In a market saturated with smartphones, the feature phone remains a vital tool for those prioritizing simplicity, affordability, and longevity. We pit the Orange Dallas against the Nokia 112, two representatives of this enduring segment, to determine which best delivers on these core tenets. This comparison focuses on the practical aspects of ownership, given the limited publicly available specifications for both devices.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a reliable, no-frills mobile experience, the Nokia 112 likely offers a more established track record of durability and readily available support. While the Orange Dallas may present a lower initial cost, the Nokia 112’s brand reputation for robustness gives it a slight edge.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| EDGE | No | Yes |
| GPRS | Yes | Yes |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011 | 2012, May. Released 2012, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 109 x 46 x 12.4 mm (4.29 x 1.81 x 0.49 in) | 110.4 x 46.9 x 15.4 mm, 67 cc (4.35 x 1.85 x 0.61 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) |
| Weight | 80 g (2.82 oz) | 85.5 g (3.00 oz) |
| | Flashlight | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 128 x 160 pixels (~114 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~35.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.2 cm2 (~19.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | TFT, 65K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 1.4MB | 16MB |
| Phonebook | 300 entries | 1000 entries |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | VGA |
| Video | No | 176x144 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | - | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | 2.1, EDR |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS, recording |
| USB | microUSB | - |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | No | Yes |
| Java | No | Yes |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, IM |
| | MP3 player
Organizer
Predictive text input | MP3/WMA/AAC player
MP4/H.264 player
Organizer
Voice memo |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | - | Up to 27 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 240 h | Up to 840 h |
| Talk time | Up to 5 h | Up to 14 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion battery | Removable Li-Ion 1400 mAh battery (BL-6C) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Dark Grey, White, Red, Cyan |
| Price | - | About 80 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 1.30 W/kg (head) |
Orange Dallas
- Potentially lower purchase price
- May offer dual SIM functionality
- Compact and lightweight design
- Limited brand recognition
- Unknown long-term software support
- Uncertain build quality
Nokia 112
- Established brand reputation for durability
- Long battery life
- Wide availability of accessories
- Potentially higher price point
- Basic feature set
- Low-resolution camera
Display Comparison
Given the nature of feature phones, both the Orange Dallas and Nokia 112 likely employ small, low-resolution color displays – likely around 1.8 to 2.4 inches. The Nokia 112’s display, while basic, benefits from Nokia’s experience in optimizing readability in various lighting conditions. The Orange Dallas, lacking detailed specifications, may suffer from poorer viewing angles or lower contrast. Neither device will offer any touch functionality or advanced display features.
Camera Comparison
Both the Orange Dallas and Nokia 112 are likely equipped with a basic VGA camera (0.3MP). Image quality will be extremely limited, suitable only for very basic documentation. The Nokia 112’s camera, while low-resolution, benefits from Nokia’s image processing algorithms, potentially yielding slightly more usable results. The Orange Dallas’s camera performance is entirely speculative without further information.
Performance
Performance is dictated by the underlying MediaTek chipset common in these devices. Both phones will handle calling, texting, and basic applications without issue. The Nokia 112’s software is typically streamlined, potentially leading to a slightly more responsive user experience. The Orange Dallas’s performance will depend heavily on the amount of RAM allocated, which is currently unknown. Neither device is designed for multitasking or demanding applications.
Battery Life
Feature phones excel in battery life. Both the Orange Dallas and Nokia 112 likely boast standby times measured in weeks, and talk times in the range of 8-15 hours. The Nokia 112 typically features a 1450mAh battery, known for its longevity. The Orange Dallas’s battery capacity is unknown, but given its market positioning, it’s likely comparable. The Nokia 112’s optimized power management gives it a potential advantage in real-world usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Orange Dallas if you need a potentially cheaper entry point into basic mobile communication and are comfortable with a less established brand. Buy the Nokia 112 if you prioritize proven reliability, a longer expected lifespan, and a wider availability of accessories and repair options. Both phones cater to users who primarily need calling and texting functionality, but the Nokia 112 leans towards those valuing dependability above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia 112 a good choice for elderly users?
Yes, the Nokia 112 is an excellent choice for elderly users. Its simple interface, large buttons, and long battery life make it easy to use and reliable. The straightforward functionality minimizes confusion and ensures essential communication features are readily accessible.
❓ Can the Orange Dallas be used as a temporary phone while traveling?
The Orange Dallas could serve as a temporary travel phone, particularly if you need a dual-SIM device to use a local SIM card. However, its limited brand support and potential compatibility issues should be considered before relying on it for critical communication.
❓ Does the Nokia 112 support FM radio?
Yes, the Nokia 112 does support FM radio, offering a convenient source of entertainment without requiring a data connection. This is a valuable feature for users in areas with limited or expensive mobile data access.
