Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia C21 Plus and the Oppo A77. As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I always aim to cut through the marketing fluff and get to the core of what these phones offer in real-world scenarios.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Nokia C21 Plus | Oppo A77 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.8 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | 163.8 × 75.1 × 8 mm | Very similar sizes, Nokia slightly thicker and with a larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 178g | 190g | Nokia is lighter, which might feel better during long periods of use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.52" | 6.56" | Almost identical; negligible difference in screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1612 | Both offer HD+ quality displays, fine for everyday use but not the sharpest. |
| PPI | 269 | 269 | Identical pixel density, meaning similar visual clarity. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use standard LCD technology; expect good viewing angles and color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Oppo A77 has smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is identical. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Oppo A77's chipset is significantly more powerful and energy-efficient. |
| AnTuTu Score | 109,200 | 42,000 | Nokia C21 Plus performs better in benchmarks, suggesting better multitasking and app loading. |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Oppo A77 has a more capable GPU, enhancing graphics in games and applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 13MP | 13MP (f/2.2) | Similar main camera, but Oppo A77's aperture might capture better low-light images. |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP (f/2.2) | 16MP (f/2.0) | Oppo A77 has a higher-resolution selfie camera, producing sharper selfies. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | Nokia C21 Plus has a dedicated depth sensor, which could improve portrait mode effects. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both record standard Full HD video at 30 fps. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, Front Flash, Dual Camera | Digital Image stabilization | Nokia C21 Plus has PDAF and a front flash while Oppo A77 has Digital image stabilization. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 3200mAh | Nokia has a larger battery, likely offering better battery life. |
| Charging | 10W Fast Charging | No Fast Charging | Nokia supports fast charging, while Oppo doesn't. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both have non-removable batteries. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (Upgradable to 14) | Oppo A77 has a more up-to-date OS and should get updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/n 5GHz | Oppo has wider band support including Dual band and Wifi Display. |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 LE | 4.1 | Nokia has a newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS | Nokia has better location capabilities. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM usage. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64GB | 32/64GB | Identical storage options. |
| RAM | 2/4GB | 3/4GB | Oppo A77 provides more RAM, which is better for multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports additional storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Basic audio features | Identical audio output capabilities. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Oppo A77 is easier to access with a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Oppo A77 offers better screen protection with Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Oppo A77 offers a more complete set of sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia C21 Plus Strengths:
- Larger Battery: The 4000mAh battery offers potentially longer usage times than the Oppo A77’s 3200mAh.
- Fast Charging: The 10W fast charging is a clear advantage for quick top-ups.
- Better Benchmark Score: Surprisingly the Nokia C21 Plus achieves a 160% higher benchmark score than the Oppo A77. This could be useful for apps with intensive calculations.
- Dedicated Depth Camera: The 2MP depth sensor allows for potentially better portrait photography.
Oppo A77 Strengths:
- More Powerful Chipset: The Mediatek Dimensity 810 is a much more modern and efficient chip than the older Unisoc found in the Nokia C21 Plus.
- Smoother Display: The 90Hz refresh rate makes for a more fluid user experience.
- Superior Selfie Camera: With a higher 16MP resolution and wider aperture, the Oppo A77 captures better selfies.
- Better Software: Ships with Android 12, which is upgradable to Android 14.
- More RAM: Offers at least 3 GB of RAM, which is beneficial for multitasking.
- Better Connectivity Includes Dual Band WiFi, a compass sensor and superior screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor For an easier to access unlock method.
Trade-offs:
- The Nokia C21 Plus has a larger battery but lacks the overall performance and software advantages of the Oppo A77.
- The Oppo A77 offers a better display and camera experience but at the cost of less battery capacity and no fast charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia C21 Plus is best suited for:
- Users who prioritize battery life and need a phone that can last through a long day on a single charge.
- Those on a very tight budget seeking the maximum battery and a decent AnTuTu score.
- Users who want basic smartphone functionality with a focus on reliability.
Oppo A77 is best suited for:
- Users who want a smoother display and a more enjoyable general experience.
- Those who want better selfie performance and a device capable of taking social media ready photos.
- Users who want a more complete feature set and a phone that has better overall connectivity.
- Users looking for a more capable phone for multitasking and light gaming.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your choice:
- How important is battery life to you? If you need a phone that can go the distance without frequent charges, the Nokia C21 Plus is your go-to, although you do get fast charging with this option. If battery life isn't your number one concern, then the Oppo A77 could be a better choice due to it's overall better performance.
- Do you value smooth performance and visual clarity over everything else? If yes, then the Oppo A77’s 90Hz display and superior chipset offer better performance. The Nokia will achieve better benchmark scores and allow for faster app loading, if that is what you are after.
- What kind of photos do you take, and how important is security to you? The Oppo A77 is the better choice for selfies and its side-mounted fingerprint scanner is more advanced and easier to reach.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Long Workday, Minimal Charging Access: If you're often away from a charger, go for the Nokia C21 Plus for its larger battery and fast charging.
- Scenario 2: Social Media Savvy User: If you like taking and sharing selfies, the Oppo A77's 16MP front camera will suit you better.
- Scenario 3: Casual Gaming and Multimedia Consumption: The Oppo A77’s 90Hz display, powerful chipset and better RAM offer a better experience for casual gaming, multitasking and consuming videos.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would go with the Oppo A77. While the Nokia C21 Plus has a larger battery and the bonus of fast charging, the Oppo A77’s superior performance, smoother display, better camera, and more advanced features outweigh the battery advantages. As someone who values overall performance and enjoys a fluid, modern user experience, the Oppo A77 offers a more compelling package for everyday use. In my opinion, the software is a large factor as well.
As always, the best choice comes down to your own priorities and how you will use the device. I hope this helps you make a more informed decision!
