The Lava Storm Lite and Nokia C01 Plus represent opposite ends of the ultra-budget smartphone spectrum. The Nokia C01 Plus aims for absolute affordability, while the Lava Storm Lite attempts to deliver a more modern experience with a significantly more powerful chipset. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Lava Storm Lite is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Dimensity 6400 chipset provides a substantial performance uplift over the Nokia C01 Plus’ Unisoc SC9863A, making it far more capable for everyday tasks and even light gaming. While the Nokia C01 Plus is cheaper, the performance compromise is too significant for all but the most basic users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - International |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 28 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, June 13 | 2021, June 08 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, June 19 | Available. Released 2021, June 28 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 168.8 x 78.1 x 8.3 mm (6.65 x 3.07 x 0.33 in) | 148 x 71.8 x 9.3 mm (5.83 x 2.83 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 196 g (6.91 oz) | 157 g (5.54 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.5 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6400 (6 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 15 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 50 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Astral Blue, Cosmic Titanium | Blue, Purple |
| Models | - | TA-1383, TA-1387, TA-1391 |
| Price | ₹ 8,499 | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.13 W/kg (head) 0.84 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.59 W/kg (head) 1.41 W/kg (body) |
Lava Storm Lite
- Significantly faster processor for smoother performance
- More power-efficient chipset for longer battery life
- Better image processing capabilities
- Potential for future software updates
- Likely higher price point
- May not have a significantly better display
Nokia C01 Plus
- Lowest possible price point
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Acceptable for basic communication tasks
- Potentially longer battery life due to less demanding processor (though less efficient)
- Very slow processor leading to lag and frustration
- Poor performance with multitasking and demanding apps
- Limited camera quality
- Likely limited software support
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the context data focuses on processing power, we can infer both likely utilize basic LCD panels. The Nokia C01 Plus, given its price point, likely features a lower resolution and narrower color gamut. The Lava Storm Lite, while also likely LCD, benefits from the processing power to potentially handle more efficient image processing. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, reflecting their budget nature. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a priority on either device.
Camera Comparison
Without specific camera specs beyond the chipsets, we can infer limited capabilities. Both phones likely feature basic camera setups geared towards casual snapshots. The Lava Storm Lite’s more powerful ISP (Image Signal Processor) within the Dimensity 6400 will likely result in better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions, even with similar sensors. Expect limited dynamic range and detail on both devices. Any macro camera present on either phone is likely a 2MP sensor and should be considered a novelty feature rather than a serious photography tool.
Performance
The performance gap is the defining characteristic of this comparison. The Lava Storm Lite’s Mediatek Dimensity 6400, built on a 6nm process, is a generational leap ahead of the Nokia C01 Plus’ Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The Dimensity 6400’s octa-core configuration, featuring two high-performance Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.5GHz, provides significantly faster processing speeds compared to the C01 Plus’ four Cortex-A55 cores at 1.6GHz and another four at 1.2GHz. This translates to smoother app launches, faster web browsing, and a more responsive user interface. The 6nm node also implies better thermal efficiency, reducing the likelihood of throttling during sustained workloads. The Unisoc SC9863A will struggle with even moderately demanding apps.
Battery Life
The context data only provides charging wattage (15W for Lava Storm Lite). Battery capacity is unknown for both. However, the Dimensity 6400’s superior power efficiency, stemming from its 6nm fabrication process, will likely result in longer battery life on the Lava Storm Lite, even if the Nokia C01 Plus has a slightly larger battery. The 15W charging on the Lava Storm Lite will provide a reasonable, though not rapid, recharge time. The Nokia C01 Plus likely charges at a slower rate, further extending the overall time to full charge.
Buying Guide
Buy the Lava Storm Lite if you need a smartphone that can handle multitasking, streaming video, and occasional gaming without significant lag. It’s ideal for users who want a responsive experience and future-proofing within a budget. Buy the Nokia C01 Plus if your primary needs are making calls, sending texts, and very light web browsing, and you prioritize the absolute lowest possible price point above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Lava Storm Lite be able to run popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Mediatek Dimensity 6400 is more than capable of handling social media apps without significant lag. The processor's Cortex-A76 cores provide the necessary processing power for a smooth and responsive experience, unlike the Unisoc SC9863A in the Nokia C01 Plus which may struggle with even basic app loading times.
❓ Is the Nokia C01 Plus a good choice for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
Yes, the Nokia C01 Plus is a viable option if your sole purpose is basic communication. Its Unisoc SC9863A chipset is sufficient for making calls, sending texts, and using simple contact apps. However, be prepared for a sluggish experience if you attempt to use more demanding features.
❓ Can I expect to play any games on the Lava Storm Lite?
The Lava Storm Lite can handle light gaming. While it won't run demanding titles at high settings, games like PUBG Mobile (at lower settings) and casual games should be playable. The Unisoc SC9863A in the Nokia C01 Plus is unlikely to provide a satisfactory gaming experience.
❓ What kind of software updates can I expect on the Nokia C01 Plus?
Given its ultra-budget nature, the Nokia C01 Plus is unlikely to receive frequent or long-term software updates. It may receive security patches for a limited time, but major Android version updates are improbable. The Lava Storm Lite, while also a budget device, may receive slightly more consistent updates due to Lava's growing presence in the market.
