Nokia G42 5G is a practical, reliable mid-range phone designed for users who prioritize clean software, durability, and long-term usability.
Launched in India in September 2023 and recently refreshed in 2024 with new colors and storage options, the G42 combines a 50MP triple camera setup, a 6.56-inch 90Hz HD+ display, and 20W fast charging all while keeping things affordable.
Its standout advantage is Nokia’s signature promise of a clean Android experience with two years of OS updates and three years of security patches. Whether you’re a light user, student, or someone who values simplicity with style, this phone covers the essentials.
Evolution of Nokia Budget Line
Nokia recent smartphones have focused less on chasing specs and more on reliability and repairability.
The G-series in particular has embraced modular repairs, DIY components via iFixit, and extended update support. With the G42 5G, HMD Global has continued this philosophy while leveling up on performance and usability.
What You Get in the Nokia G42 5G
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G processor
- 6.56” HD+ IPS LCD, 90Hz refresh rate
- 50 MP main camera + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
- 8 MP front camera
- 5,000 mAh battery with 20W fast charging
- Android 13, clean UI with no bloatware
- IP52 splash protection
Design and Build Quality
G42 5G is built with a textured back made of 65% recycled plastic, providing good grip and fingerprint resistance. It’s available in So Purple, So Grey, and So Pink the latter launched in early 2024. It retains a traditional design language with a teardrop notch and slightly thick bezels.
At 193.8g, it feels sturdy without being bulky. Nokia also highlights its QuickFix design users can replace batteries, screens, or ports using iFixit guides, extending the phone’s lifespan.
Display Performance
Nokia opted for a 6.56-inch HD+ (720×1612) IPS LCD. The display supports a 90Hz refresh rate, making scrolling smoother than typical 60Hz panels.
Brightness tops out at 450 nits, which is acceptable for indoor use but may struggle in harsh sunlight. While not full-HD, the display holds up fine for video streaming, browsing, and daily tasks.
Battery Life and Charging
The 5,000 mAh battery easily supports two days of regular use. Even with the 90Hz refresh rate on, battery drain is minimal thanks to the power-efficient Snapdragon 480+ chipset.
It charges via USB-C with a 20W charger, reaching about 50% in under 40 minutes. Full charging takes roughly 1.5 hours.
Pricing and Value
| Variant | Launch Price (INR) | Current Offer Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 6 GB + 128 GB | ₹12,599 | ₹11,499 (Flipkart deal) |
| 8 GB + 128 GB | ₹13,999 | ₹12,499 (limited time) |
The phone is often discounted online during sales and bank offers, bringing down its price to near entry-level range. That makes it an ideal first 5G phone for budget-focused users.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.56″ HD+ LCD, 90Hz, 450 nits |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ |
| RAM & Storage | 6/8 GB RAM, 128 GB eMMC 5.1 + microSD slot |
| Cameras (Rear) | 50 MP main, 2 MP macro, 2 MP depth |
| Selfie Camera | 8 MP f/2.0 |
| Battery | 5,000 mAh, 20W fast charging |
| Software | Android 13, 2 yrs OS + 3 yrs security |
| Build | Recycled plastic back, IP52 splash-proof |
| Extras | Side-mounted fingerprint, 3.5mm jack |
Day-to-Day Usability
Performance is suitable for social media, YouTube, browsing, and light gaming. The UI is bloat-free and runs clean, making it ideal for users who hate pre-installed apps.
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There no lag in navigation, though demanding games and heavy multitasking will show the chipset’s limitations. RAM extension feature adds up to 5 GB virtual RAM.
What Sets It Apart
- QuickFix Repairability: Nokia’s DIY-friendly design means you can replace the screen, charging port, or battery easily.
- Clean Android Experience: No bloatware, no ads. Just Android 13 with security.
- Affordable 5G: One of the cheapest reliable 5G phones with Nokia’s brand trust.
- Build Quality: Feels more solid than most plastic phones in this segment.
Areas to Improve
- Display resolution should’ve been FHD+
- Night camera performance is average
- No ultrawide sensor
- Charging could be faster
Launch Timeline and Color Refreshes
- First launch: September 2023
- So Pink Edition: February 2024
- New storage option (8GB/128GB): April 2024
Competition Check
- Lava Blaze 5G: Cheaper, FHD+ display, but slower updates.
- Samsung Galaxy M14: Bigger battery, stronger brand recall, but heavier UI.
- iQOO Z6 Lite: More powerful chipset, but lacks clean software.
Final Verdict of Nokia G42
Nokia G42 5G is an excellent choice for people who value longevity, simplicity, and 5G at a low cost. It doesn’t chase flagship features but delivers exactly what a budget-conscious buyer needs durability, software support, and reliability.
While the display and camera aren’t top-tier, the phone’s overall stability and repairability make it a standout in the sub-₹15,000 segment. For users tired of ads, bloat, or fragile phones, the G42 5G offers a refreshing return to basics with just the right modern touch.
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