Looking for an affordable smartphone that won't break the bank? The Nokia C100 and Motorola Moto G Play (2021) are both contenders in the budget phone arena. But which one offers the best bang for your buck? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Motorola Moto G Play (2021) edges out the Nokia C100 thanks to its more powerful processor, slightly better camera, and faster charging. While the C100 is a solid option, the Moto G Play provides a more polished and responsive experience for a similar price.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 41, 66, 71 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 25, 26, 38, 41, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 2, 4, 5, 12, 14, 30, 66 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 05 | 2021, January 08 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, Q2 | Available. Released 2021, January 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 149.6 x 71.9 x 9.7 mm (5.89 x 2.83 x 0.38 in) | 166.6 x 76 x 9.4 mm (6.56 x 2.99 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 204 g (7.20 oz) |
| | Splash protection | Water-repellent coating |
| Display |
|---|
| 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 (~71.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x1.8 GHz Kryo 240 & 4x1.6 GHz Kryo 240) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Qualcomm SM4250 Snapdragon 460 (11 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 610 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1.12µm |
| Video | 720p | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | No | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, barometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue | Misty Blue |
| Models | TA-1484, TA-1520, N152DL | XT2093-3, XT2093-7, XT2093-DL, XT2093DL |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 60 EUR |
| SAR | 1.03 W/kg (head) 1.35 W/kg (body) | - |
Nokia C100
- Clean Android experience
- Durable build quality (typical Nokia)
- Affordable price
- Slow performance
- Basic camera
- Slow charging
Motorola Moto G Play (2021)
- Faster processor
- Better camera
- Faster charging (10W)
- Larger battery capacity
- Motorola's My UX can be divisive
- Plastic build feels less premium
Display Comparison
Both phones feature large, HD+ displays, but the Moto G Play (2021) often has slightly better color accuracy and brightness. The C100's display is adequate but may appear less vibrant. Screen sizes are comparable, around 6.5 inches.
Camera Comparison
The Moto G Play (2021) generally captures better photos, especially in low light, thanks to its more capable camera hardware and image processing. Both phones offer basic camera features, but the Moto G Play provides a slight edge in image quality.
Performance
The Motorola Moto G Play (2021)'s Snapdragon 460 chipset is noticeably faster than the Nokia C100's Helio A22. Expect smoother multitasking and app loading on the Moto G Play. The C100 can feel sluggish at times, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones offer excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day on a single charge. The Moto G Play (2021) has a slightly larger battery capacity and benefits from 10W charging, which is faster than the C100's charging speed (likely 5W).
Buying Guide
The Nokia C100 is ideal for users prioritizing simplicity, a clean Android experience, and Nokia's reputation for durability. The Motorola Moto G Play (2021) is better suited for those needing a bit more performance for everyday tasks, slightly better camera quality, and faster charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone has better software support?
Nokia generally promises longer software updates, but Motorola has improved in recent years. Both offer near-stock Android experiences.
❓ Is the Nokia C100 worth buying if I only need a basic phone?
Yes, if you prioritize simplicity and Nokia's reputation for durability, the C100 is a decent option. However, the Moto G Play offers more features for a similar price.
