The Nokia C2 Tennen and C110 represent HMD Global's continued push into the ultra-budget smartphone market. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a low price point, they differ significantly in their internal hardware, particularly in their chipsets. This comparison will dissect those differences to determine which device offers the best value for users prioritizing performance and everyday usability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Nokia C110 is the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio P22 chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the C2 Tennen’s quad-core Helio A22. While charging is slower, the improved processing power translates to a smoother user experience, especially when multitasking or running demanding apps.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 | HSDPA 850 / 1700 / 1900 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 41, 66, 71 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | Class 12 | - |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE, Cat6 300/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, May 29. Released 2020, June 15 | 2023, June 02 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2023, June 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 150.6 x 72.4 x 9.1 mm (5.93 x 2.85 x 0.36 in) | 160.8 x 74 x 8.5 mm (6.33 x 2.91 x 0.33 in) |
| Keyboard | QWERTY | - |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 180 g (6.35 oz) | 172 g (6.07 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 720 x 1560 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~273 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~70.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 97.4 cm2 (~81.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (16 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | - |
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM |
| Phonebook | 500 entries | - |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, AF
2 MP | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | VGA | 13 MP, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, dual-band, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | - |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 5W wired |
| Stand-by | Up to 240 h | - |
| Talk time | Up to 3 h | - |
| Type | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 3000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Steel | Gray |
| Models | - | N156DL |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 100 EUR |
Nokia C2 Tennen
- Faster 10W charging
- Potentially lower price point
- Simple and functional for basic users
- Significantly weaker processor
- Less responsive user experience
- Struggles with multitasking
Nokia C110
- More powerful octa-core processor
- Smoother multitasking and app performance
- More efficient chipset (Helio P22)
- Slower 5W charging
- Potentially slightly higher price
- May not be a significant upgrade for extremely basic users
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a particularly impressive display. Details regarding panel type, resolution, and brightness are not provided, suggesting both utilize basic LCD panels common in this price bracket. The focus here is on functionality over fidelity. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor. Color accuracy is expected to be standard for budget devices, prioritizing power efficiency over color calibration.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices, given the typical sensor configurations found in this segment. Details are lacking, but it’s safe to assume both feature a basic main sensor and potentially a depth or macro sensor of limited utility. Image processing will be minimal, relying heavily on software algorithms to enhance photos. Expect acceptable results in good lighting conditions, but significant noise and lack of detail in low light. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on either device further limits low-light capabilities.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Nokia C110’s Mediatek Helio P22 (12nm) is a significant upgrade over the C2 Tennen’s Helio A22 (16nm). The P22’s octa-core configuration – four Cortex-A53 cores at 2.0 GHz and four at 1.5 GHz – allows for more efficient multitasking and handling of moderately demanding applications. The A22’s quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 setup will struggle with heavier workloads. The 12nm process node of the P22 also contributes to better power efficiency, potentially offsetting the impact of the more complex CPU design. While neither chipset is a gaming powerhouse, the C110 will offer a smoother experience with less lag.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are unavailable for either device. However, the Nokia C110’s 5W charging is slower than the C2 Tennen’s 10W charging. This means a longer time to fully charge the device. Despite the slower charging, the Helio P22’s improved power efficiency could result in comparable or even slightly better real-world battery life on the C110, as it completes tasks more efficiently, reducing overall power draw. The difference in charging speed will be most noticeable for users who frequently top up their phones throughout the day.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia C2 Tennen if you absolutely need to minimize upfront cost and your usage is limited to basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. It’s a functional device for those with minimal smartphone needs. Buy the Nokia C110 if you value a more responsive user experience, occasionally use multiple apps simultaneously, or anticipate needing a phone that will remain usable for a longer period without feeling sluggish. The extra processing power is worth the slight price premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Nokia C110 be able to handle popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram without lagging?
Yes, the Mediatek Helio P22 chipset in the Nokia C110 is significantly more capable of handling social media apps smoothly compared to the Helio A22 in the C2 Tennen. The octa-core processor and improved efficiency will provide a more responsive experience while browsing feeds and using these apps.
❓ Is the slower charging speed of the Nokia C110 a major drawback?
While the 5W charging is slower than the C2 Tennen’s 10W, the Helio P22’s power efficiency may mitigate this. The C110 could potentially offer similar overall battery life despite the slower charging. If you typically charge your phone overnight, the slower charging speed is unlikely to be a significant inconvenience.
❓ Can either of these phones handle basic mobile games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers?
Both phones can handle less demanding games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers, but the Nokia C110 will provide a smoother and more consistent gaming experience. The Helio P22 chipset will reduce lag and frame drops compared to the Helio A22 in the C2 Tennen.
