Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and Realme C31. I've broken down the specs, considered the practical implications, and will help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a look at the technical specifications of the Nokia G21 and Realme C31, complete with real-world implications to make sense of it all:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Realme C31 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 mm | 164.7 x 76.1 x 8.4 mm | Virtually identical in size; both should feel similar in hand. |
| Weight | 190g | 197g | Nokia G21 is slightly lighter, which may be noticeable over long usage periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.5" | Both offer the same screen real estate, suitable for media consumption and general use. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1600 | Both have HD+ displays. Expect adequate sharpness for most tasks, but not as sharp as FHD+ panels. |
| PPI | 270 | 270 | Similar pixel density, so clarity will appear identical between the two devices. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use the same display technology, leading to similar color reproduction and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Nokia G21's 90Hz display provides smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | The maximum brightness is the same, but more information on actual nits would be better to make conclusions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) | Both are budget chipsets; The Nokia G21's T606 scores slightly higher in benchmarks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 224,223 | Nokia G21 should offer marginally better performance in general use and light gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Both use the same GPU, so there won't be many differences in graphics rendering. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery sizes, both should easily last a full day with moderate usage. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging, Li-Ion | 10W fast charging, Li-Polymer | Nokia G21 charges faster, reducing downtime and time plugged into the wall. |
| Features | Non-removable, 10W charger included | Non-removable | Both have non-removable batteries. Nokia includes a charger in the box, Realme doesn't. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Res | 50MP f/1.8 | 13MP f/2.2 | Nokia G21 has a higher resolution main sensor and a wider aperture, potentially better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Res | 8MP f/2.0 | 5MP f/2.2 | Nokia G21 has a higher resolution front camera and wider aperture for better selfies. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP f/2.4 | - | Nokia G21 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Similar macro capabilities; good for close-up shots of small subjects. |
| Black & White Lens | - | 2MP f/2.8 | The Realme C31 has a dedicated black and white sensor. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both record videos in 1080p at 30fps for general-purpose video recording needs. |
| Camera Features | More features. | More features | Nokia has Front Flash, Realme has image stabilization, PDAF and CDAF. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 11 | Nokia G21 offers a guaranteed update to Android 13. This ensures longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n, dual-band | 802.11b/g/n | Nokia G21 supports faster dual-band Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, LE | 5.0, LE, EDR | Realme C31 supports additional EDR standard for faster transfers. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Both support same range of GPS. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM cards, useful for managing multiple numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB or 128GB | 32GB or 64GB | Nokia G21 offers more storage options, which could be crucial for heavy users. |
| RAM | 4GB or 6GB | 3GB or 4GB | Nokia G21 has the option for more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 microphones | Basic features | The Nokia G21 features better voice capture thanks to dual-mic setup. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint | side-mounted fingerprint | Both offer similar fingerprint security features. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Same screen protection technology unknown. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Realme C31 offers the extra Compass and Gyroscope which could be helpful in gaming. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G21
Strengths:
- Smoother Display: The 90Hz refresh rate makes for a noticeably smoother user experience, particularly when scrolling.
- Better Performance: The Unisoc T606 chipset and higher AnTuTu score should translate into slightly snappier performance.
- Enhanced Cameras: The higher-resolution main and selfie cameras, along with the dedicated depth sensor, offer more versatility and better image quality.
- Faster Charging: The 18W fast charging is a welcome addition, meaning less time spent waiting for a full battery.
- Software Support: Guaranteed update to Android 13 provides more long-term value.
- Improved Audio: Dual mics mean better audio quality in calls and recordings.
- More Storage/RAM Options: Offers 128GB/6GB variant. Limitations:
- It has one of the same GPUs as Realme C31.
- Lacks the additional sensors of the Realme C31
Realme C31
Strengths:
- Additional Sensors: Gyroscope and compass are useful for more advanced apps/games.
- Slightly Lighter: Might be more ergonomic for some users for long-term use.
- EDR Bluetooth: The EDR standard could mean faster file transfers over Bluetooth.
- Black and White lens: Can take B&W pictures directly with this feature. Limitations:
- Slower Charging: 10W charging is considerably slower than the G21's 18W.
- Lower resolution cameras: Less versatile camera setup overall.
- No guaranteed android update: Lacks long-term value due to no promised software updates.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G21 is Best for:
- Users who prioritize a smoother, more responsive display.
- Individuals who take a lot of photos and want better camera performance on a budget.
- Those who need longer-term software support.
- Users who frequently find themselves in need of a quick charge.
- Users that value better voice capture quality
- Users needing more storage/ram, or willing to pay for the option.
Realme C31 is Best for:
- Users who need extra sensors such as Gyroscope and Compass.
- Users that prefer slightly lighter phones.
- Users needing faster bluetooth transfers.
- Users who enjoy taking black and white photos.
- Budget conscious users who want a simple phone that "just works"
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to consider:
How important is display smoothness to you?
- If a 90Hz refresh rate is essential for you, the Nokia G21 is the obvious choice.
Do you value a higher quality camera setup or faster charging?
- If you prioritize better image quality, more versatility in camera features, or quicker charging, the Nokia G21 is the better option.
Do you need extra sensors such as Gyroscope or Compass?
- If you do, the Realme C31 would be the better option.
Conclusion
Both phones are solid budget options, but the Nokia G21 edges out the Realme C31 in several key areas, especially for those looking for a smoother display, better camera performance, and longer-term software updates. The Realme C31 could be a good choice if you value a slightly lighter device and don't mind some trade-offs in other areas.
My Choice:
If I were making the choice, I would lean towards the Nokia G21. The 90Hz display, more versatile cameras, and faster charging are significant advantages that make a real difference in daily use. While the Realme C31's additional sensors could be useful for certain applications, I think the overall package offered by the G21 makes it a more well-rounded pick for the average user, or someone who plans to use the phone for a longer period.
