Nokia 5.3 Review

• Overview
• Design and Build Quality
• Display
• Performance
• Software and User Interface
• Camera
• Battery Life
• Connectivity and Networking
• Additional Features
• Comparison with Other Related Phones
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion

Overview

The Nokia 5.3 is a budget-friendly Android smartphone that offers great value for its price. With its reliable performance, decent screen, and long-lasting battery, it proves to be a solid option for those on a tight budget. This phone comes with the Android One program, ensuring timely software updates and a clean user experience. While it may have some compromises, such as mediocre cameras and the lack of water resistance, it remains a top contender in its price range.

Design and Build Quality

The Nokia 5.3 features a sleek design that stays true to Nokia's unique aesthetic. Its dimensions of 164.3 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm and weight of 185 g make it comfortable to hold and use. The device sports a glass front with Gorilla Glass 3 protection, a plastic back, and a plastic frame. It is available in Cyan, Sand, and Charcoal color options, offering a range of choices to suit different preferences. The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor is conveniently placed and responsive. Overall, the Nokia 5.3 has an elegant and ergonomic design.

Display

Featuring a 6.55-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and 20:9 aspect ratio, the Nokia 5.3 offers a decent viewing experience. The screen provides good color reproduction and sharpness, making it suitable for multimedia consumption. With a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 82.3%, the display offers an immersive viewing experience. Though the pixel density of around 268 PPI is not the highest, it still provides satisfactory clarity for everyday use. The Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection adds durability and safeguards the screen against scratches.

Performance

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset and Octa-core processor, the Nokia 5.3 delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks. With 3GB, 4GB, or 6GB of RAM (depending on the variant), multitasking is smooth, and app switching is seamless. The Adreno 610 GPU handles graphics-intensive applications and casual gaming with ease. While it may not match the performance of flagship smartphones, it meets the demands of regular users who prioritize affordability.

Software and User Interface

The Nokia 5.3 runs on Android 10, upgradable to Android 11, and is part of the Android One program. This means it offers a clean and bloat-free user interface, ensuring a seamless software experience. Nokia promises two major Android version upgrades and three years of monthly security updates, keeping the device up to date and secure. The near-stock Android experience enhances usability and allows for easy navigation and customization.

Camera

The Nokia 5.3 features a quad-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 13 MP wide lens, a 5 MP ultrawide lens, a 2 MP macro lens, and a 2 MP depth sensor. The primary camera captures detailed and vibrant photos in well-lit conditions. The ultrawide lens allows for capturing wider scenes, while the macro lens enables close-up shots with decent clarity. However, the camera performance in low-light conditions is underwhelming, with images appearing grainy and lacking sharpness. The 8 MP front-facing camera takes satisfactory selfies and supports 1080p video recording.

Battery Life

Equipped with a non-removable 4000 mAh Li-Po battery, the Nokia 5.3 offers reliable battery life that can easily last through a full day of moderate usage. The efficient power management of the Snapdragon 665 chipset contributes to the device's longevity. However, the charging speed is limited to 10W wired charging, which may not be as fast as some competitors. Nonetheless, the battery performance of the Nokia 5.3 is commendable, providing peace of mind for users who require extended usage without frequent charging.

Connectivity and Networking

The Nokia 5.3 offers a range of connectivity options to cater to various needs. It supports 4G LTE network connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable internet access. The device features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac for seamless wireless connectivity. Bluetooth 4.2, A2DP, LE, and aptX allow for convenient wireless pairing with headphones and other compatible devices. The inclusion of NFC enables contactless payments using services like Google Pay. GPS, GLONASS, and BDS ensure accurate positioning for navigation purposes. Additionally, the Nokia 5.3 features a 3.5mm headphone jack and FM radio functionality.

Additional Features

Comparison with Other Related Phones

When comparing the Nokia 5.3 with related devices in its price range, it stands out for its reliable performance, clean software experience, and long-lasting battery life. Competitors like the Google Pixel 4a and Motorola Moto G Power offer similar price points but may lack some features or compromise on certain aspects. The Nokia 5.3's inclusion of the Android One program sets it apart, guaranteeing software updates and security patches for an extended period. While it may not have the highest camera quality or the most powerful processor, it presents a well-rounded package for its price.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Nokia 5.3 offers exceptional value for its affordable price. With its reliable performance, clean and upgradable software, decent display, and long-lasting battery life, it proves to be a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers. While it may have some compromises, such as average camera performance in low light and the absence of water resistance, these trade-offs are expected at this price point. Overall, the Nokia 5.3 stands as a reliable and well-rounded smartphone option for those looking for an affordable device without compromising essential features.