Nokia 6310 (2021) vs Nokia 6310i: A Retro Throwback Showdown

The Nokia 6310 is a legend, instantly recognizable for its durable design and iconic Snake game. The 2021 reboot brought a modern twist, while the original 6310i remains a beloved classic. But which one is the better choice for those seeking a nostalgic, no-frills mobile experience?
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🏆 Quick Verdict

The Nokia 6310 (2021) offers a slightly improved feature set, including a larger screen and better battery life. However, the original 6310i holds a certain charm and simplicity that many find irresistible. It's a close call, but the 6310 (2021) provides more modern usability.

PHONES
Phone Names Nokia 6310 (2021) Nokia 6310i
Network
2G bandsGSM 900 / 1800GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
EDGEYesNo
GPRSYesClass 4
TechnologyGSMGSM
Launch
Announced2021, July 272002
StatusAvailable. Released 2021, August 27Discontinued
Body
Dimensions135.5 x 56 x 14.1 mm, 44.8 cc (5.33 x 2.20 x 0.56 in)129 x 47 x 17-21 mm, 97 cc
SIMMini-SIM + Nano-SIMMini-SIM
Weight98 g (3.46 oz)111 g (3.92 oz)
Display
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density)96 x 60 pixels, 6 lines, 16:10 ratio
Size2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~32.0% screen-to-body ratio)-
TypeTFT LCDBacklit full graphics
 -Blue back light Dynamic font size Softkey
Platform
ChipsetUnisoc 6531F-
Memory
Call recordsYes20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls
Card slotmicroSDHCNo
Internal16MB 8MB RAM-
PhonebookYes500 names x3 numbers
 -3 phone numbers per name 150 text messages 10 voice dial numbers 100-250 calendar notes
Main Camera
FeaturesLED flash-
SingleVGA-
VideoUnspecified-
Selfie camera
 No-
Sound
3.5mm jack YesNo
35mm jackYesNo
Alert types-Vibration; Downloadable monophonic ringtones
Loudspeaker YesNo
 -Ascending ringing tones Personal alert tones
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE1.1
Infrared port-Yes
NFCNo-
PositioningNoNo
RadioWireless FM radioNo
USBmicroUSB-
WLANNoNo
Features
Alarm-Yes
Browser-WAP 1.2.1
Clock-Yes
GamesYes1 Java + 3 (Snake II, Space impact, Bumper)
JavaNoYes
Languages-Major European and Asian languages
MessagingSMS, MMSSMS
 -SyncML Predictive text input Organizer Voice record Voice command Infrared transfer of data between phones Enhanced UI for e-mail over SMS Timed profiles
Battery
Stand-by-up to 17 days
Talk time-3h 15min - 6h
TypeLi-Ion 1150 mAh, removableRemovable Li-Ion 1050 mAh battery (BLS-2N)
Misc
ColorsYellow, Black, Dark Green3 - Jet Black, Mistral Beige, Lightning Silver
ModelsTA-1400-
PriceAbout 60 EUR-
SAR-0.72 W/kg (head)     0.88 W/kg (body)
SAR EU0.97 W/kg (head)     1.26 W/kg (body)0.82 W/kg (head)
Camera
 -No

Nokia 6310 (2021)

  • Larger Display
  • Improved Battery Life
  • Basic Camera
  • Modern Features (e.g., FM Radio)

  • Less Compact than 6310i
  • Chipset Performance is still limited
  • Camera Quality is basic

Nokia 6310i

  • Compact and Lightweight
  • Classic Design
  • Simplicity and Ease of Use
  • Potentially more durable due to simpler construction

  • Smaller Display
  • Shorter Battery Life
  • No Camera
  • Older Technology

Display Comparison

The Nokia 6310 (2021) boasts a larger 2.4-inch display compared to the 6310i's 2.2-inch screen. While both are monochrome, the 6310 (2021) offers slightly better readability due to its size. The 6310i's smaller screen contributes to its more compact form factor.

Camera Comparison

The Nokia 6310 (2021) includes a basic 0.3MP rear camera, a feature absent in the original 6310i. Image quality is rudimentary on both, but the 6310 (2021) offers a slight advantage for those wanting to capture the occasional snapshot.

Performance

The 6310 (2021) utilizes a Unisoc 6531F chipset, providing a modest performance boost over the 6310i's older processor. Both phones are primarily designed for calls, texts, and basic games, so performance differences are minimal in everyday use. The 6310i's simplicity can feel surprisingly snappy.

Battery Life

The Nokia 6310 (2021) features a significantly larger battery (1500mAh) compared to the 6310i (900mAh). This translates to considerably longer battery life, often lasting for days on a single charge, while the 6310i typically requires daily charging.

Buying Guide

The Nokia 6310 (2021) is ideal for those wanting a modern take on a classic, with slightly improved features and longer battery life. The Nokia 6310i is perfect for purists who value simplicity, a truly vintage feel, and a more compact design, accepting its limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is the Nokia 6310 (2021) worth buying?
If you want a modern take on the classic 6310 with a larger screen and better battery life, it's a good option. However, don't expect a smartphone experience.
❓ Can I play Snake on the Nokia 6310i?
Yes! Snake is a pre-installed game on the Nokia 6310i, a key part of its nostalgic appeal.