Nothing Phone 2a vs Realme 12+ 5G – Which One is Better in Canada?
I tested the Nothing Phone 2a and the Realme 12+ 5G. If you’re in Canada and want a stylish, mid-range phone, this comparison will help you pick the right one.
Full Comparison Table – Nothing Phone 2a vs Realme 12+ 5G
| Feature | Nothing Phone 2a | Realme 12+ 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7″ AMOLED, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass 5 | 6.67″ AMOLED, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro | MediaTek Dimensity 7050 |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (main) + 50MP ultra-wide | 50MP (Sony LYT-600) + 2MP depth |
| Front Camera | 32MP | 16MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 45W fast charge | 5000mAh, 67W SUPERVOOC |
| Build Quality | Transparent back, IP54 | Vegan leather or glass back, IP54 |
| OS Version | Android 14, Nothing OS 2.5 | Android 14, Realme UI 5.0 |
| 5G Support | Yes | Yes |
| Price in Canada | Around CAD 529 | Around CAD 489 |
Display & Design
Both phones have AMOLED 120Hz displays. I noticed vibrant colors on both. But the Nothing 2a has a unique transparent back with Glyph lights—it stands out. The Realme 12+ feels more premium with its leather finish, depending on the variant.
Performance
The Nothing Phone 2a runs on the Dimensity 7200 Pro—a bit faster than Realme’s Dimensity 7050. Both handle apps, games, and browsing well, but Nothing 2a feels smoother in multitasking.
Camera Comparison
The Nothing 2a offers a dual 50MP setup, including a wide-angle camera. The Realme 12+ uses a Sony LYT-600 sensor, which takes sharper low-light photos. But Nothing has the better selfie camera with 32MP vs Realme’s 16MP.
Battery & Charging
Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery, but Realme 12+ wins with 67W fast charging. It charges to full in about 45 minutes, while Nothing takes around 1 hour.
Pros and Cons
Nothing Phone 2a Pros:
- Unique transparent design
- Dual 50MP rear cameras
- 32MP front camera
- Clean Nothing OS
Realme 12+ 5G Pros:
- Faster 67W charging
- Great Sony camera sensor
- Stylish vegan leather finish
- Slightly cheaper in Canada
My Verdict
If you want a stylish, unique phone with a better selfie camera and a smoother UI, go for the Nothing Phone 2a.
But if you care about faster charging, Sony optics, and a more premium feel, then Realme 12+ 5G is a great pick.
FAQs
Q: Which one charges faster?
A: Realme 12+ 5G with 67W charging.
Q: Does Nothing 2a have a wide-angle camera?
A: Yes, it has a 50MP ultra-wide lens.
Q: Which one is better for selfies?
A: Nothing Phone 2a with its 32MP front camera.
Q: Are both phones 5G ready in Canada?
A: Yes, both support Canadian 5G networks.
