The Nokia G42 5G has officially arrived, and it aims to deliver a perfect mix of affordability and performance. Designed for budget-conscious users who don’t want to compromise on style or essential features, the device comes with a robust 5G chipset, a capable 50MP triple camera setup, and a long-lasting battery. Priced in the mid-range segment, it is positioned as a practical option for students, working professionals, and everyday smartphone users who need reliability, smooth multitasking, and future-ready connectivity without paying flagship prices.
Premium & Durable Design
The Nokia G42 5G continues Nokia’s legacy of building phones that feel solid and reliable in hand. It features a sleek polycarbonate body with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and scratches. The rounded corners and lightweight build make it comfortable for long usage, while Gorilla Glass protection on the front enhances durability. Available in attractive shades like So Purple, So Grey, and So Pink, the device offers a modern aesthetic without compromising its sturdy character.
Immersive Display
The smartphone sports a 6.56-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring smoother animations and scrolling. The IPS LCD panel offers decent brightness levels for both indoor and outdoor usage, while the slim bezels add to the immersive viewing experience. Though not AMOLED, the display provides accurate colors and sharp details, making it suitable for streaming, browsing, and light gaming. For a budget-friendly phone, the Nokia G42 5G’s screen strikes a balance between performance and energy efficiency.
Strong Performance
Powering the Nokia G42 5G is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ processor, paired with up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The phone runs on clean, near-stock Android 13, which promises a smooth experience with minimal bloatware. Nokia has also committed to regular software and security updates, ensuring long-term reliability. Multitasking between apps is seamless, and while it isn’t designed for heavy gamers, casual titles like PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, and Asphalt run comfortably without major frame drops.
Camera Setup
The highlight of the Nokia G42 5G is its 50MP triple rear camera system, supported by AI enhancements for improved clarity and dynamic range. Alongside the main lens, there is a 2MP depth sensor and a 2MP macro shooter, offering flexibility for portrait and close-up photography. On the front, the 8MP selfie camera captures clear images for video calls and social media. Video recording goes up to 1080p, delivering stable and usable footage for everyday use. While it may not rival premium flagships, the Nokia G42 5G’s camera setup is well-suited for casual photographers and content creators on a budget.
Battery & Charging
The device houses a 5,000mAh battery that easily lasts over a full day on mixed usage, including browsing, video streaming, and calls. It supports 20W fast charging, which takes the phone from zero to around 50% in less than an hour. Combined with the power-efficient Snapdragon 480+ chip and 90Hz display optimization, the Nokia G42 5G offers excellent endurance for users who don’t want to be tethered to a charger all the time.
Price & Availability
The Nokia G42 5G is priced competitively, starting around ₹12,999 in India for the 4GB RAM variant, while the 6GB RAM version costs slightly higher. Buyers can also expand storage via a microSD card slot. The phone is available through Nokia’s official website, Amazon, and offline retail partners, often with launch discounts and bundled offers. Customers get a standard one-year warranty along with assured software updates.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
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Solid 50MP camera with AI support
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Long-lasting 5,000mAh battery
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Stock Android with regular updates
Cons:
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Display limited to HD+ resolution
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Charging speed capped at 20W
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Average gaming performance
Competition & Alternatives
In the same segment, the iQOO Z7 5G and Realme Narzo 60x offer stronger processors and AMOLED displays, making them better for gamers and multimedia lovers. However, they often come with heavier custom UI, which some users may dislike. The Nokia G42 5G stands out with its clean Android experience, long update promise, and reliable battery life. For users seeking durability and simplicity, it remains a strong alternative.
Final Thoughts
The Nokia G42 5G is not about flashy specs or over-the-top performance—it’s about delivering a balanced smartphone experience at a fair price. Its solid build, reliable battery, clean Android interface, and capable camera setup make it ideal for students, casual users, and professionals who value practicality over gimmicks. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly 5G phone with dependable features, the Nokia G42 5G is worth serious consideration.
I’m Eddie Bail, a tech enthusiast and the mind behind Roscoe.in. I enjoy exploring the latest innovations, digital tools, and emerging trends that shape our world. Through my articles, I aim to share practical insights, honest opinions, and simplified explanations to make technology easier for everyone to understand. Writing for Roscoe.in is not just work for me—it’s a passion to stay connected with the ever-changing tech world and help readers stay informed.