- Analysis by KJ David
As its name suggests, the 2018 Nokia 3.1 is a sequel to the Nokia 3 that introduces several tweaks to its predecessor's specs list, although it falls into the mid-level Android classification notwithstanding.
Getting the ball rolling is its upgrade from the Nokia 3's 5-inch 16:9 (16:9 was the typical aspect ratio among mid-range smartphones as we were reviewing this model's pros and cons) display to a 5.2-inch interface with a wider 18:9 aspect ratio , resembling a good number of high-tier phablets. That being said, we found its decision to stick to a 720p resolution questionable, since tantamount mid-enders with FHD/FHD+ (1080p) screens were no longer uncommon when it came out. Speaking of questionable, we found its lack of a fingerprint sensor disgruntling as well, knowing that fingerprint-based security has become a staple facet in this Android class.
Also among the 3.1's cons is its 8-megapixel fixed-focus front-facing camera that does not sound very competitive, at least compared to those of some of its semi-high-end rivals. At the very least, it comes with a 13-megapixel rear camera with automatic scene detection in its arsenal , which, although won't be joining the cams of the best phones for photography any time soon, sounds just about right for a phone with its kind of pros and cons.
Continuing with its pros, the Nokia 3.1 runs on a MediaTek MT6750N 1.5GHz eight-core processor -- a huge improvement over its predecessor's entry-level 1.4GHz quad-core engine. (Don't forget to check out our list of the best eight-core smartphones here). Accompanying its CPU are a 3GB RAM and a 32GB eMMC 5.1 memory that can be expanded by up to 128GB , though a toned-down variant with only 2GB of RAM and 16GB of on-board storage is available as well.
The 3.1 feeds off a 2990mAh battery that sounds like a reasonable match for its screen and processor. Also joining its selling points is a fuselage made up of diamond-cut aluminum sides and a scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass display finish (Nokia did not specify what version as of this analysis). Just like its Nokia 2.1 cousin, it is offered in dual-color finishes, Blue/Copper and Blue/Chrome being a couple of them.
In the end, the Nokia 3.1 is a beefed-up version of the Nokia 3 that extends its screen and scraps its low-end processor, probably to cater to mid-end shoppers who want to get some eight-core action.
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