The Nokia G400, introduced by HMD Global, is a budget-friendly smartphone that brings 5G connectivity to the masses without breaking the bank. Announced in early 2022, this device targets users seeking reliable performance, decent multimedia capabilities, and modern network speeds at an affordable price point. With its practical design and modest yet functional specifications, the Nokia G400 stands as a testament to Nokia’s ongoing commitment to delivering value-driven technology. This article explores the Nokia G400 in detail, covering its announcement date, camera system, display size and resolution, internal storage, Android version, battery capacity, and processor while providing insights into its market positioning and appeal.
Announcement Date
The Nokia G400 was officially announced on January 5, 2022, during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. This unveiling was part of HMD Global’s broader showcase of new devices, including the Nokia C100, C200, and G100, aimed at refreshing its entry-level and mid-range offerings. The Nokia G400 hit the market later that year, with availability starting in August 2022 in regions like the United States, priced at approximately $239. Its launch emphasized affordability paired with 5G support, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers eager to adopt next-generation connectivity.
Camera Capabilities
The Nokia G400 features a triple-camera system on the rear, designed to meet the needs of casual photographers. The primary sensor is a 48-megapixel wide-angle camera with an f/1.8 aperture and phase-detection autofocus (PDAF), capable of capturing sharp and detailed images in good lighting conditions. It is complemented by a 5-megapixel ultrawide lens with an f/2.2 aperture and a 115-degree field of view, ideal for landscapes or group shots, and a 2-megapixel depth sensor with an f/2.4 aperture for enhanced portrait effects.
The rear setup includes an LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes, with video recording supported at 1080p at 30 or 60 frames per second. On the front, a 16-megapixel wide-angle selfie camera with an f/2.0 aperture delivers solid performance for selfies and video calls, also supporting 1080p video at 30fps. While not a standout in low-light scenarios, the camera system offers respectable quality for its price range.
Display Size and Resolution
Equipped with a 6.58-inch IPS LCD, the Nokia G400 provides a spacious screen for media consumption, browsing, and everyday tasks. The resolution stands at 1080 x 2408 pixels, yielding a pixel density of approximately 401 pixels per inch (PPI). This Full HD+ resolution ensures crisp visuals, making it a step above many budget devices with HD+ screens.
The display also boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smoother scrolling and animations compared to the standard 60Hz found in most entry-level phones. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, the screen offers decent durability against scratches and minor drops, with a brightness of around 450 nits providing satisfactory outdoor visibility, though it may falter under intense sunlight.
Internal Storage Options
The Nokia G400 comes in a single storage configuration: 64 GB of internal storage paired with 4 GB of RAM. While this setup is modest, it suffices for basic usage such as messaging, social media, and light app use. The device utilizes eMMC 5.1 storage technology, which is slower than UFS standards but aligns with its budget positioning. For users needing additional space, a dedicated microSDXC slot allows expansion, though the exact maximum capacity isn’t officially specified by Nokia (typically up to 512 GB or 1 TB in similar devices). This expandability is a practical feature for those storing photos, videos, or offline content, compensating for the limited onboard storage.
Android Version
The Nokia G400 launched with Android 12 pre-installed, offering a clean and near-stock Android experience typical of Nokia smartphones. This version provides features like improved privacy controls, a modernized interface, and efficient performance tailored to the device’s hardware. However, HMD Global’s software support for the Nokia G400 has been a point of contention, with only two years of security updates promised and no firm commitment to major OS upgrades beyond a potential Android 13 update. This limited support contrasts with competitors offering longer update cycles, though the lightweight Android build ensures smooth operation on its modest specs for the supported period.
Battery Type and Capacity
Powering the Nokia G400 is a 5000 mAh lithium-polymer battery, a non-removable unit designed for longevity. HMD Global claims up to two days of battery life under typical usage, a promise backed by real-world tests showing 1.5 days of moderate use, including streaming, browsing, and calls. The battery supports 20W fast charging via a USB Type-C 2.0 port with Power Delivery 3.0, allowing a full charge in about 1.5 to 2 hours, though it ships with a charger in the box (wattage may vary by region). This capacity and efficiency make the Nokia G400 a reliable choice for users prioritizing endurance over rapid recharge times, though it lacks wireless charging.
Processor Performance
At its core, the Nokia G400 features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset, an octa-core processor built on an 8nm process for improved efficiency. It includes two Kryo 460 cores clocked at 2.2 GHz for performance and six Kryo 460 cores at 1.9 GHz for efficiency, paired with an Adreno 619 GPU. This processor delivers competent performance for daily tasks like web browsing, video playback, and light gaming, while its integrated 5G modem ensures future-proof connectivity on sub-6 GHz networks. Though not suited for heavy multitasking or high-end gaming, the Snapdragon 480+ strikes a balance between power and affordability, making the Nokia G400 a practical 5G option in its class.
Design and Build Quality
The Nokia G400 sports a utilitarian design with dimensions of 166.4 x 76.7 x 8.8 mm and a weight of 198 grams. Its aluminum frame and plastic back, available in Meteor Grey, offer a sturdy yet unremarkable build. The device includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 3.5mm headphone jack, NFC for contactless payments, and an IP52 rating for splash resistance. While not as premium as glass-backed phones, the design prioritizes durability and functionality, aligning with Nokia’s reputation for robust construction.
Market Position and Value Proposition
Priced at $239 at launch, the Nokia G400 targets budget buyers seeking 5G connectivity without premium costs. It competes with devices like the Samsung Galaxy A13 5G and Motorola Moto G Power (2022), offering a higher refresh rate display and a decent camera as advantages. However, its limited storage, modest processor, and short software support cycle may deter some users. It appeals to first-time 5G adopters, Nokia loyalists, and those needing a reliable secondary device, though alternatives with longer updates or better performance may offer more value for slightly higher investments.
Conclusion
The Nokia G400, announced on January 5, 2022, is a budget 5G smartphone that delivers essential features with a focus on affordability. Its 48-megapixel triple-camera system, 6.58-inch 1080 x 2408 display, 64 GB of storage, Android 12, 5000 mAh battery, and Snapdragon 480+ processor cater to users seeking practicality over luxury. While its design and software support leave room for improvement, the Nokia G400 remains a solid choice for those entering the 5G era on a budget, upholding Nokia’s legacy of dependable technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When was the Nokia G400 announced?
A: The Nokia G400 was announced on January 5, 2022, at CES.
Q: What cameras does the Nokia G400 have?
A: It features a 48 MP main camera, 5 MP ultrawide, 2 MP depth sensor, and a 16 MP front camera.
Q: What is the display size and resolution of the Nokia G400?
A: It has a 6.58-inch IPS LCD with a 1080 x 2408 pixel resolution.
Q: What internal storage options does the Nokia G400 offer?
A: It comes with 64 GB of storage and 4 GB of RAM, expandable via microSDXC.
Q: Which Android version does the Nokia G400 run?
A: It runs Android 12, with a potential update to Android 13.
Q: What is the battery capacity of the Nokia G400?
A: It has a 5000 mAh lithium-polymer battery.
Q: What processor powers the Nokia G400?
A: It uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G octa-core processor.
Q: Does the Nokia G400 support 5G?
A: Yes, it supports 5G connectivity via the Snapdragon 480+ chipset.
Q: Is the Nokia G400 water-resistant?
A: It has an IP52 rating, offering splash resistance but not full waterproofing.