Looking for an affordable smartphone that delivers reliable performance? The Nokia C12 and C02 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering essential features at attractive price points. But which one is the better choice for your needs?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C12 takes the win thanks to its significantly more powerful Octa-core processor. While both offer basic functionality, the C12's improved performance translates to a smoother user experience, especially for multitasking and light gaming. The C02 remains a solid, ultra-budget option.
| 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, January 18 | 2023, February 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, February 02 | Available. Released 2023, May |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 160.6 x 74.3 x 8.8 mm (6.32 x 2.93 x 0.35 in) | 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 | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) | 191 g (6.74 oz) |
| | Splash resistant | Splash and dust resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~278 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.3 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~80.3% 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 | Unspecified | microSDXC |
| Internal | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB 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 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint | Dark Cyan, Charcoal |
| Price | About 100 EUR | - |
Nokia C12
- More powerful Octa-core processor
- Potentially better display quality
- Reliable Nokia brand
- Good battery life
- May be slightly more expensive than C02
- Camera performance is still basic
- 22nm chipset is not the most efficient
Nokia C02
- Very affordable
- Reliable Nokia brand
- Decent battery life
- Compact size (likely)
- Slower Quad-core processor
- Basic display
- Limited camera capabilities
- May feel sluggish with multitasking
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a basic LCD display, probably around 6.1 inches for the C12 and potentially slightly smaller for the C02. Expect resolutions in the 720 x 1520 range. The C12 might offer slightly better color accuracy due to potentially more advanced panel technology, but both will prioritize affordability over premium display quality.
Camera Comparison
Both phones are expected to have a single rear camera, likely in the 8-13MP range. Image quality will be adequate in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The C12's more powerful processor *might* allow for slightly better image processing, but don't expect a significant difference.
Performance
This is where the C12 shines. Its Octa-core Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset provides a substantial performance boost over the C02's Quad-core processor. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and better overall responsiveness on the C12. The C02 will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature a battery capacity around 4000mAh. Battery life should be comparable, offering a full day of moderate use. The C02's less demanding processor *could* potentially offer slightly better battery life under heavy load, but the difference is likely to be minimal.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C12 is ideal for users who want a slightly more responsive experience and occasional light gaming. The Nokia C02 is perfect for those prioritizing the absolute lowest price and basic calling/texting needs, and who don't require demanding performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference in performance between the Nokia C12 and C02?
The Nokia C12 has a significantly more powerful Octa-core processor compared to the C02's Quad-core, resulting in a smoother and more responsive user experience.
❓ Which Nokia phone is better for taking photos?
While both have basic cameras, the Nokia C12's more powerful processor *may* allow for slightly better image processing and potentially better low-light performance.
