Released: August 1, 2023
The Nokia G42 5G 256GB arrives as a strong contender in the budget category, bringing flagship-inspired features to everyday users.
Featuring a 6.56" screen, the Nokia G42 5G 256GB provides an immersive viewing experience that sets it apart in its price range. The display handles HDR content well and the color accuracy is particularly impressive for photographers and content creators. Reading text, viewing images, and navigating the user interface all feel smooth and natural on this screen, making it one of the standout features of the device.
The 50MP camera setup on the Nokia G42 5G 256GB handles everyday photography needs with confidence. From landscapes to food photos and group pictures, the camera adapts well to different scenarios. The automatic scene detection helps even novice photographers get great results without any manual adjustments. Portrait mode produces pleasing bokeh effects, and video recording is stable and smooth.
Powering the Nokia G42 5G 256GB is the capable Snapdragon 480+ processor, supported by 8GB of RAM that keeps the software running smoothly. Daily tasks like messaging, browsing, and social media are handled effortlessly, and even demanding tasks like video editing and 3D gaming perform well. With 256GB of onboard storage, there is generous space for storing media without relying on cloud storage.
Battery life is where the Nokia G42 5G 256GB truly shines. The 5000mAh battery comfortably lasts through a full day of heavy use, including social media, streaming, navigation, and calls. For moderate users, two days of battery life is achievable. The fast charging support means that even when you do need to top up, you won't be waiting long. This is particularly valuable in Pakistan where power outages make long battery life a necessity rather than a luxury.
Priced at PKR 67,276 in Pakistan, the Nokia G42 5G 256GB represents a solid investment for buyers who want capable hardware at a fair price. Its overall expert score of 48/100 reflects its well-rounded nature — it is not the best in any single category, but it excels in providing a consistent, satisfying experience across all use cases. We recommend it for first-time smartphone buyers and anyone upgrading from a budget device.
mid-range smartphone
The Nokia G42 5G 256GB is a basic smartphone in the mid-range segment, earning an overall score of 48/100 on our comprehensive rating system. Its standout strength is Display (scored 94/100), which puts it among the top performers in its class. The display is vibrant and sharp, making it excellent for media consumption, reading, and outdoor visibility. However, Performance is a relative weak point at 16/100 users for whom this is critical should factor this into their decision. Priced at $242 (PKR 67,276), this phone is best suited for media lovers who want a stunning display experience. The G42 5G 256GB is a reasonable choice for budget-conscious buyers, though users with specific requirements should compare it with alternatives before deciding.