Looking for an affordable smartphone that delivers reliable performance? The Nokia C02 and C12 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering essential features at attractive price points. But which one is the better choice for your needs?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C12 emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly more powerful Octa-core processor and improved chipset. While both offer basic functionality, the C12 provides a smoother, more responsive experience, making it the better investment for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, February 23 | 2023, January 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, May | Available. Released 2023, February 02 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 148.7 x 71.2 x 10 mm (5.85 x 2.80 x 0.39 in) | 160.6 x 74.3 x 8.8 mm (6.32 x 2.93 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 191 g (6.74 oz) | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) |
| | Splash and dust resistant | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~278 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 12 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | Unspecified |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint |
| Price | - | About 100 EUR |
Nokia C02
- Extremely affordable
- Simple and easy to use
- Reliable Nokia brand
- Limited performance
- Basic camera
- Outdated chipset
Nokia C12
- Better performance than C02
- More modern chipset
- Improved multitasking
- Good battery life
- Slightly more expensive than C02
- Still a budget phone with limitations
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar, basic LCD displays, probably around 6.1 inches with a standard resolution (likely 720 x 1520 pixels). Expect decent viewing angles but limited brightness. The C12 *might* have slightly improved color accuracy due to its newer chipset, but the difference will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely to be modest on both devices. Expect a single rear camera on each, probably in the 8-13MP range. The C12's newer chipset *could* offer slightly better image processing, but don't expect flagship-level photography from either phone. Front cameras are likely 5MP on both.
Performance
This is where the C12 shines. The C02's Quad-core 1.4 GHz processor is adequate for basic tasks, but the C12's Unisoc SC9863A1 Octa-core chipset (with a mix of 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz cores) offers a substantial performance boost. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive overall experience on the C12.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a battery capacity around 4000mAh, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. The C12's more efficient chipset *might* offer slightly better battery optimization, but the difference will likely be marginal.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C02 is ideal for users who prioritize simplicity and affordability above all else, needing a basic phone for calls, texts, and occasional light usage. The Nokia C12 is better suited for those who want a slightly more capable device for social media, browsing, and light gaming, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia C02 and C12 processors?
The Nokia C12 has a significantly more powerful Octa-core Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset, while the C02 uses a Quad-core processor. This results in a noticeable performance difference.
❓ Which Nokia phone is better for taking photos?
While both have basic cameras, the Nokia C12's newer chipset *may* offer slightly better image processing, potentially resulting in marginally better photos.
