Nokia 225 4G vs. Nokia 215 4G (2024): A Deep Dive into Budget 4G Feature Phones

The Nokia 225 4G and the newer Nokia 215 4G (2024) represent HMD Global’s continued commitment to the feature phone market. While both offer essential connectivity and a familiar Nokia experience, a key difference lies under the hood: the chipset. This comparison dissects those differences and helps you determine which phone best suits your needs, focusing on performance and efficiency.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing basic functionality and long battery life, the Nokia 225 4G remains a solid choice. However, the Nokia 215 4G (2024) offers a slight performance advantage thanks to its Unisoc T107 chipset, making it better suited for light web browsing and app usage, albeit at a potentially reduced battery runtime.

PHONES
Phone Names Nokia 225 4G Nokia 215 4G (2024)
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - InternationalHSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100
4G bands1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40 - EU, APAC, SSA1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EU, EMEA, APAC
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 17, 28 - NA, LATAM-
Launch
Announced2020, October 10. Released 2020, October 172024, April 30
StatusDiscontinuedAvailable. Released 2024, May
Body
Dimensions124.7 x 51 x 13.7 mm (4.91 x 2.01 x 0.54 in)127.3 x 54.2 x 11.6 mm (5.01 x 2.13 x 0.46 in)
SIM· Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight90.1 g (3.17 oz)-
Display
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density)240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density)
Size2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~28.0% screen-to-body ratio)2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~35.2% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeTFT LCD, 256K colorsTFT LCD
Platform
CPU-1.0 GHz Cortex-A7
ChipsetUnisoc UMS9117Unisoc T107 (22 nm)
Memory
Call recordsYesYes
Card slotmicroSDHCmicroSDHC
Internal128MB 64MB RAM128MB 64MB RAM
PhonebookYesYes
Main Camera
Single0.3 MP-
Selfie camera
 No-
Sound
3.5mm jack Yes-
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.05.0, A2DP, LE
NFCNoNo
PositioningNoNo
RadioFM radio, built-in antennaWireless FM radio
USBmicroUSB 2.0USB Type-C
WLANNoNo
Features
GamesYesYes
Java-No
MessagingSMS(threaded view), MMS, IMSMS
Sensors-No
 MP3 player-
Battery
TypeLi-Ion 1150 mAh, removableLi-Ion 1450 mAh, removable
Misc
ColorsBlack, Classic Blue, Metallic SandPeach, Black, Dark Blue
ModelsTA-1321, TA-1296, TA-1279, TA-1276, TA-1282-
PriceAbout 60 EUR-
SAR1.41 W/kg (head)     1.34 W/kg (body)-
SAR EU1.63 W/kg (head)     1.79 W/kg (body)-

Nokia 225 4G

  • Potentially longer battery life due to less powerful chipset.
  • Proven reliability and simplicity.
  • Lower price point (likely).

  • Slower performance compared to the 215 4G.
  • Less responsive user interface.

Nokia 215 4G (2024)

  • Faster performance with the Unisoc T107 chipset.
  • Improved responsiveness for basic apps and web browsing.
  • More modern chipset architecture.

  • Potentially shorter battery life.
  • May be slightly more expensive.

Display Comparison

Both phones likely feature similar, low-resolution color displays typical of this market segment. Specifics like brightness nits and color accuracy are not provided, but we can assume they are optimized for readability in direct sunlight rather than color fidelity. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both models, prioritizing durability and ease of grip over a modern, edge-to-edge aesthetic.

Camera Comparison

Both phones are equipped with basic cameras, likely 2MP or less. Image quality will be limited, and these cameras are best suited for simple snapshots in good lighting conditions. Detailed analysis is hampered by the lack of sensor size or aperture information. The camera is primarily a convenience feature, not a selling point.

Performance

The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Nokia 225 4G utilizes the Unisoc UMS9117, a basic chipset designed for essential phone functions. The Nokia 215 4G (2024) steps up to the Unisoc T107, fabricated on a 22nm process and featuring a 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU. This represents a tangible, though modest, performance improvement. The T107’s Cortex-A7 architecture, while dated, is more capable than the UMS9117’s, resulting in snappier app loading and smoother web browsing. The 22nm process also suggests slightly improved power efficiency compared to older nodes, though the impact will be limited by the battery capacity.

Battery Life

Battery capacity details are unavailable for either device. However, given the low-power chipsets and basic displays, both phones should offer excellent battery life – potentially days on a single charge with moderate use. The Unisoc T107 in the 215 4G, while more powerful, will consume more energy, potentially reducing overall battery endurance compared to the 225 4G. Charging times will likely be similar, utilizing Micro-USB and taking several hours for a full charge.

Buying Guide

Buy the Nokia 225 4G if you need a supremely reliable, long-lasting feature phone for calls and texts, and prioritize maximum battery life above all else. Buy the Nokia 215 4G (2024) if you occasionally browse the web, use basic apps like WhatsApp, and appreciate a marginally faster user experience, understanding that this may come at the cost of some battery endurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Will the Nokia 215 4G (2024) run WhatsApp smoothly?
The Unisoc T107 chipset should provide a sufficient level of performance for basic WhatsApp functionality, including sending messages and making calls. However, expect some lag when loading media or participating in group chats with a large number of participants. It won't be a fluid experience like a smartphone, but it should be usable.
❓ How much faster is the Nokia 215 4G (2024) compared to the Nokia 225 4G in real-world use?
The performance difference is noticeable but not dramatic. The 215 4G will feel snappier when opening apps and browsing the web, with faster page loading times. However, both phones are limited by their low RAM and basic operating systems, so don't expect smartphone-level speed. The improvement is more about reducing frustration than achieving blazing-fast performance.
❓ Does the Nokia 215 4G (2024) support VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling?
Support for VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and Wi-Fi calling will depend on the carrier and region. While the 4G capability suggests VoLTE compatibility, it's crucial to check with your mobile provider to confirm. Wi-Fi calling support is less common on feature phones, but some carriers may offer it.