The smartphone landscape is dominated by complexity, but a segment of users prioritizes ease of use and essential functionality. This comparison pits the ZTE Gabb Z2, a simplified Android smartphone, against the iconic Nokia 3310 (2017), a modern reimagining of a classic feature phone. We'll dissect their core differences to determine which device best serves users seeking a straightforward mobile experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users needing basic smartphone functionality like access to simplified apps and occasional internet browsing, the ZTE Gabb Z2 is the clear winner. Its Mediatek Helio A22 processor provides a level of capability the Nokia 3310 simply cannot match. However, the Nokia 3310 excels in extreme battery life and pure, unadulterated simplicity.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | - |
| 4G bands | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13 | - |
| EDGE | - | Yes |
| GPRS | - | Yes |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | - |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, August. Released 2020, August | 2017, February. Released 2017, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 147 x 71 x 9.7 mm (5.79 x 2.80 x 0.38 in) | 115.6 x 51 x 12.8 mm (4.55 x 2.01 x 0.50 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Single SIM (Micro-SIM) or Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 162 g (5.71 oz) | 85 g (3.00 oz) |
| | - | Flashlight |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~295 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.45 inches, 76.7 cm2 (~73.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~30.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | - |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | - |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | - |
| OS | Android 10 | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | - | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 16MB |
| Phonebook | - | Yes |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 2 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 240p@8fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | - |
| Video | 720p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 3.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | No |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | - | Yes |
| Java | - | No |
| Messaging | - | SMS |
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | - |
| | - | Audio/Video player |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | - | Up to 51 h |
| Stand-by | - | Up to 600 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 22 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 2650 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1200 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Warm Red (Glossy), Dark Blue (Matte), Yellow (Glossy), Grey (Matte) |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 60 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.71 W/kg (head) 1.49 W/kg (body) |
ZTE Gabb Z2
- Access to simplified Android apps
- Larger, more usable display
- Potential for basic internet connectivity
- Shorter battery life compared to Nokia 3310
- More complex interface than Nokia 3310
- Requires regular charging
Nokia 3310 (2017)
- Exceptional battery life (weeks on standby)
- Extremely durable and reliable
- Simple, intuitive interface
- Limited functionality (calls and texts primarily)
- Small display
- No app support
Display Comparison
The ZTE Gabb Z2, being a smartphone, inherently offers a larger display than the Nokia 3310 (2017). While the Gabb Z2's exact screen specifications are not provided, it will likely feature a color LCD panel with a resolution suitable for basic app usage. The Nokia 3310 (2017) utilizes a 2.4-inch color display, adequate for navigating its simpler interface. The Gabb Z2’s larger screen size is a significant advantage for users with visual impairments or those who prefer a more comfortable viewing experience for text and images.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia 3310 (2017) features a 2MP camera, primarily for nostalgic snapshots. The ZTE Gabb Z2’s camera specifications are not available, but as a smartphone, it is expected to have a more capable camera system, even if it's a basic sensor. The Gabb Z2’s camera, even if modest, will likely offer better image quality and features like digital zoom, making it more versatile for capturing memories. The Nokia 3310’s camera is best considered a novelty feature.
Performance
The ZTE Gabb Z2’s Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) chipset, coupled with a quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU, represents a substantial performance leap over the Nokia 3310 (2017). The Nokia 3310’s processor is a proprietary design focused on ultra-low power consumption, not processing speed. The Helio A22 allows the Gabb Z2 to run a streamlined version of Android, enabling access to apps and basic web browsing. The Nokia 3310 is limited to pre-installed games and basic phone functions. This difference in processing power dictates the core functionality of each device.
Battery Life
The Nokia 3310 (2017) is renowned for its exceptional battery life, offering days, even weeks, of standby time on a single charge thanks to its low-power components and 1200 mAh battery. The ZTE Gabb Z2, running Android, will have significantly shorter battery life, likely requiring daily charging with typical usage. While the Gabb Z2’s battery capacity is unknown, the power demands of the operating system and processor will inevitably drain the battery faster. The Nokia 3310’s battery life is its defining characteristic.
Buying Guide
Buy the ZTE Gabb Z2 if you need access to apps like WhatsApp, require basic internet connectivity for maps or email, or want a device with a larger screen for easier viewing. Buy the Nokia 3310 (2017) if you prioritize weeks of standby time, need a phone primarily for calls and texts, and prefer a device that's virtually indestructible and requires minimal technical understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the ZTE Gabb Z2 truly simplified for seniors, and how does it differ from a standard Android phone?
The Gabb Z2 utilizes a streamlined Android interface with larger icons, simplified menus, and pre-installed apps geared towards essential communication and safety features. It removes the complexity of a full Android experience, minimizing accidental settings changes and offering a more focused user experience. It also lacks access to the Google Play Store, limiting app choices to pre-approved options.
❓ Can I use WhatsApp or Facebook on the ZTE Gabb Z2?
Yes, the ZTE Gabb Z2 supports WhatsApp, and potentially Facebook Lite, as these are among the pre-approved apps available on the device. However, it's important to note that the experience will be optimized for the simplified interface and may not offer all the features found in the full versions of these apps on a standard smartphone.
❓ Does the Nokia 3310 (2017) support any internet connectivity beyond basic WAP?
The Nokia 3310 (2017) offers limited 2G internet connectivity, allowing for basic web browsing and access to a few pre-selected online services. However, the experience is extremely slow and data-intensive, making it impractical for most modern web applications. It's primarily designed for calls and texts, not internet usage.
