Overview:
Nothing phones are already popular for their reputation, design, and innovation in Indian’s smartphone market. But in 2025, does any Nothing phone under 20000 offer that performance, design, aesthetics, and value?
Our expert review found one such option, the Nothing phone 2a, a mid-range phone launched in 2024. It is now available for under 20000 during discounts and sales.
Editor’s Note (Experience): I have personally used the Nothing phone 2a for over 30 days in the real world. In which I do gaming, photography, calls, and other productivity. So that I can give you an honest and factual review that you can trust.
At Glance: Nothing Phone 2a (Under ₹20,000 in 2025)
| Feature | Details |
| Model Name | Nothing Phone 2a |
| Launch Year | March 2024 |
| Current Price (2025) | ₹19,999 (via Flipkart offers) |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro (4nm) |
| Display | 6.7″ AMOLED, 120Hz, FHD+ |
| RAM & Storage | 8GB RAM, 128GB storage |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 45W fast charging |
| Camera (Rear) | Dual 50MP sensors |
| Camera (Front) | 32MP selfie camera |
| OS | Nothing OS 2.5 (based on Android 14) |
| Build Quality | Transparent rear with Glyph interface |
Performance Review: (Expertise)
- 700,000 is the AnTuTu Score.
- 1150 (Single Core), 2700 (Multi-Core) is the Geekbench.
All these features make Nothing Phone 2a better than phones in this price range. It is perfect for daily use, social media, and light gaming.
Gaming Experience:
- BGMI, Free Fire, Call of Duty, Clash of Clans, and Asphalt 9 are tested games on this phone
- Medium high settings at 60fps are the frame rates.
- Thermals: No major heating issues observed.
Camera Performance:
| Scenario | Output Quality |
| Daylight Photos | Sharp details, natural colors |
| Low-Light Performance | Decent, with minor noise |
| Portrait Mode | Good edge detection |
| Video Recording | 4K at 30fps, stable footage (no OIS) |
| Front Camera (Selfies) | Impressive dynamic range and color accuracy |
Pro Tip: Its camera is not that good, but it delivers better photo quality than the Redmi Note 13 and Realme Narzo 60x, especially in image processing and low-light colours.
Battery and Charging:
- 1.5 days is the battery life if you use it extreme.
- 0 to 100% in 55 minutes is the charging speed.
- Is a charger included? Yes, 45W charger in the box, but in 2025, it is a rarity.
User Interface and Software:
- Nothing OS 2.5 gives you a bloatware-free and clean OS experience.
- It has unique features such as Glyph Interface notifications and a minimal UI.
- It has 3 years of Android updates + 4 years of security patches.
User Insight: This phone doesn’t come with any extra spammy apps, so it’s a great choice for those who want to stay minimal and productive.
Build Quality and Design:
- It has a transparent design with glyph lighting.
- Gorilla Glass protection on the front and back of the polycarbonate.
Thought: Aesthetic and tech lovers both love its look compared to mid-range phones.
Nothing Phone 2a vs Competitors (Under ₹20,000)
| Feature | Nothing Phone 2a | Redmi Note 13 | iQOO Z9 5G |
| Processor | Dimensity 7200 Pro | Dimensity 6100+ | Dimensity 7200 |
| Display | 6.7″ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.6″ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.67″ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Camera | Dual 50MP | 50MP + 2MP | 64MP OIS |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 45W | 5000mAh, 33W | 5000mAh, 44W |
| Design | Glyph interface | Standard plastic | Glossy back |
| Software Updates | 3+4 years promised | 2+3 years | 2+3 years |
Conclusion: In this, iQOO Z9 wins on OIS camera, and Nothing Phone 2a wins in software, design, and clean experience.
Pros:
- Unique transparent design with glyph lights.
- Provides a clean and smooth Android experience (Nothing OS).
- Powerful Dimensity 7200 Pro processor.
- AMOLED 120Hz display with a smooth viewing experience.
- Front and rear cameras take very good photos during the day.
- Long-term software updates will continue to be available.
- Fast 45W charging is available, and the charger comes with the box.
Cons:
- There is no official waterproof (IP) rating.
- Does not support wireless charging.
- The phone feels slightly slippery in the hand (it would be better to use a case).
- There is no option to expand memory (no SD card support).
Final Thoughts:
If you are looking for a smartphone under ₹20,000 that offers top performance and design, then the Nothing Phone 2a is an excellent choice in 2025. Its clean UI, battery life, and unique design make it stand out, all while being budget-friendly.
Recommended: Great for students, professionals, and casual gamers as it offers premium design and solid performance.
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