Nokia G42 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 G42 is a remarkable smartphone that effortlessly combines style, performance, and affordability. With its sleek design and durable build, this device is built to withstand the demands of everyday use. The 6.56-inch IPS LCD display provides a stunning visual experience, while the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset ensures smooth and lag-free performance. Capture every moment with the impressive triple camera setup, featuring a 50MP wide lens, macro lens, and depth sensor. And with a powerful 5000mAh battery, you can enjoy all-day usage without worrying about running out of power. Priced at around 250 EUR, the Nokia G42 offers incredible value for money.

Design and Build Quality

The Nokia G42 boasts a sleek and modern design that is both visually appealing and practical. With dimensions of 165 x 75.8 x 8.6 mm (6.50 x 2.98 x 0.34 in) and a weight of 193.8 g (6.84 oz), it strikes a balance between being compact and substantial in the hand. The device features a glass front, a plastic back, and a plastic frame, which not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal but also ensures a lightweight construction. The choice of materials provides a good grip and minimizes the risk of accidental slips. Additionally, the Nokia G42 is designed to be dust and splash resistant, adding an extra layer of durability for everyday use.

The smartphone sports a large 6.56-inch IPS LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering smooth and vibrant visuals. With a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 82.7%, users can enjoy an immersive viewing experience. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, safeguarding it against scratches and minor impacts.

In terms of ergonomics and comfort, the Nokia G42 is designed with user convenience in mind. The placement of the fingerprint sensor on the side allows for easy and quick access while ensuring the security of the device. The device also features a USB Type-C 2.0 port for charging and data transfer, providing convenience and versatility.

When it comes to durability and construction, Nokia has incorporated its QuickFix user-reparable design into the G42. This means that certain components of the device can be easily replaced or repaired, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. This sustainable approach not only benefits the user but also contributes to reducing electronic waste.

Overall, the Nokia G42 showcases a well-thought-out design and build. Its physical appearance is sleek and modern, with a focus on aesthetics and user comfort. The materials used, such as the glass front and plastic body, offer durability without compromising on weight. With its ergonomic design and QuickFix user-reparable construction, the Nokia G42 is a reliable and practical choice for users looking for a smartphone that combines style and functionality.

Display

The Nokia G42 features a 6.56-inch IPS LCD display with a screen resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels and an aspect ratio of 20:9. The display offers a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 82.7%, providing an immersive viewing experience. With a pixel density of around 269 ppi, the display ensures decent sharpness and clarity for everyday use.

Although the Nokia G42 doesn't incorporate OLED technology, the IPS LCD panel used offers good color accuracy and vibrancy. It also supports a 90Hz refresh rate, which results in smoother scrolling and improved responsiveness compared to traditional 60Hz displays. The display is capable of reaching a brightness level of up to 450 nits, with a peak brightness of 560 nits, ensuring decent visibility even under direct sunlight.

To protect the screen from scratches and accidental damage, the Nokia G42 comes with Corning Gorilla Glass 3. This provides a layer of durability to the display, making it resistant to minor impacts and scratches. Additionally, the device features a quick-fix user-reparable design, which allows for easy replacement of certain components, including the display.

While the Nokia G42 does not support HDR or wide color gamut, the viewing angles on the IPS LCD panel are generally good, ensuring consistent colors and contrast from different angles. The device does not feature a notch design, but rather a traditional bezel at the top and bottom of the display. This may be preferred by users who prefer a more symmetrical design.

The Nokia G42 also offers features such as an always-on display and a blue light filter, which can be useful for reducing eye strain during prolonged usage. The display also supports adaptive brightness, adjusting the screen brightness based on ambient lighting conditions for optimal visibility and power efficiency. Users can also calibrate the display settings according to their preferences.

Overall, while the Nokia G42's display may not be the most advanced in terms of technology, it offers a decent viewing experience with good color accuracy, brightness levels, and durability.

Performance

The Nokia G42 is equipped with a Qualcomm SM4350-AC Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset, which provides solid performance for a mid-range smartphone. The octa-core CPU consists of two high-performance Kryo 460 cores clocked at 2.2 GHz and six power-efficient Kryo 460 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz. This combination allows for smooth multitasking and app loading speeds, ensuring a lag-free user experience. In terms of CPU benchmarks, the Snapdragon 480+ performs well in synthetic tests, showcasing its processor efficiency.

For graphics-intensive tasks and gaming capabilities, the Nokia G42 relies on the Adreno 619 GPU. This GPU delivers satisfactory performance for casual gaming and handles graphics-intensive games with ease. Gaming experience on the Nokia G42 is smooth, thanks to the GPU's efficiency and the system optimization employed by Nokia. The phone's thermal management system ensures that it doesn't overheat during extended gaming sessions, allowing for uninterrupted gameplay.

In terms of graphics scores, the Nokia G42 demonstrates its prowess with its IPS LCD display. With a 90Hz refresh rate and 450 nits of brightness (560 nits peak), the phone offers smooth visuals and vibrant colors. While the resolution is 720 x 1612 pixels, the pixel density of 269 ppi ensures decent clarity for everyday use.

To assess the overall performance of the Nokia G42, benchmark tests provide valuable insights. Synthetic benchmarks, such as Antutu and Geekbench, showcase the phone's performance metrics. These tests evaluate the CPU, GPU, and overall system performance, providing an objective measure of the device's capabilities. Based on these benchmark scores, the Nokia G42 performs admirably for its price range, showcasing its ability to handle day-to-day tasks and moderate gaming.

Furthermore, the Nokia G42 benefits from the optimization of the Android 13 operating system. This collaboration between Nokia and Google ensures a smooth user experience and efficient resource management. The 4GB or 6GB of RAM, coupled with the Snapdragon 480+ chipset, allows for seamless multitasking and quick app switching.

In summary, the Nokia G42 offers a satisfactory performance for its price range. With its Snapdragon 480+ chipset, Adreno 619 GPU, and system optimization, it provides a smooth and lag-free user experience. The phone's gaming capabilities, although not top-of-the-line, are sufficient for casual gamers. The graphics scores and benchmark tests further validate the

Software and User Interface

The Nokia G42 runs on the latest version of the Android operating system, Android 13. This ensures that users have access to the most up-to-date features and security patches. One of the notable aspects of the software on the Nokia G42 is its user-friendliness. The interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy for users to navigate through different apps and settings. Additionally, the Nokia G42 offers a level of customization, allowing users to personalize their device according to their preferences. This includes options to change the home screen layout, app icons, and system themes.

In terms of pre-installed apps, the Nokia G42 does come with some bloatware, but it is relatively minimal compared to other smartphones in its price range. Bloatware refers to apps that are pre-installed on the device by the manufacturer or carrier, which may not be useful or necessary for all users. However, the Nokia G42 strikes a good balance, offering essential apps while keeping the bloatware to a minimum.

The software on the Nokia G42 also takes advantage of the device's hardware capabilities. For example, the 90Hz refresh rate of the display enhances the overall smoothness and responsiveness of the user experience. This means that scrolling through apps and webpages feels fluid and lag-free.

Overall, the software on the Nokia G42 provides a user-friendly interface, customization options, and a balance between pre-installed apps and bloatware. This ensures that users can enjoy a smooth and personalized experience on their device.

Camera

The Nokia G42 comes with a triple camera setup that offers versatile photography options. The primary camera boasts a high-resolution 50-megapixel sensor with an aperture of f/1.8, allowing for detailed and sharp images. This camera is ideal for capturing stunning shots in daylight, as it excels in producing natural colors and preserving the dynamic range of the scene. The 2-megapixel macro lens enables close-up shots with fine details, while the 2-megapixel depth sensor helps in achieving a bokeh effect for portrait mode photography.

In terms of low-light performance, the Nokia G42 employs advanced noise reduction techniques to minimize graininess and preserve image quality. Additionally, it features a dedicated night mode that enhances low-light sensitivity, allowing for better results in challenging lighting conditions. The camera also supports various shooting modes, including HDR, panorama, and pro mode, giving users the flexibility to experiment and capture a wide range of scenes.

When it comes to video recording, the Nokia G42 offers 1080p video recording capabilities, ensuring high-quality videos with good detail and clarity. The device also supports video stabilization, which helps in reducing shakiness and ensuring smooth footage. Slow-motion video and time-lapse modes are also available, allowing users to unleash their creativity and capture unique moments in different ways. Overall, the camera setup on the Nokia G42 provides a compelling photography experience, delivering impressive image and video quality across various shooting scenarios.

Battery Life

Connectivity and Networking

The Nokia G42 offers a wide range of connectivity options, making it a versatile device for staying connected on the go. With network compatibility for GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G, users can enjoy fast data speeds and seamless browsing experiences. The device supports dual SIM functionality, allowing users to manage two phone numbers simultaneously. When it comes to wireless connectivity, the Nokia G42 supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, ensuring compatibility with various Wi-Fi standards. Bluetooth 5.1 with A2DP and LE enables easy pairing with other devices for seamless file transfers and wireless audio streaming. While the device lacks NFC, it compensates with a USB Type-C 2.0 port, providing a convenient and versatile option for charging and data transfer. Additionally, GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BDS navigation systems are available for accurate location tracking and easy navigation. Overall, the Nokia G42 offers a comprehensive range of connectivity features, ensuring that users can stay connected, access high-speed data, and enjoy seamless wireless experiences.

Additional Features

The Nokia G42 comes with a range of additional features that enhance its functionality and user experience. Firstly, it boasts a dust and splash-resistant design, providing some level of protection against the elements. While it does not have an official IP rating for water resistance or waterproofing, its QuickFix user-reparable design adds a layer of durability.

In terms of storage, the Nokia G42 offers expandable storage options with a microSD card slot, allowing you to easily increase its storage capacity. This is particularly useful for users who require ample space for multimedia files, apps, and documents.

The smartphone also supports dual SIM functionality, enabling you to use two SIM cards simultaneously. This can be beneficial for individuals who want to separate their personal and work contacts or take advantage of different mobile network plans.

As for sensors, the Nokia G42 features a range of advanced sensors including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors contribute to enhanced user interaction and provide data for various applications and functionalities. While it may not have some of the more advanced sensors found in flagship devices, the sensor suite on the Nokia G42 is well-rounded and sufficient for most users' needs.

Overall, the Nokia G42 offers additional features such as dust resistance, expandable storage, dual SIM functionality, and a suite of advanced sensors, making it a versatile and practical choice for users seeking a reliable smartphone.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Nokia G42 is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers a decent set of features at an affordable price point. When comparing it to other related devices in the market, such as the Motorola Moto G42 and the Nokia 3.1, some interesting insights and comparisons can be made.

In terms of specifications, the Nokia G42 stands out with its 6.56-inch IPS LCD display, which offers a 90Hz refresh rate and a brightness of up to 560 nits. This puts it on par with the Motorola Moto G42, which also boasts a vibrant OLED display with a brightness of 700 nits. However, the Nokia G42 falls slightly short when compared to the Nokia 3.1, which features a smaller 5.2-inch display.

When it comes to performance, the Nokia G42 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset, which provides a smooth user experience. This places it in a similar league as the Nokia 7.2, which features a Snapdragon 660 chipset. While the Nokia G42 offers 4GB or 6GB of RAM, the Nokia 7.2 comes with 4GB or 6GB of RAM and the Motorola Moto G42 offers 4GB of RAM.

In terms of camera capabilities, the Nokia G42 features a triple camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor, a macro lens, and a depth sensor. This is comparable to the camera setup found in the Nokia 6.1, which also includes a 16MP primary sensor, a Zeiss lens, and a dual-tone flash. The Motorola Moto G42, on the other hand, comes with a 50MP primary sensor and a depth sensor, but lacks a dedicated macro lens.

When considering pricing, the Nokia G42 offers a good value for money proposition, priced at around 250 EUR. This makes it more affordable than the Motorola Moto G42, which is slightly more expensive. The Nokia G42 also competes with other budget-friendly smartphones in the market, providing a competitive edge with its 5G connectivity and solid overall performance.

Overall, the Nokia G42 holds its own in the competitive smartphone market, offering a strong set of features at an affordable price point. While it may not have the most cutting-edge specifications or the highest-end camera capabilities, it provides a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable smartphone with decent performance and 5G connectivity.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Nokia G42 offers a decent package for its price range. With its sleek design and durable build, it is a reliable option for those looking for a budget-friendly smartphone. The 6.56-inch IPS LCD display provides a satisfactory viewing experience, while the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset ensures smooth performance. The triple camera setup captures satisfactory photos, and the 5000mAh battery offers a decent battery life. However, the phone's display resolution and limited NFC support may be a downside for some users. Overall, the Nokia G42 is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable smartphone at an affordable price point.