Looking for an affordable smartphone that gets the job done? Nokia's C-series offers compelling options, but choosing between the C1 2nd Edition and the C3 can be tricky. This detailed comparison breaks down the key differences to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C3 is the clear winner. Its octa-core processor and more modern chipset provide significantly better performance than the C1 2nd Edition's quad-core setup. While both are budget phones, the C3 offers a more responsive and enjoyable user experience.
| 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 |
| 4G bands | - | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, July 05 | 2020, August 04. Released 2020, August 13 |
| 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) | 159.9 x 77 x 8.7 mm (6.30 x 3.03 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 154 g (5.43 oz) | 184.5 g (6.53 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.99 inches, 92.6 cm2 (~75.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC7731e | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400 MP2 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.4 |
| 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 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2500 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3040 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Purple | Nordic blue, Sand gold |
| Models | TA-1380 | - |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.60 W/kg (head) 1.44 W/kg (body) | - |
Nokia C1 2nd Edition
- Extremely affordable
- Durable build quality (typical of Nokia)
- Clean Android Go Edition experience
- Slow performance
- Limited storage
- Basic camera
- Low-resolution display
Nokia C3
- Better performance than C1 2nd
- More modern chipset
- Slightly better camera
- More storage options
- Still a budget phone with limitations
- Display quality is basic
- Design is somewhat dated
Display Comparison
Both phones feature relatively small, basic LCD displays. The C3 might have slightly better color accuracy due to its more modern chipset, but overall, display quality is comparable and not a major differentiator. Expect resolutions around 720 x 1520 pixels on the C3 and likely a lower resolution on the C1 2nd Edition.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are modest on both devices. The C3 likely has a slightly better camera sensor and image processing capabilities thanks to its more powerful chipset, potentially resulting in slightly better image quality, especially in low light. Both will likely offer basic features like HDR and portrait mode.
Performance
This is where the C3 shines. The Unisoc SC9863A octa-core processor is a substantial upgrade over the C1 2nd Edition's Unisoc SC7731e quad-core. Expect smoother app loading, faster multitasking, and a more responsive overall experience on the C3. The C1 2nd Edition will feel noticeably slower, especially with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. The C3's more efficient chipset might give it a slight edge in battery endurance, but both should comfortably last a full day on a single charge.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C1 2nd Edition is best for users on the absolute tightest budget who primarily need basic calling, texting, and occasional app usage. The Nokia C3 is ideal for those who want a slightly more capable device for light multitasking, social media, and occasional gaming, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia C1 2nd Edition good for gaming?
No, the C1 2nd Edition's processor is not powerful enough for demanding games. It can handle very basic games, but performance will be limited.
❓ How much storage do the Nokia C1 2nd Edition and C3 offer?
The C1 2nd Edition typically comes with 32GB of storage, while the C3 often offers 32GB or 64GB options, expandable via microSD card.
