Nokia C21 Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The Nokia C21 boasts a modern design that combines elements of durability with a touch of elegance. The device features a glass front, an aluminum frame, and a plastic back, providing a lightweight yet robust build. With its dimensions of 169.9 x 77.9 x 8.8 mm and a weight of 195 g, it offers a comfortable grip and easy portability. The phone supports either a single SIM (Nano-SIM) or dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) configuration, catering to different user preferences and needs.

Display

The device is equipped with a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display, presenting a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. The 20:9 aspect ratio and ~77.5% screen-to-body ratio enhance the visual experience, making it suitable for media consumption and everyday tasks. Although not Full HD, the display offers decent clarity and adequate brightness for most viewing situations.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Nokia C21 is powered by the Unisoc SC9863A chipset, manufactured on a 28 nm process. The octa-core CPU configuration, featuring four 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores and four 1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, ensures smooth operation for daily tasks and light applications. The IMG8322 GPU complements the processor, offering basic graphics support. The device is available in different memory configurations - 32GB of internal storage with 2GB or 3GB RAM, and 64GB with 3GB RAM, all of which support microSDXC expansion through a dedicated slot.

Camera

The Nokia C21 features an 8 MP main camera accompanied by LED flash and HDR capabilities, allowing for clear and bright images in well-lit conditions. It supports video recording at 720p@30fps, providing basic video capture for everyday moments. For selfie enthusiasts, the device provides a 5 MP front-facing camera with an LED flash, also capable of 720p video recording. While not equipped with state-of-the-art camera technology, it suffices for basic photography needs.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, a feature that is becoming increasingly rare in modern smartphones. This capacity, combined with the energy-efficient hardware, should provide a full day of usage on moderate use. Depending on usage habits, the battery life may vary, but it offers the convenience of battery replacement without specialized tools.

Software

The Nokia C21 runs on Android 11 (Go edition), a version of the Android operating system designed to offer a streamlined and optimized experience for entry-level and budget devices. It ensures a balance of functionality and performance, allowing for smoother operation of essential applications and Google services. The Go edition is tailored to devices with lower RAM and storage, offering lighter apps and efficient task management.

Connectivity and Sensors

The Nokia C21 supports a range of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, ensuring reliable connectivity in various regions. It features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, and FM radio for entertainment and location services. The absence of NFC is a minor setback for those who prefer contactless payment options. Additionally, the device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer. In terms of sensors, the phone is equipped with a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, an accelerometer, and proximity sensors, enhancing both security and usability.

Price and Availability

Announced on February 28, 2022, and released on May 3, 2022, the Nokia C21 is available in two color options: Dark Blue and Warm Gray. It is priced at approximately 70 EUR, making it an affordable choice for budget-conscious consumers. The device's competitive pricing and essential features make it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable smartphone for basic communication and media consumption needs without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Overall, the Nokia C21 serves as a practical and economical choice within the entry-level smartphone market. Its blend of essential features, reasonable performance, and modern design caters to users who need a reliable device for everyday tasks without the premium price tag. While it may not cater to high-end gaming or professional photography, it fulfills the basic requirements for those seeking value and functionality in a budget-friendly package.