In a world where smartphone innovation seems to move faster than we can keep up, Nokia is quietly making a comeback with practical, user-friendly phones that focus on durability, clean software, and long-term value. The Nokia G42 5G is one such device that aims to bridge the gap between affordability and future-ready technology.
Launched as part of Nokia’s strategy to offer 5G phones at a more accessible price point, the G42 5G delivers a balanced experience. It doesn’t try to be flashy—it focuses on what truly matters: speed, reliability, and ease of use.
Let’s explore the Nokia G42 5G in detail, understand its features, and see if it’s worth your money.
Design and Build Quality: Built to Last
One of the standout qualities of the Nokia G42 5G is its repairable design. Yes, you read that right—Nokia partnered with iFixit to make this phone more repair-friendly. That means you can replace the battery, display, or charging port yourself if needed, something rare in budget smartphones.
The back is made of 100% recycled plastic, and it feels solid in the hand. It’s not a glass-back glossy showpiece, but it’s practical and grippy. The phone is available in unique colors like So Purple and Grey, which help it stand out without screaming for attention.
The front features a 6.56-inch HD+ display with a teardrop notch and 90Hz refresh rate. While the resolution is just 720p, the smoothness of the interface due to the 90Hz refresh rate makes daily tasks like scrolling and switching apps feel more fluid.
Performance: Powered by Snapdragon
Under the hood, the Nokia G42 5G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset. This might sound like a mid-range chip—and it is—but for day-to-day use, it holds up quite well.
Multitasking, light gaming, and streaming videos work smoothly. Apps open quickly, and thanks to Android 13 with minimal bloatware, the experience is clean and intuitive.
You also get 6GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the variant, with 128GB of internal storage. The storage is expandable via microSD card, which is another plus for users who want more space without breaking the bank.
Camera: Surprisingly Good for the Price
The Nokia G42 5G features a triple-camera setup at the back, headlined by a 50MP main sensor. While it doesn’t have fancy extras like optical zoom or ultra-wide lenses, it takes respectable photos in daylight and decent ones in low light.
You also get 2MP macro and 2MP depth sensors, which are more for marketing than actual use. However, the main camera is quite capable of capturing natural colors and good dynamic range.
The 8MP front camera does a fair job for selfies and video calls. It won’t compete with flagship phones, but it’s more than enough for social media use.
Battery Life: Built to Go the Distance
Another area where the Nokia G42 5G impresses is battery life. It packs a 5000mAh battery, which easily lasts a full day and even more with light use. Whether you’re browsing, watching videos, or using GPS navigation, you won’t be running for a charger every few hours.
The phone supports 20W fast charging, and while that’s not the fastest around, it gets the job done within a couple of hours.
Software Experience: Clean and Secure
Nokia continues to deliver on its promise of clean Android with no ads or unnecessary apps. The G42 5G ships with Android 13 out of the box and is promised two years of Android updates and three years of security patches.
This makes it an excellent choice for users who want a clutter-free and secure Android experience, especially at a budget price.
5G Connectivity: Ready for the Future
As the name suggests, the Nokia G42 5G is equipped with 5G support, making it future-proof for upcoming network upgrades. This is especially useful if you plan to keep your phone for several years.
With 5G, you can enjoy faster downloads, smoother video streaming, and more reliable connections in supported areas. It also supports dual SIM, so switching between carriers or using separate personal and work numbers is easy.
Nokia G42 5G Specifications Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.56-inch HD+ LCD, 90Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G |
| RAM & Storage | 6GB/8GB RAM, 128GB storage (expandable) |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (Main) + 2MP (Depth) + 2MP (Macro) |
| Front Camera | 8MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 20W fast charging |
| Operating System | Android 13 |
| 5G Support | Yes |
| Build Quality | Recycled plastic back, repairable design |
| Colors Available | So Purple, Grey |
Who Should Buy the Nokia G42 5G?
The Nokia G42 5G is perfect for:
- Users who want a reliable smartphone under ₹15,000–₹16,000.
- People who value clean Android and timely updates.
- Students and working professionals looking for future-ready 5G without spending much.
- Anyone who appreciates repairable, eco-friendly design.
It’s not meant for heavy gamers or photography enthusiasts, but for everything else—from watching content to managing your daily digital life—it checks most of the boxes.
Final Verdict: A Practical Choice in a Crowded Market
In 2025, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with choices in the budget smartphone space. Every brand is throwing features at users, but not many are thinking long-term.
That’s where the Nokia G42 5G stands out. It may not have the highest screen resolution or the fastest charging, but it offers what truly matters—a smooth experience, 5G capability, repairability, and long-term value.
If you’re tired of bloatware, broken promises on updates, and fragile phones, the Nokia G42 5G might just be the fresh air your pocket needs.