Huawei Nova 3i Review: A Budget Smartphone with Impressive Features

The Huawei Nova 3i has gained significant attention in the budget smartphone market since its release. For those seeking an affordable device without compromising on performance and style, the Nova 3i promises to deliver a well-rounded experience. In this review, we’ll explore its key features, performance, camera capabilities, and what sets it apart from its competitors.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things you will notice about the Huawei Nova 3i is its sleek and modern design. The smartphone features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame, giving it a premium feel. Available in multiple colors—like Black, Iris Purple, and Pearl White—it provides options for different tastes.
The device has a 6.3-inch Full HD+ display with a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels. The notch present at the top of the screen houses the front camera and other sensors, which is typical in modern smartphones. The bezels are relatively thin, allowing for an immersive viewing experience, making it a suitable device for streaming videos and playing games.
Performance
Equipped with a Kirin 710 processor, the Huawei Nova 3i performs admirably for everyday tasks. Paired with 4GB or 6GB of RAM, it manages multitasking efficiently. Whether you’re browsing through social media or running multiple apps at once, the Nova 3i can handle it without significant lag.
For gaming enthusiasts, the device comes with a Mali-G51 MP4 GPU, which handles most games well, though you may need to reduce graphic settings for demanding titles. The internal storage options of 128GB can be expanded up to 256GB via microSD, making it ample enough for most users.
Camera Capabilities
Rear Camera
The Huawei Nova 3i features a dual-camera setup on the rear: a 16MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. This combination allows for striking photos with a nice bokeh effect, especially in portrait mode. The camera excels in good lighting conditions but also performs decently in low-light situations, thanks to its AI-assisted features.
Front Camera
One of the standout features of the Nova 3i is its 24MP front camera, which is designed for selfies. The camera includes its own front-mounted flash and AI enhancements that beautify your images, creating smooth and vibrant selfies. Users who are fond of social media will appreciate the numerous filters and beauty modes available.
Battery Life
With a 3340mAh battery, the Huawei Nova 3i provides reliable battery life that can last throughout a day of regular use. While heavy gaming or extensive media consumption might require a charge by evening, moderate users will find that the device comfortably sees them through the day. Furthermore, the phone supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly juice up when needed.
Software and User Interface
The Huawei Nova 3i operates on EMUI 8.2, based on Android 8.1 Oreo. While some users may prefer stock Android, Huawei’s custom interface offers plenty of customization options, including themes, wallpapers, and a built-in app drawer. It also features a variety of useful tools such as a night mode, which enhances clarity in low-light environments.
Pricing and Value
The Nova 3i is competitively priced, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to sacrifice quality. Its combination of features—ample storage, solid camera performance, and sleek design—offers great value for the money. It is an ideal choice for students or anyone needing a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
The Huawei Nova 3i stands out as an impressive budget smartphone that caters to a wide audience. With its stylish design, capable camera system, and solid performance, it offers a robust package for those looking for a capable device without high costs. While it may not compete with flagship models in terms of performance, for many users, it ticks all the right boxes.
If you’re in the market for a budget smartphone that encompasses style, functionality, and value, the Huawei Nova 3i should definitely be on your radar.