Nokia's C-series phones are known for offering reliable performance at affordable prices. The C12 Pro and C32 are two recent additions to this lineup, both targeting budget-conscious consumers. But which one offers the better value?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C12 Pro and C32 share the same chipset and CPU, resulting in very similar performance. The C32 edges out slightly due to potentially better camera hardware and a more refined design, making it the marginally better choice for most users, though the C12 Pro might be slightly cheaper.
| 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, March 21 | 2023, February 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, March 21 | Available. Released 2023, February 25 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, glass back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 160.6 x 74.3 x 8.8 mm (6.32 x 2.93 x 0.35 in) | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) | 199.4 g (7.02 oz) |
| | Splash resistant | Splash and dust 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 (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.3 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% 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 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 8 MP |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 720p | Yes |
| 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 | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 4000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint | Charcoal, Autumn Green, Beach Pink |
| Price | About 80 EUR | $ 129.00 / £ 73.99 / € 104.99 |
Nokia C12 Pro
- Likely more affordable
- Reliable Nokia build quality
- Clean Android experience
- Potentially less refined design
- Likely slightly weaker camera
- 10W charging is slow
Nokia C32
- Potentially better camera
- More refined design
- Durable build
- Clean Android experience
- Slightly higher price
- 10W charging is slow
- Performance is basic
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar LCD displays, probably around 6.1-6.3 inches with HD+ resolution. The C32 might have slightly better color accuracy or brightness due to potentially different panel technology, but this is difficult to confirm without detailed reviews. Expect adequate viewing experiences for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
The C32 is expected to have a slightly better camera setup, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor and/or additional features like a macro lens. The C12 Pro's camera is likely adequate for basic snapshots, but the C32 should offer slightly better image quality, especially in good lighting conditions. Both will likely struggle in low light.
Performance
Identical chipsets and CPUs (Unisoc SC9863A1) mean performance will be nearly identical. Expect smooth navigation and basic app usage, but don't expect to play demanding games. Both will handle social media, browsing, and messaging without issue.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have similar battery capacities (likely around 5000mAh) and charging speeds (10W wired). Expect all-day battery life with moderate usage on either device.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C12 Pro is ideal for users prioritizing the absolute lowest price and basic smartphone functionality. The Nokia C32 is a better fit for those who want a slightly more polished design, potentially improved camera capabilities, and a bit more overall refinement without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones 5G capable?
No, neither the Nokia C12 Pro nor the Nokia C32 support 5G connectivity. They are both 4G LTE devices.
❓ What Android version do these phones ship with?
Both phones are expected to ship with Android 12 (Go Edition) or Android 13 (Go Edition), offering a lightweight and optimized Android experience for lower-powered devices.
