In a market saturated with expensive smartphones, the HMD Key and Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition represent a return to basics. We're comparing these two ultra-affordable devices, focusing on what matters most at this price point: reliable connectivity, ease of use, and essential features. The HMD Key attempts to bridge the gap between feature phone and smartphone, while the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition remains a steadfastly traditional offering.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users needing basic smartphone functionality like WhatsApp and occasional web browsing, the HMD Key is the clear winner. Its Unisoc SC9832E chipset provides a significantly more responsive experience than the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, despite the latter's focus on extended battery life. However, if pure simplicity and maximum standby time are paramount, the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition remains a viable option.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, January 02 | 2024, December |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, February | Available. Released 2024, December |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 166.4 x 76.9 x 9 mm (6.55 x 3.03 x 0.35 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 | 185.4 g (6.53 oz) | 93 g (3.28 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 576 x 1280 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~215 ppi density) | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~80.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~16.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 460 nits (peak) | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 | - |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9832E | - |
| GPU | Mali-820MP1 | - |
| OS | Android 14 (Go edition) | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | - | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDHC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 48MB 128MB RAM |
| Phonebook | - | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama | - |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide), AF | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GALILEO | No |
| Radio | FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | - | Yes |
| Java | - | No |
| Messaging | - | SMS |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | 4000 mAh | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue | Charcoal |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 50 EUR |
HMD Key
- Smartphone functionality (apps, web browsing)
- 4G connectivity for data
- Faster charging (10W)
- More responsive user experience
- Shorter battery life
- Limited processing power for demanding tasks
Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition
- Exceptional battery life (days of standby)
- Extreme simplicity and ease of use
- Durable and reliable
- Very affordable
- Limited functionality (calls and texts)
- No smartphone features
- Slow data speeds (dependent on 4G coverage)
Display Comparison
Detailed display specifications are unavailable for the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, but it's safe to assume a basic color display with limited resolution. The HMD Key, while also not boasting a high-end panel, benefits from being a smartphone, implying a larger screen size and potentially better viewing angles. The absence of detailed specs on the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition suggests a focus on minimizing power consumption rather than visual fidelity.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications are not available for either device. However, given the price point and target audience, it's reasonable to expect extremely basic camera capabilities on both. The HMD Key, being a smartphone, *may* include a camera, but image quality will likely be limited. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition likely forgoes a camera entirely to further reduce cost and complexity.
Performance
The HMD Key's Unisoc SC9832E, a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 processor, represents a substantial performance advantage over the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition. While the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition is likely powered by a simpler chipset designed for basic call and text functions, the HMD Key can handle lightweight apps like WhatsApp and basic web browsing. The Cortex-A53 architecture, though dated, provides a noticeable improvement in responsiveness for everyday tasks. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition prioritizes power efficiency over processing power.
Battery Life
The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition is renowned for its exceptional battery life, likely exceeding several days on a single charge due to its minimal power requirements. The HMD Key, with its more powerful processor and smartphone operating system, will have a shorter battery life, likely lasting a day or less with moderate use. The HMD Key's 10W wired charging offers a faster recharge time, but the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition's longer standby time may negate the need for frequent charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the HMD Key if you need a device capable of running modern apps, even if lightly, and require 4G connectivity for data. It's ideal for users transitioning from a traditional feature phone who want a taste of the smartphone experience. Buy the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition if you prioritize extreme simplicity, long battery life, and a durable, no-frills device primarily for calls and texts. It's perfect for those who need a reliable secondary phone or a device for emergency use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can the HMD Key run WhatsApp and Facebook?
Yes, the HMD Key's Unisoc SC9832E chipset and smartphone operating system allow it to run lightweight apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, although performance may be limited. Expect slower loading times and occasional lag compared to more powerful smartphones.
❓ How long will the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition last on a single charge?
The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition is known for its exceptional battery life. Users can expect several days, potentially even a week or more, of standby time and many hours of talk time on a single charge, thanks to its efficient hardware and minimal power consumption.
❓ Is the HMD Key a good option for someone upgrading from a traditional feature phone?
Yes, the HMD Key is an excellent entry point for users transitioning from a traditional feature phone. It offers basic smartphone functionality, 4G connectivity, and a familiar user interface, making it easier to learn than a more complex smartphone.
