Highlights
- Robust 5G experience with Snapdragon 480+ SoC.
- 5,000mAh battery promises extended usage.
- Clean Android 13 experience with two years of updates.
- 50MP primary camera for enhanced photography.
The Nokia G42 emerges as a notable contender in India’s competitive budget smartphone market.
With its commitment to offering a robust 5G experience, the device aims to provide a blend of reliable features while maintaining an affordable price tag of Rs 12,299.
Yet, like all devices, it walks the tightrope between offering value and managing compromises. In this review let’s delve deeper into the device’s capabilities.
Nokia G42: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Sleek design | Slow charging |
| Reliable battery | HD+ resolution on Display |
| Pure software | Average Brightness Levels |
Nokia G42: Key Specs
- Price: Rs 12,299
- Display: 6.56-inch IPS LCD, HD+, 90Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ (5G-compatible)
- RAM: 6GB + 5GB virtual swap
- Storage: 128GB, expandable to 1TB
- Camera: Triple (50MP primary, 2MP depth, 2MP macro)
- Battery: 5,000mAh, 20W charging
- OS: Android 13 with 2 years of updates
- Connectivity: 5G, USB Type-C, 3.5mm jack
- Additional: OZO Playback, OZO 3D Audio, side-mounted fingerprint sensor
Nokia G42: Design and Display
Nokia G42 boasts a unibody design crafted from resilient plastic, enhanced by gracefully curved contours on its back for superior ergonomics.
The triple-camera setup, aligned horizontally, marginally protrudes from the frame, while its polished rails seamlessly complement the matte finish.
A standard speaker grille is situated at the bottom, flanked by a USB Type-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
The design is further elevated by a tasteful choice of a rich purple shade, culminating in a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing style devoid of noticeable imperfections.
The Nokia G42 display exhibits some areas for improvement.
It features a now less-prevalent waterdrop-style notch accompanied by noticeable bezels, particularly a pronounced chin.
Despite being priced in a competitive segment, the device offers only an HD+ resolution.
Its brightness could be enhanced, as it struggles in direct sunlight.
Positively, the 90Hz refresh rate ensures a relatively smooth user experience.
The screen spans 6.56 inches with an IPS LCD panel and is fortified with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for added durability.
Nokia G42: Cameras
As far as optics go, the device boasts of a primary 50MP camera, supplemented by a 2MP depth sensor and a 2MP macro lens.
With pixel-binning technology, it produces 12.5MP images that are commendable in daylight, capturing adequate detail and a satisfactory contrast ratio.
While its dynamic range has room for improvement, the camera benefits from swift shutter speeds and reliable autofocus.
The macro mode can be inconsistent, occasionally producing images with faded colors that demand ample lighting.
Conversely, the depth sensor is proficient, especially in portrait mode, demonstrating capable edge detection.
Low-light photography is a challenge; images may lack vibrancy without sufficient ambient light, and the dedicated night mode doesn’t sufficiently rectify these shortcomings.
Autofocus becomes less reliable in dim conditions.
Yet, when it comes to videography, the phone delivers commendably for its price range.
Nokia G42 5G Day Camera Samples
Nokia G42 5G Night Camera Samples
Nokia G42 5G Video Sample in DayLight
Nokia G42 5G Video Sample in Night Mode
Nokia G42: Performance and Features
The Nokia G42 is powered by a 5G-compatible Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ SoC, adept at handling everyday tasks such as social media browsing and app switching effortlessly.
While it manages less demanding games adequately, it struggles with high-end GPU-intensive activities.
Accompanying the chipset is a robust 6GB RAM, further enhanced by an additional 5GB of virtual swap memory.
The device offers a generous 128GB internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via a microSD card slot.
Notably, in CPU benchmarks, the phone consistently delivers 92% of its peak performance without succumbing to thermal throttling.
The device also has a few features of note. While its speaker might not offer the richest audio experience, the continued presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome touch.
There is OZO Playback and OZO 3D Audio recording as well to enhance the wired audio experience.
The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is efficient, both during registration and authentication.
As for 5G connectivity, the phone demonstrated satisfcatory speeds when tested on Airtel’s network in Noida.
Nokia G42: Software and Battery
Nokia’s commitment to providing a seamless software experience remains evident with the Nokia G42.
The device operates on Android 13, and Nokia pledges two years of updates – a commendable assurance for a phone in this price range.
The user interface stands out, devoid of any bloatware, allowing the processor to function efficiently and responsively.
The Nokia G42 is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, aligning with the capacity commonly found in contemporary budget smartphones.
Although the 20W charging might not be the fastest, taking around 2 hours for a full charge, the phone compensates with its battery longevity.
In our tests we can comfortably rely on it for an entire day, and with moderate use, the device can even last up to two days.
Nokia G42: Final Verdict
After a detailed review, it’s evident that the Nokia G42 offers a commendable package for its asking price of Rs 12,299.
Its strengths, especially in battery longevity and a clean software experience, are contrasted by areas that warrant improvement, such as the display and charging speed.
While it may not outshine every competitor, those loyal to the Nokia brand and seeking a 5G device within a budget will find the G42 to be a worthy consideration.
Nokia G42: My Mobile Rating
Design – 4/5
Display – 3/5
Performance – 3.5/5
Camera – 3.5/5
Battery – 3.5/5
Overall – 3.5/5
Reasons To Buy
5G Connectivity: The Nokia G42 brings future-proof 5G connectivity to users without breaking the bank.
Equipped with the Snapdragon 480+ SoC, it promises faster downloads, seamless streaming, and an overall smoother internet experience.
Clean Android Experience: One of Nokia’s defining features has always been its commitment to a bloatware-free, clean Android experience.
With the Nokia G42 running on Android 13, users get an interface that’s intuitive, efficient, and allows the processor to operate at its optimum.
Battery Longevity: The device boasts a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring users won’t be left scrambling for a charger halfway through the day.
With moderate use, one can even expect up to two days of battery life, making it a reliable companion for both work and leisure.
Reliable Software Updates: Nokia’s promise of two years of updates for the G42 ensures that the device remains current, secure, and equipped with the latest Android features. This commitment adds to the device’s longevity and enhances the user experience over time.
Ergonomic Design: The unibody design, complemented by the rich purple shade, not only makes the phone aesthetically pleasing but also ensures a comfortable grip and usage experience.
FAQs
Is Nokia G42 5G compatible?
Absolutely! The Nokia G42 is designed to keep up with the latest in mobile connectivity. It’s equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ SoC, which ensures seamless 5G integration. This means users can enjoy faster download speeds, smoother streaming, and enhanced online gaming experiences, all thanks to the advanced 5G capabilities of the device.
How long does the battery last on Nokia G42?
The Nokia G42 comes packed with a substantial 5,000mAh battery, designed to support prolonged use. Under typical usage conditions, which might include browsing, calling, messaging, and occasional media playback, users can expect the phone to last throughout the day without needing a recharge. For those with lighter usage patterns, it’s possible to see the battery stretch to cover up to two days. This ensures you stay connected without constantly reaching for the charger.
What is the primary camera resolution?
The Nokia G42 doesn’t skimp on the photography front. It’s equipped with a 50MP primary camera sensor. This high-resolution camera is crafted to capture crisp and clear images with a great level of detail. Whether it’s landscapes, portraits, or everyday snapshots, users can expect vibrant and detailed photos. The camera’s high resolution also means more flexibility in cropping and editing, ensuring that memories are captured in the best light possible.
Will the Nokia G42 receive Android updates?
Nokia has always been committed to offering its users a fresh and secure software experience. With the G42, Nokia pledges to provide two years of Android updates. This means that the phone won’t just be stuck with the software it ships with. Over the next two years, users can look forward to new features, enhancements, and important security patches. This commitment ensures that the device remains up-to-date and provides a consistent and smooth software experience for users throughout its lifecycle.
Also Read: Nokia G42 5G: A Blend of Power, Affordability, and More Launched in India