Nokia's budget smartphone lineup continues to expand, offering affordable options for those seeking reliable devices. The Nokia G21 and C31 both aim to deliver value, but cater to slightly different needs. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia G21 clearly takes the lead thanks to its significantly better performance, brighter display, and faster charging. While the C31 offers a more rugged design and potentially longer software support, the G21's overall package is more compelling for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - International | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - International |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International | 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 |
| | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 28, 40, 66 - LATAM | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - South Africa, Egypt |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, February 14 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, February 15 | 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 | 190 g (6.70 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, 400 nits (typ) | 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, upgradable to Android 13 | Android 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, 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, f/2.0, (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, RDS | 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 | Nordic Blue, Dusk | Charcoal, Mint, Cyan |
| Models | TA-1418, TA-1477, TA-1415, TA-1405, TA-1404, TA-1412 | TA-1499, TA-1497, TA-1493 |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR | 1.00 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.34 W/kg (head) 1.05 W/kg (body) | 0.35 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life |
Endurance rating 126h
| - |
| Camera |
Photo / Video | - |
| Display |
Contrast ratio: 1631:1 (nominal) | - |
| Loudspeaker |
-30.7 LUFS (Below average)
| - |
| Performance |
AnTuTu: 171299 (v9)
GeekBench: 1193 (v5.1)
GFXBench: 8.9fps (ES 3.1 onscreen) | - |
Nokia G21
- Superior Performance
- Brighter & Higher Contrast Display
- Faster Charging (18W)
- Exceptional Battery Life (126h Endurance)
- Potentially less rugged design than C31
- Unisoc T606 chipset isn't flagship level
Nokia C31
- Potentially more durable build
- Likely longer software support (typical for C-series)
- Affordable
- Slower Performance
- Dimmer Display
- Slow Charging (10W)
- Shorter Battery Life (estimated)
Display Comparison
The Nokia G21 boasts a significantly superior display with a measured 500 nits brightness and an impressive 1631:1 contrast ratio. The C31's display details are unavailable, but based on typical C-series specs, it's likely less bright and vibrant. This difference will be noticeable in outdoor use and when viewing multimedia content.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature Photo/Video capabilities, but detailed camera specifications are missing. However, given the chipset differences, the G21 likely has a slightly better camera system. Image quality and features will likely be similar for basic usage.
Performance
The Unisoc T606 in the G21 offers a considerable performance advantage over the C31's SC9863A. The G21's Cortex-A75 cores provide a boost for demanding tasks, while the C31 relies solely on Cortex-A55 cores. Expect smoother multitasking and app loading on the G21.
Battery Life
The Nokia G21's standout feature is its exceptional battery life, boasting an endurance rating of 126 hours. The C31's battery capacity is likely smaller, and with its slower charging (10W vs 18W), it will take considerably longer to recharge.
Buying Guide
The Nokia G21 is ideal for users who prioritize performance, a vibrant display, and faster charging. It's a good choice for light to moderate users. The Nokia C31 is better suited for those who need a durable phone with a focus on longevity and basic functionality, and who aren't concerned about speed or screen quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which Nokia phone has better software support?
Historically, Nokia's C-series phones have received longer software support than the G-series. However, this can vary, so check Nokia's official website for the latest update guarantees.
❓ Is the Nokia G21 worth the extra cost over the C31?
If performance and display quality are important to you, then yes, the G21 is worth the extra cost. If you prioritize durability and longevity above all else, the C31 might be a better choice.
