The BLU Studio X10L and Nokia C100 represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting users who prioritize affordability above all else. Both devices aim to deliver basic smartphone functionality at a price point that’s accessible to almost anyone. This comparison dissects their key differences to determine which offers the best value for the money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a functional, if basic, smartphone experience, the Nokia C100 emerges as the slightly better choice. Its Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, built on a more efficient 12nm process, provides a noticeable performance advantage over the BLU Studio X10L’s older Cortex-A53, translating to smoother multitasking and app loading.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 41, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, August. Released 2020, August | 2022, January 05 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, Q2 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 142.9 x 73.1 x 9.9 mm (5.63 x 2.88 x 0.39 in) | 149.6 x 71.9 x 9.7 mm (5.89 x 2.83 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 152 g (5.36 oz) | - |
| | - | Splash protection |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~196 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~65.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~71.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T820 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 2000 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gray, Blue, Red, Green | Blue |
| Models | - | TA-1484, TA-1520, N152DL |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 50 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.03 W/kg (head) 1.35 W/kg (body) |
BLU Studio X10L
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Compact form factor
- Older, less efficient processor
- Slower performance in demanding tasks
- Likely limited software updates
Nokia C100
- More efficient Mediatek Helio A22 chipset
- Slightly better performance and responsiveness
- Potentially longer battery life
- May be slightly more expensive
- Still limited in terms of overall performance
- Basic camera capabilities
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the price bracket, details like panel type (IPS is assumed for both) and resolution are likely similar, though not specified. The focus here is on processing power, as display quality is often a secondary concern for these devices. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a strong suit for either.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is expected to be minimal on both devices. Without sensor size or aperture information, it’s safe to assume both rely on basic sensors for capturing images. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely a marketing tactic, offering limited practical benefit due to the low resolution. Image processing will likely be basic, prioritizing speed over quality. Users should expect acceptable results in well-lit conditions, but poor performance in low light.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Nokia C100’s Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (2.0 GHz Cortex-A53) is a significant upgrade over the BLU Studio X10L’s quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53. The Helio A22’s 12nm manufacturing process is more efficient, leading to better thermal management and potentially sustained performance. While both utilize the Cortex-A53 architecture, the higher clock speed and process node give the Nokia C100 an edge in everyday tasks and app responsiveness. RAM configurations are unknown, but likely limited on both, further emphasizing the importance of chipset efficiency.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given the low-power chipsets and likely smaller screen sizes, both should offer at least a full day of moderate use. Charging wattage is also unknown, but likely limited to 5W or 10W, resulting in relatively slow charging times. The Helio A22’s efficiency in the Nokia C100 could translate to slightly longer battery life, offsetting any potential capacity differences.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU Studio X10L if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and are willing to compromise on performance. It’s suitable for very light users who primarily make calls and send texts. Buy the Nokia C100 if you prioritize a slightly more responsive user experience and appreciate the benefits of a newer, more efficient chipset, even if it means spending a little more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Nokia C100 struggle with popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp?
While the Nokia C100 won't offer a blazing-fast experience, the Helio A22 chipset should be sufficient for basic usage of Facebook and WhatsApp. Expect some loading times and occasional lag, especially with multiple apps open simultaneously. The BLU Studio X10L will likely exhibit even more noticeable slowdowns.
❓ Is the Nokia C100 likely to receive Android updates?
Given its position in the ultra-budget segment, the Nokia C100 is unlikely to receive major Android version updates. However, Nokia typically provides security patches for a reasonable period, offering some level of protection against vulnerabilities. The BLU Studio X10L is even less likely to receive consistent software support.
❓ Can either of these phones handle basic mobile gaming?
Both phones can handle very basic 2D games, but don't expect to play demanding titles like PUBG or Call of Duty. The Helio A22 in the Nokia C100 will offer a slightly smoother experience for simpler games, but frame rates will still be limited.
