In the world of smartphones, it's easy to forget the enduring appeal of simple, reliable feature phones. The Nokia 105 (2022) and Nokia 106 (2018) are prime examples, offering essential communication at an unbeatable price. But which one is the better choice?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 105 (2022) edges out the 106 (2018) due to slightly improved battery life and a more modern design. Both are excellent budget options, but the 105 offers a bit more polish for a minimal price difference. Ultimately, both are fantastic for basic calling and texting.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, April 26 | 2018, November. Released 2018, November |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 26 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 115.2 x 49.9 x 14.3 mm (4.54 x 1.96 x 0.56 in) | 111.2 x 49.5 x 14.4 mm (4.38 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) | 70.2 g (2.47 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 (~18.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 65K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6261D | 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 | TBC |
| 35mm jack | Yes | TBC |
| 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 |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 504 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 16 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Charcoal | Black |
| Models | TA-1464, TA-1435, TA-1203, TA-1174, TA-1037, TA-1010 | TA-1114 |
| 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) | 1.49 W/kg (head) 1.23 W/kg (body) |
Nokia 105 (2022)
- Improved Battery Life
- Slightly More Modern Design
- FM Radio
- Dual SIM Support
- Long Standby Time
- No Camera
- Basic Display
- Limited Functionality
Nokia 106 (2018)
- Extremely Affordable
- Long Standby Time
- FM Radio
- Dual SIM Support
- Durable Build
- Older Design
- No Camera
- Basic Display
- Limited Functionality
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 1.8-inch QVGA (240 x 320) display. While the resolution is identical, the Nokia 105 (2022) may have a slightly improved screen coating for better visibility in sunlight. Color reproduction is basic on both.
Camera Comparison
Neither phone boasts a camera. This is standard for feature phones in this price range. The focus is on core communication features.
Performance
Powered by the same Mediatek MT6261D chipset, performance is virtually identical. Expect basic functionality – calling, texting, FM radio, and simple games. Neither phone is designed for demanding tasks.
Battery Life
The Nokia 105 (2022) boasts a 1000mAh battery, offering up to 20.5 days of standby time, a slight improvement over the Nokia 106 (2018)'s 1000mAh battery which offers up to 15.5 days of standby time. Actual usage will vary.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 105 (2022) is ideal for those seeking a reliable, ultra-affordable phone for calls and texts, or as a backup device. The Nokia 106 (2018) remains a solid choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize simplicity and a long-lasting battery, especially if found at a significantly lower price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones smartphones?
No, these are feature phones. They primarily focus on calling and texting, offering a simplified user experience compared to smartphones.
❓ Do these phones have internet access?
No, these phones do not have internet access. They are designed for basic communication and do not support data connections.
❓ What is the battery life like?
Both phones offer excellent battery life, with standby times exceeding 15 days. Actual usage will depend on call frequency and FM radio usage.
❓ Can I use two SIM cards?
Yes, both the Nokia 105 (2022) and Nokia 106 (2018) support dual SIM functionality.