Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and Realme C65. It's always interesting to see how different manufacturers approach the budget-friendly smartphone segment, and these two devices offer some intriguing contrasts.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Realme C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | 164.6 × 76.1 × 7.6 mm | Nokia is slightly thicker, Realme is slimmer and likely feels sleeker in hand. |
| Weight | 190g | 185g | Realme is slightly lighter, which may be more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Realme's larger screen is better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1604 | Similar pixel density, adequate for daily use, but not razor-sharp. |
| PPI | 270 | 264 | Both offer similar display clarity, decent for basic tasks, and web browsing. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Standard LCD tech, provides decent color accuracy and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling and better responsiveness compared to 60Hz. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Unable to compare - data missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Helio G85 in Realme offers better overall performance for tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 225,154 | Nokia has higher benchmark scores but this does not translate to real world performace |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Realme's GPU is better for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | Both share a similar main camera sensor with similar specs on paper. |
| Selfie | 8MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.0 | Similar selfie cameras with identical aperture, good for video calls. |
| Depth | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75µm | Both include depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Nokia G21 offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, No Slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, 120fps Slow-mo | Realme has a slow-motion video at 120fps which is a significant advantage. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Similar capacities provide all-day battery life for most users. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | Realme's 45W charging is significantly faster, getting you back up and running quickly. |
| Charger In Box | 10W | N/A | Nokia provides a charger in the box |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 | Realme's Android 14 is newer and will likely offer better performance. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | Realme provides larger storage options for the price. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 6/8 GB | Realme has more RAM options for better multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | a/b/g/n/n 5GHz, Wi-Fi Display | a/b/g/n/n 5GHz, Wi-Fi Direct | Both support similar Wi-Fi standards. Realme additionally supports Wi-Fi Direct |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE, EDR, HID | Realme has slightly more advanced Bluetooth capabilities. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Realme provides better navigation support. |
| Other | |||
| Audio | 2 microphones | Basic | Nokia has a slight edge in audio capabilities with two microphones. |
| Security | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer basic biometric security. |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Realme offers a Compass which is useful for mapping applications. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G21 Strengths:
- Slightly Higher Benchmark Score: The G21 shows a slightly higher benchmark score however this is marginal and does not reflect real world usage.
- Macro Lens: The inclusion of a dedicated macro lens can be appealing for those interested in close-up photography.
- Dual Microphones: Offers a slight edge for audio recording.
Realme C65 Strengths:
- Sleeker Design: Thinner profile and lighter build make it more comfortable and attractive.
- Better Performance: The Helio G85 chipset offers a more robust performance, particularly for gaming and multitasking.
- Faster Charging: 45W fast charging is a huge advantage, significantly reducing downtime.
- More Storage/RAM Options: Up to 256 GB of storage and 8GB RAM provides ample space and smooth multitasking.
- Up-to-date Software: Android 14 out of the box with the latest features and security patches.
- Enhanced Camera Capabilities: The 120 FPS slow-motion video is a significant feature to many casual users.
- Better Navigation: Includes QZSS for more accurate location services.
Trade-Offs and Limitations:
- Nokia G21: The older software and less powerful chipset, and the lack of expandable storage are major downsides
- Realme C65: While it excels in many areas, it does lack the macro lens which the Nokia G21 has, and only has a basic audio setup.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G21 is Best Suited For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those on a very tight budget who value basic functionality, a decent battery and a macro camera will enjoy the G21.
- Casual Users: Those who mainly use their phone for calls, messaging, and browsing.
- People who need a charger: The Nokia comes with a charger in the box.
Realme C65 is Best Suited For:
- Performance-Oriented Users: Those who want smooth multitasking, gaming, and generally faster response times.
- Media Consumers: Those who watch a lot of videos and need a bigger, more vibrant display will enjoy the C65's screen.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who want to capture slow-motion videos and benefit from the main camera.
- Users who want a better all-round experience: The Realme is a better phone in almost every category.
- Users who need fast charging: The Realme is perfect for those who need a fast recharge time.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize performance or basic functionality?
- If you need smoother, faster performance with better multitasking and gaming, go for the Realme C65.
- If you need just basic functionality on a tight budget, the Nokia G21 may suffice.
- Do you value fast charging and storage?
- If fast charging, and a larger storage capacity are important to you, the Realme C65 is the obvious choice.
- If you are okay with standard charging and storage space, the Nokia G21 may be acceptable.
- Are you interested in close-up photography?
- If you want a dedicated macro camera, then go with the Nokia G21.
- If you don’t need a macro camera the Realme C65 offers a better camera overall.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Casual User on a Tight Budget
- Recommendation: The Nokia G21 will do for most simple tasks, if you do not need much power and have a very low budget.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer/Media Enthusiast
- Recommendation: The Realme C65 is the better option here due to its better chipset, faster charging, and larger storage options.
- Scenario 3: Everyday User Prioritizing Camera and Speed
- Recommendation: The Realme C65 offers better camera options with slow-motion video and fast charging.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the Nokia G21 and the Realme C65, I would personally opt for the Realme C65. While the G21 has a few niche benefits like the macro lens and dual microphones, the C65 provides a much more complete package. The newer chipset offers noticeably better performance, which matters in day-to-day use. The inclusion of 45W fast charging is a game-changer for quickly getting back to using the phone, and I can often find myself in a rush. Finally, the larger storage and RAM are invaluable for multitasking and storing all my media and data.
The real-world implications of the Realme C65's advantages are too significant to ignore, and ultimately, it offers a more modern and user-friendly experience. While the Nokia G21 may appeal to those with a tight budget, it doesn't provide the same level of performance and future-proofing that the Realme C65 does.
