The itel P65 and Nokia G21 represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both devices aim to deliver essential functionality at a low price point, but they take slightly different approaches. The itel P65 prioritizes a slightly faster processor, while the Nokia G21 focuses on a consistent user experience and a claimed long battery life. This comparison will dissect their key specifications to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the itel P65 emerges as the slightly better choice. Its Unisoc T615 chipset, featuring higher clocked Cortex-A75 cores, provides a noticeable performance edge over the Nokia G21’s T606. While both offer similar battery endurance, the itel’s faster charging is a practical benefit.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 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 | 2024, August 08 | 2022, February 14 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, August 08 | Available. Released 2022, February 15 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 165.9 x 77.3 x 7.9 mm (6.53 x 3.04 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 | 192.4 g (6.81 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~262 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~84.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T615 (12 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 14, itel OS 14 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 6GB 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/1.6, (wide)
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 | 8 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (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 | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (256/6GB model only) | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio, RDS |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | 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 | 18W wired, 40% in 30 min | 18W wired, PD3.0 |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cyber Blaze, Cyber Black, Cyber Titanium | Nordic Blue, Dusk |
| Models | P671L | TA-1418, TA-1477, TA-1415, TA-1405, TA-1404, TA-1412 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | 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) |
itel P65
- Faster processor for smoother performance
- Quicker charging speeds (40% in 30 mins)
- Potentially better multitasking capabilities
- Camera specifications are unknown
- Display brightness may be lower than Nokia G21
Nokia G21
- Brighter display for outdoor visibility
- Reliable battery endurance (126h)
- PD3.0 charging support
- Slower processor compared to itel P65
- Charging speed may be slower than itel P65
Display Comparison
Both the itel P65 and Nokia G21 feature displays with a 1631:1 contrast ratio, suggesting similar visual pop. However, the Nokia G21’s measured 500 nits of peak brightness provides a brighter viewing experience, particularly outdoors. While both lack high refresh rates, the Nokia G21’s brightness advantage makes it more usable in direct sunlight. Details regarding panel technology (IPS vs. VA) are missing, but given the price point, IPS is the likely candidate for both.
Camera Comparison
Both phones list 'Photo / Video' capabilities, but lack specific details regarding sensor size, aperture, or image processing. This suggests a focus on basic photography rather than high-quality imaging. The absence of information regarding Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) indicates that image stabilization will rely on software algorithms. Given the price bracket, expecting flagship-level camera performance is unrealistic; both will likely perform adequately in well-lit conditions but struggle in low light.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The itel P65 utilizes the Unisoc T615, boasting two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz, while the Nokia G21 features the Unisoc T606 with slightly slower 1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 cores. This clock speed difference, coupled with the identical Cortex-A55 efficiency core configuration, translates to a tangible performance advantage for the itel P65 in CPU-intensive tasks. Both devices likely share similar RAM configurations, and the absence of LPDDR5x suggests slower memory speeds, limiting overall system responsiveness. Thermal management is likely passive on both, meaning sustained performance will depend on efficient chipset design.
Battery Life
Both the itel P65 and Nokia G21 claim an endurance rating of 126 hours, indicating comparable battery life under typical usage. However, the itel P65 offers a faster charging solution, achieving 40% charge in 30 minutes with its 18W wired charging. The Nokia G21 also supports 18W charging with PD3.0, but the lack of specific charging time data suggests it may be slower to reach full charge. The practical benefit of the itel P65’s faster charging is a quicker top-up when time is limited.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel P65 if you prioritize responsiveness for everyday tasks and occasional gaming, and value faster charging speeds. This phone is ideal for users who frequently switch between apps or need a phone that doesn't feel sluggish. Buy the Nokia G21 if you prioritize a consistent, reliable experience and are less concerned with peak performance. The Nokia G21 is a solid choice for users who primarily use their phone for calls, messaging, and basic social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Unisoc T615 in the itel P65 struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Unisoc T615 can run PUBG Mobile, expect to play at lower graphics settings and frame rates to maintain a stable experience. The chipset isn't designed for high-end gaming, but it's capable of handling less demanding titles without issue. The Nokia G21's T606 will likely perform even less well in graphically intensive games.
❓ How does the 18W charging on the Nokia G21 compare to other phones with similar wattage?
While 18W charging is becoming standard in this price range, the Nokia G21’s inclusion of PD3.0 suggests it may offer slightly more efficient charging compared to basic 18W implementations. However, without specific 0-100% charging time data, it's difficult to quantify the difference. The itel P65's advertised 40% in 30 minutes provides a concrete benchmark.
❓ Are the cameras on either phone suitable for taking clear photos indoors?
Both the itel P65 and Nokia G21 will likely struggle with indoor photography, particularly in low-light conditions. The lack of OIS and detailed camera specifications suggests that image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing, which may introduce noise and artifacts. Expect acceptable results in well-lit indoor environments, but don't anticipate professional-quality photos.
