The Oukitel C31 and Nokia C21 Plus represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at a minimal cost, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The C31 leverages a Mediatek Helio A22, while the C21 Plus opts for a Unisoc SC9863A. This comparison dissects these choices, focusing on how they impact everyday use.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Nokia C21 Plus offers a more balanced experience. While the Oukitel C31's single-core performance is comparable, the C21 Plus's octa-core processor provides a smoother multitasking experience, even if the older 28nm process isn't as efficient. The inclusion of 10W charging is also a practical advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, August | 2022, February 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August | Available. Released 2022, April 29 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, aluminum frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 9.5 mm thickness | 164.8 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm (6.49 x 2.99 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 207 g (7.30 oz) | 178 g or 191 g (6.28 oz) |
| | - | Splash protection |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 5 MP |
| Triple | 13 MP, (wide), AF
Other unspecified cameras | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted); unspecified sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5150 mAh | Li-Ion 4000/5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Purple, Black | Dark Cyan, Warm Gray |
| Models | - | TA-1433, TA-1431, TA-1426, TA-1424 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.57 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.40 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Oukitel C31
- Potentially better standby battery life due to 12nm process.
- Simpler processor architecture may lead to fewer software conflicts.
- Lower cost is likely.
- Quad-core processor may struggle with multitasking.
- No charging information available.
- Older CPU architecture.
Nokia C21 Plus
- Octa-core processor offers smoother multitasking.
- Includes 10W wired charging for convenience.
- Newer Cortex-A55 cores offer architectural improvements.
- 28nm process is less power efficient.
- May be slightly more expensive.
- Unisoc chipsets sometimes have less optimized software support.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Details regarding panel type, brightness, and resolution are absent from the provided data, suggesting both utilize basic LCD panels typical of this price point. Bezels are likely substantial on both, and color accuracy will be limited. The focus here is purely on functionality, not visual fidelity.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is unlikely to be a deciding factor for either device. Without sensor size or aperture information, it's safe to assume both feature basic cameras suitable for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. The prevalence of 2MP macro lenses in this segment suggests limited utility; image quality will be significantly impacted by low light and lack of optical image stabilization. The focus should be on capturing memories, not creating professional-grade photos.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Oukitel C31’s Mediatek Helio A22 is a quad-core processor clocked at 2.0 GHz, built on a more modern 12nm process. This suggests better power efficiency, potentially leading to longer battery life during standby. However, the Nokia C21 Plus’s Unisoc SC9863A features an octa-core configuration (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) built on a less efficient 28nm process. While individual core speeds are lower, the increased core count should translate to superior multitasking and smoother performance in apps optimized for multiple threads. The Cortex-A55 cores in the Unisoc chip are also a generation newer than the Cortex-A53 in the Helio A22, offering incremental architectural improvements.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, the Oukitel C31’s 12nm chipset offers a potential advantage in power efficiency, potentially extending battery life during less intensive tasks. The Nokia C21 Plus includes 10W wired charging, a practical feature absent from the Oukitel C31’s specifications. This means the C21 Plus will offer a faster and more convenient charging experience, even if the battery capacity is similar.
Buying Guide
Buy the Oukitel C31 if your primary need is a very basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage, and you prioritize potentially longer standby times due to the more efficient 12nm process. Buy the Nokia C21 Plus if you anticipate juggling multiple apps, even briefly, or if you value a slightly more responsive user interface and the convenience of standard wired charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc SC9863A in the Nokia C21 Plus struggle with popular apps like Facebook or WhatsApp?
While the Unisoc SC9863A isn't a powerhouse, its octa-core configuration should handle apps like Facebook and WhatsApp without significant issues. However, expect some slowdowns when multitasking or using more demanding features within these apps. The C21 Plus will likely offer a smoother experience than the quad-core Helio A22 in the Oukitel C31 for these types of tasks.
❓ Does the Oukitel C31 support fast charging, and how long will it take to fully charge the battery?
The provided specifications for the Oukitel C31 do not mention any fast charging capabilities. Without knowing the battery capacity, it's impossible to estimate the charging time. However, it's likely to be significantly slower than the Nokia C21 Plus, which supports 10W wired charging. Expect several hours for a full charge.
❓ Is the Nokia C21 Plus a good choice for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and texts?
Yes, the Nokia C21 Plus is a suitable option for basic communication. The octa-core processor won't be wasted on simple tasks like calls and texts, and the 10W charging is a convenient feature. While the Oukitel C31 could also handle these tasks, the C21 Plus offers a slightly more refined experience.
