The Nokia 105 4G and the newer Nokia 106 4G (2023) represent the continuing demand for reliable, affordable mobile connectivity. Both phones target users needing basic communication features with the added benefit of 4G LTE. This comparison dissects the incremental changes between the two, focusing on usability and value within the ultra-budget segment.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a slightly more modern design and potentially improved radio performance, the Nokia 106 4G (2023) is the better choice. However, the Nokia 105 4G remains a viable option if found at a significantly lower price point, as core functionality remains largely consistent.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - LATAM | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20 - KSA, EG, SSA, Rest of APAC | 1, 3, 5, 8 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June 15 | 2023, May 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 15 | Available. Released 2023, May 18 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 121 x 50 x 14.5 mm (4.76 x 1.97 x 0.57 in) | 121.5 x 50 x 14.4 mm (4.78 x 1.97 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 80.2 g (2.82 oz) | 93 g (3.28 oz) |
| | 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 (~16.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~16.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 65K colors | IPS LCD |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | No | microSDHC |
| Internal | 48MB 128MB RAM | Unspecified storage |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Wireless FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| | MP3 player
Readout assist | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1020 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red | Charcoal, Ocean Blue |
| Models | TA-1393, TA-1385, TA-1381, TA-1378, TA-1375 | - |
| Price | About 40 EUR | About 30 EUR |
| SAR | 1.32 W/kg (head) 1.35 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 1.32 W/kg (head) 1.78 W/kg (body) | - |
Nokia 105 4G
- Potentially lower price point
- Proven reliability (established model)
- Long battery life
- Older design
- Potentially less efficient 4G radio
- Basic camera
Nokia 106 4G (2023)
- More modern design
- Potentially improved 4G performance
- Latest software optimizations
- May be slightly more expensive
- Basic camera
- Similar battery life to 105 4G
Display Comparison
Given the lack of detailed specifications, we can infer both devices utilize similar color displays, likely around 1.8-2.4 inches in size. The Nokia 106 4G (2023) likely benefits from minor improvements in display calibration, potentially offering slightly more accurate color reproduction. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both models, consistent with the feature phone form factor. The impact of these differences is minimal for the intended use case – basic call display and text messaging.
Camera Comparison
Both the Nokia 105 4G and 106 4G (2023) feature basic VGA cameras. Image quality will be extremely limited, suitable only for very basic snapshots in optimal lighting conditions. The cameras are primarily included for convenience rather than photographic excellence. Any differences in sensor quality or image processing are unlikely to be noticeable to the average user.
Performance
Both devices are powered by basic mobile chipsets designed for feature phone functionality. Performance differences will be negligible in terms of call handling, SMS messaging, and FM radio operation. The Nokia 106 4G (2023) may incorporate a slightly more efficient chipset, potentially leading to marginally improved battery life during 4G usage, but this is speculative without specific component details. RAM capacity is likely very limited on both, sufficient only for the core operating system and a few pre-installed applications.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to offer excellent battery life, potentially lasting several days on a single charge with moderate usage. The Nokia 105 4G typically features an 800mAh battery, and the 106 4G (2023) is expected to have a similar capacity. Charging times will be slow, utilizing a Micro-USB port. The real-world impact of any minor battery capacity differences will be minimal, as power consumption is primarily driven by 4G connectivity and call duration.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia 105 4G if you need the absolute lowest possible price for a 4G-enabled feature phone and are less concerned with aesthetic refinements. Buy the Nokia 106 4G (2023) if you prefer a more contemporary design, potentially improved call quality due to updated radio components, and access to the latest software optimizations within the Nokia feature phone ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Nokia 106 4G (2023) receive software updates?
While not comparable to smartphone updates, Nokia occasionally releases minor software updates for its feature phones to improve stability and security. The 106 4G (2023) is more likely to receive these updates than the older 105 4G, extending its lifespan and ensuring compatibility with evolving network standards.
❓ Can I use WhatsApp on either of these phones?
Yes, both the Nokia 105 4G and 106 4G (2023) support WhatsApp, but with limited functionality. You can send and receive text messages, but image and video sharing is restricted due to the limited processing power and storage capacity. The experience will be significantly different from using WhatsApp on a smartphone.
❓ What type of SIM card do these phones use?
Both the Nokia 105 4G and Nokia 106 4G (2023) support a single SIM card, utilizing a Mini-SIM (2FF) format. They also both support a MicroSD card for expandable storage, allowing you to store more contacts and media.
