Nokia 8.1 in 2020: A Comprehensive Review

Hi there! If you are considering purchasing the Nokia 8.1 in 2020, this comprehensive review will provide you with an in-depth analysis of its performance, features, and overall value. I have been using this phone for a while now, and my experience has led me to a particular opinion: while it may have had its place in the past, it's not the best choice for today's tech-savvy consumers.

Build Quality

Build Quality: One of the standout features of the Nokia 8.1 is its superior build quality. This phone features a glass back, 6000 series aluminum frame, and stainless steel edges, all within a reasonable price range. While the design may not be flashy, it exudes a premium feel and is unmatchable in terms of build quality in its price category. The back design, however, may not be as captivating as other modern smartphones, but it was never meant to be flashy.

Display

Display: The Nokia 8.1 comes equipped with a high-quality IPS LCD panel that provides outstanding visuals. It boasts excellent brightness and a crisp display, with no screen bleeding issues. While great for its time, especially in 2018 and 2019, it falls short when compared to OLED displays and high-refresh-rate screens available today. The thick black bezels are also noticeable and may not be as pleasing as the sleek look of modern smartphones.

Camera

Camera: Despite having a decent 12MP main camera, the Nokia 8.1's camera quality is still below par when compared to more advanced smartphones. The quality is good, with notable dynamic range, but it cannot match the detail and capabilities of cameras with higher megapixels. Furthermore, it lacks an ultrawide lens, which is a disappointment for those who enjoy taking scenic shots. However, the selfie camera is sufficient for 2020 standards.

Processor

Processor: The Nokia 8.1 was not equipped with the strongest processor, especially for its release price. When it was initially launched, it came with a Snapdragon 710 for a price tag of ?28,000, which was quite expensive. A few months later, the price was reduced to ?19,000, but this does not change the fact that it performed poorly compared to the advancements in mobile technology by 2020. Playing games on this phone would not be an ideal experience.

Battery

Battery: The Nokia 8.1 has a decent 3500mAh battery, but it falls short when compared to modern standards. The charging speed of 18W is adequate, but the phone struggles to stay powered through a full day of use. The stock Android system helps in preserving the battery, but given the advancing technology, it is certainly not enough for a phone released in 2018.

Software and Features

Software and Features: The Nokia 8.1 comes with some drawbacks when it comes to software and features. It lacks a pre-installed calculator, which might seem trivial but can be a significant inconvenience. The software is plagued with bugs, and it lacks face unlock functionality. Moreover, it has a hybrid SIM slot, which is a limitation in the modern smartphone market.

Merits: Despite these shortcomings, the Nokia 8.1 has some merits. It offers NFC support, which is convenient for certain tasks. The software updates are early and regular, with the phone expected to receive Android 11 in the next month. The haptic feedback is of good quality, and the stock Android experience is clean and reliable.

Thanks for reading this comprehensive review of the Nokia 8.1. If you are looking for a dependable and budget-friendly smartphone, it might still be a good choice, but for a more advanced experience, you might want to explore other options.