Description
Nothing CMF Phone 1 Review
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 is an impressive entry in the budget-to-mid-range smartphone market. Released in July 2024, it brings a fresh design and a solid list of specifications that make it a standout option for consumers in search of a sleek, high-performing device without the hefty price tag. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and performance to help guide your purchasing decision.
Nothing CMF Phone 1 specs and price in Kenya
Category | Specification |
---|---|
Network Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
2G Bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
3G Bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
4G Bands | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
5G Bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66, 77, 78 SA/NSA |
Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
Launch | Announced: July 08, 2024; Released: July 09, 2024 |
Body | Dimensions: 164 x 77 x 8.2 mm (6.46 x 3.03 x 0.32 in) |
Weight | 197 g or 202 g (6.95 oz) |
Build | Glass front, plastic back, or silicone polymer back (eco-leather) |
SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM, User-replaceable back cover, Dust and splash-resistant |
Display Type | AMOLED, 120Hz, 500 nits (typ), 2000 nits (peak) |
Display Size | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm² (~85.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
Additional Display Features | Always-on display |
Operating System | Android 14, up to 2 major Android upgrades, Nothing OS 2.6 |
Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 7300 (4 nm) |
CPU | Octa-core (4×2.5 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
GPU | Mali-G615 MC2 |
Card Slot | microSDXC |
Internal Storage | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
Main Camera | Dual: 50 MP, f/1.8 (wide), PDAF; 2 MP, f/2.4 (depth) |
Main Camera Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS |
Selfie Camera | 16 MP, f/2.0 (wide) |
Selfie Camera Video | 1080p@30fps |
Sound | Loudspeaker: Yes, 3.5mm jack: No |
Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band |
Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, BLE |
Positioning | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
NFC | No |
Radio | No |
USB | USB Type-C |
Sensors | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
Battery | 5000 mAh |
Charging | 33W wired, 5W reverse wired |
Colors | Black, Orange, Light Green |
Price | KSh 42,000 |
Design and Build Quality:
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 boasts a stylish design with a glass front and either a plastic back or a silicone polymer back that can be swapped out for an eco-leather option. The user-replaceable back cover is a unique feature, allowing for customization or easy repairs. The phone is well-built, with a slim profile (164 x 77 x 8.2 mm), and weighs around 197g (or 202g depending on the model), which feels substantial without being overly heavy. This device is a great blend of style and functionality, with eco-friendly options appealing to conscious consumers.
Display:
One of the phone’s standout features is its large 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and excellent contrast. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and gaming performance, which is rare in phones at this price point. The peak brightness of 2000 nits makes the screen highly readable, even in direct sunlight, which is perfect for outdoor use. With a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, the display delivers sharp visuals, providing about 395 ppi density. The ~85.1% screen-to-body ratio ensures an immersive viewing experience, making it great for media consumption.
Performance:
Under the hood, the CMF Phone 1 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, built on the 4nm process, and paired with an octa-core CPU (4×2.5 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55). This setup ensures efficient performance, whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or using resource-heavy apps. The Mali-G615 MC2 GPU enhances the phone’s gaming capabilities, ensuring smooth gameplay even with more demanding titles.
Storage options include 128GB with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, or 256GB with 8GB of RAM, allowing you to choose based on your needs. The inclusion of a microSDXC card slot is an excellent bonus for those who need extra storage for photos, videos, or apps. Whether you opt for a lighter or more spacious configuration, the phone offers plenty of room for all your content.
Camera:
The camera setup on the Nothing CMF Phone 1 is more than capable for a device in its price range. The rear features a dual-camera system: a 50MP main sensor (f/1.8 wide) and a 2MP depth sensor (f/2.4). The 50MP primary camera captures crisp, detailed photos, especially in good lighting, while the depth sensor adds a nice touch for portrait shots. It can also record videos in 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 30/60fps with gyro-EIS, ensuring smooth video quality even in motion.
The 16MP front-facing camera (f/2.0) is perfect for selfies, delivering clear and detailed images, making it great for social media or video calls.
Battery Life:
With a 5000mAh battery, the CMF Phone 1 offers excellent battery life, comfortably lasting throughout the day with moderate to heavy use. For charging, the phone supports 33W wired fast charging, which gets you back up to full power quickly, and a 5W reverse charging option allows you to charge other devices, such as wireless earphones, with your phone. This is an especially useful feature for those who value flexibility and convenience.
Software:
The phone runs on Android 14 with Nothing OS 2.6, offering a clean and intuitive user interface. It is promised to receive up to two major Android updates, ensuring that the device remains up-to-date for the next few years. The operating system’s fluid performance and design enhancements make navigating the phone a seamless experience.
Connectivity:
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 supports GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G networks, making it future-proof for faster internet speeds as 5G becomes more widely available. It also offers dual Nano-SIM support, perfect for users who need separate numbers for work and personal use.
Pros:
- Stunning Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate delivers vibrant colors and smooth motion.
- Impressive Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM, ensures fast and efficient operation.
- Camera Quality: 50MP main camera and 16MP selfie camera capture sharp, detailed photos.
- Fast Charging and Reverse Charging: 33W wired charging and 5W reverse charging make the phone versatile and practical.
- Customizable Back Cover: Eco-leather option and user-replaceable back cover offer a unique and sustainable design.
- 5G Connectivity: Future-proof with 5G support for high-speed mobile data.
Cons:
- No Wireless Charging: While wired charging is fast, wireless charging is not available.
- Plastic Back: Though eco-friendly, the plastic back might not feel as premium as some all-glass alternatives.
Final Verdict:
The Nothing CMF Phone 1 is a fantastic budget-friendly option for those looking for a feature-packed smartphone. With its vibrant AMOLED display, powerful performance, and future-proof features like 5G support, it punches well above its weight. The 50MP camera system, solid battery life, and fast charging make it a well-rounded device for everyday use. At a price point of KSh 42,000, it offers excellent value for money, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to upgrade without spending a fortune. If you’re after a sleek, modern, and reliable smartphone, the Nothing CMF Phone 1 should definitely be on your radar.
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