The Nothing Phone 3 was officially launched on July 1, alongside the debut of Nothing Headphone 1. While this marks Nothing's entry into the flagship smartphone category, the device's pricing has sparked heated debate among tech enthusiasts and buyers alike.
High Price, Mid-Tier Chipset?
Priced at ₹79,999 for the base model (12GB RAM and 256GB storage), the Nothing Phone 3 has surprised many. The concern? Despite its flagship positioning, it uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset instead of the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or 8 Gen 3 Elite.
This choice has led to growing criticism online, especially since the same chipset can be found in smartphones that cost significantly less. If performance is your main concern, here are three alternatives with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC—two of which are already available in India and priced well under ₹40,000.
1. Poco F7 – Flagship Performance at ₹31,999
The Poco F7, launched in June 2025, offers excellent value for performance seekers. At just ₹31,999, it includes 12GB RAM, UFS 4.1 storage, and the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, delivering smooth and efficient performance for gaming and multitasking.
Key Specifications:
- 7,550 mAh battery
- Triple IP rating
- Glass and metal finish
- Large AMOLED display
- Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2 (with uninstallable bloatware)
Despite its budget-friendly price, it delivers a solid flagship-like experience, especially in terms of battery life and display quality.
2. iQOO Neo 10 – Gaming-Focused and Affordable
Another competitive option is the iQOO Neo 10, available for ₹31,999 (8GB + 128GB), with a 12GB + 256GB variant priced at ₹35,999. It features the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, and is designed with gamers in mind.
Highlights:
- 144Hz AMOLED display for high-refresh-rate gaming
- Large 7,000 mAh battery
- Efficient vapor cooling system
- Dual stereo speakers
With strong performance credentials and a smooth visual experience, this is a solid alternative for those prioritizing gaming and thermal management.
3. Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro – Not Yet in India
While not currently available in the Indian market, the Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro is another Snapdragon 8s Gen 4-powered smartphone worth noting. It could launch in India as the Xiaomi 15 Civi, based on Xiaomi’s previous branding strategy.
Expected Features:
- 6.55-inch AMOLED display
- Leica-tuned triple rear cameras
- 6,000 mAh battery
- Slim and lightweight design
Although its availability in India remains unconfirmed, its predecessor—the Xiaomi 14 Civi—did arrive in the country, indicating a strong possibility.
Conclusion: Is the Nothing Phone 3 Worth the Price?
The Nothing Phone 3 certainly brings premium design and build quality, but its ₹79,999 price tag seems hard to justify when compared to phones with similar chipsets and better battery life for nearly half the price. Unless you're deeply invested in Nothing’s ecosystem or minimalist aesthetic, devices like the Poco F7 and iQOO Neo 10 offer far greater value.
