Nokia 100 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Nokia 100

The Nokia 100 is a classic feature phone unveiled in August 2011 and subsequently released in November of the same year. As part of Nokia's reputable lineup of durable and straightforward handsets, the Nokia 100 stands out for its robustness, simplicity, and reliable functionality. While the era of smartphones was on the rise during its release, feature phones like the Nokia 100 served an essential purpose, offering basic communication capabilities without the complexity of modern smartphones. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifications, features, and user experience of the Nokia 100, highlighting the key aspects that make it a memorable piece of mobile history.

Design and Build

The Nokia 100 has a sleek and minimalist design, typical of feature phones from its era. The phone measures 110 x 45.5 x 14.9 mm, making it compact and easy to handle with one hand. It weighs only 69.6 grams, which contributes to its portability and comfort when carried in a pocket or small bag. The phone comes equipped with a Mini-SIM slot, staying true to the standard SIM size of its time.

The design ethos of the Nokia 100 is durability and functionality. Built with a sturdy plastic casing, it is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The tactile keypad is designed for easy typing, enhancing usability for sending text messages and making calls. The device is available in a variety of colors, including Legion Blue, Festival Pink, Ocean Blue, Phantom Black, and Coral Red, giving users the choice to select a style to match their personal preference.

Display Characteristics

The Nokia 100 is equipped with a 1.8-inch TFT display, offering a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels. While modest by today’s standards, this display was typical for feature phones of its time. The screen supports 65K colors, which adds to the visual appeal, presenting a more vivid and colorful interface compared to monochrome displays. The screen-to-body ratio is approximately 20.4%, providing sufficient space for navigation through the phone’s menu and applications.

Network and Connectivity

When it comes to network capabilities, the Nokia 100 supports GSM technology and operates on the 2G bands GSM 900 / 1800. Although it lacks modern connectivity options such as GPRS, EDGE, and wireless technologies like Bluetooth and WLAN, it focuses primarily on delivering fundamental communication services like voice calls and SMS messaging.

Audio and Entertainment

Despite its simplicity, the Nokia 100 offers basic audio functionalities. The device is equipped with a loudspeaker, allowing for hands-free calling and listening to audio content. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, enabling users to connect their headphones or earphones for a more private listening experience.

The handset also features an FM radio, which serves as a source of entertainment for users who enjoy listening to music and news broadcasts. The radio can be accessed through a wired headset, which acts as an antenna for signal reception.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Nokia 100 is its impressive battery life. The device houses a removable Li-Ion 850 mAh battery (BL-5CB), providing long-lasting performance. According to Nokia, the battery can offer up to 840 hours of standby time and up to 7 hours and 20 minutes of talk time, ensuring that users remain connected for extended periods without frequent charging.

The removable aspect of the battery also means that users can easily replace it if necessary, extending the overall lifespan of the device. This feature has been particularly appreciated in regions where charging facilities are limited or unreliable.

Memory and Storage

The Nokia 100 comes with a capacity to store up to 500 phonebook entries, which is adequate for most basic users. Call records are also available, allowing users to keep track of their call history. However, the phone does not have a card slot for expandable storage or additional data features, staying true to its role as a feature phone focused on fundamental telephony aspects.

User Experience and Interface

Nokia's reputation for creating user-friendly interfaces is evident in the Nokia 100. The interface is straightforward, and the menu icons are large and easy to navigate, catering to users who prefer simplicity over more complex smartphone interfaces. The traditional keypad layout enhances the efficiency of dialing numbers and typing text messages.

The phone supports SMS messaging, which is an essential requirement for communication in many regions and demographics. Additionally, it includes a few built-in games, offering users some entertainment options beyond communication.

Market Position and Legacy

Upon release, the Nokia 100 was priced at approximately 50 EUR, making it an affordable option for consumers seeking a reliable and uncomplicated mobile phone. Its affordability and practical features made it popular in emerging markets and among individuals who needed a secondary or backup phone with extended battery life and robust construction.

The Nokia 100 is a testament to Nokia’s understanding of its diverse customer base and the need for devices tailored to different lifestyles. Its legacy is marked by its simplicity, durability, and exceptional battery life. While the device has been discontinued, it remains a significant part of Nokia's rich history.