The Nokia 105 has long been a champion of the affordable feature phone market, offering reliable communication at a budget-friendly price. But with a 2022 refresh, does the latest model offer enough improvement to justify an upgrade over the already popular 2019 version? Let's dive in.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 105 (2022) edges out the 2019 model thanks to its slightly improved battery life, FM radio enhancements, and a more modern chipset. However, the 2019 version remains a solid choice for those prioritizing simplicity and a proven track record.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, April 26 | 2019, July. Released 2019, September |
| 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) | 119 x 49.2 x 14.4 mm (4.69 x 1.94 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 (~113 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.77 inches, 9.7 cm2 (~16.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.77 inches, 9.7 cm2 (~16.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 65K colors | TFT LCD, 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 1.1 (charging only) |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 619 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 14 h 24 min |
| Type | Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Charcoal | Black, Blue, Pink |
| Models | TA-1464, TA-1435, TA-1203, TA-1174, TA-1037, TA-1010 | TA-1203, TA-1174, TA-1010, TA-1034 |
| Price | About 20 EUR | About 10 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
- Newer Chipset (MT6261D)
- Enhanced FM Radio
- Durable Build Quality
- Affordable Price
- Basic Functionality
- No Camera
- Small Display
Nokia 105 (2019)
- Simple and Easy to Use
- Extremely Long Standby Time (though less than 2022)
- Durable Build Quality
- Affordable Price
- Proven Reliability
- Older Chipset
- Less Efficient Battery
- Basic Functionality
- No Camera
- Small Display
Display Comparison
Both the 2019 and 2022 Nokia 105 feature a 2.4-inch QVGA display. While the resolution is identical, the 2022 model may have slightly improved color reproduction due to potential panel upgrades, though this is subtle. Both offer adequate visibility for text and basic icons.
Camera Comparison
Neither phone boasts a camera. They are designed for communication, not photography.
Performance
The 2022 Nokia 105 utilizes a Mediatek MT6261D chipset, a newer and slightly more efficient processor compared to the likely older chipset in the 2019 model. This translates to marginally smoother performance, especially when navigating menus and using the FM radio. However, both phones are primarily designed for basic tasks and won't handle demanding applications.
Battery Life
The Nokia 105 (2022) boasts a 1000mAh battery, offering up to 20.5 days of standby time, a noticeable improvement over the 2019 model's estimated 8-12 days. This is a key advantage for users who prioritize long battery life.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 105 (2022) is ideal for users seeking a dependable, long-lasting phone for calls and texts, with a bit more modern functionality. The 2019 Nokia 105 is perfect for those who want the absolute bare minimum – a simple, robust phone for emergencies or as a secondary device, and are happy with a slightly older design.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia 105 (2022) worth upgrading from the 2019 model?
If battery life is a priority, then yes. The 2022 model offers significantly longer standby time. Otherwise, the 2019 model remains a reliable and affordable option.
❓ Can I use the Nokia 105 as a secondary phone?
Absolutely! Both models are ideal as secondary phones for emergencies, travel, or for those who prefer a simple device alongside their smartphone.
