Nokia's resurgence in the feature phone market has brought back beloved designs with modern touches. The Nokia 6301 and 6300i are two such examples, offering a nostalgic experience with reliable functionality. But which one is the better choice for the modern user seeking a simple, durable phone?
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones offer a similar experience, prioritizing durability and simplicity. The 6300i generally boasts a slightly more refined design and potentially better software updates. However, the 6301 might offer a more competitive price point, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| EDGE | Class 10 | Class 10 |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Class 10 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2007, September. Released 2008, March | 2008, March. Released 2008, April |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 106.8 x 43.8 x 13.1 mm, 55.6 cc (4.20 x 1.72 x 0.52 in) | 106.4 x 43.6 x 11.7 mm, 56 cc (4.19 x 1.72 x 0.46 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 93 g (3.28 oz) | 93 g (3.28 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~26.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.0 inches, 31 x 41 mm, 12.4 cm2 (~26.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 16M colors | TFT, 16M colors |
| | Downloadable wallpapers, screensavers | Downloadable wallpapers, screensavers |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls | 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls |
| Card slot | microSD (dedicated slot) | microSD (dedicated slot), 512 MB included |
| Internal | 30MB | 30MB |
| Phonebook | 1000 entries, Photocall | 1000 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | QCIF | QCIF |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | 2.0, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | miniUSB | miniUSB |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, UMA technology | Wi-Fi 802.11b/g, UMA technology |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML, Adobe Flash Lite | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (Opera mini) |
| Games | Yes + Downloadable | Yes + Downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email |
| | Push to talk
MP3/MP4/AAC/AAC+/eAAC+ player
Voice memo
Voice command
Predictive text input
Organizer | Nokia Maps
Push to talk
MP3/MP4/AAC/ACC+/eAAC+/WMA player
Voice memo
Voice command
Predictive text input
Organizer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 340 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 3 h 30 min |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 860 mAh battery (BL-4C) | Removable Li-Ion 860 mAh battery (BL-4C) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Cocoa | Grey |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | 0.71 W/kg (head) 0.55 W/kg (body) | 1.08 W/kg (head) 0.30 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.51 W/kg (head) | 0.97 W/kg (head) |
Nokia 6301
- Extremely durable build
- Affordable price
- Long battery life
- Classic Nokia design
- Basic camera quality
- Limited app support
- Small screen
- Potentially fewer software updates
Nokia 6300i
- Slightly more refined design
- Potentially better software support
- Long battery life
- Classic Nokia design
- Higher price than 6301
- Basic camera quality
- Limited app support
- Small screen
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a small, basic LCD screen, typical of feature phones. Expect similar resolution and color reproduction. The 6300i might have a marginally brighter display or slightly improved viewing angles, but differences will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely include a basic VGA camera. Image quality will be low, suitable only for quick snapshots in good lighting conditions. Don't expect high-resolution photos or advanced features.
Performance
Performance will be adequate for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light web browsing. Both phones run on a proprietary Nokia Series 30+ operating system. Expect similar responsiveness and limited app support. Don't expect multitasking or demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery life is a strong point for both devices. Expect several days of usage on a single charge with moderate use. The 6300i might have a slightly larger battery capacity, potentially extending battery life marginally.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 6301 is ideal for those seeking a no-frills, incredibly durable phone at the lowest possible price. The Nokia 6300i is better suited for users who appreciate a slightly more premium feel and potentially longer software support, willing to spend a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What operating system do these phones use?
Both the Nokia 6301 and 6300i run on Nokia Series 30+.
❓ Can I install apps on these phones?
App support is limited. They primarily support basic Java apps, but don't expect access to app stores like Google Play or Apple App Store.
❓ Are these phones 4G compatible?
No, these phones are 2G devices and do not support 4G or 5G networks.