The Alcatel 1 (2021) and Nokia C200 represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver basic connectivity and functionality at the lowest possible cost. However, despite similar price points, key differences in their underlying hardware – specifically the chipset – create a noticeable disparity in performance and efficiency. This comparison will dissect those differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing responsiveness and a slightly smoother experience, the Nokia C200 is the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio A22, built on a 12nm process, offers a performance advantage over the Alcatel 1 (2021)'s older 28nm Mediatek MT6739, despite both utilizing Cortex-A53 cores. The Nokia C200 also benefits from 10W charging, a feature absent from the Alcatel 1 (2021).
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 41, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE (2CA) |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June 25 | 2022, January 05 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 22 | Available. Released 2022, Q2 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 137.6 x 65.7 x 9.8 mm (5.42 x 2.59 x 0.39 in) | 156.5 x 73.1 x 8.8 mm (6.16 x 2.88 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 134 g (4.73 oz) | 172.5 g (6.10 oz) |
| | - | Splash protection |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Asahi Glass | - |
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~215 ppi density) | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 64.5 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.09 inches, 91.0 cm2 (~79.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.28 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 1/5.0", 1.12µm | 13 MP, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP, f/2.8 | 8 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 2000 mAh | Li-Ion 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Volcano Black, AI Aqua | Meteor Black |
| Models | - | TA-1437, TA-1510 |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 60 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.11 W/kg (head) 1.33 W/kg (body) |
alcatel 1 (2021)
- Potentially lower upfront cost.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Basic smartphone functionality.
- Outdated and inefficient chipset.
- Slow performance and lag.
- Likely slower charging.
- Poor battery life compared to the Nokia C200.
Nokia C200
- More efficient Mediatek Helio A22 chipset.
- Faster CPU clock speed (2.0 GHz).
- 10W wired charging support.
- Improved responsiveness and multitasking.
- Still limited performance overall.
- Basic camera capabilities.
- May be slightly more expensive than the Alcatel 1 (2021).
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the target market, both likely utilize basic IPS LCD panels with resolutions around 720p+. Without specific brightness or color gamut data, it's safe to assume both offer adequate, but unremarkable, viewing experiences. Bezels are likely substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. Color accuracy will be a secondary concern for users in this segment.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be limited. Both likely feature a primary camera around 5-8MP, and any additional sensors (often 2MP macro lenses) are largely marketing filler. Image quality will be acceptable in good lighting conditions, but expect significant noise and lack of detail in low light. The Alcatel 1 (2021) and Nokia C200 likely employ similar image processing algorithms, prioritizing speed over quality. Without specific aperture data, it's difficult to assess low-light capabilities, but neither is expected to excel.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Nokia C200’s Mediatek Helio A22 (MT6761), fabricated on a 12nm process, is significantly more efficient than the Alcatel 1 (2021)’s Mediatek MT6739 (28nm). While both CPUs feature quad-core Cortex-A53 cores, the A22’s higher clock speed (2.0 GHz vs 1.28 GHz) and more modern manufacturing process translate to faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. The 28nm process of the MT6739 will result in higher power consumption for similar tasks, impacting battery life. The A22's architecture allows for better sustained performance, avoiding the severe throttling that the MT6739 is prone to.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified, but both devices likely house batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range. However, the Nokia C200’s more efficient chipset will provide noticeably longer battery life. The inclusion of 10W wired charging on the Nokia C200 is a significant advantage, allowing for faster replenishment compared to the Alcatel 1 (2021), which likely relies on slower, less efficient charging methods. While neither phone will offer all-day battery life with heavy usage, the Nokia C200 will likely last longer on a single charge.
Buying Guide
Buy the Alcatel 1 (2021) if you absolutely need the lowest possible upfront cost and are willing to accept significantly slower performance and limited efficiency. It's suitable for very basic tasks like calls and light messaging. Buy the Nokia C200 if you prioritize a more responsive user experience, even for simple tasks, and appreciate the added convenience of 10W wired charging. It's a better all-around option for those seeking a functional, albeit basic, smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Nokia C200 handle basic social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the Nokia C200’s Mediatek Helio A22 chipset is sufficient for running basic social media applications like Facebook and WhatsApp. While it won’t offer a lag-free experience with multiple apps open simultaneously, it will provide a more responsive experience than the Alcatel 1 (2021) for these core tasks.
❓ Is the difference in chipset performance between the MT6739 and MT6761 noticeable in everyday use?
Absolutely. The MT6761’s 12nm process and higher clock speed result in a tangible improvement in responsiveness. App loading times will be faster, and the phone will feel less sluggish when switching between applications. The Alcatel 1 (2021)'s MT6739 will struggle with even moderate multitasking.
❓ Can either of these phones play modern mobile games?
Neither phone is well-suited for modern mobile gaming. While simple 2D games may be playable at low settings, demanding 3D titles will likely experience significant lag and frame rate drops. The MT6739 in the Alcatel 1 (2021) will struggle even more than the MT6761.
❓ Does the Nokia C200 support fast charging beyond 10W?
No, the Nokia C200 supports a maximum of 10W wired charging. While not 'fast' by modern standards, it's a significant improvement over the Alcatel 1 (2021), which likely has even slower charging capabilities.
