The Huawei Nova 7 SE was once a strong mid-range device when it launched, offering 5G support, fast charging, and a capable camera setup. But in 2025, does it still make sense to buy this phone? Here’s a detailed review to help you decide.
Key Specifications
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Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD
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Processor: Kirin 820 (5G)
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RAM/Storage: 8GB + 128GB
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Rear Cameras: 64MP + 8MP + 2MP + 2MP
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Front Camera: 16MP
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Battery: 4000mAh with 40W fast charging
Design & Build Quality
The Nova 7 SE still looks stylish in 2025. Its gradient finish, slim frame, and side-mounted fingerprint scanner give it a modern and premium feel. Despite being an older model, its build quality is solid and comfortable to hold.
Display Quality
It features a 6.5-inch IPS LCD panel with Full HD+ resolution. Colors are good, sharpness is suitable for daily use, and viewing angles are decent. However, it lacks:
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AMOLED display
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High refresh rate
Most phones today offer 90Hz or 120Hz screens, so the Nova 7 SE feels dated in comparison.
Performance
Powered by the Kirin 820 chipset, the Nova 7 SE performs well even today for most everyday tasks. Apps run smoothly, multitasking is effective, and casual gaming works fine. You can even play medium-level AAA mobile games with acceptable performance.
However, newer mid-range phones in 2025 deliver faster performance, better efficiency, and improved gaming features.
Camera Performance
The phone has a quad-camera setup:
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64MP main
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8MP ultrawide
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2MP macro
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2MP depth
The main sensor captures sharp images with good colors. Ultra-wide photos are fine, though low-light shots are average. The 16MP selfie camera performs well for everyday social media clicks.
Overall, the camera is still usable, but modern devices offer better night photography, AI enhancement, and stability.
Battery & Charging
The 4000mAh battery offers a full day of moderate usage. It supports 40W fast charging, which is still impressive even in 2025, filling the battery quickly.
However, battery health may vary if you buy a used unit, and many new phones now offer 4500–5000mAh batteries.
Software & Google Support
The biggest drawback is the lack of Google Mobile Services. You need Huawei AppGallery or third-party stores to install apps. Some apps may not work perfectly without Google services.
This is a major disadvantage for users who rely on:
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Google Maps
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Google Drive
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Gmail
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YouTube
If you cannot manage without these services, this phone won’t be convenient.
5G Connectivity
The phone supports 5G, but band compatibility may vary depending on region. While this was a big plus at launch, 5G is now common even in budget phones, and newer devices have better coverage and performance.
Pros
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Stylish design
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Good main camera
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Fast charging
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Solid performance for daily use
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5G support
Cons
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No Google Play Services
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LCD screen
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60Hz refresh rate
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Older software
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Smaller battery by 2025 standards
Is It Worth Buying in 2025?
Yes — If:
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You get it at a very low price
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You use basic apps and don’t rely on Google
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You need fast charging and decent performance
No — If:
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You want Google services
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You care about modern screens (AMOLED/120Hz)
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You want long-term software updates
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You want strong gaming or camera features
Final Verdict
The Huawei Nova 7 SE can still handle everyday tasks in 2025, with decent performance, a good main camera, and fast charging. However, without Google services and modern display features, it feels outdated compared to newer mid-range smartphones.
If you find it at a cheap price and don’t rely on Google apps, it may be worth it. Otherwise, better options exist in the same price range today.
Overall Rating in 2025: 6.5/10