Nokia 5.3 review
Quick Verdict: The Nokia 5.3 continues HMD Global's journey in providing solid Android experiences with the benefits of photographic flexibility.
- Quad camera is fun
- Android One for easy updates
- Dual SIM plus microSD card tray
- Bulky teardrop notch
- Fussy fingerprint sensor
- Slow lens switching
6.55 inches
Display size
720 x 1600px
64GB
Internal storage
13MP + 5MP + 2MP + 2MP
Rear camera
4,000 mAh
Battery size
Finder rated as Good vs similar phones
Details
Display
Camera
Physical Dimensions
Connectivity
Power, storage and battery
Device features
Launch price (RRP) | $349 |
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What's in this review?
Nokia’s run of good quality phones continues with the Nokia 5.3, although it’s getting increasingly hard to differentiate with so many HMD Global produced, Nokia branded phones to pick from. The Nokia 5.3 stands out thanks to its quad camera array and slightly differentiated design, although its best feature remains HMD Global’s focus on sticking to a clean and simple Android One path.
Design
Design
- 6.5 inch FHD+ display
- Fingerprint sensor isn't great

Camera
Camera
- Quad cameras are fine in their price range
- Slow lens switching

Performance
Performance
- Snapdragon 665 plus Android One works well
- Guaranteed updates is a big plus point

Battery life
Battery life
- 4,000mAh battery
- USB C charging

Verdict
Verdict
- A quality phone for the money

Should you buy it?
The Nokia 5.3 joins a vast array of HMD Global phones that sell primarily on that Android One promise. If that’s all that interests you you’re spoilt for choice, and it’s true also if you look around the alternatives at this price range from makers such as Oppo, realme, Motorola and Alcatel to name just a few. However, those brands do a lot more to the stock Android launcher than Nokia/HMD Global, and while that does sometimes open up new functions, it’s generally at the cost of performance, and definitely at the cost of speedy updates. Within its price class, while it’s a busy old time in the lower-end of the mobile market, the Nokia 5.3 impresses.
Pricing and availability
Specifications
Display
Camera
Physical Dimensions
Connectivity
Power, storage and battery
Device features
Images: Alex Kidman
Note: We tested the Australian version of this product which is identical to the global model.