Review: Huawei nova 9 Dual-SIM 128GB ROM + 8GB RAM – Starry Blue – International Version – Offers great value for its price

Explore Huawei Nova 9’s features, performance, design, display, gaming and camera capabilities with a comprehensive review... Read more

Specifications

Brand	HUAWEI
Model Name	Huawei nova 9
Wireless Carrier	Unlocked for All Carriers
Operating System	EMUI 12
Cellular Technology	LTE
Memory Storage Capacity	8 GB
Connectivity Technology	Wi-Fi
Color	Starry Blue
Wireless network technology	GSM, CDMA, LTE
SIM card slot count	Dual SIM

Catching the First Glimpse: Unboxing the Brand New Huawei Nova 9

The Huawei Nova 9 arrived in an aesthetically austere but striking package, instantly captivating with its simplicity. Upon releasing the product from its box, I couldn’t help but get a sense of déjà vu – Huawei has remained quite faithful to the packaging of their previous devices.

First Look: What’s Inside the Box?

Inside, the phone stayed in good company – a user-friendly SIM card ejector tool, a clear phone case that accentuates the phone’s design while offering its safeguard, a power brick of 66Watt for supercharging, and the essential Type-C cable. They were all ordered neatly and accessible right at your fingertips. It was pretty evident from the get-go that Huawei has given due diligence to not just the device but its accessories as well.

Getting the Shine: Initial Impressions of the Starry Blue Nova 9

Laid carefully in the box was the shining star of the show – the Huawei Nova 9. The model I received was starry blue, the hue having a charming radiance. It seems almost reminiscent of its predecessor, the Nova 8, giving a sense of continuity, yet there was something uniquely fresh about it. The phone itself has a glossy aura, and the finish is unmatched.

Comfort and Convenience: Appreciating Nova 9’s Matte Finish and Finger-print Free Design

As you pick up the phone, the matte finish gives an interesting texture – smooth but not slippery, lending a comfortable grip. What impressed me particularly was the fingerprint-resistant design. It seems Huawei Nova 9 has decided to challenge the norm of glossy-back phones being fingerprint magnets. Now you don’t have to constantly worry about smudging up the back of your phone, a small but significant relief.

Quick Note: While the unboxing experience was largely positive, remember, true judgment should be reserved for the phone’s performance and how it stands up to use in the real world. So let’s dive further into what Nova 9 brings to the table.

Breaking Down the Exterior: The Design and Display of Huawei Nova 9

• Nova 9 design similar but evolved from Nova 8
• Comes with a 6.57-inch OLED 1080p vivid display
• Features a smooth, quick 120Hz refresh rate

The DNA: Drawing a Parallel Between Nova 9 and Nova 8’s Design Language

As I carefully examined the Nova 9, I couldn’t help but compare it to the Nova 8. They share a similar design language, and I’d say the transition from Nova 8 to Nova 9 is more of an evolution than a revolution. The resemblance isn’t disappointing, but I believe there could have been a bit more creativity in terms of the design refresh.

Close-Up with the Canvas: The 6.57 Inch OLED 1080P Display

Absolute delight – that’s what crossed my mind as I turned on the display. The Huawei Nova 9 sports a 6.57-inch OLED 1080p display, which provides vivid, high-quality visuals. The color representation is pretty spot-on, providing a punchy and dynamic visual experience.

The Fast and Fluid: Experiencing the 120Hz Refresh Rate

One of the significant upgrades this model embraces is the quick 120Hz refresh rate, which contributes to a super smooth experience, be it scrolling through your feed or playing the most graphic-intensive games. An unusual but mention-worthy feature is the option to select dynamic refresh rate. Personally, I preferred setting it at a constant 120Hz for an assured seamless viewing experience. However, the dynamic mode efficiently contributes to battery saving.

Critical yet appreciative, the display of the Nova 9 isn’t flawless. The screen edges smoothly taper down, giving it an elegant and seamless look. However, this could potentially encourage accidental touch inputs. Yet, during my usage, I didn’t encounter any such issues. You may want to be vigilant about this aspect depending on your grip habit.

Note: Your usage might vary, so it’s a good idea to test this for yourself before making a buying decision.

Summing it up, in my experience, the Nova 9 strikes a nearly flawless balance in terms of design and display. It certainly carries forward the chalked out path of the previous Nova models, but with evident, appreciable upgrades. There might be a few tiny bumps – but hey, no phone is perfect, right?

Touch and Go: Device Accessibility and Performance

• Nova 9 features an efficient under-display fingerprint sensor
• It uses a Snapdragon 778 nanometer processor
• Delivers outstanding gaming performance with a 120Hz refresh rate

When it comes to device accessibility and performance, the Nova 9 certainly doesn’t disappoint. Let’s get right into it.

Unrivaled Security: The Extremely Quick Under Display Fingerprint Sensor

The under-display fingerprint sensor of the Nova 9 is something to marvel at. It reacted to my touch instantaneously, providing a seamless unlocking process. Consistent and reliable, it has proven to be more efficient than the face unlock system for me. As both a safety feature and an ease of access aspect , this quick response time tremendously contributes to the phone’s user experience.

The Heart: Introducing the Snapdragon 778, 6 Nanometer Processor

Powering the Huawei Nova 9 is the super efficient Snapdragon 778 6 nanometer processor. In my experience, this chipset streamlined the overall performance of the phone. Whether it was browsing through various apps or transitioning between screens, I noticed no lag or stutter. Even tasks that are traditionally considered heavy didn’t seem to disrupt the device’s smooth performance.

Tuned for Performance: Gaming on Nova 9

One of my favorite features of the Nova 9 is undoubtedly its gaming performance. Powered by the Snapdragon 778 , the handset managed to run high graphic games, like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile with significant ease. The gameplay was fluid, smooth, and highly responsive, offering a fantastic gaming experience overall. Complimented by the 120Hz refresh rate, I never had to compromise between frame rate and game quality. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore one, this handset is bound to impress.

While the Nova 9 is a powerhouse in terms of performance, there’s certainly room for improvement. I believe with further software updates, the device could offer even smoother functionality. But as it stands now, I’d give the overall device accessibility and performance of the Huawei Nova 9 a solid 8/10.

The Perfect Companion: Huawei Nova 9 and Multi-Screen Collaboration

• Huawei Nova 9 seamlessly integrates with Huawei ecosystem
• Multi-screen collaboration enhances user experience and productivity
• Best performance achieved by fully adapting to Huawei ecosystem

While testing out the Huawei Nova 9, I was genuinely intrigued by how it molds into the Huawei ecosystem, specifically its compatibility and cohesion with multi-screen collaboration. The utilization of this feature brought forth an entirely new dynamic to harness the device’s potential, and I’m going to give you a quick run-down of my findings.

Seamless Operation: Using Nova 9 with Other Huawei Devices

This isn’t about just interoperating with other Huawei devices; it’s about the ease and seamlessness of it. What struck me the most about Huawei Nova 9 was the absence of lag or delays when I used it with other Huawei devices. There was a sense of perfect sync, everything fitting together like pieces of a puzzle.

Whether it was switching from the Nova 9’s screen to a bigger display or sharing files among devices, the synergy remained consistent. It felt like the Nova 9 was designed to work harmoniously within this ecosystem, enhancing both user experience and productivity.

Building Up An Ecosystem: Matebook 14s and Nova 9’s Work Chemistry

To test this thoroughly, I used the Nova 9 in conjunction with the Matebook 14s. I quickly realized how these two devices amplify each other’s functions. For example, when I received calls, it was easy to answer them on the Matebook immediately; there was no noticeable time lag or synchronization issue.

It was refreshing to see how Huawei has been making strides in simplifying user interactions and offering fluid transition between their devices. However, this might also mean that getting the best out of the Huawei Nova 9 may require the user to adapt fully to the Huawei ecosystem. This could be a consideration for those users who’re already embedded into different ecosystems.

In my view though, the multi-screen collaboration feature is a splendid addition. It brings out the potential of the device while focusing on user comfort and seamless tech utilization. Still, the real charm lies in experiencing it personally.

Seeing Through the Lens: Camera Performance for Images and Videos

• Huawei Nova 9 has a diverse camera assortment
• Inconsistent image exposure, overcontrasted shadows
• Noticeable shutter lag needs improvement

Dive Into the Details: Breaking Down Nova 9’s Camera Specification

Let’s start off by getting technical. The primary lens on the Huawei Nova 9 is a 50-megapixel shooter complemented by an 8-megapixel ultra-wide angle camera. In addition, you also get a 2-megapixel depth sensor and a 2-megapixel macro camera. Quite the assortment, isn’t it?

Tuning up the Tones: Nova 9’s Image Processing and Color Balance

Now, when you first start shooting with Nova 9, you might find yourself impressed. To be honest, it does feel like they’ve upped their game compared to the Nova 8. The image processing seems pleasant at first glance, capturing images that look vivid and vibrant. However, upon closer examination, there seems to be some inconsistency in exposing the images. The shadows appear quite dark and it feels as if they were specifically exposing the images to have higher contrast levels.

4k Recording: Pros and Cons of Both the Front and Back Camera

When it comes to video, both front and rear cameras offer 4k recording, which is a nice feature. Let’s start with the rear camera that has good exposure and contrast levels. However, the stabilization might not be at its prime – something to consider while planning to capture moving shots.

The front camera , on the other hand, seemed to overexpose the shots to a certain degree. While maintaining sharpness, it does struggle with accurate skin tones. Unfortunately, this compromise on the accurate skin tones and shifting exposure was pretty evident during the testing.

The Shutter Lag: An Area of Improvement

One noteworthy aspect that did not sit well with me was the noticeable shutter lag. When you tap the shutter button, there’s a slight lag before the image is actually captured. This can be disconcerting when trying to capture quick moments. A software update in the future could potentially fix this issue, but during my testing, this was a hiccup in my experience with the camera.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the camera and its accompanying features offer a strong output on paper, my hands-on experience showed some areas of improvement. Camera performance, especially in a smartphone is critical, and for the Nova 9, there’s room for enhancement in exposure consistency and shutter lag.

Powering the Performance: Battery Life on Nova 9

• Huawei Nova 9 has a 4300 mAh battery
• Features 66W Supercharge for fast charging
• Lacks wireless charging support

When it comes to the battery life of the Huawei Nova 9, there are some interesting points to share. Power and efficiency are important factors for any device, and same goes for the smartphones. Let’s dig into the battery life, exploring candidly its performance and efficiency.

A Closer Look: Examining the 4300 mAh Battery

The Huawei Nova 9 comes with a 4300 mAh battery, slightly bigger than the one found in its predecessor – the Nova 8. I found that the battery lasts up to a full day with quite heavy usage, including streaming videos, browsing social media, several phone calls and even some light gaming. It’s quite impressive considering the phone is powering high-end features like the smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Fast and Furious: Understanding the 66Watt Supercharger

The real game-changer here is the Nova 9’s 66W Supercharge function. Time and again, I found that the device chargers super swiftly. On several occasions, I noticed that I could get this phone charged up to 60% in roughly just 15 minutes. A full charge? Well under 30 minutes – now that’s something! Although it’s important to note that the actual charging speed may vary a bit depending on several factors like the percentage of remaining battery and the charging environment.

However, there is one thing to note: despite the excellent fast charging capabilities, I would have loved to see wireless charging support built in, which makes it easier when you’re on the go, a feature sadly missing in the Huawei Nova 9.

All in all, the battery life on the Nova 9 is impressive, supported by a super-fast charging system, you don’t have to worry much about running out of juice anytime soon. While the device misses on wireless charging capability, the high-speed wired charging mostly makes up for it. All these features together contribute to a great user experience.

Closing Thoughts: Price, Performance, and Final Verdict

Now that I’ve had a good run with the Huawei Nova 9, it’s only fitting to provide you all with my wrap-up thoughts on the overall performance and worth of this smartphone. I’ll aim to touch on all fronts – including its market price, comparison to previous models, and whether or not it delivers on its claims. Remember, this is an unbiased review, and my goal is to provide an honest assessment of the Nova 9 to ensure you are well-informed before making a decision.

The Price Perspective: Understanding Nova 9’s Value Proposition

From a price standpoint, the Huawei Nova 9 delivers. For a mid-tier price point, you’re getting a handset packed with features that resonate with some high-end models. Whether it be the sleek design, impressive processing power, or the immersive OLED 1080p display, it’s clear that Huawei has managed to strike a balance between quality and affordability with the Nova 9. In terms of value, I have to say that it’s definitely up there with some of the best in its market range.

Room for Improvement: Weighing in on Nova 9’s Camera Performance

Let’s talk about the camera performance here. Initially, I was excited by the permissions of 50-megapixel main shooting capabilities, but the real-world application was a slight letdown. The higher contrast levels and problematic overexposure issues make it challenging to capture an accurate representation of your subject. Unfortunately, the shutter lag didn’t help either. A software update could potentially fix these gripes but, as it stands, the camera felt underwhelming compared to the rest of the phone’s impressive offerings.

Parting Words: Wrapping Up My Huawei Nova 9 Journey

After spending quality time with the Huawei Nova 9, it’s clear that it’s a solid player in the smartphone market. The superb design, hefty processing power, and incredible charging speed are standout features. And while yes, the camera does let it down a bit, it’s important to remember the price range this phone falls into. For someone who is after a great quality smartphone without burning a hole in their pocket, the Nova 9 still surfaces as a strong contender. It’s not without its faults, but the value it offers for its price point is convincing.

I hope this comprehensive review has given you a clearer picture of what to expect with the Huawei Nova 9. As always, the decision is yours! Base it on your personal preferences, needs, and expectations from a smartphone.

Should you buy the Huawei nova 9 Dual-SIM 128GB ROM + 8GB RAM – Starry Blue – International Version?

Buy it if…

You’re a Gaming Enthusiast

The Snapdragon 778, 6 Nanometer Processor provides excellent gaming experience with high graphics and maximum frame rate, making it perfect for PUBG and Call of Duty enthusiasts.

You Value Rapid Charging

The 66W Supercharger can refill 60% of your battery in just 15 minutes, and a full charge in less than 30 minutes, which could be a plus for those with busy schedules.

You Prefer an Integrated Ecosystem

For those who use other Huawei devices, multi-screen collaboration capabilities are seamless, providing an enhanced user experience with no lag or delays.

Don’t buy it if…

High-Quality Camera is Your Priority

The camera tends to expose images with darker shadows when compared to previous models and has noticeable shutter lag, which could be off-putting for photography enthusiasts.

You Prefer Bright and Vivid Displays

While color reproduction is decent, it may not impress users who are picky about display quality, as it leans towards darker tones and accidental touches may occur due to the tapered curved edges.

You Look for a Drastic Design Upgrade

Those seeking a whole new design experience may be disappointed, as the Nova 9 maintains much of the Nova 8’s physical attributes.

FAQ

What does the Huawei Nova 9 look like?

The Huawei Nova 9 has a starry blue color with a matte finish and resists fingerprint marks. It also holds similarities with the Nova 8 in terms of design.

What features does the Huawei Nova 9 display offer?

The Nova 9 has a 6.57 inch OLED 1080P display with a fast 120Hz refresh rate. There’s also a dynamic refresh rate option which can save battery life.

How is the security feature of the Huawei Nova 9?

The Huawei Nova 9 comes with an under-display fingerprint sensor, which is extremely quick and reliable, according to the reviewed experience.

How does Nova 9 perform in terms of gaming?

The Nova 9 is equipped with a super-efficient Snapdragon 778, 6nm processor. It’s capable of operating high-graphic games smoothly with optimum frame rate, amplified by the 120Hz refresh rate display.

What camera specifications does Huawei Nova 9 have?

The Nova 9 is packed with a 50MP main shooter, an 8MP ultra wide angle camera, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 2MP macro camera. Both the front and back cameras can record in 4K.

How is the battery life of the Huawei Nova 9?

The Nova 9 has a 4300mAh battery life and comes with a 66W supercharger. It can attain up to 60% charge in just 15 minutes, and full charge in under 30 minutes.

Does the Huawei Nova 9 support multi-screen collaboration?

Yes, Nova 9 can seamlessly interact with other Huawei devices, supporting multitasking and multi-screen collaboration efficiently.

Are there any issues reported with the Huawei Nova 9 camera?

Yes, there’s a bit of shutter lag when taking a picture and the contrast levels can appear a bit dark. However, these issues could potentially be fixed with a software update.