The 1020 offers a powerful 41 megapixel camera that for some maybe a point and shoot replacement. The camera offers powerful OIS (optical image stabilization) to allow for slower shutter speeds in low light conditions and smooth video. The camera has no optical zoom but with 41 megapixels and oversampling software, software zooming is much improved. Nokia also offers powerful manual controls and other camera applications to take advantage of the camera. One disadvantage of the 41 megapixels is the shot to shot time. In normal camera operation without burst mode the camera takes its time to save the image before you can take the next shot.

Although it is made out of plastic, the plastic is a high quality polycarbonate plastic. The weight adds to the premium feel.

The camera grip is a great accessory for the photography focused 1020. The case connects through Micro-USB and offers a tripod mount for shots with a slow shutter speed. The grip even has a built 1020 mAh battery to give the 1020 an extra 55 minutes of shooting time.

At first glance this 2,000 mAh battery is a bit unimpressive. Fortunately though the 1020 defies its specification and offers impressive battery life. Making it through the day should be no problem with normal usage. Although one disadvantage is the battery is non-removable. The optional camera grip with the battery expansion should be used for long days of photography.

A dual-core chip on a Windows Phone was flagship hardware until 2014 with the release of the 1520. The 1020 uses the somewhat outdated dual-core chip but because Windows Phone 8 is so well optimized and lightweight the 1020 handles all tasks with speed and smoothness.

The 4.5'' 1280 x 768 screen on the 1020 is an AMOLED display with 334 PPI. Viewing angles are excellent and blacks are very black. The 1020 also features Gorilla Glass 3 and Nokia's super sensitive technology. The display is very saturated but Nokia offers the Color Profile application for different tastes.