Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and Nokia G60. I'll break down the specs, highlight key differences, and offer some practical insights to help you make the best choice.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a comprehensive table comparing the key specifications of the Nokia G21 and Nokia G60, along with their real-world implications:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Nokia G60 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-02-15 | 2022-09-01 | Nokia G60 is a newer model, which usually means more up-to-date features and potentially longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | 166 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | Both are similarly sized; the G60 is slightly taller. You probably won't notice the difference in hand. |
| Weight | 190g | 190g | Both phones feel about the same in weight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.58" | Very similar screen sizes, essentially the same experience for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2408 | G60 has a much sharper screen. Expect noticeably clearer text, crisper images, and better video quality. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 401 | G60 offers a significantly denser display. Details are more pronounced, and images appear less pixelated. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use the same type of display, so viewing angles and color reproduction should be similar. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | G60 has a smoother screen. Scrolling and animations will appear more fluid and responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have similar brightness; this is not ideal for daylight visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | G60 has a significantly more powerful chip. Expect faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 410,072 | G60 benchmarks considerably higher, showing it's significantly faster in most tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Adreno 619 | G60's Adreno GPU is more capable, offering better graphics performance for gaming and other graphically intensive apps. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 4500mAh | G21 has a bigger battery. It will likely last longer on a single charge, which might be important for heavy users. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging (Li-Ion) | 20W Fast Charging (Lithium) | G60 can charge a bit faster, but the difference is relatively small, and not that significant. |
| In-Box Charger | 10W | - | Nokia G21 includes a charger in the box, while the G60 may not. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8 (1/2.76", 0.64µm) | 50MP f/1.8 (0.7µm) | Both have comparable main cameras, but G60's larger pixel size might mean better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | 8MP f/2.0 (0.64µm) | Both have similar selfie cameras. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | 5MP f/2.0 | G60 includes a wide angle lens allowing for wider shots. |
| Portrait Lens (depth) | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both phones include depth sensor for portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | No | Nokia G21 includes a dedicated macro lens, this allows for closer shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, No Slow-mo, 30 fps | 1080p@30fps, 120fps Slow-mo | G60 supports slow-motion video, a feature absent in G21. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Front Flash | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | G60 has a few extra features: 4K video, image stabilization, better autofocus and night mode |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (max 13) | Android 12 | G60 launches with a more up-to-date Android version. This also means better support and potentially longer updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | G60 supports faster Wi-Fi 6, which means better connectivity at home and on supported public Wi-Fi networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 | G60 has slightly newer Bluetooth which means slightly better performance and more features, such as aptX and LDAC codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | G60 supports more satellite systems, potentially providing better accuracy in some regions. |
| SIM | Nano SIM + Nano SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | G60 supports eSIM for digital carrier switching, G21 support 2 physical SIMS |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128GB | 64/128GB | Both offer the same internal storage options. |
| RAM | 4/6GB | 4/6GB | Both offer the same RAM options for multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage using microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 microphones | Basic audio features | Nokia G21 has 2 microphones and better audio capture |
| Security | |||
| Security | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both have similar fingerprint sensor for biometric security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | G60 has better screen protection. Corning Gorilla Glass 5 should offer much better resistance to scratches and minor impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | G60 has more sensors with the addition of a gyroscope, meaning better support for more apps and games. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G21 Strengths:
- Larger Battery: Its 5050mAh battery is a standout, offering potentially longer use between charges.
- In-Box Charger: The G21 comes with a charger in the box, unlike the G60.
- Macro Camera: The G21 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.
- Dual Physical SIM: The G21 provides two physical SIM slots, which may be preferred for those who want to use multiple SIMs simultaneously
Nokia G60 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 695 5G chip significantly outperforms the Unisoc T606, meaning smoother overall operation, especially for gaming and demanding applications.
- Better Display: The higher resolution and 120Hz refresh rate offer a sharper, more fluid visual experience.
- Modern Features: It includes 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and a more up-to-date version of Android, resulting in better future-proofing, and connectivity.
- More advanced camera features: Includes 4k video recording, digital image stabilization, better autofocus and night mode for better photography and video performance.
- Screen Protection: It also features Gorilla Glass 5 for better protection against scratches and minor impacts
- Gyroscope Sensor: It has more sensor with the addition of a gyroscope.
- Bluetooth Codec Support: With support for aptX and LDAC audio codecs the device has better audio fidelity when connected to headphones.
- eSIM Support: This enables the use of digital SIM profiles, potentially enhancing the convenience of switching between carriers.
Trade-offs:
- Battery vs. Performance: The G21 prioritizes battery life, while the G60 prioritizes performance and features.
- Camera Features: G21 features a dedicated Macro Lens, while the G60 includes a wide-angle lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G21 is best for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a reliable, long-lasting phone without spending a lot.
- Users who prioritize battery life: Ideal for users who are frequently away from power sources.
- Basic smartphone users: People who use their phone for calls, texts, and social media and do not need very high performance.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who like to take close up shots using a dedicated macro lens.
- Users who prefer 2 physical SIMs: Users who prefer physical SIMs or require the convenience of switching between two SIM cards.
Nokia G60 is best for:
- Performance-focused users: Those who want smooth, snappy performance for gaming, app use, and everyday tasks.
- Media consumers: People who watch a lot of videos or browse social media and will appreciate the sharper display and 120Hz refresh rate.
- Tech enthusiasts: People who want modern features like 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and the ability to use an eSIM.
- Photography and videography: Users who want a more versatile camera setup, with 4k recording capabilities, night mode and other advanced features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide between these two phones:
- How important is battery life to you? If you often go long periods without charging, the G21's larger battery might be the better option.
- How important is performance? If you plan to play games or run demanding apps, the G60's more powerful processor will give a significantly smoother experience.
- Do you prioritize having the latest connectivity features and technology? If you want 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and the latest Bluetooth codecs, G60 has a clear advantage.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Frequent traveler/outdoor user: The Nokia G21 is suitable for its superior battery life.
- Social Media User: The Nokia G60 has a sharper display, smoother animations and a more versatile camera.
- Mobile Gamer: The Nokia G60, with its higher performance and smoother display is the clear winner.
- Budget shopper: The Nokia G21 is a great option for its long battery life and lower price.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones for myself, I would definitely go with the Nokia G60. The superior performance of the Snapdragon 695, combined with the sharper and smoother 120Hz display, is a huge plus. The more advanced camera features, better connectivity and updated software also add to the overall value. While the G21 has a larger battery and in box charger, I believe the G60's advantages are more aligned with my usage patterns and priorities and that's why it would be my choice.
