CMF Phone 2 Pro First Impressions and Hands-On Review in India: Is It Worth Buying?

The CMF Phone 2 Pro, launched by Nothing’s sub-brand CMF on April 28, 2025, has sparked excitement in India’s budget smartphone market. Priced under ₹20,000, this device promises premium features like a triple-camera setup, a sleek design, and Nothing OS 3.2 based on Android 15. With tech publications and YouTubers sharing their first impressions, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is making waves for its unique modular design and segment-leading specifications. In this hands-on review, we explore the CMF Phone 2 Pro’s first look in India, its camera performance, initial thoughts, and whether it’s worth buying for Indian consumers.

CMF Phone 2 Pro: A Quick Overview

CMF by Nothing debuted in India with the CMF Phone 1, a hit for its modular design and affordability. The CMF Phone 2 Pro builds on that success, offering significant upgrades in design, camera, and performance. Priced at ₹18,999 for the 8GB+128GB variant and ₹20,999 for the 8GB+256GB model, it competes with the likes of Realme P3, Poco X7, and Vivo T4 5G. Available in Black, Orange, Light Green, and White, the phone is exclusively sold on Flipkart with a ₹1,000 launch-day discount.

Key Specifications:

• Display: 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 3000 nits peak brightness, Panda Glass
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro (4nm), up to 2.5GHz
• Cameras: 50MP main (1/1.57” sensor) + 50MP 2x telephoto + 8MP ultra-wide; 16MP front
• Battery: 5,000mAh, 33W fast charging (charger included in India)
• Software: Nothing OS 3.2 (Android 15), 3 years of OS updates, 6 years of security patches
• Design: 7.8mm slim, 185g, IP54 rating, modular universal cover system
• Features: Essential Key with AI-powered Essential Space, in-display fingerprint scanner

First Impressions: Design and Build

The CMF Phone 2 Pro is a refined evolution of its predecessor. At 7.8mm thick and 185g, it’s the slimmest and lightest smartphone in Nothing’s lineup, making it comfortable to hold. The dual-tone finish, especially in the vibrant Orange variant, stands out with a glass-like or sandstone texture depending on the color. The flat edges and minimal bezels add a premium feel, though the use of Panda Glass instead of Gorilla Glass is a minor drawback for durability.

A key highlight is the modular design. While the back cover isn’t removable like the CMF Phone 1, the new universal cover system allows users to attach accessories like fisheye or macro lenses, a wallet, or a stand. Stainless steel screws and an aluminum camera surround enhance the phone’s craftsmanship, and the IP54 rating offers dust and splash resistance. Tech reviewers, including MySmartPrice, have praised the “slender, bigger, and lighter” design, noting it feels more polished than the CMF Phone 1.

Initial Thoughts: The CMF Phone 2 Pro’s design is a blend of playful aesthetics and practicality. The modular system, though niche, appeals to creative users, and the slim profile makes it a joy to carry.

Display: Bright and Immersive

The 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display is a significant upgrade, offering a 120Hz refresh rate, 3000 nits peak brightness, and 2160Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort. Reviewers like Stuff have noted that the screen’s HDR10+ support makes highlights “leap off the screen,” ideal for streaming videos. The display is legible even under harsh sunlight, and the razor-thin bezels provide an immersive viewing experience.

However, the mono speaker is a letdown, especially for media consumption, as it lacks the depth of stereo speakers found in some competitors. MySmartPrice mentioned that the display’s brightness allowed comfortable viewing of shows like One Piece without eye strain, but the single speaker disappointed.

Initial Thoughts: The vibrant AMOLED panel is a standout feature, but the mono speaker is a compromise at this price point.

Camera Performance: A Segment-First Triple Setup

The CMF Phone 2 Pro’s triple-camera system is a major talking point, featuring:

• 50MP Main Camera (1/1.57” sensor): Captures 64% more light than the CMF Phone 1, delivering sharp, detailed shots with natural colors.
• 50MP 2x Telephoto: A segment-first, offering up to 20x digital zoom for detailed close-ups.
• 8MP Ultra-Wide (119.5° FOV): Suitable for landscapes but less impressive in low light.
• 16MP Front Camera: Handles selfies well, with good exposure control even in harsh lighting.

Tech publications like GSMArena and Beebom have lauded the camera setup, which mirrors the pricier Nothing Phone 3a but at a lower price. Daylight shots are “charming” with rich details, though the lack of optical image stabilization (OIS) affects low-light performance, where Night mode shots can appear soft. The TrueLens Engine 3 with Ultra XDR algorithms enhances light and shadow rendering, but video recording is limited to 4K 30fps on the main lens due to processor constraints.

YouTuber @Mrwhosetheboss highlighted the interchangeable lens system, calling it a “modular phone with camera lenses that can be changed with one hand,” appealing to content creators. X posts from @AmreliaRuhez and @saaaanjjjuuu echoed this, praising the telephoto lens as a game-changer in the budget segment.

Camera Review Verdict: The triple-camera setup is versatile and impressive for the price, especially the telephoto lens. However, low-light photography and video capabilities lag behind competitors with OIS.

Performance and Software: Smooth and Bloatware-Free

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro (4nm), the CMF Phone 2 Pro offers a 10% faster CPU and 5% better graphics than the CMF Phone 1’s Dimensity 7300. It handles daily tasks, casual gaming, and apps like BGMI at 120fps with ease, supported by a 1000Hz touch sampling rate. MySmartPrice reported no lag during streaming or scrolling, though intensive gaming tests are pending.

Running Nothing OS 3.2 on Android 15, the phone is bloatware-free, a rarity in the sub-₹20,000 segment. The Essential Key, paired with the AI-powered Essential Space, allows users to capture screenshots or voice notes and organize them with personalized suggestions. Reviewers have praised the clean software experience, with 91mobiles noting the “thoughtful” inclusion of three years of OS updates and six years of security patches.

Initial Thoughts: The CMF Phone 2 Pro delivers smooth performance and a delightful software experience, making it ideal for users seeking a clean, customizable interface.

Battery Life: Reliable with a Charger in the Box

The 5,000mAh battery supports 33W fast charging and 5W reverse wired charging, with a charger included in the Indian retail box—a move praised by Nothing’s co-founder Akis Evangelidis. Stuff reported lasting “through the night and most of the next morning” with moderate use, while Beebom noted a full charge in about an hour. The battery retains over 90% capacity after 1200 cycles, ensuring longevity.

Initial Thoughts: The battery life is dependable, and the in-box charger is a welcome addition in a market where competitors often omit it.

Is the CMF Phone 2 Pro Worth Buying in India?

The CMF Phone 2 Pro impresses with its sleek design, vibrant display, versatile cameras, and clean software. Priced competitively at ₹18,999–₹20,999, it offers features typically reserved for higher-priced phones, like a telephoto lens and modular accessories. However, the lack of OIS, mono speaker, and Panda Glass are notable compromises.

Pros:

• Stylish, slim design with modular accessories
• Bright 6.77-inch AMOLED display
• Segment-first 50MP telephoto lens
• Bloatware-free Nothing OS 3.2
• Long-term software support
• In-box charger (India)

Cons:

• No OIS impacts low-light photography
• Mono speaker limits media experience
• Panda Glass less durable than Gorilla Glass
• Performance not best-in-class

Who Should Buy It?

• Budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish, feature-packed phone
• Photography enthusiasts wanting a telephoto lens under ₹20,000
• Users who value a clean software experience and long-term updates

Competitors to Consider:

• Realme P3 5G: Stronger performance but weaker cameras
• Poco X7: Better gaming but less refined design
• Vivo T4 5G: Comparable cameras but bloatware-heavy software

Tech reviewers like 91mobiles call it a “promising successor” that addresses the CMF Phone 1’s shortcomings, while Beebom labels it a “triumph” for budget buyers. On X, @TechyNisarg’s first impressions thread and @Gadgetsdata’s spec breakdown reflect positive sentiment, though some users note the loss of the removable back as a downgrade.

Verdict: The CMF Phone 2 Pro is a compelling option for Indian buyers seeking a balance of style, innovation, and value. While it’s not perfect, its unique features make it worth considering, especially for those prioritizing design and photography.

What’s Next for CMF Phone 2 Pro?

As full reviews roll out, we expect deeper insights into gaming performance, camera consistency, and accessory utility. Stay tuned for updates on Flipkart sales and user feedback. For now, the CMF Phone 2 Pro has set a high bar in the budget segment, and its launch alongside CMF Buds 2, 2a, and 2 Plus adds to the brand’s growing ecosystem.

For more details, visit in.nothing.tech or check Flipkart for availability. Follow tech news on platforms like Gadgets 360 and 91mobiles for the latest reviews.

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