In a market saturated with smartphones, the feature phone persists, offering unparalleled simplicity and battery life. We pit the Karbonn K101+ Media Champ against the Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015) – two contenders vying for the attention of users prioritizing core communication over complex features. This comparison focuses on build quality, usability, and longevity, given the limited publicly available specifications.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a reliable, no-frills phone for calls and texts, the Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015) likely holds a slight edge. Nokia’s reputation for build quality and software stability, even in entry-level devices, provides a degree of confidence absent in the Karbonn K101+ due to limited information.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012 | 2015, June. Released 2015, June |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 104 x 44.7 x 15.3 mm (4.09 x 1.76 x 0.60 in) | 108.5 x 45.5 x 14.1 mm (4.27 x 1.79 x 0.56 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 69 g (2.43 oz) | 69.6 g (2.47 oz) |
| | - | Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 128 x 160 pixels (~114 ppi density) | 128 x 128 pixels, 1:1 ratio (~129 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.8 inches, 10.2 cm2 (~21.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.4 inches, 6.3 cm2 (~12.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | No |
| Internal | - | 4MB RAM |
| Phonebook | 500 entries | 2000 contacts |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | No |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio, recording | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB 2.0 (charging only) |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | Yes | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| | - | Calculator
Reminders
Calendar
|
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 240 h | Up to 600 h |
| Talk time | Up to 5 h | Up to 15 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 800 mAh battery | Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Black/Red | Black, Cyan, White |
| Price | About 10 EUR | About 20 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.95 W/kg (head) | - |
Karbonn K101+ Media Champ
- Potentially lower price point
- Dual SIM functionality (assumed)
- May include FM radio (common in this segment)
- Limited brand recognition
- Unknown build quality
- Uncertain software support
Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015)
- Established brand reputation
- Durable build quality (typical of Nokia)
- Long battery life (800 mAh)
- Higher price compared to Karbonn (potentially)
- Basic feature set
- Small display size
Display Comparison
Given the lack of specific display details for the Karbonn K101+, we can infer both devices utilize low-resolution color displays typical of feature phones. The Nokia 105 (2015) features a 1.4-inch TFT display. While neither phone will offer vibrant visuals, Nokia’s display benefits from the company’s experience in optimizing readability in various lighting conditions. The Karbonn’s display quality is unknown, making it a potential weakness.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is marketed for its camera capabilities. Both likely feature a very low-resolution camera (VGA or similar) suitable only for basic snapshots. Image quality will be poor by modern standards. Focusing on camera performance is irrelevant in this segment; the primary function of both phones is communication, not photography.
Performance
Both phones operate on basic MediaTek chipsets designed for voice and text functionality. Performance differences will be negligible; neither device is capable of running demanding applications. The Nokia 105’s Series 30+ software is known for its efficiency, potentially offering a smoother user experience than any custom software the Karbonn K101+ might employ. RAM capacity is likely similar – sufficient for basic phone functions but limiting multitasking.
Battery Life
The Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015) boasts a 800 mAh battery, providing exceptional standby time – up to 35 days according to Nokia. The Karbonn K101+’s battery capacity is unknown, but it’s reasonable to expect a similar size, prioritizing long standby times. Given the limited functionality of both devices, battery life will be a significant strength, lasting days or even weeks on a single charge. The Nokia’s optimized software likely contributes to slightly better power efficiency.
Buying Guide
Buy the Karbonn K101+ Media Champ if you need a potentially cheaper option and are comfortable with a less established brand. Its appeal lies in its likely aggressive pricing within the ultra-budget segment. Buy the Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015) if you prioritize brand reliability, a potentially more durable build, and a known track record for basic functionality. The Nokia 105 is ideal for those needing a secondary phone or a device for emergency use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015) compatible with all carriers?
The Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015) supports GSM networks, which are widely used globally. However, compatibility depends on your carrier's specific frequency bands. It's crucial to check with your carrier to ensure the phone will work on their network, especially if you're in North America.
❓ Can I use a microSD card to expand storage on either phone?
The Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015) supports microSD card expansion up to 32GB, allowing you to store more contacts and messages. The Karbonn K101+’s microSD card support is unknown, but it’s likely to have similar functionality given its target market.
❓ How durable is the Nokia 105 Dual SIM (2015)?
Nokia is renowned for the durability of its feature phones. The 105 Dual SIM (2015) features a robust polycarbonate body designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. While not ruggedized, it's significantly more resilient than many smartphones.
❓ What kind of warranty does Karbonn offer on the K101+ Media Champ?
Warranty information for the Karbonn K101+ Media Champ is difficult to find. Typically, Indian brands offer a standard 1-year warranty, but it's essential to verify this with the retailer or Karbonn's customer support before purchasing.