Nokia's iconic 6310 is back, but in two distinct forms. The original 6310i holds a special place in many hearts, while the 2021 reboot aims to modernize the classic. But which one is the better choice for today's user?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 6310 (2021) offers a noticeable upgrade in performance and features thanks to its chipset, though it loses some of the original's charm. The 6310i remains a simple, reliable, and nostalgic choice for those prioritizing basic functionality and a truly retro experience. The 2021 model is the overall winner.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | No | Yes |
| GPRS | Class 4 | Yes |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2002 | 2021, July 27 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2021, August 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 129 x 47 x 17-21 mm, 97 cc | 135.5 x 56 x 14.1 mm, 44.8 cc (5.33 x 2.20 x 0.56 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 111 g (3.92 oz) | 98 g (3.46 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 96 x 60 pixels, 6 lines, 16:10 ratio | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) |
| Size | - | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~32.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | Backlit full graphics | TFT LCD |
| | Blue back light
Dynamic font size
Softkey | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | - | Unisoc 6531F |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls | Yes |
| Card slot | No | microSDHC |
| Internal | - | 16MB 8MB RAM |
| Phonebook | 500 names x3 numbers | Yes |
| | 3 phone numbers per name
150 text messages
10 voice dial numbers
100-250 calendar notes | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | - | VGA |
| Video | - | Unspecified |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | Yes |
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable monophonic ringtones | - |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes |
| | Ascending ringing tones
Personal alert tones
| - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 1.1 | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| NFC | - | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | - | microUSB |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Alarm | Yes | - |
| Browser | WAP 1.2.1 | - |
| Clock | Yes | - |
| Games | 1 Java + 3 (Snake II, Space impact, Bumper) | Yes |
| Java | Yes | No |
| Languages | Major European and Asian languages | - |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS, MMS |
| | 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 | - |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1050 mAh battery (BLS-2N) | Li-Ion 1150 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | 3 - Jet Black, Mistral Beige, Lightning Silver | Yellow, Black, Dark Green |
| Models | - | TA-1400 |
| Price | - | About 60 EUR |
| SAR | 0.72 W/kg (head) 0.88 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.82 W/kg (head) | 0.97 W/kg (head) 1.26 W/kg (body) |
Nokia 6310i
- Classic design
- Extremely long battery life
- Durable build
- Simple and easy to use
- No camera
- Limited functionality
- Small monochrome display
- Slow performance
Nokia 6310 (2021)
- Color display
- Basic camera
- Improved performance
- Slightly more features (e.g., games)
- Modernized design while retaining retro feel
- Shorter battery life than 6310i
- Camera quality is very basic
- Still limited functionality compared to smartphones
Display Comparison
The 2021 model boasts a larger, color display, offering a more modern viewing experience. The original 6310i has a smaller, monochrome screen, which contributes to its classic look and exceptional battery life. The color screen on the 2021 model is a significant upgrade for media consumption.
Camera Comparison
The 2021 model includes a basic VGA camera, allowing for low-resolution photos and videos. The original 6310i has no camera. Image quality on the 2021 model is expected to be very basic, suitable only for casual snapshots.
Performance
The Nokia 6310 (2021)'s Unisoc 6531F chipset provides a noticeable performance boost compared to the original 6310i's older hardware. This translates to smoother navigation, faster app loading (limited as they are), and a more responsive user interface. The 6310i is adequate for basic tasks but can feel sluggish.
Battery Life
Both phones offer excellent battery life, but the 6310i likely edges out the 2021 model due to its simpler display and less demanding hardware. Expect several days of use on a single charge with the 6310i, while the 2021 model will likely last 2-3 days.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 6310i is perfect for those seeking a purely basic, ultra-durable phone for calls and texts, reliving a nostalgic era. The Nokia 6310 (2021) is ideal for users wanting a slightly smarter feature phone with basic apps, a camera, and a longer battery life, while still retaining a retro aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia 6310 (2021) a smartphone?
No, the Nokia 6310 (2021) is a feature phone. It offers basic functionalities like calling, texting, and a few simple apps, but it doesn't run a full smartphone operating system.
❓ How does the Nokia 6310i compare to modern smartphones?
The Nokia 6310i is vastly different from modern smartphones. It lacks internet browsing, app support, and advanced features. It's designed for simple communication and durability, prioritizing battery life and ease of use over functionality.
