CMF Phone 1 – is it Best?
Introducing the CMF Phone 1 by Nothing might seem a bit perplexing at first glance, but the phone’s mission is crystal clear. Love it or loathe it, this device is carving out its niche as one of the most intriguing new smartphones on the market today. The brand Nothing, which made a splash a few years back with its vision of an average budget phone that emphasized software and design, has now birthed CMF a sub-brand aimed at taking this concept even further. Enter the CMF Phone 1, a $200 Android phone that may not dazzle with its specs on paper but certainly stands out due to its innovative software and design.
Let’s dive into the design, which is arguably the most compelling aspect of this phone. The CMF Phone 1 comes in black, featuring flat sides, modest bezels surrounding a large AMOLED display, and dual cameras positioned in the upper corner of the back. But what sets it apart are two distinct elements: a knob at the bottom corner and numerous metal screws encircling the plastic back. This back panel is removable and replaceable, available in several colors like black, orange, blue, and a light blue with a hint of green, depending on your perspective. This throwback to the days of customizable phones is a unique touch, especially at this price point.
In the box, you’ll find an orange combo SIM ejector tool and a flathead screwdriver—essential for removing the SIM card tray and screws to swap the back. The package also includes a matching SIM card tray and knob, allowing for some personalization. This interchangeable back not only adds a splash of color but also serves as a clever upsell for the company. Now, let’s talk about that knob. Initially teased on social media, speculations ran wild about its function—was it a volume control, a fidget toy, or something else? It turns out, it’s a mounting point for accessories like a kickstand, a cardholder wallet, and a lanyard. While it might seem gimmicky, these accessories add a layer of functionality that sets the CMF Phone 1 apart from other budget options.
In terms of usability, the CMF Phone 1 delivers a surprisingly premium experience for its price. Running on Nothing OS 2.6, the phone offers features typically found in higher-end devices, such as app cloning, Game Mode, and a nifty one-handed pull-down gesture. The AMOLED display is bright and responsive, peaking at 2,000 nits and offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate with a 240Hz touch sample rate. Daily tasks like browsing social media, reading emails, and light web surfing feel fluid and seamless. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 5G chip and paired with either 6 or 8GB of RAM, the phone performs admirably for its price. While it does have its limitations, such as the non-removable battery and some trade-offs for keeping costs low, the CMF Phone 1 is a testament to Nothing’s commitment to design and functionality in the budget smartphone market.
