Looking for an affordable Android phone? The Nokia C100 and C1 are both contenders, offering basic functionality at budget-friendly prices. But which one delivers the best experience? This comprehensive comparison will help you choose the right device for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C100 edges out the C1 thanks to its significantly faster processor and slightly improved display. While both are entry-level devices, the C100 offers a more responsive and enjoyable user experience, making it the better overall choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 41, 66, 71 | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 05 | 2019, December 11. Released 2020, December 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, Q2 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 149.6 x 71.9 x 9.7 mm (5.89 x 2.83 x 0.38 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 |
| Weight | - | 155 g (5.47 oz) |
| | Splash protection | - |
| 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 (~71.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | - |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 9.0 Pie (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP, f/2.4, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, barometer | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 2500 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue | Black, Red |
| Models | TA-1484, TA-1520, N152DL | TA-1165 |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 50 EUR |
| SAR | 1.03 W/kg (head) 1.35 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 1.30 W/kg (body) |
Nokia C100
- Faster Processor (Helio A22)
- Slightly Improved Display (potentially)
- Reliable Nokia Brand
- Good Battery Life
- Basic Camera
- Limited Storage
- Plastic Build Quality
Nokia C1
- Extremely Affordable
- Reliable Nokia Brand
- Good Battery Life
- Slow Processor
- Basic Camera
- Limited Storage
- Can feel sluggish
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.1-inch HD+ display, offering decent viewing angles for their price range. However, the C100 likely has slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to its newer chipset, though this is difficult to confirm definitively without detailed testing. Expect similar resolution and pixel density.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature a single rear camera, likely around 8MP. Image quality will be similar on both devices, with limited low-light performance. Don't expect flagship-level photography from either phone. The C100's newer chipset *might* offer slightly better image processing, but the difference will be minimal.
Performance
This is where the C100 shines. Its Mediatek Helio A22 chipset with a 2.0 GHz quad-core CPU is a noticeable upgrade over the C1's 1.3 GHz quad-core processor. Expect smoother app loading, faster multitasking, and a more responsive overall experience on the C100. The C1 can feel sluggish at times.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a battery capacity around 4000mAh, providing all-day battery life with moderate usage. Battery optimization will depend on software and usage patterns, so a direct comparison is difficult without testing.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C100 is ideal for users who need a reliable, basic smartphone with a bit more processing power for light multitasking and occasional gaming. The Nokia C1 is a good option for those on an extremely tight budget who primarily need a phone for calls, texts, and very basic apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What Android version do these phones run?
Both the Nokia C100 and C1 run Android Go Edition, a lightweight version of Android optimized for low-powered devices.
❓ How much storage do these phones have?
Both typically come with 32GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card.