Looking for an affordable and reliable phone for calls, texts, and basic features? The Nokia 230 Dual SIM and Nokia 216 are both strong contenders in the budget feature phone market. But which one offers the best bang for your buck?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 230 Dual SIM likely edges out the 216 due to potentially better features like a slightly improved camera and more storage. However, both are excellent choices for users prioritizing affordability and long battery life. The 216 remains a compelling option if price is the absolute top concern.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) |
| EDGE | Up to 236.8 kbps | Up to 236.8 kbps |
| GPRS | Up to 85.6 kbps | Up to 85.6 kbps |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2015, November. Released 2015, December | 2016, September. Released 2016, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 124.6 x 53.4 x 10.9 mm (4.91 x 2.10 x 0.43 in) | 118 x 50.2 x 13.5 mm, 71.7 cc (4.65 x 1.98 x 0.53 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) | Single SIM (Mini-SIM) or Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 91.8 g (3.25 oz) | 82.6 (2.93 oz) |
| | - | Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~36.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~30.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16MB RAM | 16MB RAM |
| Phonebook | 1000 entries | 2000 entries |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 2 MP | VGA |
| Video | 240p@15fps | 240p@15fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 2 MP | VGA, LED flash |
| Video | 480p | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 3.0, A2DP | 3.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio | Stereo FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 1.1 | microUSB 1.1 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | No | - |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, IM | SMS, MMS |
| | SNS applications
MP4/H.264 player
MP3/WAV/AAC player
Organizer
Predictive text input | SNS applications
MP4/H.264 player
MP3/WAV/AAC player
Organizer
Voice memo |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 52 h | Up to 47 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 528 h | Up to 456 h |
| Talk time | Up to 23 h | Up to 18 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 1200 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1020 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black, Gray, Mint |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 40 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.79 W/kg (head) 1.46 W/kg (body) | 1.01 W/kg (head) 1.07 W/kg (body) |
Nokia 230 Dual SIM
- Potentially better camera
- Dual SIM support
- Slightly more storage (likely)
- FM Radio
- Higher price than 216
- Limited performance
Nokia 216
- Lowest price point
- Dual SIM support
- FM Radio
- Long battery life
- Basic camera
- Limited storage
- Basic performance
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature small, QVGA (or similar resolution) color displays. Expect basic viewing experiences suitable for text and simple images, but not for media consumption. The Nokia 230 might have a marginally brighter or more vibrant display, but differences will be subtle.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia 230 likely boasts a slightly better camera (potentially 2MP vs 0.8MP on the 216), allowing for marginally improved photo quality. However, image quality on both will be limited by the small sensors and basic image processing capabilities. Both are primarily for quick snapshots, not serious photography.
Performance
Performance will be limited on both devices, as they run on basic feature phone platforms. Expect adequate speed for calls, texts, and simple apps like FM radio. Don't expect multitasking or demanding applications to run smoothly. The Nokia 230 might have a slightly faster processor due to potentially newer components.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to offer excellent battery life, typical of feature phones. Expect several days of usage on a single charge with moderate use. The Nokia 216 might have a slightly larger battery capacity, potentially extending its runtime, but the difference will likely be minimal.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 230 Dual SIM is ideal for users who want a slightly more feature-rich experience, including a better camera and potentially more storage. The Nokia 216 is perfect for those seeking the absolute lowest price point and a simple, reliable device for essential communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia 230 and 216?
The Nokia 230 likely offers a slightly better camera and potentially more storage, while the Nokia 216 focuses on being the most affordable option. Both have dual SIM support and FM radio.
❓ Are these phones good for gaming?
No, these phones are not suitable for gaming. They have limited processing power and small screens, making them unsuitable for most games.
