Looking for an affordable smartphone that delivers reliable performance? The Nokia C02 and C22 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering essential features without breaking the bank. But which one is the better choice for your needs?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C22 emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly more powerful Octa-core processor, improved chipset, and faster charging. While both are budget options, the C22 provides a noticeable performance boost and a more modern experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, February 23 | 2023, February 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, May | Available. Released 2023, February 25 |
| 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) | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 191 g (6.74 oz) | 190 g (6.70 oz) |
| | Splash and dust resistant | Splash and dust resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% 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 SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 13 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | Yes |
| 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 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal | Sand, Midnight Black |
| Price | - | About 90 EUR |
Nokia C02
- Extremely affordable
- Reliable Nokia brand
- Decent battery life
- Slow performance
- Basic features
- Limited storage
- Slow charging
Nokia C22
- Faster performance
- More modern chipset
- Slightly better camera processing potential
- 10W charging
- Slightly more expensive than C02
- Still a budget phone with limitations
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar, basic LCD displays, probably around 6.1-6.2 inches with HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles but limited brightness. The C22 *might* have slightly better color accuracy due to its more modern chipset, but this is speculative without specific display specs.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely similar – basic single rear cameras (likely 8-13MP) and front-facing cameras for video calls. Image quality will be adequate in good lighting conditions, but don't expect exceptional results from either device. The C22's more powerful processor *could* allow for slightly better image processing, but it's not a guaranteed upgrade.
Performance
This is where the C22 shines. Its Octa-core Unisoc SC9863A chipset with Cortex-A55 cores offers a substantial performance advantage over the C02's Quad-core processor. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better overall responsiveness on the C22. The C02 will feel noticeably slower.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature batteries in the 4000-5000mAh range, offering all-day battery life with moderate usage. The C22's 10W wired charging is a slight advantage over the C02, which likely has a slower charging speed.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C02 is ideal for users prioritizing the absolute lowest price and basic functionality – calls, texts, and light app usage. The Nokia C22 is better suited for those who want a smoother experience, occasional gaming, and a slightly more future-proof device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia C02 and C22 processors?
The Nokia C22 has a significantly more powerful Octa-core Unisoc SC9863A processor, while the C02 uses a Quad-core processor. This results in a noticeable performance difference.
❓ Which Nokia phone has better battery life?
Both phones likely offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. Battery capacity is likely similar, but the C22's slightly more efficient chipset *could* provide a marginal advantage.