The buzz around Nothing’s ambitious 2025 lineup is already electrifying the tech community, as the company proudly unveils the new Nothing Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro. With sleek design aesthetics, these smartphones sport glass on both sides and come with an IP64 rating, promising enhanced protection against dust and water. But how durable are they really?
A well-known tech reviewer recently put the Nothing Phone (3a) series through a rigorous durability test, synonymous with challenging smartphone designs to their limits. One revealing discovery from these tests is the retention of a plastic frame—a common design choice from previous models such as the Phone (2a) and Phone (2a) Plus. This leaves the original Nothing Phone (1) as the sole bearer of a metallic frame, sparking curiosity if the awaited Nothing Phone (3) will make a triumphant return to this premium feature.
Equipped with a display shielded by Panda Glass instead of the previously used Gorilla Glass, the Nothing Phone (3a) series shows resilience. This Panda Glass starts to scratch at a level 6 on the Mohs scale, similar to its predecessor, with deeper abrasions appearing at level 7. Though the full extent of its impact resistance isn’t tested, initial observations during the bend test are promising, suggesting the Panda Glass holds up well under stress. Yet, to keep these striking devices in impeccable condition, investing in an additional protective case is recommended.
Priced attractively, the Nothing Phone (3a) available for $399, and its sibling, the Phone (3a) Pro, both impress during the bend test; they flex without fracturing—a testament to their robust construction aided by an aluminum mid-frame. A deeper inspection of the pro model uncovers hidden screws beneath decorative plastic, which could be a handy note for tech-savvy users interested in exploring the phone’s internals.
Overall, the Nothing Phone (3a) series stands strong in early durability assessments. As these smartphones soon reach consumers, it would be interesting to observe their real-world endurance through everyday use. With pre-orders open, there’s palpable excitement to see these devices in action and to discover how they perform in day-to-day scenarios. Stay tuned for more intriguing insights as these devices hit the market, promising innovation wrapped in a resilient package.
