Nokia 5.3 stands out as a solid choice in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a clean Android experience paired with stable performance. Despite not being the latest release, it remains competitive due to a well-rounded set of features and reliable hardware.
Featuring a 6.55-inch display, the Nokia 5.3 employs an IPS LCD panel with HD+ resolution (720 × 1600 pixels) and a 20:9 aspect ratio. The screen delivers up to 450 nits of brightness and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, providing durability and satisfactory visual quality for everyday use.
Design and Build
The phone sports a slim profile with a thickness of approximately 8.5 mm and weighs around 180 grams. This design makes it comfortable to hold and suitable for prolonged usage without strain.
Performance and Software
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset built on an 11nm architecture, the Nokia 5.3 balances power efficiency with sufficient processing capabilities. It integrates an octa-core CPU and Adreno 610 GPU, providing smooth performance for routine tasks such as multitasking, video streaming, and casual gaming on titles like Mobile Legends and PUBG Mobile at moderate graphics settings.
The device pairs this chipset with 6 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. Storage can be expanded via a microSD card up to 512 GB, accommodating users who require additional space for apps and media. Running Android 10 as part of the Android One program, the handset benefits from a clean, bloatware-free user interface with regular security updates and long-term support. This setup enhances system responsiveness and ensures security.
Camera Capabilities
Photography is supported by a versatile quad-camera setup on the back consisting of:
- 13 MP main sensor
- 5 MP ultra-wide lens
- 2 MP macro lens
- 2 MP depth sensor
The main camera captures sharp photos with natural colors under good lighting conditions, aided by HDR and AI features that optimize image quality automatically. Night mode helps improve low-light photography by reducing noise and preserving detail. Video recording supports up to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second.
On the front, an 8 MP camera with an f/2.0 aperture captures clear selfies. It supports portrait mode and Full HD video recording, suitable for social media content creation.
Battery and Connectivity
The Nokia 5.3 is equipped with a 4,000 mAh battery, which comfortably lasts through a full day under typical usage. The energy-efficient Snapdragon 665 and Android One optimizations contribute to this endurance.
In terms of connectivity, the phone supports dual SIM slots with 4G LTE and VoLTE. Additional features include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS with A-GPS, and NFC—a valuable inclusion often absent in mid-range phones at this price point. Users will also appreciate the responsive rear-mounted fingerprint sensor and standard sensors such as accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity, and ambient light sensors.
Conclusion
The Nokia 5.3 maintains relevance in the mid-range segment by offering a blend of dependable performance, clean Android software, capable cameras, and long battery life. It is an attractive option for users who prioritize a straightforward, stable experience without the clutter of excessive apps. With a price reflecting its category, approximately $160 USD, this smartphone delivers solid value for everyday needs.
