Nokia 4.2 Review

Nokia finally introduced its upgraded version of Nokia 4.1 and as per the previous naming convention, the device goes by the Nokia 4.2 moniker. It is yet another budget smartphone which comes with the sub-10k price tag. Well, the budget segment is the most heated one and this price range surely attracts attention from other competitors. 

The newer Nokia is known for offering curved-dual glass and stock Android experience. Both these aspects have now become a key highlight of every other budget Nokia device. Although the smartphone maker tries to emulate a premium experience, their devices still face backlash because of not-so-powerful hardware. 

Fortunately, we got our hands on the recently launched Nokia 4.2. So, does the smartphone follows the footsteps of its predecessors or we finally have something different here? Let’s find that out in our comprehensive review.

Nokia 4.2 comes in a single storage variant featuring 3GB RAM and 32GB of internal storage. In fact, the device also comes in single Black color option. Although the smartphone is officially priced at INR 9,499, interested buyers can get it for INR 8,999 on Amazon India. Nokia is also offering No Cost EMI options on major credit and debit cards. Furthermore, buyers will get benefits worth INR 2,500 from Vodafone Idea.

Nokia 4.2 comes in a flat unconventional box that has the device’s photos printed on the front along with the company’s branding. Sliding the content out of the box, you will see the device itself covered in a protective film. Right underneath it, we have a SIM ejector tool and few paper works. Opening the other section, you’ll come across the regular 5W charger, micro-USB cable and a pair of earphones. There is no transparent back case which we generally see from the competitors. 

The earphones seem to be of decent quality and are the ones which we used to see earlier with the older Nokia devices. The brand should have at least gone with the 10W wall charger. 

Here is a quick overview of what you’ll be getting inside the box: 

 – Nokia 4.2 

 – 5W wall charger 

 – Micro USB cable

 – Pair of earphones 

 – SIM ejector tool 

 – Manuals and documentation

Before we jump right to the in-depth review, let’s have a quick look at the key specifications of the device. 

 – Display: 5.71-inches IPS LCD display, 720×1520 pixels, 295ppi 

 – Processor: Snapdragon 439, 12nm 

 – GPU: Adreno 505 

 – RAM & ROM: 3GB, 32GB 

 – Software: Android 9.0 Pie, Android One 

 – Rear cameras: 13MP+2MP

 – Selfie camera: 8MP, f/2.0

 – Battery: 3,000mAh capacity, 5W charger 

 – Weight: 161g

 – Dimensions: 149×71.3×8.4mm 

With key specs cleared out of the way, it’s time to talk about the very first aspect of the device.

When it comes to design, the Nokia 4.2 borrows various elements from Nokia 6.1 Plus and Nokia 5.1 Plus. Even though it is a budget device, the company manages to offer premium build quality. For this price tag, the smartphone feels extremely great and visually appealing at the same time. The device is made up of plastic but features glass on both front and back for the increased build quality.

At the back, there is a dual-camera module that sits fairly flat on the glass surface along with an LED flash. Right below the sensors, there is a physical fingerprint sensor which we will talk about in detail later. The back of the device looks pretty glossy and visually appealing by still keeping the minimal look to it. You will not found the gradient hues that is what differentiates the device from the rest. All in all, Nokia 4.2 looks much more premium than its price suggests. 

Nokia 4.2 is a relatively compact phone measuring 8.39mm thick and weighing just 161g. If you like using a small profile device, then you’re going to love the Nokia 4.2. If ergonomics and design are one of your concerns, then you should have this device on your final list. The front of the device is dominated by a compact 5.71 inches IPS LCD display with a waterdrop notch. 

Coming to the buttons, we have a dedicated Google Assistant key on the left side that would come in handy if you use virtual assistant a lot. Single tapping the key will launch the Assistant while double-tapping will give information based on your history and location. On the right side, we have a volume rocker and power button. Surprisingly, the power key is surrounded by the light which acts as a notification light. It also lights up when the device is plugged in. Overall, I like this nifty addition on the power key giving it a nice personality while not messing the overall flat and minimal design. 

At the bottom, you will find a Micro USB port for charging, microphone and a speaker grille while the 3.5-mm headphone jack sits at the top. As expected, the back of the device is a fingerprint magnet. Ignoring that, the smartphone features one of the best-looking design and build at this price tag.