Nokia's legacy of durable and affordable phones lives on with the 301 and 515. Both offer a refreshing escape from the complexities of smartphones, but cater to slightly different needs. This comparison will help you decide which retro gem is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 515 edges out the 301 thanks to its slightly improved display contrast and more premium feel. While both offer excellent battery life and affordability, the 515's design and enhanced viewing experience make it the better choice for most users seeking a simple, reliable phone.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - RM-840, RM-841 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - RM-840, RM-839 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - SIM 1 |
| Speed | HSPA 7.2/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 7.2/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 850 / 1900 - RM-841 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2013, February. Released 2013, April | 2013, August. Released 2013, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 114 x 50 x 12.5 mm, 104.2 cc (4.49 x 1.97 x 0.49 in) | 114 x 48 x 11 mm, 56.7 cc (4.49 x 1.89 x 0.43 in) |
| SIM | Single SIM (Mini-SIM) or Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) | Single SIM (Micro-SIM) or Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 102 g (3.60 oz) | 101.1 g (3.56 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 2 |
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~31.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~32.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 256K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 256MB ROM, 64MB RAM | 256MB 64MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes, 1000 entries |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash, panorama |
| Single | 3.15 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 320p@30fps | 320p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP, EDR | 3.0/ 3.0, A2DP (single SIM only) |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS, recording |
| USB | Proprietary | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes + Downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.1 | Yes, MIDP 2.1 |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email, IM | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, IM |
| | SNS applications
MP4/H.263/WMV player
MP3/WAV/WMA/AAC player
Organizer
Predictive text input | SNS applications
MP4/H.264 player
MP3/WAV/AAC player
Organizer
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 888 h (2G) / Up to 936 h (3G) | Up to 912 h (2G) / Up to 912 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 20 h (2G) / Up to 6 h (3G) | Up to 10 h 18 min (2G) / Up to 5 h 18 min (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1110 mAh, removable (BL-4U) | Li-Ion 1200 mAh, removable (BL-4U) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cyan, Black, Yellow, Magenta, White | White, Black |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 140 EUR |
| SAR | 1.25 W/kg (head) 0.98 W/kg (body) | 0.92 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 1.29 W/kg (head) | 1.15 W/kg (head) 1.14 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -87.9dB / Crosstalk -81.0dB |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 743:1 (nominal) / 2.134:1 (sunlight) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
Voice 66dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 77dB |
| OUR TESTS |
|---|
| Audio quality | - | Noise -87.9dB / Crosstalk -81.0dB |
| Display | - | Contrast ratio: 743:1 (nominal) / 2.134:1 (sunlight) |
| Loudspeaker | - | Voice 66dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 77dB |
Nokia 301
- Extremely Affordable
- Long Battery Life
- Basic Camera
- Low Display Quality
- Basic Design
- Limited Features
Nokia 515
- Improved Display Contrast
- More Premium Design
- Excellent Battery Life
- No Camera
- Slightly Higher Price
Display Comparison
The Nokia 515 boasts a noticeably better display, with a contrast ratio of 743:1 (nominal) and an impressive 2.134:1 in sunlight. This translates to clearer text and more vibrant colors, especially outdoors. The Nokia 301's display, while functional, lacks this level of clarity. The 515's screen is simply easier on the eyes.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia 301 features a basic VGA camera, offering limited photo quality. The Nokia 515 does not have a camera. For most users, the lack of a camera on the 515 isn't a significant drawback, as the image quality on the 301 is quite poor.
Performance
Both phones utilize basic feature phone processors, so performance is similar. Expect snappy call handling and SMS messaging, but don't expect to run any apps. The user interface is straightforward and easy to navigate on both devices.
Battery Life
Both phones excel in battery life. Expect several days of usage on a single charge with moderate use. The Nokia 301 likely has a slight edge due to potentially lower power consumption from its simpler components, but the difference is minimal.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 301 is ideal for users prioritizing absolute affordability and basic calling/texting. It's a great option for a secondary phone or for those in areas with limited network coverage. The Nokia 515 is better suited for those who want a slightly more refined experience, including better readability and a more stylish design, without sacrificing simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia 301 and 515?
The Nokia 515 offers a better display, a more premium design, and lacks a camera. The Nokia 301 is more affordable and includes a basic camera.
❓ Are these phones good for emergencies?
Yes, both phones are excellent for emergencies due to their long battery life and reliable call quality. They are also durable and can withstand basic wear and tear.
