The Nokia 105 has long been a champion of the affordable feature phone market, offering essential communication in a compact and durable package. But with a refreshed 2022 model, is it still the king? We're pitting the 2022 version against its 2017 predecessor to see which one offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 105 (2022) edges out the 2017 model thanks to its slightly improved battery life, FM radio enhancements, and a more modern chipset. While both are excellent budget options, the 2022 version offers a subtle but worthwhile upgrade for a minimal price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| | - | GSM 850 / 1900 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, April 26 | 2017, July. Released 2017, August |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 26 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 115.2 x 49.9 x 14.3 mm (4.54 x 1.96 x 0.56 in) | 112 x 49.5 x 14.4 mm (4.41 x 1.95 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | Single SIM (Mini-SIM) or Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 70 g (2.47 oz) | 73 g (2.57 oz) |
| | Flashlight | Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~113 ppi density) | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.77 inches, 9.7 cm2 (~16.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~18.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 65K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6261D | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4MB, 4MB RAM | 4MB 4MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Wireless FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 1.1 | microUSB 2.0 (charging only) |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Charcoal | Black, Blue, White |
| Models | TA-1464, TA-1435, TA-1203, TA-1174, TA-1037, TA-1010 | TA-1010 |
| Price | About 20 EUR | About 20 EUR |
| SAR | 1.20 W/kg (head) 0.79 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 1.50 W/kg (head) 1.38 W/kg (body) | 1.50 W/kg (head) 1.38 W/kg (body) |
Nokia 105 (2022)
- Improved Battery Life
- Slightly Faster Performance (MT6261D)
- Enhanced FM Radio
- Durable Design
- Affordable Price
- Basic Camera Quality
- Small Display
- Limited Functionality
Nokia 105 (2017)
- Extremely Affordable
- Durable Design
- Simple User Interface
- Long Standby Time (though less than 2022)
- Proven Reliability
- Basic Camera Quality
- Small Display
- Limited Functionality
- Potentially Slower Performance
Display Comparison
Both Nokia 105 models feature a small, basic 2.4-inch QVGA display. The 2022 model may have slightly improved color reproduction, but the difference is minimal and largely unnoticeable in everyday use. Both prioritize readability over visual fidelity.
Camera Comparison
Neither phone boasts a sophisticated camera. Both have a rudimentary VGA camera, primarily intended for novelty rather than serious photography. Image quality is expected to be very basic on both.
Performance
The 2022 model utilizes the Mediatek MT6261D chipset, a minor upgrade over the likely older chipset in the 2017 version. This translates to slightly snappier performance when navigating menus and using basic features, though neither phone is designed for demanding tasks. Both offer a simple, intuitive user experience.
Battery Life
The Nokia 105 (2022) boasts a 1000mAh battery, a noticeable improvement over the 2017 model's likely 900mAh battery. This results in longer talk time and standby time, a key advantage for users who rely on their phone for extended periods.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 105 (2022) is ideal for those seeking a reliable, ultra-affordable phone for calls and texts, with a bit more battery life and radio functionality. The 2017 Nokia 105 remains a fantastic choice for users prioritizing simplicity and a proven track record, especially if found at a significantly lower price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia 105 (2022) worth the upgrade from the 2017 model?
If you prioritize longer battery life and a slightly more responsive experience, the 2022 model is a worthwhile upgrade. However, if you find the 2017 model at a significantly lower price, it remains a solid choice.
❓ Can I use the Nokia 105 as a dedicated FM radio?
Yes, both models support FM radio, allowing you to listen to radio stations without needing an internet connection. The 2022 model may have slightly improved reception.
