Looking for an affordable smartphone? The Nokia C12 and C32 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering reliable performance and the Nokia brand's reputation. But which one is right for you? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C32 edges out the C12 thanks to its slightly improved charging speed and potentially better build quality (often a Nokia strength). Both offer similar performance, but the C32's added convenience makes it the marginally better choice for most users.
| 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 25 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, February 02 | 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 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 | 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 |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint | Charcoal, Autumn Green, Beach Pink |
| Price | About 100 EUR | $ 129.00 / £ 73.99 / € 104.99 |
Nokia C12
- Lowest price
- Reliable Nokia brand
- Decent battery life
- Slow charging
- Basic camera
- Limited performance
Nokia C32
- Faster 10W charging
- Potentially better build quality
- Slightly improved camera
- Slightly higher price
- Limited performance
- Basic camera
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar 6.5-inch HD+ displays, offering adequate viewing for everyday tasks. Expect decent color accuracy but limited brightness. The C32 might have a slightly improved coating for better scratch resistance, but this is not confirmed.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia C32 is expected to have a slightly better camera setup, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor and improved image processing. The C12 likely features a basic dual-camera system. Expect decent photos in good lighting conditions, but low-light performance will be limited on both.
Performance
Sharing the same Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset and CPU configuration, performance will be virtually identical. Expect smooth navigation and basic app usage, but demanding games and multitasking will be a struggle. Don't expect blazing speeds from either device.
Battery Life
Both phones likely feature a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. The C32's 10W wired charging offers a noticeable advantage over the C12's likely slower charging speed.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C12 is ideal for users prioritizing the absolute lowest price and basic functionality. The Nokia C32 is a better fit for those who want a slightly more refined experience, faster charging, and potentially a more durable design, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference in performance between the Nokia C12 and C32?
The performance is virtually identical as they share the same chipset and CPU. Both are suitable for basic tasks but struggle with demanding applications.
❓ Which phone has better battery life?
Both phones likely offer all-day battery life thanks to their 5000mAh batteries. Usage patterns will heavily influence actual battery performance.
