The Nokia 6310 (2021) and TCL 20B represent distinct approaches to the ultra-budget smartphone market. The Nokia focuses on durability and a classic form factor, while the TCL 20B aims for a more modern experience with a larger display and more powerful chipset. This comparison dissects their core components to determine which device delivers the best value for users prioritizing essential smartphone functions.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user needing basic smartphone functionality, the TCL 20B emerges as the stronger choice. Its Mediatek Helio P22 chipset provides a significantly more responsive experience than the Nokia 6310’s Unisoc 6531F, making everyday tasks smoother and more enjoyable. While the Nokia excels in simplicity, the TCL 20B offers a better balance of performance and features.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| EDGE | Yes | - |
| GPRS | Yes | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, July 27 | 2021, September 30 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, August 27 | Available. Released 2021, September 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 135.5 x 56 x 14.1 mm, 44.8 cc (5.33 x 2.20 x 0.56 in) | 164.7 x 74.7 x 8 mm (6.48 x 2.94 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 98 g (3.46 oz) | 178 g (6.28 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~32.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~83.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Octa-core 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Unisoc 6531F | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | - | Android 11, TCL UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | - |
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16MB 8MB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | VGA | - |
| Video | Unspecified | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | 8 MP |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS |
| Radio | Wireless FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | - |
| Java | No | - |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS | - |
| Sensors | - | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 1150 mAh, removable | Li-Po 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Yellow, Black, Dark Green | Gray, Violet |
| Models | TA-1400 | 6159K |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 320 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.97 W/kg (head) 1.26 W/kg (body) | - |
Nokia 6310 (2021)
- Exceptional battery standby time
- Durable and robust build quality
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Very limited performance
- Basic camera capabilities
- Outdated chipset
TCL 20B
- Faster and more responsive performance
- 18W fast charging
- Larger display for better media consumption
- Shorter battery standby time compared to Nokia
- Build quality may not be as robust
- Camera performance is still basic
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. The Nokia 6310 (2021) likely features a basic LCD panel, typical for its price point, with resolution details unavailable. The TCL 20B, while also likely LCD, benefits from a larger screen size (6.5 inches) which improves media consumption. Neither manufacturer specifies peak brightness or color accuracy, suggesting both prioritize cost savings over display quality. The TCL 20B’s larger size is the primary advantage here, offering a more immersive viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices is expected to be basic. Details on sensor sizes and apertures are scarce, but both likely feature low-resolution primary sensors. The TCL 20B may have a slight edge due to its more powerful image signal processor (ISP) integrated within the Helio P22 chipset, potentially leading to slightly better image processing. However, users should temper expectations; these cameras are best suited for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. Any mention of a 'macro' camera on either device should be viewed with skepticism, as 2MP macro sensors rarely deliver usable results.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Nokia 6310 (2021) utilizes the Unisoc 6531F, a basic chipset designed for minimal power consumption and essential tasks. In contrast, the TCL 20B’s Mediatek Helio P22 (12nm) is an octa-core processor offering substantially more processing power. The Helio P22’s Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz will handle multitasking and app loading times far more efficiently than the Unisoc chip. While neither phone is a gaming powerhouse, the TCL 20B will provide a smoother experience with less lag. The 12nm manufacturing process of the Helio P22 also suggests better thermal efficiency compared to the likely larger node process of the Unisoc chip.
Battery Life
The Nokia 6310 (2021) is known for exceptional standby time, a hallmark of its design. While the exact battery capacity is not specified, the Unisoc 6531F’s low power consumption contributes to its longevity. The TCL 20B, with its more powerful chipset, will likely have shorter standby times. However, the TCL 20B compensates with 18W wired charging, allowing for significantly faster recharge times compared to the Nokia 6310 (2021)'s likely 5W charging. This means the TCL 20B can quickly top up its battery, minimizing downtime, even if its overall battery life isn't as extensive.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia 6310 (2021) if you need an incredibly durable, long-lasting phone for calls and texts, and prioritize simplicity above all else. Its focus on core functionality and robust build quality makes it ideal for those seeking a reliable 'dumbphone' upgrade. Buy the TCL 20B if you prefer a more modern smartphone experience with smoother app performance, faster web browsing, and the convenience of 18W fast charging, even if it means sacrificing some of the Nokia’s extreme durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the TCL 20B struggle with popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp?
While the Helio P22 isn't a high-end processor, it's capable of running Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly. You might experience some slight loading times or occasional lag when switching between apps, but it should be a usable experience for most users. The Nokia 6310 (2021)'s Unisoc 6531F would likely struggle significantly more with these apps.
❓ Is the 18W charging on the TCL 20B truly 'fast charging'?
Compared to the Nokia 6310 (2021)'s likely 5W charging, 18W is a substantial improvement. While it's not on par with the fastest charging technologies available on flagship phones, it will significantly reduce the time it takes to fully charge the TCL 20B, getting you back up and running much quicker.
❓ Can either of these phones handle basic mobile gaming?
The TCL 20B is the better choice for basic gaming. The Helio P22's GPU will allow for playable frame rates in less demanding titles. The Nokia 6310 (2021)'s Unisoc 6531F is not designed for gaming and will likely provide a very poor experience, even with simple games.
