Nokia's C-series phones are known for offering reliable performance and durability at affordable prices. The Nokia C32 and C12 are two recent additions to this lineup, targeting budget-conscious consumers. But which one offers the better value?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia C32 edges out the C12 thanks to its inclusion of 10W charging, a feature absent in the C12. Both share the same chipset and CPU, making the charging speed the key differentiator for a slightly improved user experience. Ultimately, both are solid budget options.
| 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, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, February 25 | 2023, January 18 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, February 25 | Available. Released 2023, February 02 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, glass back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.34 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 | 199.4 g (7.02 oz) | 177.4 g (6.24 oz) |
| | Splash and dust resistant | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~278 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 95.8 cm2 (~80.3% 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 13 | Android 12 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | Unspecified |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB 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 | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p |
| 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 | Wireless FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Charcoal, Autumn Green, Beach Pink | Dark Cyan, Charcoal, Light Mint |
| Price | $ 129.00 / £ 73.99 / € 104.99 | About 100 EUR |
Nokia C32
- 10W Charging
- 50MP Main Camera
- Durable Build Quality (typical of Nokia)
- Larger Storage Options (potentially)
- Unisoc Chipset Performance
- HD+ Display
- Plastic Build
Nokia C12
- Lower Price Point
- Durable Build Quality (typical of Nokia)
- Long Battery Life
- No Specified Charging Speed
- 13MP Main Camera
- Unisoc Chipset Performance
- HD+ Display
Display Comparison
Both the Nokia C32 and C12 feature a 6.1-inch HD+ (720 x 1560 pixels) IPS LCD display. While the resolution is standard for this price range, expect decent viewing angles and color reproduction. The C32 might have slightly better brightness, but this is difficult to confirm without testing.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia C32 boasts a 50MP main camera, along with a 2MP depth sensor and an AI lens. The C12 features a 13MP main camera and a depth sensor. The C32's higher resolution main sensor should translate to slightly better image quality, especially in well-lit conditions. Both likely struggle in low light.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. Both phones are powered by the Unisoc SC9863A1 chipset and an octa-core CPU. Expect adequate performance for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Demanding games and multitasking will likely result in noticeable slowdowns.
Battery Life
Both phones are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. However, the Nokia C32 supports 10W wired charging, while the C12 lacks any specified charging speed, implying slower charging via standard USB. This is a significant advantage for the C32.
Buying Guide
The Nokia C32 is ideal for users who prioritize slightly faster charging and a more complete feature set. The Nokia C12 is a great choice for those seeking the absolute lowest price point and are willing to forgo faster charging to save money.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia C32 and C12?
The main difference is the Nokia C32 includes 10W charging, while the C12 does not specify a charging speed. The C32 also has a higher resolution main camera (50MP vs 13MP).
❓ Are these phones good for gaming?
Neither phone is ideal for demanding gaming. The Unisoc chipset is entry-level and will struggle with graphically intensive games. Basic games will run, but expect reduced frame rates and potential lag.
