Nokia 130 (2017) vs Nokia 106 (2018): A Budget Phone Showdown

In the world of smartphones, it's easy to overlook the humble feature phone. But for those seeking simplicity, affordability, and incredible battery life, the Nokia 130 (2017) and Nokia 106 (2018) are compelling options. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to see which one reigns supreme.

Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Nokia 106 (2018) edges out the Nokia 130 (2017) thanks to its slightly more powerful chipset and improved audio. Both offer exceptional battery life and durability, making them ideal for basic communication and those seeking a reliable backup phone. Ultimately, the 106 provides a bit more functionality for a similar price.

PHONES
Phone Names	Nokia 130 (2017)	Nokia 106 (2018)

Network
2G bands	GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only)	GSM 900 / 1800
EDGE	Yes	No
GPRS	Yes	No
Technology	GSM	GSM

Launch
Announced	2017, July. Released 2017, August	2018, November. Released 2018, November
Status	Discontinued	Discontinued

Body
Build	-	Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame
Dimensions	111.5 x 48.4 x 14.2 mm (4.39 x 1.91 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 SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by)
Weight	74 g (2.61 oz)	70.2 g (2.47 oz)
	Flashlight	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 (~18.6% screen-to-body ratio)	1.8 inches, 10.0 cm2 (~18.2% screen-to-body ratio)
Type	TFT, 65K colors	TFT, 65K colors

Platform
Chipset	-	Mediatek MT6261D

Memory
Call records	Yes	Yes
Card slot	microSDHC (dedicated slot)	No
Internal	8MB 4MB RAM	4MB 4MB RAM
Phonebook	Yes	Yes

Main Camera
Single	VGA	-
Video	Yes	-

Selfie camera
	No	-

Sound
3.5mm jack	Yes	TBC
35mm jack	Yes	TBC
Loudspeaker	Yes	Yes

Comms
Bluetooth	3.0	No
NFC	No	No
Positioning	No	No
Radio	FM radio	FM radio
USB	microUSB 2.0	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 1020 mAh, removable (BL-5C)	Li-Ion 800 mAh, removable

Misc
Colors	Red, Grey, Black	Black
Models	-	TA-1114
Price	About 30 EUR	About 20 EUR
SAR EU	1.45 W/kg (head) 1.41 W/kg (body)	1.49 W/kg (head) 1.23 W/kg (body)

Camera
	-	No

Nokia 130 (2017)

Extremely affordable
Excellent battery life
Durable design
Simple to use

Basic display
Limited functionality
No camera (potentially)
Slow performance

Nokia 106 (2018)

Slightly better performance
Improved audio quality
VGA camera
Excellent battery life
Durable design

Basic display
Limited functionality
Camera quality is poor
Still relatively slow

Display Comparison

Both phones feature small, basic 2.4-inch QVGA displays. Expect limited resolution and color accuracy, suitable primarily for viewing contacts and simple text messages. The Nokia 106 might have slightly better viewing angles due to potential panel improvements, but the difference is minimal.

Camera Comparison

Neither phone has a sophisticated camera. The Nokia 106 (2018) typically includes a rudimentary VGA camera, while the Nokia 130 (2017) may lack a camera entirely. Image quality will be extremely basic and suitable only for the most casual snapshots.

Performance

The Nokia 106 (2018) boasts a Mediatek MT6261D chipset, a small upgrade over the likely simpler chipset in the Nokia 130 (2017). This translates to slightly snappier performance when navigating menus and using basic apps. However, neither phone is designed for demanding tasks.

Battery Life

Both phones excel in battery life. Expect several days of usage on a single charge with moderate use. The Nokia 106 (2018) likely has a slightly larger battery capacity, but both offer exceptional endurance.

Buying Guide

The Nokia 130 (2017) is perfect for first-time phone users, those needing a simple and durable device for calls and texts, or as a backup phone for travel. The Nokia 106 (2018) is a better choice for users who want slightly improved performance, better audio quality, and a bit more functionality without breaking the bank.