The Nokia C1 and Tecno Spark Go 2 represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver basic smartphone functionality to users on a tight budget, but they take drastically different approaches to achieving this. The Nokia C1 relies on a simple, older processor, while the Tecno Spark Go 2 leverages a more modern, octa-core Unisoc chipset. This comparison will dissect the key differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Tecno Spark Go 2 is the clear winner. Its Unisoc T7250 chipset provides a substantially more responsive experience for everyday tasks and even light multitasking, justifying its slightly higher price point. The Nokia C1 is only suitable for those with extremely basic needs and a very limited budget.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, December 11. Released 2020, December 11 | 2025, June 24 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2025, June |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 147.6 x 71.4 x 8.7 mm (5.81 x 2.81 x 0.34 in) | 165.6 x 77 x 8.3 mm (6.52 x 3.03 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 155 g (5.47 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Yes | - |
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~197 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~263 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 120Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz | Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc T7250 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 9.0 Pie (Go edition) | Android 15, HIOS 15 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, AF | 13 MP, f/1.8, 27mm (wide), PDAF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 2500 mAh, removable | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Red | Ink Black, Titanium Grey, Veil White, Turquoise Green |
| Models | TA-1165 | KM4 |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.40 W/kg (head) 1.30 W/kg (body) | - |
Nokia C1
- Extremely affordable
- Simple and easy to use
- Reliable brand reputation (Nokia)
- Very slow performance
- Outdated processor
- Likely limited battery life
Tecno Spark Go 2
- Significantly faster performance
- Octa-core processor
- 15W fast charging
- More efficient processor (12nm)
- Still a budget device with limitations
- Camera quality is likely basic
- May have bloatware
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. The Nokia C1's display specifications are not provided, suggesting a basic LCD panel. The Tecno Spark Go 2 also likely features a standard LCD, but the focus here isn't on display quality. Both will likely suffer from narrow viewing angles and limited brightness. The absence of any mention of features like high refresh rates or even HD+ resolution on either device indicates a focus on cost reduction over visual fidelity.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices – basic. Neither phone is positioned as a photography powerhouse. Without detailed sensor information for the Nokia C1, it's safe to assume a low-resolution sensor. The Tecno Spark Go 2 likely features a primary camera with a modest resolution, but the Unisoc T7250's image signal processor (ISP) will likely offer slightly better image processing capabilities. Expect acceptable results in good lighting conditions, but poor performance in low light. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera on the Tecno Spark Go 2 is largely a marketing gimmick and unlikely to produce usable images.
Performance
This is where the Tecno Spark Go 2 truly shines. The Nokia C1's quad-core 1.3 GHz processor is a generation behind and will struggle with even moderate multitasking. In contrast, the Tecno Spark Go 2's Unisoc T7250, built on a 12nm process, features an octa-core configuration with a mix of Cortex-A75 (1.8 GHz) and Cortex-A55 (1.6 GHz) cores. This architecture provides a significant performance boost, particularly in app loading times and overall system responsiveness. The 12nm process also suggests better power efficiency compared to older, larger node processors. Users who plan to use social media, browse the web, or occasionally play light games will find the Tecno Spark Go 2 a far more enjoyable experience.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified for the Nokia C1, but given its price point, it's likely a relatively small capacity. The Tecno Spark Go 2 benefits from 15W wired charging, a feature absent on the Nokia C1. While 15W isn't fast charging by modern standards, it's a significant advantage over slower charging solutions. The Unisoc T7250's 12nm process also contributes to better power efficiency, potentially extending battery life on the Tecno Spark Go 2 compared to the Nokia C1.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia C1 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and only intend to use the phone for calls, texts, and very light app usage. It's a functional device for those who prioritize affordability above all else. Buy the Tecno Spark Go 2 if you value a smoother, more responsive user experience, even for basic tasks. The octa-core processor and 15W charging offer a significant upgrade in usability and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark Go 2 be able to run popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Tecno Spark Go 2's Unisoc T7250 chipset is capable of running social media apps like Facebook and Instagram without significant lag. The octa-core processor and sufficient RAM (though the amount isn't specified, it's likely adequate for these apps) will provide a much smoother experience compared to the Nokia C1.
❓ Is the Nokia C1 a good choice for a first smartphone for an elderly person?
The Nokia C1 could be considered for an elderly person who only needs basic functionality like calls and texts. However, its slow performance might be frustrating for even simple tasks. The Tecno Spark Go 2, despite being slightly more expensive, offers a more user-friendly experience due to its faster processor.
❓ Can the Tecno Spark Go 2 handle any mobile games?
The Tecno Spark Go 2 can handle light mobile games, but don't expect to play demanding titles like PUBG or Call of Duty at high settings. The Unisoc T7250 is not a gaming chipset, but it can provide a playable experience for less graphically intensive games.
