The HMD Key and Nokia 106 4G (2023) represent opposite ends of the smartphone spectrum – one a basic smartphone aiming for affordability, the other a feature phone with 4G connectivity. This comparison dissects their capabilities, focusing on where each device excels and who will benefit most from their respective strengths.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users needing smartphone functionality, the HMD Key is the clear winner due to its Unisoc SC9832E chipset and smartphone OS. However, the Nokia 106 4G (2023) is a compelling choice for those prioritizing extreme simplicity, long battery life, and a minimal feature set.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, January 02 | 2023, May 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, February | Available. Released 2023, May 18 |
| 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 | Unspecified storage |
| 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 | microUSB 2.0 |
| 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, Ocean Blue |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 30 EUR |
HMD Key
- Smartphone functionality with app support
- More powerful processor for basic tasks
- Better camera capabilities than a typical feature phone
- Shorter battery life compared to feature phones
- Lower performance than modern smartphones
- Limited storage capacity (likely)
Nokia 106 4G (2023)
- Exceptional battery life (days on a single charge)
- Extreme simplicity and ease of use
- Highly durable and reliable
- Limited functionality – no app support
- Basic camera with low image quality
- Small display with limited detail
Display Comparison
Given the Nokia 106 4G (2023) is a feature phone, detailed display specifications are unavailable. The HMD Key, being a smartphone, will inherently offer a larger and more detailed display, though likely with a lower resolution than flagship devices. The Key’s display will be crucial for app usability, while the Nokia 106 4G’s display will primarily show text and basic icons. We can assume the Nokia 106 4G will prioritize power efficiency over display quality.
Camera Comparison
Camera details for the Nokia 106 4G (2023) are scarce, but feature phones typically have very low-resolution cameras primarily for basic snapshots. The HMD Key, while not boasting a high-end camera, will offer a more capable imaging experience due to its smartphone platform. The image processing capabilities of the Unisoc SC9832E will likely surpass those of the Nokia 106 4G, resulting in better image quality, even in ideal conditions. The HMD Key allows for photo storage and sharing, features absent on the Nokia 106 4G.
Performance
The HMD Key’s Unisoc SC9832E, a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 processor, provides a significant performance advantage over the Nokia 106 4G (2023), which likely utilizes a very basic chipset designed solely for call and text functions. The Cortex-A53 architecture, while not cutting-edge, allows for basic app usage and web browsing on the HMD Key. The Nokia 106 4G’s performance will be limited to its feature phone operating system and core functionalities. The HMD Key’s chipset enables a smartphone experience, while the Nokia 106 4G focuses on reliability and simplicity.
Battery Life
The Nokia 106 4G (2023) is expected to have significantly longer battery life than the HMD Key. Feature phones are renowned for their multi-day battery performance due to their low-power components and simple operating systems. The HMD Key, with its smartphone OS and Unisoc SC9832E chipset, will require daily charging with moderate use. The HMD Key supports 10W wired charging, offering a reasonable recharge time, but the Nokia 106 4G’s longevity is its primary battery advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the HMD Key if you require smartphone apps, internet browsing, and basic multimedia capabilities. It’s suited for users transitioning from feature phones or needing a secondary, ultra-affordable device. Buy the Nokia 106 4G (2023) if you prioritize call and text functionality, exceptional battery life, and a durable, no-frills experience – ideal for those who rarely use data or apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the HMD Key suitable for running demanding apps like social media or video streaming?
The HMD Key’s Unisoc SC9832E processor is capable of running basic social media apps and low-resolution video streaming, but performance will be limited. Expect some lag and slower loading times, especially with multiple apps open simultaneously. It’s best suited for lightweight usage.
❓ How does the 4G connectivity on the Nokia 106 4G (2023) enhance its functionality?
The 4G connectivity on the Nokia 106 4G (2023) allows for faster internet access for basic web browsing and potentially using limited internet-based services offered through the phone’s interface. However, the small screen and limited processing power will restrict the overall browsing experience.
❓ What type of SIM card does each phone use?
Both the HMD Key and Nokia 106 4G (2023) are likely to use Micro-SIM cards, a common standard for budget devices. However, it's always best to confirm with the retailer or manufacturer before purchasing.
❓ Can I expand the storage on the HMD Key?
While not explicitly stated in the provided specs, many budget smartphones like the HMD Key include a microSD card slot for storage expansion. This is crucial for storing photos, videos, and apps, given the limited internal storage typically found in this price range.
