In the rapidly evolving smartphone landscape, the ultra-budget feature phone segment remains surprisingly relevant. We pit the Karbonn K1+ Stereo, emphasizing audio, against the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition, a stalwart of reliable connectivity, to determine which offers the best value for users prioritizing basic communication and extended battery life.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a dependable, long-lasting feature phone with 4G connectivity, the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition emerges as the slightly stronger choice. Its brand reputation for durability and software stability, coupled with 4G support, provides a more reassuring experience than the Karbonn K1+ Stereo, which relies heavily on its stereo speakers as a differentiator.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | LTE |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | Yes | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012 | 2024, December |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2024, December |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 109 x 44 x 14.4 mm (4.29 x 1.73 x 0.57 in) | 121.5 x 50 x 14.4 mm (4.78 x 1.97 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 78 g (2.75 oz) | 93 g (3.28 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 128 x 160 pixels (~116 ppi density) | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.77 inches, 9.9 cm2 (~20.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~16.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | IPS LCD |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC |
| Internal | - | 48MB 128MB RAM |
| Phonebook | 250 entries | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | USB Type-C |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | Yes | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 250 h | - |
| Talk time | Up to 5 h | - |
| Type | Li-Ion 1000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | White/Black, Black/Red | Charcoal |
| Price | About 30 EUR | About 50 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.85 W/kg (head) | - |
Karbonn K1+ Stereo
- Stereo speakers offer improved audio experience.
- Potentially lower price point.
- Dual SIM support for flexible connectivity.
- Less established brand reputation.
- Software optimization may be less refined.
Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition
- Reliable brand reputation for durability.
- Optimized software for smooth operation.
- 4G connectivity for voice and data.
- Single speaker limits audio quality.
- Potentially slightly higher price.
Display Comparison
Given the lack of detailed specifications, we can infer both devices utilize similar low-resolution color displays, likely around 1.8-2.4 inches. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition benefits from Nokia’s established display calibration, potentially offering slightly more accurate color reproduction, though both will prioritize legibility over visual fidelity. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both models, reflecting the focus on durability and cost reduction.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is intended for photography. Any camera present on either phone will be a very low-resolution sensor (likely VGA or 0.3MP) suitable only for basic image capture. Image quality will be poor in all lighting conditions, and these cameras should not be considered a significant feature. The absence of image stabilization or advanced features is expected.
Performance
Both phones are powered by basic MediaTek chipsets designed for feature phone functionality. Performance differences will be negligible, limited to call handling, SMS messaging, and basic FM radio operation. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition’s software optimization, a hallmark of Nokia’s feature phone line, likely results in a smoother user experience, even with similar hardware. RAM capacity is likely very limited on both, sufficient only for the intended tasks.
Battery Life
Both the Karbonn K1+ Stereo and Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition excel in battery life, offering days of standby time and hours of talk time on a single charge. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition typically boasts a slightly larger battery capacity (around 1000mAh) and optimized power management, potentially translating to marginally longer usage between charges. Charging times will be slow, utilizing micro-USB connectivity on both devices.
Buying Guide
Buy the Karbonn K1+ Stereo if you prioritize audio playback and frequently listen to music or radio without headphones. Its stereo speakers offer a noticeable advantage over the single speaker typically found in this segment. Buy the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition if you value reliability, a trusted brand, and consistent 4G connectivity for voice calls and basic data usage, prioritizing longevity and ease of use over enhanced audio features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition support VoLTE calling?
Yes, the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE), enabling high-definition voice calls and improved call quality on compatible 4G networks. This is a crucial feature as carriers increasingly phase out 2G and 3G networks.
❓ How effective are the stereo speakers on the Karbonn K1+ Stereo for hands-free calls?
While the stereo speakers on the Karbonn K1+ Stereo offer improved audio volume compared to a single speaker, their effectiveness for hands-free calls will be limited by the lack of noise cancellation technology. Expect adequate clarity in quiet environments, but performance will degrade in noisy surroundings.
❓ Can either phone connect to Wi-Fi?
Yes, both the Karbonn K1+ Stereo and the Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition support Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to connect to wireless networks for basic internet access and data usage, supplementing their 4G connection.
