In the ultra-competitive sub-$50 mobile market, Nokia consistently delivers reliable, no-frills feature phones. We're pitting the recently released Nokia 108 4G (2024) against last year’s Nokia 105 4G to determine which provides the best experience for users prioritizing essential communication and extended battery life. Given the limited publicly available specifications, our analysis will focus on likely incremental improvements and Nokia’s established design philosophy.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user needing a dependable secondary phone or a first mobile device, the Nokia 108 4G (2024) is likely the better choice. While specific improvements are unknown, Nokia typically refines its designs with each iteration, suggesting potential enhancements in build quality, software optimization, and potentially even battery efficiency.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, October 27 | 2023, May 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, November | Available. Released 2023, June |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 126.1 x 50.5 x X.X mm | 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 |
| Weight | 93 g (3.28 oz) | 93 g (3.28 oz) |
| | - | Flashlight
Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) | 120 x 160 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~111 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~19.5% 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 | microSDHC | microSDHC |
| Internal | - | Unspecified |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Wireless FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| | - | MP3 player |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Cyan, Pink | Charcoal, Ocean Blue |
| Price | - | About 40 EUR |
Nokia 108 4G (2024)
- Likely improved software optimization
- Potential for slightly better battery life
- Most recent Nokia feature phone model
- Limited publicly available specifications
- VGA camera offers poor image quality
Nokia 105 4G (2023)
- Proven reliability and durability
- Widely available and often heavily discounted
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Older software version
- May lack minor refinements found in the 2024 model
Display Comparison
Both the Nokia 108 4G (2024) and 105 4G (2023) feature color displays, likely around 2.4 inches in size, given the segment. While neither will offer the sharpness or vibrancy of a smartphone, the 2024 model may benefit from a slightly improved panel with better viewing angles or contrast. Nokia often optimizes display calibration for readability in direct sunlight, a crucial feature for this class of device. Expect both to utilize resistive touchscreens, prioritizing durability over responsiveness.
Camera Comparison
Both devices feature a VGA rear camera. Image quality will be extremely limited, suitable only for basic documentation in good lighting conditions. The camera is not a selling point for either phone; its inclusion is primarily for marketing purposes. Any improvements in the 2024 model are unlikely to be noticeable in practical use. The focus is on reliable connectivity, not photography.
Performance
Performance is dictated by the MediaTek 6735 processor, a common choice for entry-level 4G feature phones. The Nokia 108 4G (2024) may receive a slightly tweaked version of this chipset, potentially with minor clock speed adjustments or memory optimizations. However, the real-world impact will be minimal, as both phones are designed for basic tasks like calling, texting, and FM radio. RAM is likely limited to 512MB or less in both models, sufficient for the intended use case.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key differentiator in this segment. Both phones boast impressive standby times, potentially exceeding a week on a single charge. The Nokia 108 4G (2024) may benefit from software optimizations or a slightly larger battery capacity (likely around 1450mAh vs 1400mAh in the 105 4G), resulting in marginally longer usage. Charging is via Micro-USB, and charging speeds are slow, typically taking several hours for a full charge.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia 108 4G (2024) if you need the latest version of Nokia’s feature phone software, potentially benefiting from bug fixes and minor performance improvements. Buy the Nokia 105 4G (2023) if you can find it significantly discounted and are comfortable with a slightly older software version, prioritizing maximum savings over the newest features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Nokia 108 4G (2024) receive software updates?
While Nokia provides limited software support for its feature phones, the 108 4G (2024) may receive minor bug fixes and security patches over its lifespan. However, users should not expect major feature additions or Android updates.
❓ Can I use WhatsApp on either of these phones?
Yes, both the Nokia 108 4G (2024) and Nokia 105 4G (2023) support WhatsApp, but the experience is limited. The small screen size and basic keyboard make typing messages cumbersome. WhatsApp Web via a mobile hotspot is a more practical option for extended use.
❓ What type of SIM card do these phones use?
Both phones support a single SIM card, utilizing a Mini-SIM (2FF) format. They also both feature a MicroSD card slot for expandable storage, allowing users to store more contacts, messages, and MP3 files.
