Nokia 3 Durability Test: Does It Survive?
Yes, the Nokia 3 survives a typical durability test, but not without visible damage. In standard drop, scratch, and bend tests, the polycarbonate body and Gorilla Glass screen hold up structurally, though the display is prone to scratching at level 6 on the Mohs scale and the frame may dent on hard impacts.
What the Durability Test Actually Shows
Durability tests for budget phones like the Nokia 3 usually follow a standard protocol: a scratch test with picks of increasing hardness, a burn test on the screen, and a bend test on the frame. The Nokia 3 typically survives the bend test without cracking, thanks to its solid aluminum chassis under the plastic shell. However, the screen scratches at level 6, which is normal for most phones, and the plastic back cover shows scuffs and dents after a drop onto concrete.
The phone is not waterproof, so the test does not include water submersion. The headphone jack, charging port, and buttons remain functional after the test, but the SIM tray can pop out on a hard impact, which is a common issue with this model.
Background: Nokia 3 Design and Build
The Nokia 3 was released in 2017 as an entry-level Android phone under HMD Global’s license. It features a 5-inch HD display, a MediaTek MT6737 processor, and 2GB of RAM. The back cover is removable polycarbonate, but the internal frame is aluminum, which gives it more rigidity than many other budget phones of its time.
The phone was marketed as a durable, affordable device with a clean Android One interface. Its build quality was praised for the price, but the plastic back and lack of water resistance meant it was never meant for extreme conditions. The durability test video you may have seen is likely from a popular YouTube channel that tests phones with scratches, burns, and bends.
How the Test Is Performed
The standard durability test involves three main parts:
- Scratch test: Picks with hardness levels from 1 to 9 are drawn across the screen. The Nokia 3’s Gorilla Glass (version unspecified, likely 3) starts showing scratches at level 6, with deeper grooves at level 7.
- Burn test: A lighter flame is held on the screen for about 10 seconds. The Nokia 3’s LCD panel shows a permanent white burn mark, which is typical for LCD screens and does not affect touch functionality.
- Bend test: The phone is bent from the front and back. The Nokia 3 flexes slightly but does not snap, thanks to the aluminum frame. The plastic back may pop off, but the phone remains functional.
The test is not scientific, but it gives a rough idea of how the phone handles everyday abuse. It does not simulate a drop onto a sharp edge or repeated drops.
Common Problems After the Test
While the Nokia 3 survives the test, you may notice several issues afterward:
- Scratches on the screen: The display is not scratch-proof. A screen protector is recommended.
- Dents on the frame: The aluminum frame can dent if dropped on a hard surface, which may affect the fit of the back cover.
- Loose SIM tray: The SIM tray can eject on impact, but it can be pushed back in easily.
- Burn mark: If you try the burn test, the white spot is permanent and may be visible on white backgrounds.
These issues are cosmetic and do not affect the phone’s performance. The Nokia 3 continues to work normally after the test, including the fingerprint sensor, camera, and speakers.
How to Choose a Durable Budget Phone
If you are considering the Nokia 3 or a similar budget phone, durability should be one of several factors. Look for:
- Gorilla Glass version: Newer versions (5 and above) resist scratches better, but no glass is unscratchable.
- Metal frame: A metal frame provides better bend resistance than plastic.
- Water resistance: If you need water protection, look for an IP rating, which the Nokia 3 lacks.
- Removable back: A removable back may pop off on impact, but it also makes battery replacement easier.
For everyday use, the Nokia 3 is durable enough, but for outdoor or rugged use, consider a phone with a military-grade drop rating or an aftermarket rugged case.
Comparisons with Other Budget Phones
Compared to other budget phones from the same era, the Nokia 3 holds up well. The Moto E4 and Samsung Galaxy J3 also have plastic bodies, but they lack the aluminum frame, so they are more likely to bend. The Xiaomi Redmi 4A has a metal back, which scratches more visibly but resists bending better.
In the durability test, the Nokia 3 performs similarly to the Moto G5, which also has a metal frame and plastic back. The main difference is that the Nokia 3’s screen scratches at level 6, while some phones with newer Gorilla Glass scratch at level 6 as well, so there is no significant advantage.
Cost and Repair Considerations
The Nokia 3 was priced around €139 at launch, making it one of the cheapest phones with a metal frame. Replacement parts are inexpensive: a new screen costs about $30, and a new back cover costs less than $10. However, the phone’s age means parts may be harder to find, and it is not worth repairing if the motherboard fails.
If you drop your Nokia 3 and the screen cracks, you can replace it yourself with a heat gun and a suction cup, but it is a delicate process. A professional repair may cost more than the phone’s current value, so many users choose to upgrade instead.
Safety and Handling Tips
To extend the life of your Nokia 3, follow these simple tips:
- Use a screen protector to prevent scratches from keys or coins.
- Use a shock-absorbing case, especially if you drop your phone often.
- Avoid exposing the phone to extreme heat or cold, as this can weaken the adhesive.
- Do not attempt the burn test on your own phone; it permanently damages the screen.
If you do drop your phone, check that the SIM tray is still in place and that the back cover is secure. If the screen cracks, stop using the phone and back up your data before it fails completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Nokia 3 survive a drop onto concrete?
Yes, the Nokia 3 usually survives a drop from pocket height onto concrete, but the plastic back may crack or pop off, and the screen may scratch or crack if it lands face down. The aluminum frame protects the internals, so the phone typically keeps working.
Is the Nokia 3 waterproof?
No, the Nokia 3 has no IP rating and is not waterproof. It can handle light rain, but submerging it will likely damage the phone. Avoid using it in the shower or near water.
Can the Nokia 3 be bent easily?
No, the Nokia 3 has an aluminum frame that provides good rigidity. In the bend test, it flexes slightly but does not snap, even when pressure is applied from both directions. The plastic back may pop off, but it can be reattached.
Does the burn test destroy the screen?
Yes, the burn test leaves a permanent white mark on the LCD screen. The touchscreen still works, but the mark is visible on any bright background. Do not try this on your own phone.
Is the Nokia 3 still worth buying in 2024?
No, the Nokia 3 is outdated and cannot run modern apps smoothly. Its 2GB RAM and old processor are not sufficient for current software. It is only useful as a basic backup phone or for testing purposes.
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