Nothing Phone (2a) Plus

Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Review: An Intriguing Mid-Ranger with a Unique Flair

I've spent the better part of the last few weeks putting the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus through its paces, using it as my daily driver to really get a feel for what it offers. Priced firmly in the mid-range, this phone aims to deliver a distinct experience, and after some thorough testing, I've got a pretty clear picture of its strengths and weaknesses. My initial impression is that Nothing is continuing to carve its own path, and the (2a) Plus is an interesting step in that journey.

Navigating the Mid-Range Maze

The mid-range smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus arrives at a crucial time. Nothing, as a brand, has always aimed to be different, and their strategy of blending unique design with capable performance is evident here. This phone isn't trying to compete with the flagship titans directly; instead, it's strategically positioned to offer a compelling alternative for those seeking something stylish and functional without breaking the bank. Personally, I think their pricing is quite astute, hitting a sweet spot for consumers who appreciate design and don't necessarily need the absolute top-tier processing power.

Design That Demands Attention

Picking up the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus, the first thing that strikes you is its distinctive aesthetic. The transparent design, while now a signature for Nothing, still manages to turn heads. It's not just a gimmick; it adds a layer of visual intrigue that most other phones lack. In hand, the phone feels surprisingly solid despite its predominantly plastic build. At around 190 grams, it strikes a good balance – not too heavy to be cumbersome, yet substantial enough to feel premium. While plastic might raise eyebrows for some, it feels robust and well-constructed. In terms of practical use, the flat edges offer a secure grip, although I'd still recommend a case for added peace of mind.

Display That Pops

The 6.7-inch AMOLED display on the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is genuinely impressive for its price point. In my experience, the colors are vibrant and punchy, making everything from scrolling through social media to watching videos a visually pleasing experience. The 120Hz refresh rate contributes to a silky-smooth feel, making interactions feel fluid and responsive. I was particularly impressed with the brightness; even under direct sunlight, visibility remained good, a testament to the 1300 nits peak brightness. Media consumption on this screen is enjoyable, with sharp details and deep blacks. While it boasts HDR10+, the absence of Dolby Vision didn't detract significantly from my viewing experience. For daily use, the display is a real highlight, offering a premium feel without the premium price tag.

Performance That Keeps Up

Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro powers the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus. It’s important to manage expectations here – this isn’t going to rival flagship Snapdragon chips in raw power, but in my real-world testing, it handled everything I threw at it with commendable ease. Day-to-day tasks like browsing, emails, and social media were handled without a hiccup. Even when pushing it with more demanding games, I found the performance to be surprisingly smooth, although it did get a little warm during extended sessions. The 12GB of RAM undoubtedly contributes to the smooth multitasking, allowing me to switch between apps seamlessly. While hardcore gamers might seek more powerful hardware, for the vast majority of users, the performance here is more than adequate, striking a good balance between power and efficiency.

A Camera System with Surprising Prowess

My time with the camera system on the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus was filled with pleasant surprises. The dual 50MP rear cameras (main and ultrawide) and the equally impressive 50MP front camera deliver results that punch above their weight class. I specifically remember capturing a vibrant sunset at the beach, and the phone managed to capture the dynamic range and color nuances remarkably well. While it might not have the advanced computational photography of some higher-end competitors, the image quality is certainly good enough for sharing on social media and capturing everyday moments. Video recording at 4K 30fps with OIS is a welcome addition, providing stable footage. Compared to other phones in this price bracket, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus holds its own, offering a versatile camera system for various shooting scenarios.

Battery Life That Lasts

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any smartphone, and the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus delivers solid endurance. The 5000mAh battery easily saw me through a full day of moderate to heavy use without needing a desperate hunt for a charger. This included a mix of browsing, social media, some gaming, and photo-taking. The 50W fast charging is a boon for quick top-ups, although the absence of a charger in the box is a definite downside. While not a deal-breaker for everyone, it's something to consider, as you'll need to rely on an existing charger or purchase one separately. The lack of wireless charging is also a feature some might miss, but for me, the reliable all-day battery life and fast wired charging were sufficient.

Software That Stays Out of Your Way

The software experience on the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a breath of fresh air. Running on Android 14 with Nothing OS on top, the interface is clean, uncluttered, and intuitive. I appreciate the minimal customizations, which avoid the bloatware often found on other Android devices. The overall experience is smooth and efficient, and Nothing's commitment to three years of Android updates (up to Android 17) and four years of security updates is commendable, ensuring the longevity of the device.

Value Proposition: A Smart Choice for the Style-Conscious

Analyzing the value of the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus, I believe it strikes a compelling balance between price and features. For those seeking a smartphone with a unique design, a capable camera, and solid battery life without the hefty price tag of a flagship, this phone is definitely worth considering. It's a great option for users who prioritize aesthetics and a clean software experience. However, if you're a power user demanding the absolute best performance for intensive tasks or are heavily invested in a particular ecosystem's features, you might find more suitable options elsewhere. Compared to its competitors, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus stands out with its design and software experience, offering a distinct identity in a crowded market.

Final Verdict: A Recommended Mid-Ranger with its Own Identity

Ultimately, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone with a clear focus on design and user experience. My testing has shown it to be a capable daily driver with a standout aesthetic, a good display, and a reliable camera system. While it has a few minor drawbacks, like the lack of a charger in the box and wireless charging, the overall package offers excellent value for its price. I would confidently recommend the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus to anyone looking for a stylish and dependable smartphone that doesn't follow the crowd. If you appreciate thoughtful design and a clean software experience, this is a phone you should seriously consider.