Parla has been steadily building a reputation for offering compelling smartphone features at competitive price points. The Mist and Minu P124 represent two distinct approaches within their lineup. The Mist appears to be a more generalized offering, while the Minu P124, denoted by its model number, suggests a more focused, potentially iterative update. This comparison aims to dissect their strengths and weaknesses, given the limited publicly available specifications.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing overall value and a potentially more refined experience, the Parla Minu P124 is likely the better choice. The 'P124' designation hints at a later release with iterative improvements, suggesting a more mature software experience and potentially optimized hardware. However, without concrete specs, this remains an educated assumption.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | Class 12 | Yes |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 2 & SIM 3 (P330 only) | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012, June. Released 2012, Q4 | 2015, November. Released 2016, February |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 104.6 x 57 x 12.9 mm (4.12 x 2.24 x 0.51 in) | 112 x 48.5 x 13 mm (4.41 x 1.91 x 0.51 in) |
| Keyboard | QWERTY | - |
| SIM | Triple SIM (Mini-SIM) | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) |
| Weight | 90 g without battery (3.17 oz) | 83 g (2.93 oz) |
| | Flashlight | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 160 x 128 pixels (~114 ppi density) | 128 x 160 pixels (~114 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.8 inches, 10.2 cm2 (~17.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.2 cm2 (~18.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT, 256K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32Mb 32Mb RAM | 4MB 4MB RAM |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | VGA | VGA |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP | 2.1 |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio; built-in antenna | Stereo FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Yes | No |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS | SMS |
| | Music player
Video player
Organizer
Voice memo | Music player
Video player
Organizer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 260 h | Up to 200 h |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h | Up to 4 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 700 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 600 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White, Silver | Black, White |
Parla Mist
- Potentially wider availability due to being an earlier release.
- May offer a broader range of color options.
- Likely a more established software ecosystem (though not necessarily better).
- Potentially older chipset and less optimized software.
- May lack features found in newer models.
- Likely less efficient power consumption.
Parla Minu P124
- Likely benefits from iterative improvements in chipset and software.
- Potentially better battery life due to chipset optimization.
- May feature a slightly improved camera experience.
- Potentially limited availability.
- May have fewer color options.
- Could be slightly more expensive.
Display Comparison
Without specific display specifications, we can only speculate. Given Parla's positioning, the Mist likely features a 6.5-6.7 inch LCD panel, prioritizing size over advanced features like LTPO. The Minu P124, potentially a newer model, *might* incorporate a slightly improved panel with better color accuracy or peak brightness, even if still LCD. Bezels are likely similar across both devices, aiming for a modern aesthetic without flagship-level thinness. The absence of information on PWM dimming rates makes it impossible to assess potential eye strain for sensitive users.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is difficult to assess without sensor details. Both devices likely feature a primary camera around 13MP-48MP, accompanied by depth and macro sensors (the utility of the latter is questionable). The Minu P124 *might* benefit from improved image processing algorithms, resulting in better dynamic range and low-light performance. Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is unlikely on either device, relying on software stabilization. The aperture of the main lens will be a key differentiator, with a wider aperture (e.g., f/1.8) allowing more light and improving low-light shots.
Performance
The chipset is the biggest unknown. The Mist likely utilizes a MediaTek Helio G85 or similar, targeting mainstream performance. The Minu P124, being a 'P124' model, could feature a slightly newer or optimized version of the same chipset, or potentially a Snapdragon 680. RAM configuration is likely 4GB or 6GB for both, utilizing LPDDR4X. Thermal management will be passive on both devices, relying on the chassis to dissipate heat. The Minu P124's potential chipset upgrade, however small, could translate to smoother multitasking and slightly improved gaming performance.
Battery Life
Both devices likely house a 5000mAh battery, a standard capacity for this segment. Charging wattage is likely between 18W and 33W. The Minu P124, with potential chipset optimizations, could exhibit slightly better battery life due to improved power efficiency. A 0-100% charge time is estimated at 2-3 hours for both devices, depending on the charger used. The lack of fast charging support is a common trade-off in this price range.
Buying Guide
Buy the Parla Mist if you need a general-purpose smartphone and are comfortable with a potentially less polished software experience, relying on brand recognition and a broader feature set. Buy the Parla Minu P124 if you prefer a device that likely benefits from iterative improvements, potentially offering better optimization and a more focused user experience, assuming the 'P124' designation indicates a later release cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Parla Minu P124 benefit from software updates more frequently than the Mist?
Given the 'P124' designation, it's reasonable to assume the Minu P124 will receive software updates for a longer period and potentially with greater frequency. Parla likely views the P124 as a more current product and will prioritize its support.
❓ Is the 2MP macro camera on either device actually useful for taking detailed close-up photos?
Generally, 2MP macro cameras on budget and mid-range smartphones offer limited detail and image quality. They are often included as a marketing feature but rarely deliver truly impressive results. Expect soft images and limited dynamic range.
❓ What kind of gaming performance can I expect from the Parla Mist and Minu P124?
Both devices will likely handle casual gaming adequately. However, demanding titles like PUBG Mobile will require reduced graphics settings and may experience occasional frame drops. The Minu P124, with a potentially more efficient chipset, might offer slightly smoother performance.
❓ Are either of these phones equipped with NFC for contactless payments?
Without specific specifications, it's difficult to say definitively. However, NFC is becoming increasingly common in this price segment, so there's a reasonable chance that at least the Minu P124 includes NFC functionality. Check the official product listings for confirmation.