The Honor X5c and Nokia G21 represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at a low price point, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The X5c prioritizes processing power with its Mediatek Helio G81, while the G21 focuses on longevity with its endurance-focused design and 18W charging.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Honor X5c emerges as the better choice. Its Helio G81 chipset offers a noticeable performance advantage over the Unisoc T606 in the Nokia G21, translating to smoother multitasking and a more responsive user experience. While both phones share similar battery endurance ratings, the X5c’s superior processing power provides a more versatile daily experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - International |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 28, 40, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, October 05 | 2022, February 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, October 05 | Available. Released 2022, February 15 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 167 x 77 x 7.9 mm (6.57 x 3.03 x 0.31 in) | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 186 g (6.56 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.74 inches, 109.7 cm2 (~85.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.7 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G81 (12 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 15, MagicOS 9 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | · 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF - LATAM only
· 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide) - MEA, SEA, AF, Eurasia
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio, RDS |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | 18W wired, PD3.0 |
| Type | Li-Po 5260 mAh | Li-Po 5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ocean Cyan, Midnight Black, Tidal Blue, Meteor Silver | Nordic Blue, Dusk |
| Models | - | TA-1418, TA-1477, TA-1415, TA-1405, TA-1404, TA-1412 |
| Price | - | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.00 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.34 W/kg (head) 1.05 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life | - |
Endurance rating 126h
|
| Camera | - |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 1631:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
-30.7 LUFS (Below average)
|
| Performance | - |
AnTuTu: 171299 (v9)
GeekBench: 1193 (v5.1)
GFXBench: 8.9fps (ES 3.1 onscreen) |
Honor X5c
- Stronger processor for smoother performance
- More responsive user experience
- Better suited for gaming and multitasking
- Slower charging speed (15W)
- Likely lower outdoor visibility compared to G21
Nokia G21
- Excellent battery endurance
- Faster charging with PD3.0 support
- Higher peak brightness for outdoor use
- Weaker processor for demanding tasks
- Less responsive user experience
Display Comparison
Both the Honor X5c and Nokia G21 feature displays with a 1631:1 contrast ratio, suggesting similar visual characteristics in terms of black levels and color depth. However, the Nokia G21’s measured 500 nits of maximum brightness gives it a clear advantage in outdoor visibility. While both manufacturers state the same contrast ratio, real-world performance will likely differ due to panel quality and calibration. The lack of information regarding panel type (IPS vs. VA) for either device makes a detailed color accuracy assessment impossible, but both are likely to be adequate for casual use.
Camera Comparison
Both phones offer 'Photo / Video' capabilities, but lack specific details regarding sensor size, aperture, or image processing features. This suggests both are likely to rely on software algorithms to enhance image quality. Without further information, it’s difficult to assess the camera performance of either device. The absence of details regarding OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) suggests that both phones will struggle in low-light conditions. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera on either device is unlikely to provide significant photographic value.
Performance
The Honor X5c’s Mediatek Helio G81 chipset, with its two 2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 cores and six 1.7 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, offers a significant performance edge over the Nokia G21’s Unisoc T606. The T606’s slightly lower clock speeds (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) translate to slower application loading times and less fluid multitasking. While both chipsets are built on a 12nm process, the Helio G81’s architecture is more optimized for sustained performance. The G21’s Unisoc T606 is adequate for basic tasks, but the X5c will handle more demanding applications and games with greater ease.
Battery Life
Both the Honor X5c and Nokia G21 boast an endurance rating of 126 hours, indicating comparable battery life under similar usage conditions. However, the Nokia G21’s 18W wired charging with PD3.0 support offers a faster and more versatile charging experience compared to the Honor X5c’s 15W charging. PD3.0 allows the G21 to potentially charge with a wider range of chargers and adapt to optimal charging speeds. While the battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, the similar endurance ratings suggest comparable capacities.
Buying Guide
Buy the Honor X5c if you need a phone that can handle everyday tasks with relative ease, including social media, streaming, and light gaming. Its stronger processor makes it ideal for users who prioritize responsiveness. Buy the Nokia G21 if you prioritize long-term battery life and a simple, reliable experience. It’s a good fit for users who primarily need a phone for calls, texts, and basic app usage, and appreciate the inclusion of PD3.0 charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc T606 in the Nokia G21 struggle with graphically intensive games like PUBG Mobile?
Yes, the Unisoc T606 is a relatively low-end chipset. While it can run PUBG Mobile, you'll likely need to use low graphics settings and may experience frame drops, especially during intense firefights. The Honor X5c’s Helio G81 will provide a significantly smoother gaming experience.
❓ Does the Honor X5c support fast charging protocols beyond the standard 15W?
Unfortunately, there's no indication that the Honor X5c supports any fast charging protocols beyond the standard 15W. While it will charge, it won't be as quick as the Nokia G21's 18W PD3.0 charging.
❓ How does the software experience differ between the Honor X5c and Nokia G21?
The Honor X5c likely runs Magic UI, Honor’s custom Android skin, which may include pre-installed apps and a different user interface compared to the Nokia G21. Nokia typically offers a cleaner, near-stock Android experience with a commitment to software updates, which is a key differentiator for users who prefer a bloatware-free experience.
❓ Is the lack of detailed camera specs a concern for both phones?
Yes, the limited camera information is a significant drawback. It suggests that neither phone is particularly focused on photography. Expect adequate results in good lighting conditions, but performance will likely suffer in low light. Don't expect flagship-level image quality from either device.
