Huawei’s nova series has carved a niche for itself in the mid-range smartphone market, offering stylish designs, capable cameras, and competitive features. The nova 12 SE follows suit, boasting a sleek look, a high-resolution main camera, and impressive fast charging. But is it enough to stand out in a crowded market?
Design and Display
The nova 12 SE sports a large, 6.67-inch OLED display. Bezels are minimal, with a slightly thicker chin at the bottom. This translates to a truly immersive viewing experience, perfect for consuming content. While the display offers a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, some competitors boast a higher 120Hz refresh rate, offering a potentially smoother user experience.
Camera
The camera system is a highlight of the nova 12 SE. The rear setup features a 108-megapixel main sensor, capable of capturing crisp and detailed photos in good lighting. An 8-megapixel ultrawide sensor complements the main shooter, while a 2-megapixel macro sensor allows for close-up shots. The 32-megapixel front camera is impressive for selfie enthusiasts. Users can expect high-resolution selfies with clear details.
Performance and Software
Here’s where the nova 12 SE falters a bit. The phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 chipset, a capable mid-range processor but not the most cutting-edge. Daily tasks and light gaming run smoothly, but don’t expect top-tier performance for demanding applications. The phone is equipped with EMUI 14, Huawei’s custom user interface. EMUI 14 offers a range of features and customizations, but some users might find it lacking compared to stock Android, particularly when it comes to app access due to the ongoing US trade restrictions on Huawei.
Battery Life and Charging
The nova 12 SE boasts a 4500mAh battery, which should comfortably last a full day for most users. The real star here is the 66W Huawei SuperCharge Turbo 2.0 fast charging. In just 32 minutes, the phone can be fully charged, getting you back up and running in no time.
Verdict: A Solid Mid-Ranger with Room for Improvement
The HUAWEI nova 12 SE is a competent mid-range smartphone with a beautiful display, a capable camera system, and blazing-fast charging. However, the Snapdragon 680 processor feels a bit dated, and the software experience might be a concern for some users due to the absence of Google Mobile Services.
If you prioritize a stylish design, a high-resolution camera, and rapid charging, the nova 12 SE is a compelling option. But if you crave top-tier performance or a stock Android experience, you might want to consider competitors that offer the latest chipsets and unhindered software access.
