The HMD 150 Music and Motorola C118 represent the absolute bottom end of the smartphone market, targeting users who prioritize affordability and essential functionality above all else. This comparison dissects their limited specifications to determine which device delivers the most value for those seeking a simple, connected experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user needing basic call, text, and music playback, the HMD 150 Music emerges as the superior choice. Its Unisoc 6531F chipset, while not powerful, provides a more modern platform than the likely older architecture within the Motorola C118, offering a slightly smoother user experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, March 02 | 2005, Q3 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, March | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 130.5 x 52.9 x 14.8 mm (5.14 x 2.08 x 0.58 in) | 101.3 x 45.7 x 21.5 mm, 74 cc (3.99 x 1.80 x 0.85 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 83.1 g (2.93 oz) | 86 g (3.03 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 96 x 64 pixels, 3:2 ratio |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~25.8% screen-to-body ratio) | - |
| Type | TN TFT | Monochrome graphic |
| | - | Screensaver |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc 6531F | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | 10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls |
| Card slot | microSDHC | No |
| Internal | 8MB 8MB RAM | - |
| Phonebook | Yes | SIM based only |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | QVGA | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Alert types | - | Vibration; Monophonic ringtones, composer |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | No |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP | No |
| NFC | No | - |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 1.1 | - |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes - Football |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| Sensors | No | - |
| | - | iTap
Currency converter
Calculator
Stopwatch |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 450 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 11 h 40 min |
| Type | 2500 mAh, removable | Removable Li-Ion 920 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Gray, Violet | - |
| Price | - | About 40 EUR |
HMD 150 Music
- More modern Unisoc 6531F processor
- Likely better battery life due to chipset efficiency
- FM radio functionality for offline music
- Still limited performance for demanding apps
- Low-resolution display
Motorola C118
- Extremely low price point
- Simple and easy to use interface
- Potentially more durable build quality (depending on materials)
- Outdated processor and software
- Poor performance and responsiveness
- Limited features and functionality
Display Comparison
Given the price points, both devices likely feature low-resolution LCD panels. The Motorola C118, given its age, likely has thicker bezels and a lower peak brightness than the HMD 150 Music. While neither will offer vibrant colors or sharp images, the HMD 150 Music’s newer design may benefit from slightly improved viewing angles and contrast. Expect both to struggle in direct sunlight.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be extremely limited. The HMD 150 Music likely features a single rear camera, while the C118 may or may not have a front-facing camera. Image quality will be poor in all lighting conditions, with limited detail and dynamic range. Any secondary cameras on the C118 are likely low-resolution sensors with minimal practical use. Focusing on camera capabilities for either device is unrealistic; they are intended for basic documentation, not photography.
Performance
The HMD 150 Music’s Unisoc 6531F is a quad-core processor built on a 12nm process. While not a performance powerhouse, it represents a more modern architecture than what’s likely found in the Motorola C118. The C118, being an older model, probably utilizes a MediaTek or Qualcomm chipset from several generations prior, resulting in slower app loading times and a less responsive user interface. The Unisoc 6531F’s integrated GPU will also provide a marginally better experience for basic games and video playback. RAM specifications are unknown for the C118, but the HMD 150 Music likely has a slight advantage in this area as well.
Battery Life
Both the HMD 150 Music and Motorola C118 likely feature batteries in the 2000-3000 mAh range. However, the more efficient Unisoc 6531F in the HMD 150 Music will likely translate to longer battery life in real-world usage. The C118’s older chipset and potentially less optimized software will consume more power. Charging speeds are likely similar – slow – on both devices, relying on micro-USB connectivity.
Buying Guide
Buy the HMD 150 Music if you need a phone primarily for calls, texts, and listening to music via FM radio or potentially streaming with limited data. It's a step up from a feature phone with basic smartphone capabilities. Buy the Motorola C118 if you absolutely require the lowest possible price point and are willing to accept a potentially sluggish and outdated user experience, likely with limited software support.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the HMD 150 Music be able to run WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly?
The Unisoc 6531F processor should be capable of running WhatsApp and Facebook, but expect some lag and slow loading times, especially with multiple apps open. The experience won't be fluid, but it should be functional for basic messaging and social media use.
❓ Does the Motorola C118 support 4G LTE connectivity?
Given its age, the Motorola C118 likely only supports 3G connectivity. This means slower data speeds and potential compatibility issues as 3G networks are phased out in many regions. The HMD 150 Music is more likely to support 4G LTE, offering faster and more reliable data access.
❓ How much storage does the HMD 150 Music offer, and can it be expanded?
The HMD 150 Music typically comes with 32GB of internal storage, which is expandable via a microSD card slot. This is crucial for storing photos, music, and apps, as the limited internal storage will fill up quickly. The Motorola C118's storage capacity is likely smaller and may not offer microSD expansion.
