Reflecting Ten Years of Mobile Phone Coverage
As I approach a decade of covering mobile phones, I can confidently say that the CMF Phone 1 has stood out as one of the most impressive devices I have ever used for its price. Designed by CMF, a sub-brand by Nothing, founded by Carl Pei of OnePlus fame, the CMF Phone 1 is the company’s first venture into the world of Android smartphones. Priced at only $199, it offers exceptional value and quality that is hard to beat.
Throughout my career, I have always believed in the importance of reviewing affordable smartphones. I remember the days when I would save every penny I earned just to purchase my first smartphone, the $200 Samsung Galaxy Captivate back in 2010. Understanding the struggle of being on a limited budget, it is crucial to guide consumers towards good devices that offer the best bang for their buck. While I have encountered various budget smartphones this year, such as the $150 Moto G Play and the $199 Galaxy A15, none of them compare to the CMF Phone 1 in terms of performance and overall experience.
One of the most impressive aspects of the CMF Phone 1 is its design language. For a $199 handset, it boasts a far more visually engaging and intriguing design compared to its competitors. The device’s industrial look truly comes to life when you explore its $35 swappable back covers. By using the included screwdriver, you can easily change the back cover to a different color, allowing for a personalized touch. Personally, I opted for the vibrant orange back cover, which added a unique flair to the device.
Despite the small inconvenience of the short screwdriver that makes removing the screws slightly challenging, the ability to switch out the back covers remains a fun and enjoyable aspect of the CMF Phone 1. However, it is important to note that this feature does not necessarily mean users can perform repairs or replace the battery themselves. CMF explicitly advises against removing the battery without proper authorization, as indicated by the warning label on the battery. Unlike HMD’s new Skyline, the CMF Phone 1 does not prioritize user-friendly repairability.
One of the standout features of the CMF Phone 1 is the Accessory Point, a small wheel located at the right corner of the device. By removing the thumbscrew, users can attach various accessories such as a lanyard, kickstand, or wallet. Among these options, the kickstand particularly caught my attention and served as both a functional accessory and an entertaining fidget spinner. CMF even encourages customers to explore the possibility of 3D printing their own accessories for the phone, further adding to its customizable appeal.
While the CMF Phone 1’s design elements undoubtedly contribute to its appeal, it is the actual hardware, build quality, and specifications that truly set it apart. Upon booting up the device, I was immediately impressed by its speed and smooth performance. Throughout my time with the phone, I did not experience any noticeable lag or stutters, which is quite rare for a smartphone in the $199 price range. This responsiveness can be attributed to the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor paired with 8GB of RAM, as well as the seamless optimization between the hardware and software, powered by Nothing OS. Although based on Android, Nothing’s customized layer introduces a distinct aesthetic and various tweaks, such as the monochromatic theme on the home screen.
In addition to its impressive performance, the CMF Phone 1 stands out in terms of battery life. During my trip to Paris to cover Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, I relied on the CMF Phone 1 as my primary device. Regardless of utilizing navigation, streaming music via Bluetooth, messaging, and taking photos, I often found myself going to bed with around 50% battery remaining without any concerns. With heavy usage, I managed to deplete the 5,000mAh battery to 30% by the end of the day. However, under average usage, the phone consistently offered two days of battery life, far surpassing the capabilities of the $1,100 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6.
In conclusion, the CMF Phone 1 deserves high praise for its exceptional value, impressive design, and outstanding performance, all available at an affordable price point. As someone who has dedicated a significant portion of my career to covering mobile phones, I can confidently say that the CMF Phone 1 is a remarkable device that surpasses expectations. Whether you are a budget-conscious consumer or someone looking for a reliable and feature-packed smartphone that won’t break the bank, the CMF Phone 1 is undoubtedly a top contender.
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