Nokia's budget phone lineup offers reliable options, but choosing between models can be tricky. The Nokia G11 and C31 both aim to deliver value, but they cater to slightly different needs. Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia G11 clearly takes the lead. Its superior chipset, faster charging, and generally better performance make it the more compelling choice despite a potentially slightly higher price. The C31 offers durability and a longer-lasting build, but sacrifices performance.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | eMMC 5.1 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - South Africa, Egypt |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, February 15 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, March 24 | Available. Released 2022, September 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 mm (6.48 x 2.99 x 0.33 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 | 189 g (6.67 oz) | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| 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, 90Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Triple | 13 MP, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Wireless FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired, PD3.0 | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5050 mAh | Li-Po 5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Charcoal, Ice | Charcoal, Mint, Cyan |
| Models | TA-1401 | TA-1499, TA-1497, TA-1493 |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.47 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | 0.35 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
Nokia G11
- Faster Performance
- 18W Fast Charging
- Potentially Better Camera
- Modern Chipset
- Potentially Higher Price
- May have slightly less rugged build
Nokia C31
- Durable Build Quality
- Longer Software Support (potentially)
- More Affordable
- Slower Performance
- 10W Slow Charging
- Less Capable Camera
- Outdated Chipset
Display Comparison
Both phones feature HD+ displays, likely around 6.5 inches. However, the G11 might offer slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to its more modern chipset. Expect similar viewing experiences overall, suitable for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
The G11 likely boasts a more capable camera system, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor and improved image processing. While both phones likely offer a main camera, ultrawide, and depth sensor, the G11's chipset will allow for better image quality and features. Expect the C31 to produce acceptable photos in good lighting conditions, but the G11 will offer a noticeable upgrade.
Performance
This is where the G11 shines. The Unisoc T606 is significantly more powerful than the SC9863A in the C31. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user experience on the G11. The C31 will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with demanding apps or games.
Battery Life
Both phones feature large batteries (likely around 5000mAh). However, the G11's 18W fast charging support provides a significant advantage, allowing for much quicker top-ups compared to the C31's 10W charging.
Buying Guide
The Nokia G11 is ideal for users who prioritize performance and faster charging, even on a budget. The Nokia C31 is a better fit for those who value ruggedness, a longer-lasting design, and are less concerned with raw processing power.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which Nokia phone has better software support?
Nokia is generally known for providing consistent software updates. While specifics vary, the C31, being a slightly newer model, *might* receive updates for a longer period, but both are expected to receive Android updates for a reasonable timeframe.
❓ Is the Nokia G11 worth the extra money?
If performance and faster charging are important to you, then yes, the Nokia G11 is worth the extra investment. The performance difference is significant and will enhance your overall user experience.
