The ultra-budget 4G phone segment is fiercely competitive, catering to users prioritizing connectivity and essential features over smartphone complexities. We pit the HMD 102 4G, powered by the Unisoc 8910 FF-S chipset, against the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, a mainstay in the affordable mobile space, to determine which offers the best value for basic communication and 4G access.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users needing a slight performance edge and a more modern chipset, the HMD 102 4G is the better choice. The Unisoc 8910 FF-S provides a smoother experience for basic apps and 4G browsing compared to the likely older architecture of the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, despite the lack of detailed specs for the latter.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, September 11 | 2024, December |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, September 11 | Available. Released 2024, December |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 118.2 x 50.2 x 14.3 mm (4.65 x 1.98 x 0.56 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 + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 84.2 g (2.96 oz) | 93 g (3.28 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~100 ppi density) | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~20.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~16.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc 8910 FF-S | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDHC |
| Internal | 24MB | 48MB 128MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | QVGA | - |
| Video | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2 | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Unspecified | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Blue, Red, Purple | Charcoal |
| Price | About 20 EUR | About 50 EUR |
HMD 102 4G
- More modern Unisoc 8910 FF-S chipset for smoother performance
- Likely better 4G connectivity and browsing speeds
- Potentially improved software experience
- Detailed specs are limited
- Camera quality will be basic
Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition
- Exceptional standby time and battery life
- Established brand reputation for durability
- Ultra-affordable price point
- Likely older and less powerful chipset
- Limited functionality and app support
Display Comparison
Detailed display specifications are unavailable for the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition. Given its market positioning, it likely features a basic color LCD with a low resolution. The HMD 102 4G also lacks detailed display specs, but being a slightly newer device, it may benefit from minor improvements in color reproduction or viewing angles. Both phones prioritize battery life over display quality, so expect limited brightness and narrow viewing angles on both.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is positioned as a photography powerhouse. Detailed camera specifications are unavailable for both. However, given the price point, both likely feature a very basic VGA or 2MP camera primarily intended for occasional snapshots. Image quality will be limited in both cases, and low-light performance will be poor. The focus here is on functionality, not photographic fidelity.
Performance
The HMD 102 4G’s Unisoc 8910 FF-S chipset represents a significant advantage. This chipset, while entry-level, offers a more modern architecture and improved processing power compared to the likely older chipset found in the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition. The Unisoc 8910 FF-S allows for smoother operation of basic applications like messaging and web browsing, and more reliable 4G connectivity. Without specific details on the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition’s processor, it’s reasonable to assume it will struggle with even moderately demanding tasks.
Battery Life
Both phones prioritize long battery life. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition has a reputation for exceptional standby time, likely due to its simple feature set and efficient chipset. The HMD 102 4G, while also offering good battery life, may see slightly reduced endurance due to the more powerful Unisoc 8910 FF-S. However, the faster 4G speeds on the HMD 102 4G could offset some of this difference during active usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the HMD 102 4G if you need a phone capable of handling slightly more demanding tasks like WhatsApp or basic web browsing with reasonable responsiveness. Buy the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition if you prioritize extreme simplicity, long standby time, and a well-established brand reputation for durability in the ultra-budget segment, and are content with minimal app functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the HMD 102 4G handle WhatsApp reliably?
The Unisoc 8910 FF-S chipset in the HMD 102 4G should provide a reasonably smooth experience with WhatsApp, allowing for text messaging, image sharing, and voice calls. However, expect some lag when loading large media files or participating in group chats with many participants.
❓ Is the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition a good choice for someone who rarely uses a phone?
Absolutely. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition excels in standby time and basic functionality, making it ideal for users who primarily need a phone for occasional calls and texts. Its simplicity and durability are key advantages for this use case.
❓ Can I use internet browsing on either of these phones?
Yes, both phones support 4G connectivity and basic web browsing. However, the experience will be limited by the small screen size, slow processors, and lack of advanced browser features. The HMD 102 4G will offer a slightly faster browsing experience due to its more modern chipset.
