When it comes to budget smartphones, the Nokia G400 5G is a solid option with decent hardware and a good camera. However, it’s not without its shortcomings, the most glaring of which is its lack of software support from HMD Global, the company licensing the Nokia brand. While the phone may perform well and have features like 5G connectivity, it is unlikely to receive future Android OS updates and will only receive two years of security updates. This puts it at a disadvantage compared to other budget phones like the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G and Google Pixel 6A, which offer longer software support.
Hardware: A Mixed Bag
The Nokia G400 5G’s design is uninspiring, with a bland grey color that doesn’t look like a traditional “Nokia” phone. However, the 6.58-inch LCD screen is sharp and responsive, with a 120Hz refresh rate that makes for a smooth user experience. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ chipset is capable of running all the apps you need, though it may be limited by the 4GB of RAM. For everyday use, such as responding to emails and messages, browsing social media, and making phone calls, the G400 5G performs well.
The camera is a highlight of the G400 5G, with a 48-megapixel main sensor, 2-MP depth camera, and 5-MP ultrawide. In good lighting, the primary camera can produce high-quality photos that rival those of the Google Pixel 6A. However, the camera struggles with moving subjects, and the color and white balance can be off. Additionally, the ultrawide camera doesn’t add much value.
Battery life is impressive, with a 5,000mAh battery that can last up to a day and a half on average use. The G400 5G also includes convenient features such as sub-6 5G connectivity on all major US carriers, a headphone jack, a fingerprint sensor, and a MicroSD card slot for expandable storage. The NFC sensor allows for mobile payments, and a charger is included in the box.
Software: A Major Disappointment
The G400 5G’s lack of software support from HMD Global is a major drawback. The phone will only receive two years of security updates and no commitment to Android OS upgrades. This is a stark contrast to HMD Global’s promise of fast and frequent software updates in 2016. In comparison, most Android phone makers offer a software commitment policy so that consumers have a clear picture of how long their device will be supported. The $250 Samsung Galaxy A13 5G, for example, will receive two Operating System updates and 4 years of security updates.
Design: Bland but Functional
The design of the Nokia G400 5G is uninspiring, with a gray color that doesn’t stand out among other smartphones. The design is functional but bland, lacking the sleek and premium look of other smartphones. The phone is relatively thick and heavy, making it less pocket-friendly. The overall design may not appeal to everyone, but it is still functional and durable.
User Interface: Stock Android Experience
The G400 5G runs on stock Android 12, which is a plus for those looking for a clean and streamlined user interface. The phone comes with minimal bloatware, and any additional apps can be easily removed. The interface is easy to navigate, and the phone feels snappy and responsive to use. It offers a stock Android experience, which is a positive for users looking for a clean and simple interface.
Performance: Good for Everyday Use
The G400 5G’s performance is good for everyday use, with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ chipset providing reliable performance. The phone can handle most apps and tasks without any major issues. However, it may struggle with heavy gaming or multitasking due to the 4GB of RAM. The phone is good for everyday use, such as responding to emails, browsing social media, and making phone calls.
Value for Money: Not the Best Option
In terms of value for money, the G400 5G falls short compared to other budget smartphones. Its lack of software support from HMD Global is a major drawback, and it is unlikely to receive future Android OS updates and will only receive two years of security updates. Other budget smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G and Google Pixel 6A offer longer software support and more features for a similar price. The G400 5G’s camera and battery life are its strong points, but its lack of software support makes it difficult to recommend over other budget smartphones.
Nokia G400 5G Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.58-inch LCD screen with 120Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ chipset |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 64GB (expandable with MicroSD card) |
| Camera | 48MP main sensor, 2MP depth camera, 5MP ultrawide |
| Battery | 5,000mAh |
| Connectivity | 5G, headphone jack, fingerprint sensor, MicroSD card slot, NFC sensor |
| Software | Stock Android 12, 2 years of security updates, no commitment to Android OS upgrades |
| Design | Gray color, bland and dreary design |
| Price | $270 |
| Value for money | Not the best option, you can get more bang for your buck with other budget phones |
Conclusion
The Nokia G400 5G is a decent budget smartphone with good hardware and a good camera. However, its lack of software support from HMD Global is a major drawback. While the phone may perform well and have features like 5G connectivity, it is unlikely to receive future Android OS updates and will only receive two years of security updates. This puts it at a disadvantage compared to other budget phones like the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G and Google Pixel 6A, which offer longer software support. If software support is a major concern for you, it may be best to look elsewhere for a budget phone that can meet your needs.
