Nothing sub-brand CMF has launched its first smartphone, the CMF Phone 1, aiming to bring style and customization to the budget segment. Priced at just $200, this device offers some compelling features that set it apart from typical budget offerings.
Design and Customization
The CMF Phone 1's standout feature is its unique design and customization options. Unlike most smartphones, users can easily swap out the back covers, with CMF offering several color options including Black, Orange, Light Green, and Blue. For the truly creative, there's even the option to 3D print your own custom back cover.
Additional accessories like lanyards, card holders, and stands can be attached, allowing for extensive personalization. The phone's back uses a screw system for attaching covers and accessories, adding to its distinctive look.
Display and Performance
For a $200 device, the CMF Phone 1 impresses with its 6.67-inch 1080p AMOLED display, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate. Reviewers have praised the screen's brightness, color accuracy, and overall quality at this price point.
Powering the device is a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset paired with 8GB of RAM. This combination provides snappy performance for everyday tasks and even handles some gaming, though don't expect flagship-level speeds. The liquid cooling system helps maintain performance during extended use.
Camera and Battery Life
The CMF Phone 1 opts for a single 50MP main camera, forgoing additional lenses in favor of one higher-quality sensor. Early reviews suggest the camera produces respectable images for its class, though low-light performance is limited.
Battery life from the 5,000mAh cell is decent, if not spectacular, with around 6 hours of screen-on time reported. The phone supports 33W fast charging but lacks wireless charging capabilities.
Software and Connectivity
The device runs on Nothing OS 2.6, based on Android 14. It offers a clean, near-stock Android experience with some visual customizations. Nothing promises two years of Android updates and three years of security patches.
One notable omission is NFC support, which means no contactless payments - a feature many users have come to expect even in budget devices.
The Verdict
The CMF Phone 1 brings a fresh approach to the budget smartphone market, emphasizing style and customization without completely sacrificing performance. While it may not have the raw power or feature set of pricier devices, its unique design and solid basics make it an intriguing option for those seeking something different in the sub-$250 range.
For buyers willing to forgo NFC and premium camera capabilities, the CMF Phone 1 offers a combination of aesthetics and functionality that's hard to find at this price point. It's a promising start for Nothing's budget-focused sub-brand and could signal a new direction for affordable smartphones.
Update: Sunday July 21 16:08
Recent durability tests have revealed impressive resilience for the CMF Phone 1's price point. The display withstood scratches up to level 6 on the Mohs hardness scale and survived 20 seconds of direct flame exposure with minimal damage. The phone also passed bend tests without cracking or affecting performance. However, the device lacks water resistance rating and has only a single mono speaker. While the base price is attractive, fully embracing the customization potential can significantly increase the total cost, as additional back covers and accessories are sold separately. Prospective buyers should carefully consider their priorities and willingness to invest in customization before making a decision.
