Design
I can easily understand how the Nova 8's design is a selling point. It reminds me of the Mate 40 Pro days when the reflecting matte surface was first introduced, and now it's back, probably even better. The outstanding quality is the product of a dual-plating and filmmaking technique that is designed to eliminate glare when exposed to direct light. I didn't want to use the provided case, but I despise fingerprints, so I guess that's the first exchange of blows.
Because the display is curved once more, the huawei nova 8 is a little thinner (7.64mm). The camera bulge in the back isn't too obtrusive, and as a contrast piece, it somehow complements the rest of the design. A reflecting nova logo appears to have been laser carved at the bottom. That's some terrific style sense in action.
Display
The main display is a 6.57-inch FHD+ OLED panel with a refresh rate of 90Hz. Viewing angles were consistent even with the curved display (even factoring in direct sunlight scenarios).
I'd say the OLED display is of decent quality, because color reproduction is excellent, from blacks to contrast. The range is quite large, and I have every reason to suspect that the alleged Delta E value is less than one. It's designed for watching videos in practically any circumstance with perfect color accuracy and visibility. The 90Hz frame rate combined with a fast, fast 240Hz touch sampling rate made moving around in Harmony OS feel buttery smooth. If you want to get things done quickly, these display specifications will help you achieve them.
4 Cameras, but only half worthwhile.
This nova features a large camera system that immediately draws attention. The main 64MP wide sensor is huge in comparison to the others, giving the impression that one of their P50 module sets was slapped into the nova 8.
With an f/1.9 aperture lens and PDAF, the sensor is larger than the normal 1/1.56-inch sensor. Both the interior and outdoor daylight images were attractive to the eye, with excellent outcomes in terms of color and detail. It lacks some depth in non-focused regions, and the HDR can get overly aggressive to the point that specific features seem too glossy and over-sharpened, making it unsettling to look at. For better quality images on the primary sensor, I strongly advise against using automated HDR.
It's good, but it needs to be priced better.
I'm not suggesting that the nova 8 is overpriced. I'm only suggesting that the nova 8 is overpriced in comparison to competitors who may have superior offerings (and services *cough*) and are likely only RM 100 apart.
It's a decent, stylishly ordinary phone that gets credit for achieving a smooth day-to-day experience with attractive looks to boot. Given the trade-offs, it more closely resembles a mid-ranger than a premium mid-ranger. With an easily outrun processor & half-baked secondary camera sensors, the fantastic OLED screen and 66W charging are simply brought down to earth, making it too nail-bitingly difficult to recommend over such a hotly contested under RM 2K market.
