider, especially if you rely on specific mobile networks.
Cameras: Good for Casual Use
In terms of cameras, the Nothing Phone 2A won’t blow you away, but it performs better than expected for a mid-range device. It shoots decent photos in various lighting conditions, and while it lacks a telephoto lens, the standard cameras do a good job for everyday shots. I used the phone to capture content for a few days while testing the Pebble Flow RV, and it handled the task without any major issues. The camera’s performance is best suited for casual use, though it struggles with zoom and video recording at higher frame rates. You can shoot in 4K, but the camera maxes out at 30fps, which can result in some jittery footage when filming fast-moving scenes.
Drawbacks: A Few Trade-Offs
As with most budget phones, there are a few drawbacks. The camera performance isn’t top-tier, and the phone lacks wireless charging and IP67 water resistance. You’ll also miss out on some of the features found in more premium devices, such as a faster charging speed (though the phone supports 45W charging when using a compatible charger). However, these are small sacrifices considering the phone’s affordable price.
Verdict: Worth the Buy?
For $349, the Nothing Phone 2A offers a design-forward smartphone with a unique aesthetic, decent performance, and practical software. If you’re looking for a phone that stands out in terms of both looks and functionality, this is a solid option. While it’s not perfect, the phone’s battery life, software experience, and camera performance make it a great choice for those on a budget who still want something special. If you’re not fixated on camera performance and don’t mind the occasional network hiccup, the Nothing Phone 2A is definitely worth considering.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Nothing Phone 2A is a great option for those who value design and user experience. It’s not the most powerful phone on the market, but it certainly punches above its weight. If you’re looking for a mid-range device that delivers personality and functionality, the Nothing Phone 2A is one you should definitely consider.