Released around the same timeframe as Microsoft transitioned the Lumia brand, the 535 and 630 represent different priorities within the affordable Windows Phone segment. The 535 aimed for broader appeal with dual-SIM functionality, while the 630 focused on maximizing battery life and offering a slightly improved camera experience. This comparison dissects their key differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing longevity, the Nokia Lumia 630 is the clear winner. Its significantly superior 66-hour endurance rating outweighs the 535’s dual-SIM convenience. While both share a similar processor, the 630’s camera offers video recording, a feature absent on the 535.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - all versions |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - RM-1090 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - RM-976 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - RM-1092 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - RM-977 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2014, November. Released 2014, December | 2014, April. Released 2014, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 140.2 x 72.4 x 8.8 mm (5.52 x 2.85 x 0.35 in) | 129.5 x 66.7 x 9.2 mm, 78.5 cc (5.10 x 2.63 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Micro-SIM |
| Weight | 146 g (5.15 oz) | 134 g (4.73 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~220 ppi density) | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~221 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~67.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 4.5 inches, 54.3 cm2 (~62.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| | - | ClearBlack display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 (28 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 302 | Adreno 305 |
| OS | Microsoft Windows Phone 8.1 | Microsoft Windows Phone 8.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 8GB 512MB RAM |
| | eMMC 4.5 | eMMC 4.5 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 28mm (wide), 1/4.0", AF | 5 MP, 1/4.0", AF |
| Video | 480p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | - |
| | - | No |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, LE, aptX | 4.0, A2DP, LE/ aptX after WP8 Denim update |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, sensor core |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 78 h | Up to 58 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 336 h | Up to 600 h |
| Talk time | Up to 11 h (2G) / Up to 13 h (3G) | Up to 16 h 20 min (2G) / Up to 13 h 10 min (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1905 mAh, removable (BL-L4A) | Li-Ion 1830 mAh, removable (BL-5H) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Orange, green, white, black, gray, blue | Bright Orange, bright green, bright yellow, white, black |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR | 0.49 W/kg (head) 0.44 W/kg (body) | 1.52 W/kg (head) 1.25 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.60 W/kg (head) 0.55 W/kg (body) | 1.51 W/kg (head) 1.52 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality |
Noise -93.9dB / Crosstalk -94.2dB | - |
| Battery life | Endurance rating 44h | Endurance rating 66h |
| Camera |
Photo |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 771:1 (nominal), 2.056 (sunlight) |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 66dB / Noise 64dB / Ring 71dB |
Voice 68dB / Noise 65dB / Ring 75dB |
Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM
- Dual-SIM functionality for convenient multi-number management.
- More recent release date (potentially better software support at the time).
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Significantly shorter battery life compared to the Lumia 630.
- Camera limited to still photos – no video recording.
- Less powerful chipset (Snapdragon 200).
Nokia Lumia 630
- Exceptional battery life (66-hour endurance rating).
- Camera supports both photo and video recording.
- More efficient chipset (Snapdragon 400).
- Lacks dual-SIM functionality.
- Display specifications are basic.
- Older model (potentially limited software updates).
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a particularly impressive display. The Nokia Lumia 630, however, benefits from reported contrast ratios of 771:1 (nominal) and 2.056 (sunlight), suggesting better visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The Lumia 535’s display specifications are not provided, implying a more basic panel. Both likely utilize similar LCD technology common in this price bracket, meaning color accuracy and viewing angles will be limited.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia Lumia 630 edges out the 535 in camera capabilities by offering both photo *and* video recording. The 535 is limited to still photography. While both likely feature similar sensor sizes (given the market segment), the inclusion of video recording on the 630 adds significant versatility. Image quality will be comparable in good lighting conditions, but the 630’s ability to capture video provides a clear advantage for users who value multimedia creation.
Performance
Both the Lumia 535 and 630 are powered by a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU, but the key difference lies in the chipset. The 535 utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 200, while the 630 features the Snapdragon 400. While both are based on a 28nm process, the Snapdragon 400 offers a more efficient architecture and slightly improved GPU performance. This translates to marginally faster app loading times and smoother multitasking on the 630, though neither phone is a performance powerhouse. The impact will be most noticeable in more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery life is where the Nokia Lumia 630 truly shines. Its endurance rating of 66 hours is significantly higher than the Lumia 535’s 44 hours. This 50% increase in battery life is a substantial benefit for users who frequently travel, have limited access to charging, or simply prefer not to worry about running out of power. While both phones share a similar processor, the 630’s more efficient chipset and potentially optimized power management contribute to its superior endurance.
Buying Guide
Buy the Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM if you absolutely require dual-SIM functionality for managing multiple phone numbers or traveling internationally. Buy the Nokia Lumia 630 if you prioritize extended battery life, occasional video recording, and a slightly more versatile camera experience, making it ideal for users who are frequently away from power outlets or rely on their phone for capturing memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the difference between the Snapdragon 200 and 400 noticeable in everyday use?
While both processors are entry-level, the Snapdragon 400 in the Lumia 630 provides a smoother experience, particularly when multitasking or launching apps. The difference isn't dramatic, but it's perceptible, especially over the phone's lifespan as apps become more demanding.
❓ Does the Lumia 630’s longer battery life come at the cost of charging speed?
The provided data doesn't specify charging speeds. However, given the era and price point of these devices, neither phone is likely to support fast charging. The 630’s longer battery life simply means you’ll need to charge it less frequently, not that it charges slower when plugged in.
❓ If I travel frequently and need to use two SIM cards, is the Lumia 535 still worth considering despite the battery life disadvantage?
If dual-SIM functionality is a non-negotiable requirement, the Lumia 535 remains a viable option. However, be prepared to carry a power bank or charge the phone more often. The convenience of two SIMs needs to be weighed against the significantly reduced battery endurance.
