Looking for an affordable Nokia smartphone? The C02 and C32 are both contenders, offering reliable performance and the classic Nokia build quality. But which one is right for you? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C32 is the clear winner. Its octa-core processor, improved chipset, and slightly better camera capabilities offer a noticeable performance boost over the C02's quad-core setup, making it a more future-proof and enjoyable experience 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 / 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, glass 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) | 199.4 g (7.02 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 SC9863A1 (22 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 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 | Wireless 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal | Charcoal, Autumn Green, Beach Pink |
| Price | - | $ 129.00 / £ 73.99 / € 104.99 |
Nokia C02
- Extremely affordable
- Classic Nokia build quality
- Decent battery life
- Slow performance
- Basic camera
- Limited features
- Slower charging
Nokia C32
- Improved performance (octa-core)
- Better camera quality
- Slightly brighter display (likely)
- 10W charging
- More expensive than C02
- Still a budget phone (limited features)
- LCD display
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar LCD displays, probably around 6.5 inches with an HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles and color accuracy for the price point, but don't anticipate flagship-level vibrancy. The C32 might have a slightly brighter display due to its newer chipset allowing for better power management.
Camera Comparison
While both phones likely have a dual-camera setup, the C32's newer chipset and potentially improved image processing algorithms should result in better photo quality, particularly in low-light conditions. Expect slightly more detail and better color reproduction from the C32's camera.
Performance
This is where the C32 shines. The Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset with its octa-core processor significantly outperforms the C02's quad-core CPU. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user interface on the C32. The C02 will feel noticeably slower, especially with multiple apps open.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a battery capacity around 5000mAh, offering all-day battery life with moderate usage. The C32'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 on the tightest budget who primarily need a phone for basic calling, texting, and occasional light app usage. The Nokia C32 is a better choice for those who want a smoother experience, slightly better camera quality, and a phone that can handle more demanding tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia C02 and C32 processors?
The Nokia C32 has an octa-core Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset, while the C02 has a quad-core processor. This means the C32 offers significantly better performance and smoother multitasking.
❓ Which Nokia phone has better battery life?
Both phones are expected to offer all-day battery life with moderate usage, thanks to their approximately 5000mAh batteries. However, the C32's slightly better power management could give it a marginal edge.
