The sub-$150 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The itel Color Pro, powered by a modern Mediatek Dimensity 6080, enters the arena challenging established players like the Nokia C21 Plus, which relies on the older Unisoc SC9863A. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which device offers the best experience for budget-conscious consumers.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing performance and future-proofing, the itel Color Pro is the clear winner. Its significantly more powerful Dimensity 6080 chipset delivers a smoother experience for everyday tasks and even light gaming, while the faster 18W charging is a welcome addition. The Nokia C21 Plus remains a viable option for those seeking extreme affordability and basic functionality.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | LTE |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 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 | 2024, July 17 | 2022, February 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July | Available. Released 2022, April 29 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 8.4 mm thickness | 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 | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | 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 6080 (6 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 13, itel OS 13 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 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, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 5 MP |
| Video | 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 | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | 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 | River Blue, Lavender Fantasy | Dark Cyan, Warm Gray |
| Models | - | TA-1433, TA-1431, TA-1426, TA-1424 |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.57 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
itel Color Pro
- Significantly faster processor (Dimensity 6080)
- Faster 18W charging
- More efficient 6nm process
- Specific display details are unknown
- Long-term software support is uncertain
Nokia C21 Plus
- Extremely affordable price point
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Reliable brand reputation (Nokia)
- Slow Unisoc SC9863A processor
- Slow 10W charging
- Limited performance for demanding tasks
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. While specific display specs (resolution, panel type) are missing for both, the focus here is on the underlying performance. The more powerful chipset in the itel Color Pro will contribute to smoother scrolling and faster app loading, indirectly improving the perceived display experience. The Nokia C21 Plus, with its older processor, will likely exhibit more noticeable lag when navigating the UI.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is limited. However, the processing power of the Dimensity 6080 in the itel Color Pro will likely result in better image processing – faster capture times, improved noise reduction, and potentially more accurate colors. The Nokia C21 Plus’ Unisoc chipset will likely offer a more basic camera experience, with slower processing and less sophisticated image algorithms. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on the Nokia C21 Plus is unlikely to significantly enhance the photography experience, given its limited resolution and sensor size.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The itel Color Pro’s Mediatek Dimensity 6080, built on a 6nm process, is a substantial upgrade over the Nokia C21 Plus’ Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The Dimensity 6080’s octa-core configuration, featuring two high-performance Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.4 GHz, provides a considerable boost in CPU power compared to the C21 Plus’ four Cortex-A55 cores at 1.6 GHz and another four at 1.2 GHz. This translates to faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface. The 6nm process also implies better power efficiency, potentially leading to longer battery life despite the more powerful processor. The Unisoc SC9863A, while adequate for basic tasks, will struggle with demanding applications and multitasking.
Battery Life
The itel Color Pro’s 18W wired charging is a clear advantage over the Nokia C21 Plus’ 10W charging. While battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, the faster charging speed will significantly reduce the time spent tethered to a power outlet. A full charge on the itel Color Pro will be considerably quicker, offering more convenience for users. The Dimensity 6080’s 6nm process also contributes to better power efficiency, potentially offsetting any battery capacity difference.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel Color Pro if you need a phone capable of handling multitasking, streaming video, and occasional gaming without significant lag. It’s ideal for users who want a device that feels responsive and won’t become obsolete quickly. Buy the Nokia C21 Plus if you prioritize absolute affordability and only require a phone for basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media – and are willing to accept slower performance and limited capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the itel Color Pro handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Dimensity 6080 isn't a gaming powerhouse, it's capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty at medium settings with acceptable frame rates. Expect some occasional stuttering, especially in intense scenes. The Nokia C21 Plus will struggle significantly with these titles, likely requiring the lowest settings and still experiencing noticeable lag.
❓ How does the Unisoc SC9863A in the Nokia C21 Plus perform with multiple apps open simultaneously?
The Unisoc SC9863A has limited RAM management capabilities. Running multiple apps simultaneously will likely result in noticeable slowdowns and frequent app reloading. The Nokia C21 Plus is best suited for running one app at a time to maintain a smooth user experience.
❓ Is the 18W charging on the itel Color Pro a significant improvement over the 10W charging on the Nokia C21 Plus?
Yes, the 18W charging is a substantial improvement. It will reduce the time to fully charge the itel Color Pro by a significant margin, potentially cutting charging time in half compared to the Nokia C21 Plus. This is particularly beneficial for users who need to quickly top up their battery.
