In a market saturated with smartphones, the ultra-affordable feature phone remains a vital lifeline for many. We pit the HMD 110 against the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, two contenders vying for dominance in the sub-$50 segment. This comparison focuses on real-world usability, connectivity, and battery performance, as these are the key differentiators for this class of device.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing reliable connectivity and extended battery life, the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition emerges as the slightly stronger choice. Its established 4G support and Nokia's reputation for durability provide a degree of confidence the HMD 110, lacking detailed specifications, cannot match.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | LTE |
| EDGE | Yes | - |
| GPRS | Yes | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, June 25 | 2024, December |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 05 | Available. Released 2024, December |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 115.5 x 49.5 x 14 mm (4.55 x 1.95 x 0.55 in) | 121.5 x 50 x 14.4 mm (4.78 x 1.97 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 78 g (2.75 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 (~21.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~16.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 65K colors | IPS LCD |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | - | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDHC |
| Internal | 4 MB 4 MB RAM | 48MB 128MB RAM |
| Phonebook | - | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED | - |
| Single | VGA | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Wireless FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | - | Yes |
| Java | - | No |
| Messaging | - | SMS |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 1000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Green | Charcoal |
| Price | About 20 EUR | About 50 EUR |
HMD 110
- Potentially longer standby time due to lack of 4G
- Ultra-affordable price point
- Simple and easy to use interface
- Lack of detailed specifications
- No confirmed 4G connectivity
- Uncertain build quality
Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition
- Reliable 4G connectivity
- Established Nokia brand reputation
- Good battery life for a 4G feature phone
- Smaller battery capacity compared to potential HMD 110
- Basic display quality
- Limited functionality beyond calls and texts
Display Comparison
Given the lack of specific display data for the HMD 110, we can infer it likely utilizes a similar 1.8-inch TFT display common in this segment, mirroring the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition. The Nokia's display, while basic, benefits from Nokia's color calibration, potentially offering slightly more vibrant visuals. Neither device will offer high brightness or wide viewing angles, focusing instead on legibility under direct sunlight. The resolution on both is likely limited to 128x160 pixels, prioritizing battery life over pixel density.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is intended for photography. Both likely feature a VGA camera, suitable only for extremely basic image capture. Image quality will be poor in all lighting conditions. The presence of a camera is more of a marketing feature than a practical one, and users should not expect smartphone-level image quality. Focusing on the camera capabilities of either device is a misdirection of expectations.
Performance
Both devices are powered by basic MediaTek chipsets designed for feature phone functionality. Performance differences will be negligible, limited to call handling, SMS messaging, and potentially basic FM radio. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition's inclusion of 4G connectivity necessitates a more capable modem, potentially drawing slightly more power but offering significantly faster data speeds where available. The HMD 110's processor likely prioritizes minimizing power consumption above all else.
Battery Life
The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition boasts a 1070mAh battery, while the HMD 110's battery capacity remains unspecified. However, given the HMD 110's lack of 4G connectivity, it's reasonable to assume it aims for comparable or slightly better battery life. Both devices should offer several days of standby time and hours of talk time. The Nokia's 4G capability will drain the battery faster when actively connected to a cellular network, but the convenience of faster data speeds may outweigh this concern for some users.
Buying Guide
Buy the HMD 110 if you need a basic, no-frills phone for occasional use and are comfortable with a potentially less refined user experience. Buy the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition if you prioritize reliable 4G connectivity for voice calls and messaging, and value a brand known for its robust build quality and software stability in the feature phone space.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition support VoLTE calling?
Yes, the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE) calling, ensuring compatibility with modern 4G networks and allowing for simultaneous voice and data usage. This is crucial as carriers phase out older 2G and 3G networks.
❓ Can I use WhatsApp on either the HMD 110 or Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition?
While technically possible to install a limited version of WhatsApp on the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, the experience will be severely restricted due to the limited processing power and memory. The HMD 110 is even less likely to support WhatsApp reliably. These phones are primarily designed for voice calls and SMS messaging.
❓ How durable is the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition compared to other feature phones?
Nokia has a long-standing reputation for building durable feature phones. The 105 4G 2nd Edition features a robust polycarbonate body designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. While not ruggedized, it's generally considered more durable than many competing ultra-budget models.
