Nothing Phone 3a vs. Phone 2a: Setting the standard again

As a smartphone startup in the 2020s, Nothing is trying to do the impossible by shaking up a huge established market, and it’s starting with the midrange sector. Nothing’s Phone 2a set the standard for what a midrange phone should be, and now the company is improving on that standard with the latest Nothing Phone 3a. It’s only slightly more expensive than its predecessor, but offers a more complete package.

Neither phone is fully equipped for use in the U.S., as carrier support is limited and they are only sold via the Nothing Beta Program. However, both devices are ideal for regions like Europe and India. Starting at £329 or ₹24,999, the Nothing Phone 3a offers an excellent value proposition. But how does it compare to the Nothing Phone 2a? That’s what we’re going to find out in this comparison.

Nothing Phone 3a vs. Nothing Phone 2a: Design and display

Both the Nothing Phone 3a and Phone 2a have a striking design, and they look quite similar. The two smartphones have a “camera island” with rear sensors positioned in the top center of their back. Of course, the Phone 3a’s bigger lenses and triple camera system make that camera island look gigantic compared to that of the dual-camera Phone 2a.

The newer model is slightly larger than its predecessor, with the Phone 3a packing a 6.77-inch screen and the Phone 2a featuring a 6.7-inch display. They use similar display technologies, with support for 120Hz refresh rates and an OLED panel. However, the Phone 3a has an LTPO screen, which will result in smoother animations. Both phones support HDR10+ and have a peak brightness rating of 1,300 nits.

The bigger and better theme of the Phone 3a makes it physically larger than the Phone 2a. It measures 163.52 x 77.5 x 8.35mm and weighs 201 grams, whereas the Phone 2a measures 161.7 x 76.3 x 8.6mm and weighs 190 grams. Like most 6.7-inch phones, the Phone 3a’s size can feel like a burden at times, and you’ll feel the weight. Overall, it’s pretty similar to the Phone 2a in that regard.

Nothing also improved the durability of the Phone 3a, supporting IP64 for dust and water resistance. Oddly, the company switched from Gorilla Glass this year, using Panda Glass on the Phone 3a. The important part is that Panda Glass is hardened, so it ideally won’t crack easily, but some reports indicate Panda is easier to scratch than Gorilla.