In a market saturated with smartphones, Nokia continues to cater to a specific niche: the ultra-affordable feature phone. The Nokia 215 4G and the Nokia 6310 (2021) represent modern iterations of this classic form factor, but beneath the familiar exterior lie key differences in chipset and intended use. This comparison dives deep into those distinctions to help you choose the right phone for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing basic connectivity and extended battery life, the Nokia 6310 (2021) offers a slight edge. Its Unisoc 6531F chipset, while not significantly faster, is optimized for efficiency, potentially yielding longer standby times. However, the Nokia 215 4G’s 4G connectivity is a compelling feature for those needing data on the go.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - International | - |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40 - EU, APAC, SSA | - |
| EDGE | - | Yes |
| GPRS | - | Yes |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | - |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM |
| | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 17, 28 - NA, LATAM | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, October 10. Released 2020, October 17 | 2021, July 27 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, August 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 124.7 x 51 x 13.7 mm (4.91 x 2.01 x 0.54 in) | 135.5 x 56 x 14.1 mm, 44.8 cc (5.33 x 2.20 x 0.56 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Mini-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 90.3 g (3.17 oz) | 98 g (3.46 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~28.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~32.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 256K colors | TFT LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc UMS9117 | Unisoc 6531F |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDHC |
| Internal | 128MB 64MB RAM | 16MB 8MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | - | VGA |
| Video | - | Unspecified |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio, built-in antenna | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | - | No |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, IM | SMS, MMS |
| | MP3 player | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1150 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1150 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Cyan Green | Yellow, Black, Dark Green |
| Models | TA-1284, TA-1281, TA-1272, TA-1264 | TA-1400 |
| Price | About 40 EUR | About 60 EUR |
| SAR | 1.14 W/kg (head) 1.35 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 1.63 W/kg (head) 1.79 W/kg (body) | 0.97 W/kg (head) 1.26 W/kg (body) |
Nokia 215 4G
- 4G Connectivity for data access
- Wider network compatibility due to 4G support
- Affordable price point
- Potentially shorter battery life with 4G usage
- Unisoc UMS9117 is less power efficient than 6531F
Nokia 6310 (2021)
- Exceptional standby time due to Unisoc 6531F
- Optimized for voice calls and text messaging
- Highly durable and reliable
- Limited data connectivity (2G/3G)
- Less versatile for modern app usage
Display Comparison
Both phones feature relatively small displays, prioritizing functionality over immersive viewing. Specific display specs (resolution, panel type) are not provided, but given the price point, both likely utilize basic TFT LCD panels. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but on readability and power efficiency. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both models, maximizing screen real estate within the compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Camera capabilities are minimal on both devices. While both likely include a rear camera, the resolution is not specified and is unlikely to be a significant factor for buyers in this segment. Image quality will be basic, suitable for simple snapshots in good lighting conditions. The absence of detailed camera specs underscores the primary function of these phones: communication, not photography.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Nokia 215 4G utilizes the Unisoc UMS9117, while the Nokia 6310 (2021) employs the Unisoc 6531F. While both are entry-level SoCs, the 6531F is generally considered more power-efficient, designed for extended standby times in basic phones. The UMS9117 prioritizes 4G connectivity, potentially drawing more power during data usage. Neither chipset is designed for demanding tasks; both are sufficient for calls, texts, and basic feature phone applications. RAM details are unavailable, but are likely limited to ensure smooth operation within the constraints of the hardware.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are not provided, but both phones are designed for exceptional standby times. The Unisoc 6531F in the Nokia 6310 (2021) is likely to offer superior battery life due to its power-efficient design. The Nokia 215 4G, with its 4G connectivity, will experience faster battery drain during data usage. Charging times are expected to be slow, given the lack of fast charging support and the likely use of micro-USB charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia 215 4G if you need reliable 4G data access for occasional browsing or WhatsApp use, and prioritize wider network compatibility. Buy the Nokia 6310 (2021) if you primarily need a phone for calls and texts, value exceptional standby time, and live in an area with strong 2G/3G coverage. Both are excellent choices for emergency phones or secondary devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Nokia 215 4G significantly drain my battery if I only use it for calls and texts?
Even with 4G capability, the Nokia 215 4G should still offer respectable battery life for basic call and text usage. However, the Unisoc UMS9117 will consume more power than the 6531F, so expect slightly shorter standby times compared to the Nokia 6310 (2021).
❓ Is the Nokia 6310 (2021) a good option if I live in an area with limited 4G coverage?
Absolutely. The Nokia 6310 (2021) excels in areas with strong 2G/3G coverage. Its optimized chipset and focus on core communication features make it an ideal choice where 4G is unavailable or unreliable.
❓ Can I use WhatsApp on either of these phones?
Yes, both the Nokia 215 4G and Nokia 6310 (2021) support WhatsApp, but the experience will be limited compared to a smartphone. Expect slower loading times and a simplified interface. The Nokia 215 4G's 4G connectivity will provide a faster WhatsApp experience if available.
