The Huawei Nova 3i was a popular mid-range smartphone known for its AI-powered cameras, sleek design, and solid performance. Although it was released in 2018, it remains relevant in 2024 for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable device.
This detailed specs blog covers everything—display, performance, camera, battery, software, and current market status—to help you decide if it’s still worth buying.
📌 Quick Summary: Should You Buy the Huawei Nova 3i in 2024?
✅ Pros:
✔ Great AI-powered dual cameras (16MP + 2MP)
✔ Large 6.3-inch Full HD+ display (good for media)
✔ Decent battery life (3,340mAh) with fast charging
✔ Sleek glass design (looks premium)
❌ Cons:
✖ No longer receives Android updates (stuck on EMUI 8.2)
✖ Huawei’s app store limitations (no Google Play)
✖ Mediocre gaming performance (Kirin 710 struggles in 2024)
💡 Verdict: A decent budget secondary phone in 2024, but not ideal for heavy users due to outdated software.
📱 Huawei Nova 3i Full Specifications (2024 Update)
1. Design & Build
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 157.6 x 75.2 x 7.6 mm |
| Weight | 169g |
| Build | Glass front + plastic back |
| Colors | Black, Pearl White, Iris Purple, Gold |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) |
✔ Premium glass finish (feels high-end)
✔ Slim bezels (84.6% screen-to-body ratio)
2. Display
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | IPS LCD |
| Size | 6.3 inches |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 (Full HD+) |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI |
| Aspect Ratio | 19.5:9 |
✔ Bright & sharp display (good for YouTube/Netflix)
❌ No AMOLED (lower contrast than newer phones)
3. Performance & Hardware
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chipset | HiSilicon Kirin 710 (12nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (4×2.2 GHz Cortex-A73 + 4×1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| GPU | Mali-G51 MP4 |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 128GB (expandable via microSD up to 256GB) |
✔ Smooth for daily tasks (social media, browsing)
❌ Weak for gaming (PUBG Mobile runs on Low settings)
4. Camera (AI-Powered Dual Setup)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rear Cameras | 16MP (f/2.2) + 2MP (depth sensor) |
| Front Camera | 24MP (f/2.0) + 2MP (depth sensor) |
| Video | 1080p @ 30fps |
| AI Features | Scene recognition, bokeh effects |
✔ Good daylight photos (AI enhances colors)
✔ 24MP selfie camera (sharp details)
❌ Poor low-light performance (no Night Mode)
5. Battery & Charging
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3,340mAh |
| Charging | 10W wired (no fast charging) |
| Screen-on Time | ~5-6 hours (mixed usage) |
✔ Lasts a full day (light usage)
❌ Slow charging (takes ~2 hours for full charge)
6. Software & Updates
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| OS | Android 8.1 (Oreo) |
| UI | EMUI 8.2 |
| Google Play? | No (Huawei AppGallery only) |
⚠️ No longer supported (last update was in 2020)
📈 Huawei Nova 3i in 2024: Still Worth It?
👍 Good For:
✔ Budget buyers (used price: $80-$120)
✔ Casual users (social media, calls, light gaming)
✔ Secondary phone (backup or work device)
👎 Avoid If You Need:
❌ Latest Android apps (no Google Play)
❌ Gaming (weak GPU in 2024)
❌ Software updates (stuck on Android 8.1)
🔍 Where to Buy in 2024?
- Amazon Renewed (~$90, with warranty)
- eBay Used (~$70, check seller ratings)
- Local marketplaces (Facebook Marketplace, OLX)
📢 Final Verdict
The Huawei Nova 3i was a great mid-ranger in 2018, but in 2024, it’s only worth buying if:
✅ You need a cheap backup phone
✅ You don’t rely on Google apps
✅ You’re okay with outdated software
Otherwise, consider newer budget phones like:
- Redmi Note 12 (2023)
- Samsung Galaxy A14
- Realme 11x
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Does Huawei Nova 3i support Google Play in 2024?
No. Due to US sanctions, it only supports Huawei AppGallery.
Q2. Can it run WhatsApp and Facebook?
Yes, but you must side-load APKs or use third-party app stores like Aurora.
Q3. Is the battery replaceable?
Yes, but Huawei service centers may not stock parts anymore.
Q4. What’s the best alternative in 2024?
The Redmi Note 12 offers better performance, Android 13, and Google support for ~$150.
📌 Bookmark this page! We update pricing & availability monthly.
Redmi Note 12 (2023) Full Specifications & Review – Is It Worth Buying