Launched in August 2024, the Oppo A3 stands out as an affordable smartphone that prioritizes durability while still offering a balanced everyday experience. Let’s break down its features, pricing, and buying advice.
Design and Build: Toughness as a Highlight
The Oppo A3 features a flat, lightweight design with a plastic frame and back panel, available in Sparkle Black, Starry Purple, and Starlight White. Its standout feature is enhanced durability, meeting MIL-STD-810H military-grade standards for shock resistance and offering IP54-rated splash protection.
Weighing about 186g and measuring 7.68mm thick, the phone feels sturdy yet comfortable to hold. It also includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for easy and secure access.
Display: Decent for Everyday Use
The phone comes with a 6.67-inch LCD display offering an HD+ resolution (1604 x 720 pixels). While not the sharpest in its class, it delivers a decent visual experience for web browsing, social media, and video playback.
Its 90Hz refresh rate ensures smoother scrolling, and the 1000-nit peak brightness provides good visibility even under sunlight. The screen is protected by twice-reinforced Panda Glass, adding extra toughness against scratches and drops.
Performance: Adequate for Basic Tasks
Under the hood, the Oppo A3 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6s Gen 1 (4G) chipset. Paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, it’s well-suited for basic smartphone activities like messaging, browsing, and streaming.
Storage options include 128GB or 256GB, expandable via microSD card, ensuring enough space for photos and apps. The phone runs on Android 14 with ColorOS 14, offering customization and smart features, though some users may find it takes time to get used to.
Camera: Functional for Snapshots
The Oppo A3 features a 50MP main rear camera (f/1.8) with autofocus, assisted by an auxiliary lens. It delivers good results in daylight and decent detail for casual photography. The 5MP front camera handles selfies and video calls adequately.
Camera modes include Pro, Night, Panorama, Slo-mo, and Dual-view video, giving users creative flexibility despite its entry-level setup.
Battery and Charging: Reliable and Fast
Battery life is one of the A3’s strong points. The 5100mAh battery comfortably lasts through a full day of moderate to heavy use. With 45W SUPERVOOC fast charging, it recharges quickly—ideal for users who are always on the move.
Additional features include stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB Type-C port. NFC availability may vary depending on region.
Price in Nigeria (May 2025)
As of May 2025, the Oppo A3 is priced in Nigeria as follows:
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6GB RAM + 128GB storage: ₦220,000 – ₦270,000
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8GB RAM + 256GB storage: ₦280,000 – ₦350,000
Prices can differ across online and offline retailers, so comparing options before purchase is recommended.
Should You Buy the Oppo A3?
Reasons to Buy:
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Exceptional durability: MIL-STD-810H rating and splash resistance make it ideal for tough environments.
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Strong battery life with fast 45W charging.
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Decent everyday performance for typical apps and multitasking.
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Smooth 90Hz display for improved user experience.
Things to Consider:
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HD+ resolution: Lower sharpness compared to some rivals.
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Basic camera system: Suitable for simple photography only.
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ColorOS learning curve: May take adjustment for first-time Oppo users.
Verdict: A Durable Budget Performer
The Oppo A3 stands out as a durable, reliable, and affordable smartphone built to withstand everyday mishaps. Its rugged design, long battery life, and fast charging make it a great choice for users who value practicality over premium specs.
If you’re on a budget and need a phone that can survive drops, spills, and daily use, the Oppo A3 is an excellent pick. However, if sharper visuals or advanced cameras are priorities, you might consider alternatives in a slightly higher range.
