The itel A04 and Nokia C20 Plus represent the absolute entry point into smartphone ownership. Both target first-time buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. However, a significant disparity in available specifications means the Nokia C20 Plus, with its Unisoc chipset, offers a more defined performance profile, while the itel A04 relies on brand recognition and potentially aggressive pricing.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing basic functionality and a slightly smoother experience, the Nokia C20 Plus is the better choice. Its Unisoc SC9863A chipset provides an octa-core CPU, offering a noticeable advantage over the likely quad-core configuration of the itel A04, despite the Nokia's slower 10W charging.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 29, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023 | 2021, June 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023 | Available. Released 2021, June 16 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | 165.4 x 75.9 x 9.4 mm (6.51 x 2.99 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 204.7 g (7.23 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~170 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.3 inches, 102.4 cm2 | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 8 MP
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | 4000 mAh | Li-Ion 4950 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Lake Cyan, Violet, Sandstone Black | Ocean Blue, Graphite black |
| Models | - | TA-1388, TA-1380 |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 90 EUR |
itel A04
- Potentially lower price point
- Brand recognition in certain markets
- Compact and lightweight design (likely)
- Likely weaker processor performance
- Limited specifications available
- Potentially lower build quality
Nokia C20 Plus
- Octa-core Unisoc SC9863A processor
- More responsive user experience
- Better multitasking capabilities
- Slow 10W charging
- Basic camera system
- Limited internal storage (likely)
Display Comparison
Without specific display details for the itel A04, a direct comparison is difficult. However, both devices likely utilize LCD panels given their price bracket. The Nokia C20 Plus’s display resolution is likely 720x1600 pixels, typical for this segment. The itel A04’s display quality will likely be a key differentiator, and a higher resolution or better color accuracy would be a significant advantage. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices is expected to be modest. Without specific camera specs for the itel A04, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison. The Nokia C20 Plus likely features a single 8MP main camera, sufficient for basic snapshots in good lighting conditions. Image processing will be limited, and low-light performance will be poor on both devices. Any additional cameras on either phone (often 2MP macro lenses) are unlikely to significantly improve image quality and should be considered a marketing feature rather than a functional benefit.
Performance
The Nokia C20 Plus’s Unisoc SC9863A chipset is the clear performance leader here. Its octa-core configuration, split between 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, provides a substantial advantage over the likely quad-core processor found in the itel A04. While neither chipset is designed for demanding tasks, the Nokia will handle app switching and basic multitasking more smoothly. The 28nm fabrication process of the Unisoc chip isn’t cutting-edge, but it’s a reasonable trade-off for cost. The itel A04’s performance will likely be limited to very basic operations.
Battery Life
Battery life will be heavily dependent on usage patterns for both devices. While specific battery capacities are unknown for the itel A04, both phones likely feature batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range. The Nokia C20 Plus supports 10W wired charging, which is relatively slow by modern standards, resulting in a longer 0-100% charge time. The itel A04’s charging speed is also likely to be similar, and potentially slower if it lacks dedicated fast-charging circuitry. Battery optimization through Android Go edition (likely present on both) will be crucial for maximizing runtime.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel A04 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price point and are comfortable with potentially limited performance. It's best suited for users who primarily make calls, send texts, and occasionally browse the web. Buy the Nokia C20 Plus if you prefer a more responsive user experience, even for basic tasks, and appreciate the benefits of an octa-core processor for multitasking and app loading times. It's ideal for users who want a phone that feels a little more future-proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Unisoc SC9863A chipset in the Nokia C20 Plus capable of running popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc SC9863A is sufficient for running lightweight apps like WhatsApp and Facebook without significant lag. Its octa-core configuration provides enough processing power for these common tasks, although multitasking with several apps open simultaneously may result in some slowdown.
❓ Does the Nokia C20 Plus support 4G LTE connectivity for faster internet speeds?
Yes, the Nokia C20 Plus does support 4G LTE connectivity, allowing for faster internet speeds compared to 3G networks. This is crucial for browsing the web, streaming videos, and using social media apps on the go.
❓ What version of Android does the Nokia C20 Plus run, and will it receive software updates?
The Nokia C20 Plus runs Android Go edition, a lightweight version of Android designed for devices with limited resources. While major Android version updates are unlikely, Nokia typically provides security updates for a limited period, enhancing the device's security.
❓ Is the itel A04 a good choice for someone who primarily needs a phone for making calls and sending texts?
Yes, the itel A04 is a viable option for basic communication needs. If your primary use case is making calls and sending texts, and you're looking for the absolute lowest price, the itel A04 could suffice. However, be prepared for potentially limited performance and a less responsive user experience.
