Price and specifications of Nokia C21 Plus advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Design and Build

The Nokia C21 Plus boasts a simple yet elegant design with a glass front, an aluminum frame, and a plastic back. This combination of materials provides a sturdy build quality while maintaining a lightweight feel. Measuring 164.8 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm and weighing in between 178 g and 191 g, the device offers a comfortable grip and easy handling. The availability of both single SIM and dual SIM models provides flexibility for various user preferences.

Display Features

The device is equipped with a 6.52-inch IPS LCD screen that dominates the front of the phone, offering an 82.1% screen-to-body ratio. Its resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels with a 20:9 aspect ratio delivers a decent visual experience for everyday use. The scratch-resistant glass protection offers additional security against minor scratches and scuffs, preserving the screen's clarity and integrity over time.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Nokia C21 Plus is powered by the Unisoc SC9863A chipset, built on a 28 nm process. The octa-core CPU comprises four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz and another four Cortex-A55 cores at 1.2 GHz. The device benefits from the IMG8322 GPU, which provides modest graphical performance for basic applications and casual gaming. It runs on Android 11 (Go edition), which is optimized to provide smooth performance even on entry-level hardware.

Memory and Storage Options

The Nokia C21 Plus offers varying combinations of memory and storage capacities to suit different needs, including 32GB with either 2GB or 3GB of RAM, and 64GB storage with options of 2GB, 3GB, or 4GB of RAM. A dedicated microSDXC card slot allows for expanding storage, providing users with ample space to store additional apps, photos, and videos.

Camera Capabilities

The dual rear camera setup on the Nokia C21 Plus includes a 13 MP wide lens that offers autofocus capabilities, coupled with a 2 MP depth sensor that enhances portrait shots by adding background blur. The cameras support features such as LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes and can capture video at 1080p@30fps. The 5 MP front-facing camera, equipped with an LED flash, fulfills the needs for selfies and video calls, while supporting video recording at 720p.

Audio and Connectivity

Audio features on the Nokia C21 Plus include a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, catering to traditional headphone users. Connectivity options on the smartphone are comprehensive, with support for GPS, Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, FM radio, and a microUSB 2.0 port. Unfortunately, NFC capabilities are absent from this model, limiting certain contactless functionalities. Despite this, the device offers sufficient connectivity options for standard daily tasks.

Network Support

The Nokia C21 Plus is designed to cater to various network technologies, supporting GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks. It offers compatibility with a wide range of bands, including 2G (GSM 850/900/1800/1900) and 3G (HSDPA 850/900/2100). 4G LTE support is available, offering decent speed for smooth browsing and streaming with reported speeds of up to 150/50 Mbps on LTE Cat4 networks.

Battery and Charging

The Nokia C21 Plus is fitted with a robust non-removable Li-Ion battery available in two configurations: 4000 mAh or 5050 mAh, depending on the variant. The device charges at a speed of 10W, which although not the fastest in the market, provides a practical balance between energy efficiency and prolonged battery life. Users can expect extended usage periods before needing to recharge, making it suitable for those who require longevity more than rapid charging.

Sensory and Miscellaneous Features

The device includes several sensors that enhance its utility: a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, and proximity sensor. These functionalities improve user interactions and security. The Nokia C21 Plus is available in Dark Cyan and Warm Gray color variants, offering subtle but attractive aesthetic choices. With multiple models (TA-1433, TA-1431, TA-1426, TA-1424), users have an array of options to choose from, depending on market availability and personal preferences.

Price and Availability

Announced on February 28, 2022, and released on April 29, 2022, the Nokia C21 Plus is targeted at budget-conscious consumers. It is competitively priced around $233.00 in the United States market, with regional variations in pricing making it available for approximately £103.99 in the United Kingdom and €130.14 in Europe. This pricing strategy aligns well with its feature set and positions it as a reasonable choice within the entry-level smartphone market.

Conclusion

The Nokia C21 Plus stands out as a robust and reliable entry-level smartphone that caters to users seeking essential features without the premium price tag. Its decent design, capable battery life, and flexible storage options make it a viable choice for those requiring functionality over flashy specifications. While it may lack some modern features such as NFC and fast charging, its core capabilities and fair pricing offer a balanced package for everyday mobile needs.