The Cat B40 and Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition represent opposite ends of the feature phone spectrum. The Cat B40 aims for durability and a slightly more modern experience with its Unisoc T117 chipset, while the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition focuses on providing the most basic connectivity at an extremely affordable price. This comparison dissects their differences to help you determine which best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users needing a reliable, durable phone with basic smartphone-like functionality, the Cat B40 is the clear winner. Its Unisoc T117 chipset provides a noticeable performance advantage over the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, even if both are limited in overall capability. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition remains a viable option for those prioritizing absolute minimal cost and longest possible standby time.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, April 20 | 2024, December |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, April 20 | Available. Released 2024, December |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 145 x 62 x 18 mm (5.71 x 2.44 x 0.71 in) | 121.5 x 50 x 14.4 mm (4.78 x 1.97 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 157 g (5.54 oz) | 93 g (3.28 oz) |
| | IP69 dust/water resistant (up to 1.2m for 35 min)
MIL-STD-810H compliant
Drop-to-concrete resistance from up to 1.8m
Flashlight (100+ lumens)
Antimicrobial protection (silver ion-based) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~19.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~16.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc T117 | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSD | microSDHC |
| Internal | Unspecified | 48MB 128MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | No | Yes |
| Java | - | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| Sensors | Accelerometer | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1800 mAh | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Charcoal |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 50 EUR |
Cat B40
- More powerful Unisoc T117 processor
- 4G connectivity for faster data speeds
- Increased functionality with app support
- Higher price point than the Nokia 105 4G
- Battery life may be shorter than the Nokia 105 4G
Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition
- Extremely affordable price
- Exceptional standby time
- Simple and easy to use interface
- Limited functionality and processing power
- Slower data speeds (potentially 2G/3G only)
Display Comparison
Given the lack of detailed display specifications for the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, a direct comparison is limited. However, the Cat B40 likely features a larger display, benefiting from the processing power of the Unisoc T117 to render a more detailed interface. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, consistent with its market segment, likely utilizes a basic LCD panel focused on power efficiency rather than color accuracy or brightness. The Cat B40’s display, while not high-end, will offer a more comfortable experience for users engaging with apps or browsing the web.
Camera Comparison
Camera capabilities are minimal on both devices. While the Cat B40 may include a camera, its image quality will be basic. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition’s camera, if present, will likely be even more limited. Neither phone is intended for serious photography; their cameras serve primarily for quick snapshots. Focusing on sensor size or image processing is irrelevant given the expected low resolution and limited functionality of both cameras.
Performance
The Cat B40’s Unisoc T117 chipset is the defining performance differentiator. This quad-core processor, while not a powerhouse, provides a significant leap in processing capability compared to the likely single-core or very low-end processor found in the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking (within the limitations of the OS), and a more responsive user interface on the Cat B40. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition is designed for basic voice calls and SMS, and its processor is optimized for minimal power consumption, not performance. The Unisoc T117 also enables 4G connectivity on the Cat B40, offering faster data speeds than the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, assuming similar network support.
Battery Life
The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition likely boasts superior standby time due to its simpler hardware and less power-hungry processor. However, the Cat B40’s Unisoc T117, while consuming more power, allows for more frequent use of features like 4G data and apps. The Cat B40’s battery life will be adequate for a full day of moderate use, while the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition could potentially last for several days on a single charge with minimal usage. The trade-off is functionality versus longevity.
Buying Guide
Buy the Cat B40 if you need a phone that can withstand harsh conditions, require basic app functionality beyond calls and texts, or appreciate a slightly larger and more responsive display. Buy the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition if you prioritize extreme affordability, exceptionally long standby time, and only need a phone for essential voice communication and SMS messaging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Unisoc T117 in the Cat B40 powerful enough to run WhatsApp or Facebook?
Yes, the Unisoc T117 is capable of running lightweight apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, although performance will be basic. Expect slower loading times and occasional lag compared to a smartphone. It's sufficient for checking messages and occasional browsing, but not for demanding app usage.
❓ Does the Cat B40 support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) for clearer call quality?
The Cat B40, with its 4G connectivity and Unisoc T117 chipset, is *likely* to support VoLTE, but this depends on carrier compatibility. Check with your mobile provider to confirm VoLTE support for the Cat B40 on their network. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition may or may not support VoLTE, depending on the specific model and carrier.
❓ How durable is the Cat B40 compared to a standard feature phone?
The Cat B40 is designed to be significantly more durable than a standard feature phone. While specific ruggedization certifications aren't provided, the 'Cat' branding implies resistance to dust, water, and drops. It's built to withstand harsher conditions than the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, making it suitable for outdoor work or rugged environments.
