The Nokia X91 immediately distinguishes itself with a design language that balances nostalgic elements with contemporary sensibilities. The device features a precision-milled aluminum frame with gently curved edges that provide excellent ergonomics despite its 6.7-inch display. At 8.1mm thick and weighing 195 grams, the X91 strikes a compelling balance between substantial feel and comfortable handling.
Available in four distinctive colorways – Midnight Blue, Arctic Silver, Forest Green, and Sandstone Black – the X91 features what Nokia calls “NanoTech” finishing on its rear panel. This specialized treatment creates a subtly textured surface that resists fingerprints while providing enhanced grip without sacrificing premium aesthetics.
The most visually striking element is the circular camera housing, reminiscent of classic Nokia Lumia devices but thoroughly modernized with a concentric ring design that houses the multiple camera sensors. This “PureView Orb” as Nokia calls it, features an illuminated ring that serves as a notification indicator and can display charging status information.
Build quality is exceptional, with Nokia’s traditional emphasis on durability evident throughout. The X91 boasts IP68 water and dust resistance, Gorilla Glass Victus 3 front and back protection, and has been subjected to Nokia’s rigorous “life-proof” testing protocol that exceeds standard industry drop tests.
Nokia X91 Display
The Nokia X91 features a 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 3120 × 1440 pixels (525 ppi). The panel supports adaptive refresh rates ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, dynamically adjusting based on content to balance smoothness and power efficiency.
Nokia has implemented what they call “PureDisplay Pro” technology – a combination of hardware and software optimizations that deliver exceptional color accuracy (100% DCI-P3 coverage), HDR10+ certification, and impressive brightness levels reaching 1,800 nits in HDR content and 1,200 nits in typical outdoor conditions.
The display features subtle curved edges that blend seamlessly into the aluminum frame, with minimal bezels that result in an impressive 92% screen-to-body ratio. A small centered punch-hole houses the front-facing camera, maintaining symmetry while maximizing usable screen space.
Nokia has implemented an advanced under-display fingerprint sensor utilizing ultrasonic technology rather than optical solutions, providing faster recognition and improved reliability across various lighting conditions and with wet fingers.
Nokia X91 Performance
Powering the Nokia X91 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, Qualcomm’s flagship processor built on a 3nm process. This octa-core configuration features one prime Cortex-X4 core at 3.3GHz, four performance cores at 2.8GHz, and three efficiency cores at 2.0GHz, delivering exceptional performance across all usage scenarios.
The Adreno 750 GPU handles graphically intensive tasks with ease, maintaining high frame rates in demanding games and providing smooth performance for AR applications. Nokia has implemented a sophisticated vapor chamber cooling system that maintains performance consistency during extended high-load sessions.
Available in configurations of 12GB/256GB, 12GB/512GB, and 16GB/1TB, the X91 utilizes LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage for lightning-fast multitasking and app loading. The absence of microSD expansion is notable, though the generous base storage somewhat mitigates this limitation.
Nokia has focused on optimizing the hardware-software integration, resulting in a responsive and fluid experience throughout the interface. Benchmark results place the X91 among the top performers in its class, though Nokia’s marketing wisely emphasizes real-world experience over synthetic test scores.
Nokia X91 Camera System
The camera system represents perhaps the most significant area of focus for the Nokia X91, with the company reviving its celebrated PureView branding that once defined camera excellence in the smartphone world.
The primary sensor is a custom-developed 50MP unit (1/1.3″ sensor size) with large 1.4μm pixels that expand to 2.8μm with pixel binning. This main camera features optical image stabilization, laser autofocus, and an f/1.6 aperture for exceptional light gathering capability.
Complementing the main camera is a 48MP ultrawide lens with a 120-degree field of view and autofocus capability that enables macro photography, along with a 12MP periscope telephoto offering 5x optical zoom and up to 50x digital zoom with impressive detail retention.
The front-facing camera houses a 32MP sensor with autofocus – an increasingly common but welcome feature that ensures sharp self-portraits in various lighting conditions.
Nokia has partnered with ZEISS once again, bringing the renowned optics manufacturer’s expertise to lens design, coating technology, and image processing. The “ZEISS T* Coating” reduces reflections and lens flare, while the “ZEISS Portrait Styles” offer creative options inspired by classic ZEISS lenses.
The camera software emphasizes simplicity and reliability, with an intuitive interface that provides advanced controls without overwhelming casual users. Nokia’s “PureView Computational Photography” leverages multiple frames, AI processing, and the dedicated image signal processor to enhance detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
Video capabilities include 8K recording at 24fps, 4K at 60fps with HDR10+ support, and advanced electronic stabilization that works in conjunction with OIS to produce remarkably steady footage. The “Pro Video” mode offers manual controls for exposure, focus, white balance, and audio levels, appealing to content creators.
Nokia X91 Battery and Charging
The Nokia X91 houses a 5,500mAh silicon-carbon composite battery that delivers exceptional endurance. Under typical usage patterns, the phone easily lasts through a full day of heavy use, with moderate users potentially stretching to two days between charges.
When recharging is necessary, the included 65W GaN charger can restore the battery from empty to 50% in approximately 15 minutes, with a full charge taking just under 40 minutes. Wireless charging is supported at 30W using the Qi standard, and reverse wireless charging at 10W allows for convenient power sharing with compatible accessories.
Nokia has implemented several battery health features, including adaptive charging that optimizes charging speeds based on usage patterns and scheduled wake times. The company commits to maintaining at least 80% battery capacity after 1,000 charging cycles – backed by a three-year battery warranty that exceeds industry standards.
Nokia X91 Software
The Nokia X91 runs what Nokia calls “Pure Android 15” – a minimally modified version of Google’s operating system that prioritizes simplicity, performance, and timely updates. Bloatware is notably absent, with only a handful of Nokia-specific utilities that add genuine value without duplicating existing functionality.
Nokia has committed to four years of major Android updates and five years of security patches for the X91, positioning the device as a long-term investment rather than a temporary solution.
The “Nokia+ Experience” adds subtle enhancements to the stock Android interface, including advanced customization options, improved one-handed usability features, and expanded screenshot capabilities. The “My Device” dashboard provides comprehensive system information and optimization tools in a single location.
Privacy features have been enhanced with the “Nokia Security Center” – a centralized dashboard that provides transparent control over app permissions, sensor access, and data sharing. The dedicated security chip provides hardware-level protection for sensitive information and secure authentication.
Nokia X91 Audio and Connectivity
Audio performance is a highlight of the X91, with stereo speakers tuned by audio specialists Harman Kardon delivering impressive clarity, depth, and volume. Nokia has retained the 3.5mm headphone jack – an increasingly rare feature in flagship devices – while also supporting high-quality wireless audio through aptX Lossless and LDAC codec support.
Connectivity options are comprehensive, including 5G support across multiple bands, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and NFC. The X91 features a dual physical SIM slot in addition to eSIM support, offering flexible connectivity options for travelers and those maintaining multiple numbers.
Location accuracy benefits from multi-constellation GNSS support with dual-frequency precision, delivering superior positioning in urban environments and challenging conditions.
Nokia X91 Sustainability
Environmental responsibility is central to the Nokia X91’s development. The device features recycled aluminum in its frame, recycled plastics in internal components, and packaging that is 100% recyclable and plastic-free.
Nokia has implemented a comprehensive trade-in program that offers competitive values for older devices while ensuring proper recycling. The company’s commitment to extended software support enhances the device’s usable lifespan, reducing electronic waste from premature upgrades.
Repairability has been prioritized with a modular internal design that facilitates component replacement. Nokia provides detailed repair manuals and ensures spare part availability for at least five years after release – a significant commitment in an industry often criticized for planned obsolescence.
Nokia X91 Market Position and Value Proposition
Priced at $899 for the 12GB/256GB configuration, $999 for the 12GB/512GB variant, and $1,199 for the 16GB/1TB model, the Nokia X91 positions itself as a premium flagship with a slightly more accessible price point than the ultra-premium offerings from Apple and Samsung.
Rather than competing solely on specifications, Nokia emphasizes the overall experience – the combination of thoughtful design, exceptional build quality, camera excellence, and long-term software support creates a compelling value proposition for discerning consumers seeking a premium device that stands apart from mainstream offerings.
Nokia X91
The Nokia X91 represents the most convincing evidence yet of Nokia’s resurgence in the premium smartphone segment. By honoring the brand’s heritage while embracing modern technologies and user expectations, HMD Global has created a device that offers a genuinely distinctive alternative in an increasingly homogenized market.