The CMF Phone 1: A $199 Android Phone That Punches Above Its Weight
I’ve been covering mobile phones for nearly a decade, and during that time, I’ve seen my fair share of budget-friendly devices. But the CMF Phone 1 stands out as an exceptional value proposition.
This sub-brand by Nothing, the company founded by Carl Pei, the OnePlus co-founder, is diving into the ultra-low-cost smartphone market after releasing smartwatches and earbuds. The CMF Phone 1, their first Android phone, retails for a mere $199.
I make it a point to review cheap smartphones, remembering my own struggles to afford my first phone back in 2010. It’s vital to help people on a budget find quality devices. This year alone, I’ve tested the $150 Moto G Play and the $199 Galaxy A15, the latter proving a disappointing successor to the excellent Galaxy A14 from 2023. However, none of these phones hold a candle to the CMF Phone 1, which simply blows its peers out of the water.
Phenomenal Value in Design
The CMF Phone 1’s design language is itself a win. This device is significantly more engaging visually than any other $199 handset available in the US. Its industrial aesthetic comes alive when you embrace the $35 swappable back covers. Simply use the included screwdriver to remove the screws and voila! You can change the back to a different color. I opted for the vibrant orange.
While the screwdriver provided is a bit short, making screw removal somewhat challenging, it’s unlikely anyone will be swapping back covers with any frequency. Unfortunately, this feature doesn’t translate to easier repairs or battery swaps. CMF strongly advises against removing the battery without authorization (a warning label is clearly visible on the battery). This is in stark contrast to the HMD’s new Skyline, which offers more repair-friendly features.
[Image: CMF Phone 1 with Orange Back Cover]
Adding to the fun is the Accessory Point, a small wheel situated at the phone’s right corner. This allows you to attach a range of accessories, such as a lanyard, kickstand, or wallet. Of all the choices, I find the kickstand most compelling, even doubling as a fidget spinner in a whimsical way. Functional, fun, and clever! CMF is even encouraging customers to 3D print accessories for the Phone 1.
The Powerhouse Inside: Specs and Performance
However, the truly standout aspect of the CMF Phone 1 isn’t its unique design tricks, but rather the hardware, build, and specifications. From the moment I booted it up, I was struck by the phone’s impressive speed; I encountered no lag or stutters throughout my use, a rare feat for a $199 smartphone. This smoothness is attributed to the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor paired with 8GB of RAM, but also to the harmonious synergy between hardware and the software, Nothing OS. (While still Android, Nothing’s layer provides a distinct aesthetic and tweaks such as a monochrome theme on the home screen).
No lag, you say? Then there’s the battery life. I carried the CMF Phone 1 as my primary device during my trip to Paris to cover Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event. Several nights, I found myself going to bed with a nonchalant attitude towards plugging my phone in, seeing it had 50 percent battery remaining. This was with constant navigation, music streaming via Bluetooth, messaging, and photography. It’s possible to drain the 5,000-mAh battery to 30% with heavy usage but, with average use, I consistently got two days out of a single charge. Consider this a win over the $1,100 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6.
A Budget Phone with Flagship-Level Features
While the CMF Phone 1 doesn’t boast the same camera setup as flagship phones or offer the latest processor, it provides features typically found in significantly more expensive devices. NFC for contactless payments is included, and the in-display fingerprint sensor is surprisingly fast and accurate, even surpassing some flagship phones I’ve encountered.
The phone’s 6.72-inch AMOLED display provides a smooth experience, with a 90Hz refresh rate, which makes everything feel fluid and responsive. It’s not the most vibrant screen you’ll find, but it’s perfectly adequate for most everyday tasks, including gaming and video consumption.
A Potential Drawback: The Camera
The only element that falls short compared to flagship phones is the camera. The 50-megapixel main camera captures decent shots in well-lit conditions, but struggles in low-light situations. The colors might not be as accurate, and you’ll notice some noise if the lighting isn’t optimal. However, it’s important to remember this is a $199 phone, and the camera’s performance is still good enough for most everyday use cases.
The Verdict: A Solid Choice for Budget-Conscious Consumers
Ultimately, the CMF Phone 1 delivers a remarkably good value proposition that defies expectations for a phone at this price point. Its compelling design, fast performance, exceptional battery life, and flagship-level features make it a serious contender in the budget smartphone market.
If you’re looking for a phone that provides a smooth and enjoyable user experience without breaking the bank, the CMF Phone 1 is definitely worth considering. It’s a testament to the fact that quality doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.
Before you go, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The camera might not be top-tier. If photography is your primary concern, you might want to consider a more expensive option.
- Repair-friendliness is limited. While you can swap back covers, internal repairs are not as simple.
However, even these minor drawbacks don’t detract from what the CMF Phone 1 offers: a truly excellent smartphone experience at a unbeatable price.
