The Nokia C-series is known for offering reliable, affordable smartphones. The Nokia C12 Pro and C12 are two recent additions, both targeting the budget market. But what are the key differences, and which one offers the best value for your money?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C12 Pro edges out the C12 thanks to its faster charging. Both phones share the same processor and RAM, but the Pro model's 10W charging provides a noticeable advantage. If charging speed is a priority, the C12 Pro is the better choice.
| 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 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, March 21 | 2023, January 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, March 21 | Available. Released 2023, February 02 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 160.6 x 74.3 x 8.8 mm (6.32 x 2.93 x 0.35 in) | 160.6 x 74.3 x 8.8 mm (6.32 x 2.93 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) |
| | Splash resistant | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~278 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~278 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.3 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 12 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| Internal | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP | 5.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Wireless 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 | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 100 EUR |
Nokia C12 Pro
- Faster 10W Charging
- Potentially Improved Camera
- Reliable Nokia Build Quality
- Large 5000mAh Battery
- Slightly Higher Price
- Performance Limitations (Unisoc Chipset)
Nokia C12
- Lower Price Point
- Reliable Nokia Build Quality
- Large 5000mAh Battery
- Decent Display
- Slower Charging
- Potentially Inferior Camera
- Performance Limitations (Unisoc Chipset)
Display Comparison
Both the Nokia C12 and C12 Pro feature a 6.53-inch IPS LCD display with a 720 x 1600 resolution. While the panels are similar in size and resolution, the C12 Pro might have slightly improved color accuracy or brightness, though this is often subtle in budget devices. Expect a decent viewing experience for everyday use, but don't expect vibrant colors or high brightness levels.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia C12 Pro is expected to have a slightly improved camera setup compared to the C12. While both likely feature a 13MP main camera, the Pro model may include additional lenses (like a depth sensor) or improved image processing algorithms. Expect decent image quality in good lighting conditions, but low-light performance will likely be average. The front-facing camera is likely to be a 5MP unit on both devices.
Performance
Under the hood, both phones are powered by the Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset and an octa-core CPU. Performance will be adequate for basic tasks, but don't expect to run demanding games or applications smoothly. Multitasking with several apps open simultaneously might result in noticeable slowdowns. RAM configurations are likely to be 3GB or 4GB across both models.
Battery Life
The Nokia C12 and C12 Pro both feature a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. However, the C12 Pro boasts 10W wired charging, while the C12 likely has slower charging capabilities (potentially 5W). This difference in charging speed can significantly impact the overall user experience.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C12 Pro is ideal for users who prioritize slightly faster charging and potentially a few minor software enhancements. The Nokia C12 is a great option for those seeking the absolute lowest price point and are less concerned about charging speed. Both are suitable for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia C12 and C12 Pro?
The main difference is the charging speed (10W for C12 Pro vs likely slower for C12) and potentially a slightly improved camera on the C12 Pro. Both share the same processor and RAM.
❓ Are these phones good for gaming?
No, these phones are not ideal for gaming. The Unisoc chipset and limited RAM will struggle with demanding games. They are best suited for basic tasks and light usage.
