Nova 12i CTR-L81 Dual SIM Black 8GB RAM 256GB 4G – Middle East Version Review

The Nova 12i CTR-L81, the Middle East version, promises a compelling blend of features at a competitive price point. Having spent several weeks using this device, I’m ready to share my detailed review, encompassing everyday usage, performance benchmarks, and a comprehensive look at its strengths and weaknesses.

The Nova 12i boasts a striking 6.7-inch AOD display, which is immediately eye-catching. The vibrant colors and crisp resolution make media consumption a pleasure. The 108MP main camera is a standout feature, capturing incredibly detailed images, particularly in well-lit conditions. The 256GB of internal storage is ample for most users, eliminating the need for constant app deletion and file management. The 5000mAh battery easily lasted a full day, even with heavy usage. The 40W fast charging is a welcome addition, significantly reducing charging time.

In terms of daily performance, the Nova 12i handled multitasking smoothly. The Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM, ensured a fluid user experience even with multiple apps running concurrently. Gaming performance was satisfactory for most casual games. More demanding titles might experience occasional frame drops, but it’s not a major issue for most users. The 90Hz refresh rate contributes to a noticeably smoother scrolling experience, enhancing the overall user experience.

The camera impressed in many situations. While the 108MP sensor excels in daylight, low-light performance could be improved; images often lacked detail and sharpness in low-light scenarios. The 8MP secondary camera is adequate for selfies and video calls.

Pros:

  • Stunning 6.7-inch AOD display
  • Impressive 108MP main camera (in good lighting)
  • Ample 256GB internal storage
  • Long-lasting 5000mAh battery
  • Fast 40W charging
  • Smooth 90Hz refresh rate

Cons:

  • Low-light camera performance could be better
  • No expandable memory
  • Occasional frame drops in demanding games

Overall, the Nova 12i CTR-L81 offers excellent value for money. The large, vibrant display, powerful camera (in suitable lighting), and long-lasting battery are major highlights. While some areas could be improved, like low-light photography and the lack of expandable storage, these shortcomings are easily outweighed by its many strengths. I would recommend this phone to anyone looking for a reliable, feature-rich device without breaking the bank.

Specification Value
Expandable Memory Type No Expandable Memory
Secondary Camera Resolution 8 MP
Charging Type Type-C
SIM Count Dual SIM
Secondary Camera 8 – 11.9 MP
RAM Size 8 GB
Battery Size 5000 mAh
Internal Memory 256 GB
Product Weight 199 g
Version Middle East Version
Screen Size 6.7 in
SIM Type Nano SIM
Refresh Rates 90Hz
Colour Name Black
Display Resolution Type Full HD
Voice Calling Capability Yes
Network Frequency Band LTE
Processor Name Qualcomm Snapdragon
Flash LED
Model Year 2024
Network Type 4G
Condition New
Product Length 163 mm
Product Height 8 mm
Product Width/Depth 75 mm
Model Number CTR-L81
Model Name Nova 12i
Primary Camera (MP) 108MP