The Huawei Nova 8 is a premium-midrange smartphone designed for users who prioritize sleek design and photography, currently available in the secondary market for approximately Rs. 65,000 (roughly $235). Originally announced on 23 December 2020, this device caters to style-conscious users who want a lightweight handset that feels more expensive than its price tag suggests.
Key Details
- Official Launch Date: 23 December 2020
- Price in Pakistan: Rs. 65,000 (Refurbished/Used market)
- Price in USD: $235
- Official Website: consumer.huawei.com/pk
- Key Highlight: 66W SuperCharge technology
Design & Build
The Huawei Nova 8 features a stunning curved OLED panel and a glass back that feels premium in the hand. Weighing only 169g and measuring 7.6mm in thickness, it is one of the most comfortable phones to hold for long periods. The camera island has a unique 'nebula' design that catches the light, though it is a magnet for fingerprints.
Display
The phone sports a 6.57-inch OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, making scrolling through feeds and navigating the UI feel fluid. With a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, colors are punchy and blacks are deep, which is perfect for media consumption. The 240Hz touch sampling rate also ensures that gaming inputs are registered instantly.
Performance
Under the hood, the Nova 8 runs on the Kirin 820E chipset. While it is not the most powerful chip by modern standards, it handles daily tasks like social media, video streaming, and light gaming without breaking a sweat. It is important to note that the device does not come with Google Mobile Services (GMS), so users rely on Huawei's AppGallery and Petal Search to install apps.
Camera
The quad-camera setup is led by a 64MP main sensor, which captures excellent detail in daylight. The 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro, and 2MP depth sensors add versatility. Selfies are handled by a 32MP front camera that produces sharp, well-lit photos, making it a great choice for content creators who prefer a natural skin tone processing.
Battery
The 3,800mAh battery might sound small by today's standards, but the power-efficient processor helps it last through a standard work day. The standout feature is the 66W fast charging, which takes the phone from 0% to 60% in just 15 minutes and hits a full charge in roughly 35 minutes.
Verdict
The Huawei Nova 8 is an excellent choice for someone who values aesthetics, fast charging, and a top-tier camera experience, provided they are comfortable navigating life without Google Mobile Services. If you can find a clean unit for under Rs. 65,000, it remains a stylish, capable daily driver that outperforms many budget phones in build quality.