The Nokia 7.2 promised a compelling blend of sleek design, capable camera performance, and the pure Android experience that many users crave. HMD Global, the company behind the modern Nokia brand, has consistently targeted the mid-range market with devices that prioritize value and user-friendliness. However, the Nokia 7.2, while possessing certain strengths, ultimately falls short of delivering a truly outstanding experience. Its performance limitations and some questionable design choices hinder its ability to compete effectively in a crowded and increasingly demanding segment of the smartphone market. This review dives deep into the phone’s features, highlighting both its positives and its shortcomings.
Design and Build Quality
The Nokia 7.2 boasts a visually appealing design with its circular camera module on the rear and a clean, minimalist aesthetic. The matte glass back provides a premium feel, resisting fingerprints better than glossy alternatives. The phone feels solid in hand, though it is a bit on the heavier side. While the design is attractive, certain aspects feel a bit dated compared to contemporary smartphones. For example:
- The bezels around the display are noticeably thicker.
- The dewdrop notch, while functional, looks less modern than punch-hole or pop-up camera solutions.
Display and Performance
The 6.3-inch FHD+ display on the Nokia 7.2 delivers decent color accuracy and brightness, making it suitable for everyday use. However, the phone’s performance is where it truly falters. Powered by a Snapdragon 660 processor, the Nokia 7.2 struggles with more demanding tasks; Multitasking can be sluggish, and gaming performance is far from ideal, especially with graphically intensive titles.
Performance Comparison
Let’s consider how the Nokia 7.2 compares to some of its competitors in terms of performance.
| Smartphone | Processor | RAM | Benchmark Score (Geekbench 5 — Single Core) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nokia 7.2 | Snapdragon 660 | 4GB/6GB | ~300 |
| Google Pixel 3a | Snapdragon 670 | 4GB | ~350 |
| Samsung Galaxy A50 | Exynos 9610 | 4GB/6GB | ~340 |
Camera Capabilities
The Nokia 7.2 features a triple-camera setup on the rear, headlined by a 48MP primary sensor. The camera performs reasonably well in well-lit conditions, capturing detailed images with accurate colors. However, low-light performance is less impressive, with noticeable noise and a lack of sharpness. The ultra-wide lens offers a wider field of view, but image quality suffers compared to the main sensor. The depth sensor assists in creating portrait shots with a decent bokeh effect.
Software and Battery Life
One of the biggest advantages of the Nokia 7.2 is its Android One software. This provides a clean, bloatware-free experience with guaranteed software updates and security patches. The 3500mAh battery offers adequate battery life for a full day of moderate use. However, heavy users may find themselves needing to top up the battery before the end of the day.
Ultimately, while the Nokia 7.2 has its merits, its dated processor and some design flaws make it a tough sell in today’s competitive market. The phone promised much but ultimately failed to deliver a truly compelling experience. If you are looking for a phone with similar capabilities you might consider the Google Pixel 3a or Samsung Galaxy A50.
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