Nothing has officially introduced its latest mid-range smartphones, the Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro, designed to deliver premium features at competitive prices. These devices build upon Nothing’s signature transparent design and Glyph interface, offering a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality. While both models share similar core specifications, the Pro version brings superior camera capabilities and extra refinements that make it stand out.
Design and Display
The Nothing Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro boast a 6.77-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 10-bit color depth, and 1,300 nits peak brightness for an immersive visual experience. Panda Glass protection ensures durability, particularly for the Pro model, which provides enhanced scratch resistance.
Staying true to its identity, Nothing has retained the Glyph Interface on the back, which functions as a customizable LED notification system for calls, messages, and alerts. Both models also come with IP64 water and dust resistance for added durability.
Color Options
- Nothing Phone (3a): Black, White, and Blue (excluding the US market)
- Nothing Phone (3a) Pro: Black and Gray
Performance and Software
Both models are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, built on a 4nm process for efficiency and power management. Users can choose between 8GB and 12GB RAM configurations with storage options up to 256GB.
Running on NothingOS 3.1 based on Android 15, these devices promise a smooth and bloat-free experience. Nothing has committed to three major Android updates and six years of security patches, ensuring long-term support.
Camera Capabilities
The Nothing Phone (3a) Pro delivers a flagship-level camera system, while the standard Phone (3a) provides a balanced imaging experience.
Nothing Phone (3a) Pro Camera Setup:
- 50MP main camera (1/1.56” sensor, f/1.88 aperture, OIS)
- 50MP periscope telephoto lens (3x optical zoom, extendable to 6x with AI enhancements)
- 8MP ultrawide lens (captures wider frames and landscapes)
- 50MP front-facing camera (1/2.76″ sensor, f/2.2 aperture) for detailed selfies
Nothing Phone (3a) Camera Setup:
- 50MP main camera (same sensor as the Pro model)
- 50MP 2x zoom telephoto lens (1/2.74″ sensor, standard zoom capabilities)
- 8MP ultrawide camera
- 32MP front-facing camera (downgraded from the Pro model’s 50MP sensor)
While both phones share the same 50MP primary sensor, the Pro model’s periscope zoom and higher selfie resolution make it the superior choice for photography enthusiasts.
Battery and Charging
Both models pack a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring all-day performance. They support 50W fast wired charging, allowing users to reach 50% charge in just 19 minutes. However, wireless charging is not included, making this one area where flagship phones have an edge.
Pricing and Availability
The Nothing Phone (3a) Pro is positioned as the premium option, priced as follows:
- £449 / $459 / €459 / INR 33,999 (12GB/256GB variant)
- India-exclusive lower-cost options:
- 8GB/128GB – INR 29,999
- 8GB/256GB – INR 31,999
The Nothing Phone (3a) is the more affordable choice, with the following pricing:
- £329 / €329 / INR 24,999 (8GB/128GB model)
- £379 / $379 / €379 (12GB/256GB model)
- India-exclusive variant: 8GB/256GB – INR 26,999
Pre-Order Date
Pre-orders for both models will start on March 11, 2025.
Nothing Phone (3a) vs. 3a Pro: Key Specifications
| Feature | Nothing Phone (3a) | Nothing Phone (3a) Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 (4nm) | Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 (4nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core | Octa-core |
| GPU | Adreno 710 (940 MHz) | Adreno 710 (940 MHz) |
| OS | Android 15, NothingOS 3.1 | Android 15, NothingOS 3.1 |
| Networks | 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G | 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G |
| Display | 6.77” AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+ | 6.77” AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+ |
| RAM/Storage | 8GB/128GB, 8GB/256GB, 12GB/256GB | 8GB/128GB, 8GB/256GB, 12GB/256GB |
| Main Camera | 50MP (wide), 50MP (2x zoom), 8MP (ultrawide) | 50MP (wide), 50MP (3x periscope zoom), 8MP (ultrawide) |
| Front Camera | 32MP | 50MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 50W fast charging | 5000mAh, 50W fast charging |
| Colors | Black, White, Blue | Black, Gray |
| Price | Starting at $379 | Starting at $459 |
Which One Should You Buy?
The Nothing Phone (3a) and 3a Pro offer compelling features at attractive price points. If you prioritize an affordable, stylish smartphone with solid performance, the Phone (3a) is a fantastic choice. However, if you want a superior camera system, extra features, and better durability, the Phone (3a) Pro is worth the premium.
With competitive pricing, powerful internals, and a unique design, Nothing continues to disrupt the smartphone industry, making flagship-level experiences more accessible. Will you be upgrading to the Nothing Phone (3a) series? Let us know in the comments!
