Nokia 301 vs Nokia 230: A Budget Feature Phone Battle

Looking for a reliable and affordable feature phone? The Nokia 301 and Nokia 230 are popular choices, offering essential functionality without breaking the bank. But which one reigns supreme? This comparison dives deep into their features to help you decide.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Nokia 230 generally edges out the 301 due to its slightly improved camera and potentially more modern design. However, the 301 might offer better value depending on pricing and regional availability. Both are solid choices for basic communication and entertainment.

PHONES
Phone Names Nokia 301 Nokia 230
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - RM-840, RM-841GSM 900 / 1800
3G bandsHSDPA 900 / 2100 - RM-840, RM-839-
EDGE-Up to 236.8 kbps
GPRS-Up to 85.6 kbps
SpeedHSPA 7.2/5.76 Mbps-
TechnologyGSM / HSPAGSM
 HSDPA 850 / 1900 - RM-841-
Launch
Announced2013, February. Released 2013, April2015, November. Released 2015, December
StatusDiscontinuedDiscontinued
Body
Dimensions114 x 50 x 12.5 mm, 104.2 cc (4.49 x 1.97 x 0.49 in)124.6 x 53.4 x 10.9 mm (4.91 x 2.10 x 0.43 in)
Keyboard-QWERTY
SIMSingle SIM (Mini-SIM) or Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by)Mini-SIM
Weight102 g (3.60 oz)91.8 g (3.25 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 (~31.3% screen-to-body ratio)2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~36.5% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeTFT, 256K colorsTFT, 65K colors
Platform
OS-Danger 3.0
Memory
Call recordsYesYes
Card slotmicroSDHC (dedicated slot)microSDHC (dedicated slot)
Internal256MB ROM, 64MB RAM16MB RAM
PhonebookYes1000 entries
Main Camera
Features-LED flash
Single3.15 MP2 MP
Video320p@30fps240p@15fps
Selfie camera
Features-LED flash
Single-2 MP
Video-480p
 No-
Sound
3.5mm jack YesYes
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth2.1, A2DP, EDR3.0, A2DP
NFCNoNo
PositioningNoNo
RadioStereo FM radioStereo FM radio
USBProprietarymicroUSB 1.1
WLANNoNo
Features
Browser-WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML
GamesYesYes
JavaYes, MIDP 2.1No
MessagingSMS, MMS, Email, IMSMS(threaded view), MMS, IM
 SNS applications MP4/H.263/WMV player MP3/WAV/WMA/AAC player Organizer Predictive text inputSNS applications MP4/H.264 player MP3/WAV/AAC player Organizer Predictive text input
Battery
Music play-Up to 52 h
Stand-byUp to 888 h (2G) / Up to 936 h (3G)Up to 648 h
Talk timeUp to 20 h (2G) / Up to 6 h (3G)Up to 23 h
TypeLi-Ion 1110 mAh, removable (BL-4U)Li-Ion 1200 mAh, removable
Misc
ColorsCyan, Black, Yellow, Magenta, WhiteBlack, White, Dark Blue, Light Gray
PriceAbout 70 EURAbout 70 EUR
SAR1.25 W/kg (head)     0.98 W/kg (body)-
SAR EU1.29 W/kg (head)0.79 W/kg (head)     1.46 W/kg (body)

Nokia 301

  • Durable build
  • Classic Nokia design
  • Good battery life
  • FM Radio

  • Basic camera
  • Limited storage
  • Outdated design for some

Nokia 230

  • Slightly better camera
  • Potentially more modern design
  • Good battery life
  • FM Radio

  • Still a basic camera
  • Limited storage
  • Can feel plasticky

Display Comparison

Both phones likely feature small, QVGA (or similar resolution) color displays. Expect adequate visibility in good lighting, but limited detail. The Nokia 230 might have a slightly more refined screen, but the difference will be minimal.

Camera Comparison

The Nokia 230 likely boasts a slightly better camera (potentially 2MP vs 1.3MP on the 301), allowing for marginally improved photo quality. However, don't expect high-quality images from either device.

Performance

Performance will be basic on both devices, suitable for calls, texts, and simple games. Expect limited multitasking capabilities. The Nokia 230 might have a slightly more efficient processor, leading to marginally smoother operation.

Battery Life

Both phones are known for excellent battery life, typical of feature phones. Expect several days of usage on a single charge. The Nokia 230 might have a slightly larger battery capacity, potentially extending battery life further.

Buying Guide

The Nokia 301 is ideal for users prioritizing a robust build and classic Nokia experience. The Nokia 230 is a better fit for those wanting a slightly more modern aesthetic and a marginally better camera for occasional snapshots.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the difference between the Nokia 301 and 230?
The Nokia 230 generally has a slightly better camera and a potentially more modern design. The Nokia 301 is known for its robust build and classic Nokia feel.
❓ Which phone has better battery life?
Both offer excellent battery life, but the Nokia 230 might have a slight edge due to a potentially larger battery capacity.