Introduction
The Huawei Nova 3i was a popular mid-range smartphone when it was first released, but how does it hold up in 2024? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore its full specifications, performance, camera quality, battery life, and software updates to see if it’s still worth buying.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly device or a reliable secondary phone, this Huawei Nova 3i review will help you decide.
Huawei Nova 3i: Key Specifications (2024 Updated)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 2018 |
| Display | 6.3-inch IPS LCD, 1080 x 2340 pixels |
| Processor | Hisilicon Kirin 710 (12nm) |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 128GB (expandable via microSD) |
| Rear Camera | Dual: 16MP (f/2.2) + 2MP (depth sensor) |
| Front Camera | Dual: 24MP (f/2.0) + 2MP (depth sensor) |
| Battery | 3340mAh, 10W charging |
| OS | Android 8.1 (Oreo), EMUI 8.2 (Upgradable to EMUI 9.1) |
| Security | Face Unlock, Rear Fingerprint Sensor |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Colors | Black, Pearl White, Iris Purple, Gradient Blue |
Detailed Review of Huawei Nova 3i (2024 Update)
1. Design & Build Quality
The Huawei Nova 3i features a glossy plastic back with a gradient color option, giving it a premium look. The 6.3-inch display has slim bezels and a notch, which was trendy in 2018.
- Dimensions: 157.6 x 75.2 x 7.6 mm
- Weight: 169g
- Build: Plastic frame, glass front
Verdict (2024): While the design is dated compared to modern all-glass or metal phones, it still looks stylish.
2. Display Quality
The 6.3-inch IPS LCD panel offers:
- Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels)
- Good color accuracy
- Decent brightness (up to 450 nits)
However, it lacks an AMOLED panel, so blacks aren’t as deep as newer phones.
3. Performance & Hardware
- Processor: Kirin 710 (12nm, Octa-core)
- GPU: Mali-G51 MP4
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 128GB (expandable via microSD up to 256GB)
Performance in 2024:
- Handles basic tasks (social media, browsing, light gaming) well.
- Struggles with heavy games (Genshin Impact, COD Mobile at high settings).
- EMUI 9.1 (based on Android 9) is outdated in 2024 (no official Android 10/11 update).
4. Camera Performance
Rear Cameras (16MP + 2MP)
- Daylight photos are sharp with good dynamic range.
- Low-light performance is average (no Night Mode).
- Portrait mode works well due to the depth sensor.
Front Cameras (24MP + 2MP)
- Great for selfies with AI beautification.
- Portrait selfies have good edge detection.
2024 Verdict: The cameras are decent but lag behind modern budget phones (Redmi Note 13, Realme 11x).
5. Battery Life & Charging
- 3340mAh battery (average for 2024 standards).
- 10W charging (slow compared to 18W/30W fast charging in new phones).
- Screen-on Time (SOT): ~5-6 hours (moderate usage).
6. Software & Updates
- Original OS: Android 8.1 (Oreo) + EMUI 8.2
- Latest Update: EMUI 9.1 (Android 9 Pie)
- No further updates expected (Huawei stopped support).
Issue in 2024:
- No Google Mobile Services (GMS) due to Huawei’s US ban.
- Huawei AppGallery is the primary app store (some apps missing).
7. Connectivity & Extras
- 4G LTE (No 5G).
- Bluetooth 4.2 (Older version).
- 3.5mm headphone jack (still useful in 2024).
- Rear fingerprint sensor + Face Unlock (works well).
Huawei Nova 3i: Pros & Cons (2024)
✅ Pros
✔ Stylish gradient design
✔ Good daylight camera performance
✔ Decent battery life for light users
✔ Expandable storage
❌ Cons
✖ Outdated software (No Android 10/11)
✖ No Google Play Services
✖ Slow charging (10W)
✖ Mediocre gaming performance
Huawei Nova 3i vs. Modern Budget Phones (2024)
| Feature | Huawei Nova 3i | Redmi Note 13 | Realme 11x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Kirin 710 | Snapdragon 685 | Dimensity 6100+ |
| RAM/Storage | 4GB/128GB | 6GB/128GB | 6GB/128GB |
| Display | 6.3″ IPS LCD | 6.67″ AMOLED | 6.72″ IPS LCD |
| Battery | 3340mAh (10W) | 5000mAh (33W) | 5000mAh (33W) |
| OS | Android 9 (EMUI) | Android 13 (MIUI) | Android 13 (Realme UI) |
| Price (2024) | ~$120 (Used) | ~$160 (New) | ~$170 (New) |
Conclusion: The Nova 3i is still usable but outdated compared to 2024 budget phones.
Should You Buy the Huawei Nova 3i in 2024?
- Buy if: You need a cheap secondary phone for basic tasks.
- Avoid if: You need Google apps, gaming, or long-term updates.
Final Verdict: 6.5/10
The Huawei Nova 3i was a great mid-ranger in 2018, but in 2024, it struggles due to outdated software, lack of Google services, and slow charging. If you can find it under $100, it’s okay for light use—otherwise, consider newer alternatives.
FAQs:
No, due to the US ban, it does not support Google Play Services.
No, its last update was EMUI 9.1 (Android 9 Pie).
Only for light games (e.g., Subway Surfers, Candy Crush). Heavy games like Genshin Impact will lag.
Around $100-$150 (used). New units are rare.
for Further Reading
Conclusion
This Huawei Nova 3i review (2024 updated) covers all key aspects—design, display, performance, camera, battery, and software. While it’s outdated in 2024, it can still serve as a budget backup phone.
For better alternatives, check out the Redmi Note 13 or Realme 11x.
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