Nothing Phone (1) vs. Huawei nova 11: A Tech Journalist's Deep Dive
Let's dissect the Nothing Phone (1) and the Huawei nova 11, going beyond the spec sheet to uncover what truly matters for everyday users.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Nothing Phone (1) | Huawei nova 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 159.2 x 75.8 x 8.3 | 161.3 x 75 x 6.9 | Nova 11 is slightly taller and thinner. |
| Weight (g) | 193.5 | 168 | Nova 11 is noticeably lighter, improving one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.55 | 6.7 | Nova 11 offers a slightly larger screen for media consumption. |
| Resolution (px) | 1080 x 2400 | 1084 x 2412 | Virtually identical sharpness. |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 120 | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Display Type | OLED, HDR10+ | OLED, HDR10 | Both deliver vibrant colors and deep blacks; Nothing Phone (1) supports HDR10+ for potentially better dynamic range in supported content. |
| Peak Brightness (nits) | 1200 | 950 | Nothing Phone (1) will be more visible in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G+ 5G | Snapdragon 778G 4G | 778G+ on the Nothing Phone (1) offers a slight performance boost and 5G connectivity; Nova 11 is limited to 4G. |
| CPU | Octa-core (2.5 GHz...) | Octa-core (2.4 GHz...) | Negligible difference in everyday performance for most users. |
| RAM (GB) | 8/12 | 8 | Both offer sufficient RAM for multitasking, though the Nothing Phone (1) offers a 12GB option for power users. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera | 50MP + 50MP | 50MP + 8MP | Nothing Phone (1)'s dual 50MP setup offers superior versatility and potentially better low-light performance compared to Nova 11's 50MP + 8MP. |
| Front Camera | 16MP | 60MP | Nova 11 boasts a higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | 720p@960fps | Nothing Phone (1) prioritizes higher resolution video recording; Nova 11 focuses on super slow-motion. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 4500 | 4500 | Identical battery capacity. |
| Charging | 33W Wired, 15W Wireless | 66W Wired | Nova 11 offers significantly faster wired charging, but Nothing Phone (1) supports wireless charging. |
2. Key Insights
- Performance: The processors are very similar, but the Nothing Phone (1)'s slight edge and 5G capability make it future-proof.
- Camera: The Nothing Phone (1)'s dual 50MP rear cameras, especially the wide-angle, likely outperform the Nova 11's secondary 8MP lens. The Nova 11's 60MP selfie camera might appeal to selfie enthusiasts.
- Charging: A major differentiator. The Nova 11's 66W wired charging is blazing fast, but the Nothing Phone (1)'s wireless charging offers convenience.
- Software and Ecosystem: A crucial consideration not fully captured in the specs. Huawei's lack of Google Mobile Services (GMS) could significantly impact app availability and usability for many users outside of China.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Nothing Phone (1): Best for users who prioritize 5G connectivity, a well-rounded camera system, wireless charging convenience, and a cleaner Android experience with access to the full Google ecosystem.
- Huawei nova 11: Best for users primarily concerned with fast charging, a high-resolution selfie camera, and who are comfortable navigating a non-GMS Android environment. This might be more appealing to users already invested in the Huawei ecosystem or those in regions where Huawei's app store is well-supported.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- Is 5G connectivity essential for you? If yes, the Nothing Phone (1) is the clear winner.
- Which charging method do you value more: speed or convenience? Nova 11 for sheer speed, Nothing Phone (1) for wireless charging flexibility.
- How important is access to the Google Play Store and related apps? This is a deal-breaker for many. If GMS is crucial, avoid the Nova 11.
My Choice: The Nothing Phone (1)
While the Huawei nova 11 offers incredibly fast charging and a compelling selfie camera, the Nothing Phone (1)'s 5G future-proofing, superior overall camera system, wireless charging convenience, and most importantly, access to the full Google Play Store and its associated apps make it the more compelling device for me. The slightly more powerful processor is a bonus. As a tech journalist deeply embedded in the Google ecosystem, the lack of GMS on the Nova 11 would significantly impact my workflow and daily usage. The Nothing Phone (1) offers a more well-rounded package that aligns better with my needs and priorities.
