Looking for an affordable and reliable smartphone? The Nokia C22 and C31 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a blend of Nokia's durability and essential features. But which one is the better choice for your needs? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C31 edges out the C22 primarily due to its slightly improved build quality and potentially better software support. While both share the same chipset, the C31's subtle advantages make it the marginally better pick for most users seeking a dependable budget device.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - International |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - South Africa, Egypt |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, February 25 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, February 25 | Available. Released 2022, September 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.34 in) | 169.2 x 78 x 8.6 mm (6.66 x 3.07 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| | Splash and dust resistant | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~83.4% 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 SC9863A (28 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 13 (Go edition) | Android 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro) | - |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Triple | - | 13 MP, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sand, Midnight Black | Charcoal, Mint, Cyan |
| Models | - | TA-1499, TA-1497, TA-1493 |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.35 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
Nokia C22
- Affordable
- Durable build (typical Nokia)
- Clean Android experience
- Decent battery life
- Basic performance
- Slow charging
- Limited camera features
- HD+ display quality
Nokia C31
- Slightly more robust build
- More versatile camera system (ultra-wide lens)
- Potentially longer software support
- Decent battery life
- Basic performance
- Slow charging
- HD+ display quality
- Slightly higher price than C22
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch HD+ display, offering decent viewing angles and adequate brightness for everyday use. However, the C31 might have a slightly more durable display coating. Color accuracy is typical for this price range – don't expect vibrant, professional-grade colors.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia C22 typically features a 50MP main camera and a 2MP depth sensor, while the C31 boasts a 50MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. The C31's extra lens provides more versatility in shooting scenarios. Image quality is acceptable in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light.
Performance
Powered by the Unisoc SC9863A, performance on both devices is similar. Expect smooth navigation for basic tasks like browsing and messaging, but demanding games and multitasking will likely result in noticeable slowdowns. The 3GB/4GB RAM options (depending on the variant) will influence multitasking capabilities.
Battery Life
Both phones are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. Charging is limited to 10W wired, so expect relatively slow charging times.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C22 is ideal for users prioritizing a very basic smartphone experience and maximum affordability. The Nokia C31 is a better choice for those who want a slightly more robust build, potentially longer software updates, and a marginally improved overall experience without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What Android version do these phones ship with?
Both the Nokia C22 and C31 launched with Android 12 (Go Edition). Nokia promises software updates, but the frequency and duration are not guaranteed.
❓ Is the Unisoc SC9863A a good processor?
The Unisoc SC9863A is adequate for basic tasks but not ideal for demanding applications or gaming. It's a common choice for budget smartphones.
