The Nokia 3310. A name synonymous with durability and the golden age of mobile phones. Nokia resurrected this icon twice, first in 2017 and again with the 4G model. But are they just nostalgia trips, or do they offer genuine value in today's smartphone-dominated world?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 3310 4G wins due to its 4G connectivity, allowing for apps and data. The 2017 model is a purer, simpler retro experience, excelling in battery life and a more classic feel. Choose based on your need for data and modern features.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| EDGE | Yes | - |
| GPRS | Yes | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2017, February. Released 2017, May | 2018, January. Released 2018, February |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 115.6 x 51 x 12.8 mm (4.55 x 2.01 x 0.50 in) | 117 x 52.4 x 13.4 mm (4.61 x 2.06 x 0.53 in) |
| SIM | Single SIM (Micro-SIM) or Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Micro-SIM |
| Weight | 85 g (3.00 oz) | 88.1 g (3.10 oz) |
| | Flashlight | Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| 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 (~30.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~29.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | TFT |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16MB | 512MB 256MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 240p@8fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 3.0, A2DP | 4.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| | Audio/Video player | Audio/Video player |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 51 h | Up to 31 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 600 h | Up to 360 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 22 h | Up to 8 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1200 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1200 mAh, removable (BL-4UL) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Warm Red (Glossy), Dark Blue (Matte), Yellow (Glossy), Grey (Matte) | Azure, Yellow, Warm Red, Charcoa |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 100 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.71 W/kg (head) 1.49 W/kg (body) | - |
Nokia 3310 (2017)
- Exceptional battery life
- Extremely durable build
- Classic Nokia design
- Simple and easy to use
- Affordable
- No 4G connectivity
- Basic camera
- Limited features
- Small screen
Nokia 3310 4G
- 4G connectivity for data and apps
- Classic Nokia design
- Good battery life
- Simple and easy to use
- Slightly more modern features
- Battery life slightly less than 2017 model
- Basic camera
- Limited features compared to smartphones
- Small screen
Display Comparison
Both phones feature small, low-resolution color displays, typical of feature phones. The 2017 model's screen is slightly smaller, while the 4G version might have marginally better color reproduction, but overall, the display experience is similar – functional, not fantastic.
Camera Comparison
Both phones have a basic VGA camera. Image quality is poor by modern standards, suitable only for very casual snapshots. Don't expect anything beyond a blurry memory.
Performance
Performance is limited on both. They're designed for calls, texts, and basic features, not demanding apps. The 4G model *might* feel slightly snappier due to potentially more modern chipset, but don't expect smartphone-level responsiveness. Both are adequate for their intended purpose.
Battery Life
Battery life is a major strength of both. The 2017 model likely edges out the 4G version due to the lack of 4G radio, but both offer days, if not weeks, of usage on a single charge with moderate use.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia 3310 (2017) if you want a truly basic, incredibly durable phone for calls and texts, prioritizing battery life and a classic Nokia experience. Buy the Nokia 3310 4G if you want some basic app functionality and data access, while still enjoying the retro design and long battery life of a feature phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What's the difference between the Nokia 3310 (2017) and the Nokia 3310 4G?
The main difference is 4G connectivity. The 4G model supports data and allows for basic app usage, while the 2017 model is limited to 2G networks.
❓ Are these phones good for taking photos?
No, the cameras are very basic (VGA) and image quality is poor. They're not suitable for serious photography.