Looking for an affordable smartphone that delivers reliable performance? The Nokia C12 Plus and C02 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering essential features at attractive price points. But which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C12 Plus clearly edges out the C02 thanks to its significantly more powerful Octa-core processor and improved camera capabilities. While both offer solid battery life, the C12 Plus's enhanced performance makes it the better choice for most users seeking a responsive budget phone.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, April 01 | 2023, February 23 |
| Status | Cancelled | Available. Released 2023, May |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | - | 148.7 x 71.2 x 10 mm (5.85 x 2.80 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 191 g (6.74 oz) |
| | - | Splash and dust resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.3 inches, 99.1 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~72.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Quad-core 1.4 GHz |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) | - |
| GPU | IMG8322 | - |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 12 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| 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 | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint | Dark Cyan, Charcoal |
| Price | About 90 EUR | - |
Nokia C12 Plus
- More powerful Octa-core processor
- Potentially better camera
- Reliable Nokia build quality
- Good battery life
- May be slightly more expensive than the C02
- Basic display quality
Nokia C02
- Very affordable
- Reliable Nokia brand
- Decent battery life
- Slower Quad-core processor
- Basic camera
- Limited performance for demanding tasks
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a similar display size (around 6.1 inches) and resolution (likely HD+). Expect basic LCD panels with decent viewing angles but limited brightness. The C12 Plus *might* have a slightly improved panel, but this is not definitively confirmed.
Camera Comparison
The C12 Plus is expected to have a better camera setup, potentially including a higher resolution main sensor and possibly a depth sensor. While neither phone is expected to excel in image quality, the C12 Plus should offer slightly better photos in various lighting conditions. Both likely have a basic front-facing camera for selfies.
Performance
This is where the C12 Plus shines. Its Octa-core Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset offers a substantial performance boost over the C02's Quad-core processor. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user experience on the C12 Plus. The C02 will feel noticeably slower, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones are likely to feature a battery capacity around 4000mAh, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. Battery optimization will play a crucial role in real-world performance, and Nokia's software typically offers good power management.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C12 Plus is ideal for users who prioritize performance and a slightly better camera experience, even on a tight budget. The Nokia C02 is a good option for those seeking the absolute lowest price point and basic smartphone functionality, primarily for calls, texts, and light app usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference in performance between the Nokia C12 Plus and C02?
The Nokia C12 Plus has a significantly more powerful Octa-core processor compared to the C02's Quad-core, resulting in smoother performance and faster app loading times.
❓ Which Nokia phone is better for taking photos?
The Nokia C12 Plus is expected to have a better camera setup, potentially with a higher resolution sensor, leading to slightly improved photo quality.
