Looking for an affordable smartphone that delivers reliable performance? The Nokia C2 2nd Edition and C12 are both contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C12 generally edges out the C2 2nd Edition thanks to its octa-core processor and more modern chipset. While both are budget phones, the C12 offers a noticeable performance boost for smoother multitasking and a slightly better user experience. However, the C2 2nd Edition might be slightly more affordable.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, February 28 | 2023, January 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 19 | Available. Released 2023, February 02 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 154 x 75.9 x 10 mm (6.06 x 2.99 x 0.39 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 + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 180 g (6.35 oz) | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~188 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~278 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~71.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~80.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.5 GHz | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9863A1 (22 nm) |
| GPU | - | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 12 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | Unspecified |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 720p@30fps | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 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 | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 2400 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Blue, Warm Gray | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint |
| Models | TA-1468, TA-1454 | - |
| Price | About 240 EUR | About 100 EUR |
| SAR | 0.52 W/kg (head) 0.68 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.42 W/kg (head) 1.14 W/kg (body) | - |
Nokia C2 2nd Edition
- Very Affordable
- Reliable Nokia Brand
- Decent Battery Life
- Outdated Processor
- Limited Performance
- Basic Camera
Nokia C12
- Better Performance (Octa-Core)
- More Modern Chipset
- Slightly Improved Camera (potentially)
- Slightly Higher Price
- Still a Budget Phone
- Basic Camera
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar, basic LCD displays, probably around 6.1 inches with a resolution of 720 x 1560 pixels. Expect decent viewing angles and adequate brightness for indoor use, but not exceptional outdoor visibility. The C12 might have a slightly newer panel with improved color accuracy, but the difference will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely to be modest on both devices. Expect a single rear camera, potentially 8MP or 13MP, and a basic front-facing camera for selfies. Image quality will be acceptable in good lighting conditions, but low-light performance will be limited. The C12's newer chipset *might* offer slightly better image processing, but don't expect a dramatic difference.
Performance
This is where the C12 shines. Its Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset with an octa-core processor provides a significant performance advantage over the C2 2nd Edition's quad-core processor. Expect smoother app loading, faster multitasking, and a more responsive overall experience on the C12. The C2 2nd Edition will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with more demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a battery capacity around 4000mAh, offering all-day battery life with moderate usage. Battery optimization will play a crucial role in real-world performance, and Nokia's software typically provides decent power management.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C2 2nd Edition is ideal for users who prioritize affordability above all else and primarily need a phone for basic calling, texting, and light app usage. The Nokia C12 is a better choice for those who want a slightly more responsive experience, occasional gaming, and a more future-proof chipset.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the processors in these phones?
The Nokia C12 has an octa-core Unisoc SC9863A1 processor, while the C2 2nd Edition has a quad-core processor. The C12's processor offers significantly better performance for multitasking and running apps.
❓ Which phone is better for taking photos?
While both have basic cameras, the Nokia C12's newer chipset *might* provide slightly better image processing, resulting in marginally better photos, especially in good lighting conditions.
