Introduction
The HUAWEI nova Y73 is an entry-level device that promises reliable daily performance, capable cameras, and good battery endurance. Powered by a 6,620mAh battery and featuring a 50MP main camera, this device aims to strike a balance between affordability and functionality.
However, as we’ll discover, the nova Y73 presents a complex proposition that doesn’t quite align with its pricing strategy, offering some genuine strengths alongside notable compromises.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the HUAWEI nova Y73 defies expectations for an entry-level device. The phone’s rear design is appealing, featuring a matte metallic finish that contrasts with the glossy camera module. This attention to aesthetic detail demonstrates HUAWEI’s commitment to premium-looking design across their product lineup.
It adopts a contemporary flat design, aligning with current industry trends and providing a modern feel in hand. However, the front of the device immediately reveals its budget positioning through a notch housing the front-facing camera—a design element that feels somewhat dated in 2025’s smartphone landscape.
Construction-wise, the nova Y73 remains primarily plastic, which is expected at this price point. Despite this, HUAWEI has managed to achieve an IP64 rating, providing reasonable protection against dust and water splashes for everyday use.
Apart from a volume rocker and a power button that doubles as a fingerprint scanner, there’s an additional customizable button on the left side that can be programmed for various functions and quick app access—a nice touch that adds functionality without complexity.
The absence of a headphone jack may disappoint some users, though this has become common across all price segments.
Performance
The performance story of the nova Y73 is where things become more complicated. The device is powered by a Kirin 710A processor, a 14nm chip that originally launched in 2020. While it isn’t problematic for basic smartphone tasks, it raises questions about long-term viability and value proposition, especially considering the device’s pricing.
Complementing the aging processor is 8GB of RAM, which provides adequate headroom for multitasking and helps maintain smooth operation when switching between applications. Storage is generous at 256GB internally, though users should note the absence of microSD expansion options.
In real-world usage, the nova Y73 handles fundamental smartphone tasks decently. Social media browsing, music streaming through Spotify, and YouTube consumption work without significant issues. However, users will occasionally notice moments of sluggishness that show the hardware’s age, particularly when launching apps or performing more demanding operations.
Light games like Mobile Legends run acceptably, making the device suitable for users whose gaming needs don’t extend beyond casual entertainment. Those expecting good performance in more demanding titles will definitely want to look elsewhere.
Camera
Where the HUAWEI nova Y73’s shines is in camera performance, which genuinely impresses for an entry-level device. The single 50MP main camera delivers surprisingly good detail and sharpness in daylight conditions, producing images that punch well above the device’s price class.
Night photography capabilities are respectable, though the experience requires patience as the dedicated night mode takes approximately 3.5 to 4 seconds to capture images.
The camera setup’s main limitation is its single-lens configuration. The absence of an ultrawide lens means users must physically reposition themselves to capture wider scenes. For users accustomed to multi-lens camera systems, this constraint will be noticeable.
The front-facing 8MP selfie camera performs adequately without being remarkable. It handles basic selfie duties competently but doesn’t offer any standout features or exceptional image quality.
Audio and Multimedia
The multimedia experience on the nova Y73 centers around its 6.67-inch HD+ LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate. For an entry-level device, this combination is respectable, offering smoother scrolling and animations compared to standard 60Hz panels. However, the HD+ resolution means text clarity isn’t as sharp as users might prefer, particularly those accustomed to higher-resolution displays.
Color reproduction is reasonably punchy, making the display adequate for media consumption, though it won’t satisfy users seeking premium visual experiences. The overall display quality can be characterized as decent rather than impressive, serving basic multimedia needs without excelling.
There’s a single bottom-firing speaker that provides enough volume for personal use. The speaker offers a reasonable balance with decent low-end presence, clear vocals, and some treble detail. While it won’t replace dedicated speakers for serious media consumption, it performs its basic function satisfactorily.
Battery and Charging
The nova Y73’s 6,620mAh battery can easily deliver full-day usage for most users, with light to moderate users potentially stretching battery life across two days. This exceptional endurance is a genuine selling point that addresses one of the most common smartphone frustrations.
There’s 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge support, which ensures that when charging is necessary, users won’t be tethered to outlets for extended periods.
Software
The software experience presents both opportunities and challenges. Like other recent HUAWEI devices, the nova Y73 lacks Google Mobile Services (GMS), which creates potential compatibility issues for users heavily invested in the Google ecosystem. However, many popular applications like Facebook, YouTube, and Spotify can still be installed via the Huawei AppGallery, and function properly.
For applications unavailable through HUAWEI’s AppGallery, users can utilize GBox to access the Google Play Store. HUAWEI emphasizes GBox’s safety and verification via their AppGallery approval process, though this additional step may deter less technical users.
The device ships with EMUI 12 and receives regular security updates, with the review unit showing a March 1, 2025 security patch. The interface includes numerous pre-loaded shortcuts, which add clutter to the UI.
Verdict
The HUAWEI nova Y73 is priced at PHP 9,999, which puts the device in an awkward position between entry-level specifications and low mid-range pricing expectations. It’s a fundamental challenge delivering entry-level performance at pricing that approaches more capable alternatives.
The exceptional battery life will appeal to users prioritizing endurance above all else. The design execution genuinely looks premium, and the main camera performance exceeds expectations for this category. The 90Hz display and generous storage allocation also shows HUAWEI’s effort to include modern conveniences.
However, the aging Kirin 710A processor is a concern, particularly given the pricing. Users investing in a smartphone at this price point deserve slightly better hardware, and the performance limitations may become increasingly apparent over the device’s lifespan.
The nova Y73 is as a device for users who prioritize battery life, appreciate good design, and primarily use their phones for basic tasks. However, the pricing strategy limits its appeal when more powerful alternatives exist in similar price ranges.
Emman has been writing technical and feature articles since 2010. Prior to this, he became one of the instructors at Asia Pacific College in 2008, and eventually landed a job as Business Analyst and Technical Writer at Integrated Open Source Solutions for almost 3 years.
