Nokia 105 (2023) vs Nokia 106 (2018): The Ultimate Budget Phone Battle

Looking for a reliable, no-frills phone for calls and texts? The Nokia 105 and 106 are classic choices, but which one reigns supreme in 2023? We're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide.

Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Nokia 106 (2018) edges out the 105 (2023) due to its slightly more robust chipset and potentially better call quality. However, the 105 (2023) likely boasts improved durability and a more modern design, making it a close contest for budget-conscious users.

PHONES
Phone Names	Nokia 105 (2023)	Nokia 106 (2018)

Network
2G bands	GSM 900 / 1800	GSM 900 / 1800
EDGE	Yes	No
GPRS	Yes	No
Technology	GSM	GSM

Launch
Announced	2023, May 18	2018, November. Released 2018, November
Status	Available. Released 2023, May 18	Discontinued

Body
Build	-	Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame
Dimensions	115.1 x 49.4 x 14.5 mm (4.53 x 1.94 x 0.57 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	78.7 g (2.75 oz)	70.2 g (2.47 oz)
	Flashlight Splash resistant	Flashlight

Display
Resolution	120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density)	120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density)
Size	1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~17.6% 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

Memory
Call records	Yes	Yes
Card slot	No	No
Internal	Unspecified	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 1000 mAh	Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable

Misc
Colors	Red Terracotta, Cyan, Charcoal	Black
Models	-	TA-1114
Price	About 50 EUR	About 20 EUR
SAR EU	-	1.49 W/kg (head) 1.23 W/kg (body)

Camera
	No	No

Nokia 105 (2023)

Durable build
Long battery life
Modern design (likely)
FM Radio

Potentially weaker chipset
Limited features
No camera

Nokia 106 (2018)

Slightly better performance (MT6261D)
Long battery life
FM Radio
Affordable

Older design
Potentially less durable
Limited features
No camera

Display Comparison

Both phones feature small, basic LCD screens, likely around 1.8 inches. Expect similar resolution and color reproduction. The 105 (2023) might have a slightly improved screen coating for better visibility in sunlight.

Camera Comparison

Neither phone is expected to have a camera. These are ultra-budget devices focused on core communication features.

Performance

The Nokia 106 (2018) has a Mediatek MT6261D chipset, offering a small performance advantage over the likely simpler chipset in the 105 (2023). This translates to slightly snappier menu navigation and potentially faster call connection times.

Battery Life

Both phones are known for exceptional battery life. Expect several days of use on a single charge. The 105 (2023) may have a slightly larger battery capacity, but real-world usage will be similar.

Buying Guide

The Nokia 105 (2023) is ideal for first-time phone users, seniors, or anyone needing a simple, durable backup phone. The Nokia 106 (2018) is a good choice for those prioritizing slightly better performance and potentially clearer calls, even if it's a slightly older model.