The HMD Fusion is a remarkable device that showcases the vision of a Swedish team with years of expertise in producing Nokia’s repairable handsets. While HMD itself may be a new name in the mobile industry, its focus on creating sustainable and repairable smartphones sets it apart. Collaborating with iFixit, HMD is establishing a reputation for crafting devices that blend practicality with innovation.
This phone reflects a fresh direction in the mobile space, offering repairability and sustainable design. Although it may not rival high-end devices in terms of upgrades, it is an ideal option for users who value affordability, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Design
The HMD Fusion stands out with a clean, industrial aesthetic designed for repairability. Its unique rear chassis reveals gold contacts that allow for direct connectivity with accessories. Unlike many devices in its price range, the Fusion’s visible screws emphasize its modular nature, giving it a distinct look.
The phone’s build is sturdy, with a comfortable weight of about 200 grams that enhances its premium feel. Its design includes essential features like a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a dual-function fingerprint scanner and power button. These elements ensure a balance of modernity and practicality.
The device comes packaged in a simple cardboard box with a rigid rubber case, but there’s no charger included. This minimalistic approach complements its sustainable philosophy, though some users might miss the added convenience of bundled accessories.
Screen
The Fusion features a 6.56-inch, 90Hz IPS LCD display with a 720p resolution. While the 90Hz refresh rate allows for smoother scrolling, the screen lacks the vibrancy and sharpness of competing devices. With a brightness of around 500 nits, outdoor visibility can be a challenge.
Its screen-to-body ratio of 83.4% leaves noticeable bezels, including a chin that some users may find distracting. The touch responsiveness is adequate but not exceptional, and the display’s limited viewing angles can detract from the experience.
Despite these shortcomings, the screen is user-replaceable, which aligns with the device’s repairability ethos. For those who prioritize affordability and sustainability over premium visuals, this display meets basic needs.
Camera
The HMD Fusion’s camera setup is a mix of strengths and limitations. It boasts a 108MP rear camera, a 50MP selfie camera, and a 2MP depth sensor. While the primary shooter captures high-resolution images, its performance at a distance leaves room for improvement.
In everyday use, the main camera does a good job of capturing vibrant colors and fine details.
However, the lack of an ultra-wide-angle lens is disappointing, especially for users who enjoy expansive shots. This omission limits its versatility in capturing landscapes and group photos.
On the other hand, the selfie camera is a standout feature, especially when paired with the optional ring light accessory.
It produces sharp and detailed images, making it a great choice for video calls, social media content, and self-portraits. Gesture-based controls add a touch of convenience for hands-free operation.
Performance
Powered by a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor and up to 8GB of RAM, the HMD Fusion delivers decent performance for its price range. Its Adreno 613 GPU ensures smooth gameplay for less demanding titles, though heavier games may experience longer load times and occasional stutters.
App switching and multitasking are manageable but can feel sluggish at times. While its benchmark scores align with similarly priced devices, slower storage appears to hinder overall responsiveness. This is most noticeable during app installations and game loading.
For budget-conscious gamers, the Fusion’s low-resolution display allows it to sustain high frame rates in supported games. Titles like Wild Rift run smoothly, making it a solid option for casual gaming sessions.
Software
The device runs on Android 14, offering a clean and modern interface. HMD has committed to providing two major Android updates, ensuring longevity and software support. Pre-installed apps include social media platforms and a few optional tools, but these can be easily removed if unwanted.
A notable inclusion is the My Device app, which serves as a hub for device management and access to spare parts. This reinforces the Fusion’s repairability focus, making it easier for users to maintain their phones over time.
While the software experience is largely positive, some users may find the lack of premium customization options limiting. However, the promise of extended software updates adds value to the device.
Battery
The Fusion is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 33W wired charging. Despite its large capacity, the battery is not hot-swappable, but it can be replaced with basic tools and adhesive. This aligns with the phone’s user-friendly design philosophy.
In real-world use, the battery offers excellent endurance. Light gaming drains only a small percentage of power, and casual activities like streaming and browsing barely make a dent. For most users, the device can comfortably last an entire day on a single charge.
Fast charging support is a major advantage, allowing users to regain significant power in a short time. This feature makes the Fusion a reliable choice for those with busy lifestyles who can’t afford prolonged charging sessions.
Final Thoughts
The HMD Fusion strikes a balance between affordability, repairability, and functionality. While it may not offer the best display or performance in its class, its sustainable design and user-replaceable components make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.
If you value durability and plan to keep your phone for years, the Fusion is a smart investment. However, for users who prioritize vibrant screens and top-tier performance, alternatives like the Motorola Moto G55 or Samsung Galaxy A35 may be more appealing. Ultimately, the Fusion stands out for its commitment to sustainability and longevity, carving a unique niche in today’s competitive market.
