The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The itel A95 and Nokia C21 Plus represent two distinct approaches to delivering affordability. The itel A95 prioritizes raw processing power with its modern Mediatek Dimensity 6300 chipset, while the Nokia C21 Plus leans on brand recognition and a more conservative, efficiency-focused Unisoc SC9863A. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance and future-proofing, the itel A95 is the clear winner. Its Dimensity 6300 chipset offers a substantial leap in processing power over the Nokia C21 Plus’s Unisoc SC9863A. However, the Nokia C21 Plus may appeal to those seeking a more familiar brand and potentially longer software support.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 38, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, April 17 | 2022, February 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, April | Available. Released 2022, April 29 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | - | 164.8 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm (6.49 x 2.99 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 178 g or 191 g (6.28 oz) |
| | - | Splash protection |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Panda Glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~265 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.67 inches, 106.9 cm2 | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 14, itel OS 14 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 5 MP |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.2, A2DP |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 4000/5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Calx Titanium, Black, Green | Dark Cyan, Warm Gray |
| Models | - | TA-1433, TA-1431, TA-1426, TA-1424 |
| Price | ₹ 10,265 | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | 1.12 W/kg (head) 0.79 W/kg (body) | 0.57 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
itel A95
- Significantly faster processor for smoother performance
- Faster 18W wired charging
- More efficient 6nm chipset for potentially better battery life
- Brand recognition is lower than Nokia
- Software update support may be less consistent
Nokia C21 Plus
- Established brand reputation for reliability
- Potentially better software update support
- Lower price point (potentially)
- Significantly slower processor
- Slower 10W wired charging
- Less efficient chipset leading to potential throttling
Display Comparison
Neither itel nor Nokia provide display specifications beyond the basic resolution. However, the chipset difference suggests a disparity in display capabilities. The itel A95’s Dimensity 6300 is capable of driving higher refresh rate panels, hinting at a potentially smoother visual experience, even if the panel itself isn’t high-end. The Nokia C21 Plus, with its older Unisoc chipset, is likely limited to a standard 60Hz display. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices given their price point, and color accuracy will likely be average.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. However, given the price bracket, both phones likely feature basic camera setups. The focus should be on image processing capabilities, which are tied to the chipset. The itel A95’s Dimensity 6300 has a more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) enabling better noise reduction and dynamic range. Expect the Nokia C21 Plus to produce adequate images in good lighting conditions, but struggle in low-light scenarios. Any 2MP macro or depth sensors on either device should be considered marketing features rather than significant photographic tools.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The itel A95’s Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6nm) features a modern CPU configuration – 2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores – offering a substantial advantage over the Nokia C21 Plus’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm) with its 4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 and 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. The 6nm process node of the Dimensity 6300 also translates to improved power efficiency and reduced thermal throttling. This means the itel A95 will maintain higher sustained performance during demanding tasks. The older 28nm process of the Unisoc chip will struggle with sustained loads.
Battery Life
Both devices offer modest battery capacities, which are not specified. However, the itel A95’s 18W wired charging is a clear advantage over the Nokia C21 Plus’s 10W charging. While neither phone will offer exceptional battery life, the faster charging on the itel A95 will significantly reduce downtime. The more efficient 6nm Dimensity 6300 may also contribute to slightly better battery life during typical usage, offsetting any potential capacity differences.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel A95 if you need a smartphone capable of handling more demanding apps, multitasking, and light gaming without significant lag. It’s ideal for users who frequently stream videos or use social media. Buy the Nokia C21 Plus if you prioritize a well-known brand, potentially better software updates, and are primarily focused on basic smartphone functions like calls, texts, and light web browsing. It’s a good choice for first-time smartphone users or those on a very tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc SC9863A in the Nokia C21 Plus struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
While the Nokia C21 Plus can run these apps, the Unisoc SC9863A’s limited processing power may result in noticeable lag and slower loading times, especially with multiple apps open simultaneously. The itel A95’s Dimensity 6300 will provide a much smoother experience.
❓ Is the 18W charging on the itel A95 a significant improvement over the Nokia C21 Plus’s 10W charging?
Yes, it is. 18W charging will substantially reduce the time it takes to fully charge the itel A95, potentially shaving off an hour or more compared to the Nokia C21 Plus. This is particularly beneficial for users who rely heavily on their phone throughout the day.
❓ Does the itel A95’s processor allow for any playable gaming?
The Dimensity 6300 is capable of handling light to moderate gaming. While you won’t be playing demanding titles at maximum settings, games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile should be playable at lower settings with acceptable frame rates. The Nokia C21 Plus will struggle with even less demanding games.
