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Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Avg. price:~£330RAM capacity:12 GBInternal storage:256 GBScreen size:6.7 inchesMain camera megapixels:50 MP & 50 MP

Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) Review: Compare 197 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartphones category and whether it is worth buying.

7.2/10

Overall score

Score
7.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the smartphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best smartphones on the market.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 66% of models
Score components

90%

7.1

Technical score

10%

8.2

User score

▲Better than 66% of smartphones
7.7

Value for money

Value for money
7.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 72% of models
Score components

70%

7.2

Overall score

30%

8.8

Price

▲Better than 72%
7.1

Technical score

Technical score
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 64% of models
Score components

25%

7.5

Performance & Hardware

18%

7.2

Camera

15%

7.4

Display

15%

6.5

Battery

10%

7.5

Software

10%

7.4

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

6.3

Design

▲Better than 64%
8.2

User score

User score
8.2/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 72% of models
Score components

70%

8.5

User ratings

30%

7.6

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
▲Better than 72%
  • No image
No image
Where to buy
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of smartphone Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB)

Technical score
Technical score
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 64% of models
Score components:

25%

7.5

Performance & Hardware

18%

7.2

Camera

15%

7.4

Display

15%

6.5

Battery

10%

7.5

Software

10%

7.4

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

6.3

Design

7.1
User score
User score
8.2/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 72% of models
Score components

70%

8.5

User ratings

30%

7.6

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
8.2
Popularity
Popularity
7.6/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartphone.
When it matters
When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 71% of models
Popularity:
Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) has a popularity of 7.6 points, which is higher than 70.5% of smartphones.
7.6
Value for money
Value for money
7.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 72% of models
Score components:

70%

7.2

Overall score

30%

8.8

Price

7.7
Brand name
Nothing
Processor model
MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro
This smartphone uses the MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro processor which is faster than processors in 61.2% of smartphones.
RAM capacity
12 GB
Market range: <4 GB – >16 GB
This smartphone has a RAM capacity of 12 GB which is larger than the RAM capacity of 59% of smartphones and equal to that of 24.3% of smartphones.
Internal storage
256 GB
Market range: <64 GB – >512 GB
This smartphone has an internal storage capacity of 256 GB which is larger than the storage of 38.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 38.3% of smartphones.
CPU boost clock speed
3 GHz
Market range: <2 GHz – >3.3 GHz
The CPU boost clock speed of this smartphone is 3 GHz which is higher than the boost speed of 75.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 3.7% of smartphones.
Show more
Operating system
Android
This smartphone uses the Android operating system, which outperforms that of 1%.
Android 14
Android version
Android 14
This smartphone runs Android version Android 14 which is newer than that found in 49.5% of smartphones and equal to that in 21% of smartphones.
Direct OS updates
no
This smartphone does not receive direct OS updates. 20.6% of smartphones receive direct updates.
Open-source OS
yes
This smartphone uses an open-source OS. 94.6% of smartphones use an open-source OS.
Dark mode
yes
This smartphone offers dark mode. 95.8% of smartphones support this feature.
Show more
Multi-lens main camera
yes
This smartphone includes a multi-lens main camera system. 93.7% of smartphones include multi-lens setups.
Main camera megapixels
50 MP & 50 MP
Market range: <10 – >100
This smartphone has a main camera resolution of 50 MP & 50 MP which is higher than that of 66.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.2% of smartphones.
Main camera aperture
f/1.9 & f/2.2
This smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.9 & f/2.2 which is narrower than that of 87.7% of smartphones and equal to that of 2% of smartphones.
Main camera sensor area
50 mm²
Market range: <19.7 mm² – >71.4 mm²
This smartphone has a main camera sensor area of 50 mm² which is larger than the main camera sensor area of 65.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 16.5% of smartphones.
Main camera pixel size
1 µm
Market range: <0.64 µm – >1.22 µm
This smartphone has a main camera pixel size of 1 µm which is larger than in 57.7% of smartphones and equal to the size in 20% of smartphones.
2 binned
Show more
Number of SIM slots
2
Market range: <1 – >6
This smartphone has 2 SIM slots, which is more than in 3.8% of smartphones and equal to the number in 96.1% of smartphones.
Cellular module
yes
This smartphone includes a cellular module. 100% of smartphones include cellular modules.
5G connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports 5G connectivity. 66.9% of smartphones support 5G.
LTE support
yes
This smartphone supports LTE. 99.7% of smartphones include LTE connectivity.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 100% of smartphones offer Wi-Fi support.
Show more
Screen size
6.7 inches
Market range: <6.3 inches – >6.82 inches
This smartphone has a screen size of 6.7 inches which is larger than the screens of 52.2% of smartphones and equal to those of 10.1% of smartphones.
Screen resolution
1080x 2412 px
This smartphone has a screen resolution of 1080x2412 px which is higher than that of 61.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 2.8% of smartphones.
Pixel density
395 ppi
Market range: <264 ppi – >460 ppi
This smartphone has a pixel density of 395 ppi which is higher than that of 41.7% of smartphones and equal to that of 8.9% of smartphones.
Display type
OLED/AMOLED
This smartphone uses a OLED/AMOLED display type. 58.6% of smartphones use this display technology.
Refresh rate
120 Hz
Market range: <60 Hz – >144 Hz
This smartphone supports a refresh rate of 120 Hz which is higher than in 34.7% of smartphones and equal to that in 55.2% of smartphones.
Show more
Battery capacity
5,000 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >7k mAh
This smartphone has a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 28.3% of smartphones and equal to those in 28.8% of smartphones.
Charging speed
50 W
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This smartphone supports charging speeds of 50 W which is faster than in 63.7% of smartphones and equal to speeds in 0.3% of smartphones.
Fast charging
yes
This smartphone supports fast charging. 93.1% of smartphones support fast charging.
GSMArena full wired charge time
?
Wireless charging
no
This smartphone does not support wireless charging. 25.2% of smartphones support wireless charging.
Show more
Stereo speakers
yes
This smartphone includes stereo speakers. 64.4% of smartphones provide stereo audio.
3.5 mm headphone jack
no
This smartphone does not include a 3.5 mm headphone jack. 45.5% of smartphones offer this port.
Number of microphones
2
Market range: <1 – >3
This smartphone includes 2 microphones, which is more than in 10.5% of smartphones and equal to the number in 66.6% of smartphones.
FM radio
no
This smartphone does not include an FM radio. 34.2% of smartphones offer FM radio functionality.
aptX Lossless
no
This smartphone does not support aptX Lossless. 12.9% of smartphones provide aptX Lossless.
Show more
Height
161.7 mm
Market range: <156.2 mm – >171.56 mm
This smartphone has a height of 161.7 mm which is shorter than 70.6% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.6% of smartphones.
Width
76.3 mm
Market range: <73.1 mm – >81 mm
This smartphone has a width of 76.3 mm which is wider than 58.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.9% of smartphones.
Thickness
8.5 mm
Market range: <7.53 mm – >10.5 mm
This smartphone has a thickness of 8.5 mm which is thicker than 60.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 4.3% of smartphones.
Weight
190 g
Market range: <175 g – >256 g
This smartphone weighs 190 g which is lighter than 63.5% of smartphones and equal to the weight of 4.4% of smartphones.
Device volume
97,888 cm³
Market range: <80 cm³ – >190 cm³
This smartphone has a device volume of 97,888 cm³ which is larger than 53.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.9% of smartphones.
Show more

Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) vs the average smartphone

246810TotalPerformance & HardwareSoftwareCameraConnectivityDisplayBatteryAudioDesign
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • 4 GB more RAM
    This smartphone has more RAM capacity than the average smartphone (12 GB vs 8 GB). The average smartphone has 8 GB of RAM.
    12 GB vs 8 GB
  • 56.3% larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (50 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    50 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • 66.7% higher screen brightness
    This smartphone has a higher screen brightness than the average smartphone (1,100 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone brightness is 660 nits.
    1,100 nits vs 660 nits
  • 33.3% smaller process node
    This smartphone uses a smaller process node than the average smartphone (4 nm vs 6 nm). The average process node size is 6 nm.
    4 nm vs 6 nm
  • 2.33x faster memory speed
    This smartphone supports faster memory speed than the average smartphone (6,400 MHz vs 2,750 MHz). The average smartphone supports 2,750 MHz memory speed.
    6,400 MHz vs 2,750 MHz
  • 25% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • 36.8% faster GPU clock
    This smartphone has a higher GPU frequency than the average smartphone (1,300 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone GPU frequency is 950 MHz.
    1,300 MHz vs 950 MHz
  • 3% higher user score
    User score
    8.2/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Nothing Phone 2a Plus
    the average smartphone
    Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) has a higher user score than the average smartphone (8.24 vs 8).
    8.24 vs 8
  • 4.7% better value for money
    Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) has better value for money than the average smartphone (7.68 vs 7.3).
    7.68 vs 7.34
  • 40.1% more popular
    Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) is more popular than the average smartphone (7.62 vs 5.4).
    7.62 vs 5.44
  • 4 GB more RAM
    This smartphone has more RAM capacity than the average smartphone (12 GB vs 8 GB). The average smartphone has 8 GB of RAM.
    12 GB vs 8 GB
  • 33.3% smaller process node
    This smartphone uses a smaller process node than the average smartphone (4 nm vs 6 nm). The average process node size is 6 nm.
    4 nm vs 6 nm
  • 25% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • 2.33x faster memory speed
    This smartphone supports faster memory speed than the average smartphone (6,400 MHz vs 2,750 MHz). The average smartphone supports 2,750 MHz memory speed.
    6,400 MHz vs 2,750 MHz
  • 36.8% faster GPU clock
    This smartphone has a higher GPU frequency than the average smartphone (1,300 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone GPU frequency is 950 MHz.
    1,300 MHz vs 950 MHz
  • Higher CPU base clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (2x3 GHz & 6x2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz.
    2x3 GHz & 6x2 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz
  • 27.9% higher Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 single-core than the average smartphone (1,205 vs 942). The average smartphone scores 942 in single-core.
    1,205 vs 942
  • Higher on-device AI tier
    This smartphone runs on the productivity AI tier, while the average smartphone runs on fundamental, enabling stronger on-device AI features.
    Circle to Search, AI Smart Drawer, Portrait Optimiser, AI News Reporter
    productivity vs fundamental
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • 56.3% larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (50 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    50 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • Higher front camera megapixels
    This smartphone has more front camera megapixels than the average smartphone (50 MP vs 16 MP). The average front camera has 16 MP megapixels.
    50 MP vs 16 MP
  • 0.2 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    2 binned
    1 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Higher-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a higher main camera resolution than the average smartphone (50 MP & 50 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone main camera has 50 MP & 8 MP megapixels.
    50 MP & 50 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • Newer Wi-Fi version
    This smartphone supports a newer Wi-Fi version than the average smartphone (Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)). The average smartphone uses Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n).
    Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
  • Newer Bluetooth version
    This smartphone supports a newer Bluetooth version than the average smartphone (5.3 vs 5.2). The average version is Bluetooth 5.2.
    5.3 vs 5.2
  • 66.7% higher screen brightness
    This smartphone has a higher screen brightness than the average smartphone (1,100 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone brightness is 660 nits.
    1,100 nits vs 660 nits
  • Higher contrast ratio
    This smartphone has a higher contrast ratio than the average smartphone (5000000:1 vs 1000000:1). The average smartphone contrast ratio is 1000000:1.
    AMOLED/OLED displays have an effectively infinite contrast ratio
    5,000,000:1 vs 1,000,000:1
  • Supports HDR10 support
    This smartphone supports HDR10, the average smartphone does not. 42.7% of smartphones are HDR10 compatible.
  • Has an always-on display
    This smartphone features an always-on display, the average smartphone does not. 49.2% of smartphones offer always-on functionality.
  • Higher screen resolution
    This smartphone has a higher screen resolution than the average smartphone (1080x2412 px vs 1080x2400 px). The average smartphone resolution is 1080x2400 px.
    1080x2412 px vs 1080x2400 px
  • 300 nits higher peak brightness
    This smartphone has a higher peak brightness than the average smartphone (1,300 nits vs 1,000 nits). The average peak brightness is 1,000 nits.
    1,300 nits vs 1,000 nits
  • 203.5 nits higher GSMArena max display brightness
    This smartphone has a higher GSMArena max display brightness than the average smartphone (1,097 nits vs 893.5 nits). The average max brightness is 893.5 nits.
    1,097 nits vs 893.5 nits
  • 0.03 inches inch larger screen size
    This smartphone has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.
    6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches
  • Higher GSMArena battery life score
    This smartphone has a higher GSMArena battery life score than the average smartphone (16:34 hour/s vs 13:30 hour/s). The average score is 13:30 hour/s.
    16:34 hour/s vs 13:30 hour/s
  • 51.5% faster charging speed
    This smartphone supports a faster charging speed than the average smartphone (50 W vs 33 W). The average charging speed is 33 W.
    50 W vs 33 W
  • Higher GSMArena battery life endurance score
    This smartphone has a higher GSMArena battery life endurance score than the average smartphone (108 vs 99.5). The average endurance score is 99.5.
    108 vs 99.5
  • Is designed for seniors
    This smartphone is designed specifically for seniors, the average smartphone is not. 17% of smartphones are senior-friendly.
  • 3.2% lighter
    This smartphone is lighter than the average smartphone (190 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
    190 g vs 196.2 g
  • 1.9 mm shorter
    This smartphone is shorter than the average smartphone (161.7 mm vs 163.6 mm). The average smartphone height is 163.6 mm.
    161.7 mm vs 163.6 mm
  • Narrower main camera aperture
    This smartphone has a narrower main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.9 & f/2.2 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4). The average smartphone aperture is f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4.
    f/1.9 & f/2.2 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • No LDAC support
    This smartphone does not support LDAC, the average smartphone does. 60.3% of smartphones support LDAC.
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • Lacks focus mode
    This smartphone does not have a focus mode, the average smartphone does. 60.4% of smartphones include a dedicated focus mode.
  • No Wi-Fi password sharing
    This smartphone does not support Wi-Fi password sharing, the average smartphone does. 57.9% of smartphones allow easy Wi-Fi sharing.
  • Lower IP rating
    This smartphone has a lower IP rating than the average smartphone (IP54 vs IP67). 0.00% of smartphones have a higher IP rating.
    IP54 vs IP67
  • Does not allow app offloading
    This smartphone does not support app offloading, the average smartphone does. 51.9% of smartphones support app offloading to save space.
  • Lacks instant markup
    This smartphone does not support instant markup, the average smartphone does. 52.2% of smartphones include instant markup tools.
  • 26.9% more expensive
    Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB) is more expensive than the average smartphone (£330 vs £260).
    £330 vs £260
  • 14.3% lower maximum RAM capacity
    This smartphone supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (12 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.
    12 GB vs 14 GB
  • Worse processor
    This smartphone uses a worse processor than the average smartphone (MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3).
    MediaTek Dimensity 7,350 Pro vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
  • Lacks focus mode
    This smartphone does not have a focus mode, the average smartphone does. 60.4% of smartphones include a dedicated focus mode.
  • No Wi-Fi password sharing
    This smartphone does not support Wi-Fi password sharing, the average smartphone does. 57.9% of smartphones allow easy Wi-Fi sharing.
  • Does not allow app offloading
    This smartphone does not support app offloading, the average smartphone does. 51.9% of smartphones support app offloading to save space.
  • Lacks instant markup
    This smartphone does not support instant markup, the average smartphone does. 52.2% of smartphones include instant markup tools.
  • Narrower main camera aperture
    This smartphone has a narrower main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.9 & f/2.2 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4). The average smartphone aperture is f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4.
    f/1.9 & f/2.2 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • No LDAC support
    This smartphone does not support LDAC, the average smartphone does. 60.3% of smartphones support LDAC.
  • Lower IP rating
    This smartphone has a lower IP rating than the average smartphone (IP54 vs IP67). 0.00% of smartphones have a higher IP rating.
    IP54 vs IP67
  • Poor brand origin
    This smartphone has a poorer brand origin compared to the average smartphone. 0.00% of smartphones come from top-tier brand origins.
    United Kingdom vs China
  • 0.2 mm thicker
    This smartphone is thicker than the average smartphone (8.5 mm vs 8.3 mm). The average smartphone has a thickness of 8.3 mm.
    8.5 mm vs 8.3 mm

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

8.0
TheUnlockr
≈ estimated
23/11/2024
Real-world test · battery, software and performance
Verdict
Nothing Phone 2a Plus has a solid battery and smooth software, but its distinctive black and white look will not suit everyone.
7.0
TechBroll
≈ estimated
14/10/2024
Hands-on review · benchmarks, battery and camera tests
Verdict
Nothing Phone 2a Plus is worth it mainly for owners of much older phones, not for owners of the 2a.
8.0
GSMArena Official
≈ estimated
09/08/2024
Full review · battery, performance, cameras and display tests
Verdict
Nothing Phone 2a Plus is a well-rounded mid-range phone with standout design, but only a modest upgrade over the 2a.
9.0
Nick Ackerman
≈ estimated
31/07/2024
Full review · connectivity, camera, design and value
Verdict
Nothing Phone 2a Plus is one of the best options in its price range, especially for buyers wanting a clean and unique phone.
7.0
Trakin Tech English
≈ estimated
31/07/2024
Hands-on comparison with the 2a · tests of camera, display and performance
Verdict
Nothing Phone 2a Plus differs only marginally from the 2a, so choose it only for slightly better performance and photos.
8.0
Tech Spurt
≈ estimated
31/07/2024
Unboxing · 3-day review · performance and camera tests
Verdict
Nothing Phone 2a Plus is only a small step up from the 2a and mainly suits gamers, though it is still a good affordable phone.
7.0
C4ETech English
≈ estimated
31/07/2024
Comparison with predecessor · unboxing and benchmark tests
Verdict
Nothing Phone 2a Plus is a slightly refined 2a at a higher price, so it is not an upgrade if you already own one.
Overview video
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
Not graded yet

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

androidauthority.com
29/08/2024
Hands-on review · Budget design
Verdict
The Nothing Phone 2a Plus is a stylish, fast budget phone that suits buyers outside the US, where carrier support is limited and buying is awkward.
techradar.com
14/09/2024
Hands-on review · 2a upgrade
Verdict
The Nothing Phone 2a Plus is a small step up from the 2a, with a faster chip and bigger selfie camera, but you pay extra for the Nothing look.
pcmag.com
05/08/2024
Hands-on review · Performance check
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus has a distinct design, big bright screen and fast wired charging, but limited US availability and 5G support make it hard to recommend.
P
phonearena.com
17/10/2024
Summary of the review
Nothing Phone (2a) Plus review: why, though? | PhoneArena
techadvisor.com
31/07/2024
Hands-on test · Gaming and design
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a powerful, affordable phone with striking metallic styling and strong gaming, but it offers little beyond the standard Phone (2a).
trustedreviews.com
12/09/2024
Hands-on review · Design and battery
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus has a distinctive see-through design, a good screen and excellent battery life, but its slippery finish attracts dirt and it lacks a telephoto camera.
gadgetmatch.com
11/12/2024
Hands-on test · Design and Glyph
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a head-turning phone with a distinctive Glyph light, but its mid-range chip struggles with demanding games.
en.techreviewer.de
15/10/2024
Field test · Camera and charging
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a modest upgrade on the standard model, with better selfies and faster charging, but the gains are small.
gsmarena.com
07/08/2024
Review · Unboxing and intro
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is an upgraded version of the standard model, with a faster chip and quicker charging, but it costs more.
tomsguide.com
18/12/2024
Hands-on test · Value and performance
Verdict
The Nothing Phone 2a Plus is a striking, speedy phone that offers plenty of value for a low price, though it's hard to buy in the U.S.
lesnumeriques.com
06/09/2024
Lab review · Battery and screen
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus has a bright screen and strong battery life, but its camera is not its strong point and the upgrade over the standard model is small.
journaldugeek.com
22/10/2024
Hands-on review · Design and performance
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a faster, longer-lasting variant, but its changes are too small to justify replacing the standard model.
clubic.com
06/09/2024
Hands-on review · Camera and battery
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus overpromises for its price, with only a slight speed gain and a selfie camera few buyers will need.
N
nextpit.fr
06/09/2024
Summary of the review
Nothing Phone (2a) Plus review: One smartphone too many?
(Translated)Show original
charlestech.fr
10/05/2025
Lab test · Mid-range phone
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a solid mid-range option with a bright screen, good battery life and a distinctive look, but its zoom and connectivity fall short.
frandroid.com
06/09/2024
Full review · Mid-range phone
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a faster, stylish mid-range phone whose daytime photos and Glyph lights impress, but its battery life dropped noticeably from the 2a.
tomsguide.fr
09/09/2024
Full review · Mid-range phone
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus mostly repeats the 2a, with a faster chip, a better selfie camera and a stylish look, but its upgrades feel modest for the price.
top-for-phone.fr
06/09/2024
Hands-on test · Mid-range phone
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a better version of the 2a, with sharper selfies, a faster chip and quicker charging, but it costs more and lacks IP68.
fr.techreviewer.de
15/10/2024
Hands-on test · Mid-range phone
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a comfortable, distinctive mid-range phone with good daytime photos, but its clear back shows fingerprints and dust easily.
tomshw.it
13/09/2024
Lab review · Design and camera
Verdict
The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is a distinctive phone with a bright display and good battery life, but its camera is not exceptional.

Third-party reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
Reviews last updated: November 2026 · How we calculate this

What customers like about Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB)

  • Unique and eye-catching transparent design with customizable metallic gray and black finishes.
  • Great battery life with users reporting up to two days of use on a single charge.
  • Responsive 6.7-inch AMOLED display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and high peak brightness.
  • Fast 50W wired charging that can reach a full charge in under an hour.
  • Clean, bloatware-free software experience via Use code with caution.jsonNothing OS 2.6Use code with caution.json.
  • Upgraded 50MP front-facing camera that provides impressive detail for selfies.
  • Functional Glyph Interface lights that serve as unique visual indicators for notifications and timers.

What customers don't like about Nothing Phone 2a Plus (12GB + 256GB)

  • Limited 5G carrier compatibility in the US, particularly with AT&T and Verizon networks.
  • Highly reflective plastic back that easily attracts fingerprints, grease, and dust.
  • Average rear camera performance, specifically struggling with dynamic range and low-light conditions.
  • Lack of wireless charging support.
  • No charger included in the box, requiring a separate purchase to reach full charging speeds.
  • Middling long-term software support compared to competitors like Google or Samsung.
  • The fingerprint sensor is reported by some users as inconsistent or poorly positioned.

Verdict

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus (12GB + 256GB) is a mid-range smartphone defined by its unique transparent design and signature Glyph Interface LED lights. It features a vibrant 6.7-inch, 120Hz AMOLED display with symmetric bezels and a large 5,000mAh battery offering excellent life, often lasting up to two days with moderate use. Powered by the custom MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro processor and running a clean, bloatware-free Android 14-based Nothing OS, the phone delivers smooth daily performance and handles demanding tasks and gaming well, with an efficient cooling system. Photography is handled by a versatile triple 50MP camera system (main with OIS, ultrawide, and an upgraded front camera, all supporting 4K video recording at 30fps) that produces detailed and color-rich photos. Key pros are its distinctive eye-catching design, strong battery life with 50W fast charging (full charge in under an hour), and clean software experience. However, cons include the charger not being included in the box, an IP54 rating for basic splash resistance which is lower than some competitors, no wireless charging, and limited 5G network compatibility in some regions, particularly the US.

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