The Nokia C1 and C1 2nd Edition represent some of the most affordable smartphones on the market. Both cater to users needing basic functionality, but subtle differences exist. This comparison dives deep into their specs and features to help you decide which is the better choice for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C1 2nd Edition offers a slight upgrade with its Unisoc SC7731e chipset, potentially providing a bit more responsive performance. However, both phones are firmly in the budget category, prioritizing affordability over premium features. The 2nd Edition is a marginal improvement, but both are suitable for basic tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, July 05 | 2019, December 11. Released 2020, December 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, August 27 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 148 x 71.8 x 9.3 mm (5.83 x 2.83 x 0.37 in) | 147.6 x 71.4 x 8.7 mm (5.81 x 2.81 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 154 g (5.43 oz) | 155 g (5.47 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Yes |
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~197 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC7731e | - |
| GPU | Mali-400 MP2 | - |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 9.0 Pie (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.4, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2500 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 2500 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Purple | Black, Red |
| Models | TA-1380 | TA-1165 |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 50 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.60 W/kg (head) 1.44 W/kg (body) | 0.40 W/kg (head) 1.30 W/kg (body) |
Nokia C1 2nd Edition
- Slightly improved chipset for better performance
- Android Go Edition for optimized software experience
- Durable build quality typical of Nokia
- Affordable price
- Limited storage space
- Basic camera performance
- Not suitable for demanding games
Nokia C1
- Extremely affordable
- Simple and easy to use
- Durable build quality
- Android Go Edition
- Lower performance compared to C1 2nd Edition
- Basic camera performance
- Limited storage space
Display Comparison
Both the Nokia C1 and C1 2nd Edition feature a 5.45-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels. While the panels are similar, slight variations in color accuracy and brightness may exist, but these are unlikely to be noticeable for casual users. Expect adequate viewing angles and sharpness for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature a single 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera. Image quality is expected to be basic, suitable for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance will be limited. Don't expect exceptional detail or dynamic range from either device.
Performance
The key difference lies in the chipset. The C1 2nd Edition utilizes a Unisoc SC7731e, while the original C1 uses a generic Quad-core 1.3 GHz CPU. The Unisoc chipset generally offers slightly improved processing power and efficiency, potentially leading to smoother multitasking and app loading times. However, neither phone is designed for demanding games or heavy applications.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with a 3000mAh battery. Battery life is expected to be decent, providing a full day of moderate usage. Standby time will also be good due to the power-efficient processors. Actual battery performance will depend on usage patterns.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C1 2nd Edition is ideal for users who need a reliable, ultra-budget phone for calls, texts, and basic apps. The original Nokia C1 is a good option for those seeking the absolute lowest price point and are willing to compromise on performance. Consider your budget and desired level of responsiveness when making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia C1 2nd Edition worth the extra cost over the original C1?
The C1 2nd Edition offers a marginal performance improvement thanks to its chipset. If you can stretch your budget, it's a worthwhile upgrade. Otherwise, the original C1 remains a very affordable option.
❓ What is Android Go Edition?
Android Go Edition is a lightweight version of Android designed for devices with limited resources. It uses optimized apps and reduces data usage, making it ideal for budget smartphones.
