Nokia G42 vs Apple iPhone 16 Plus - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification
Nokia G42
Nokia G42
Nokia

General

Launch Date June 28, 2023 September 20, 2024
Release Year 2023 2024

Physical

Volume 107.56 cm³ 97.64 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.38 "/g 3.37 "/g
Weight 193.8 g 199 g
Height 165 mm 160.9 mm
Width 75.8 mm 77.8 mm
Thickness 8.6 mm 7.8 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Red
  • Purple
  • Gray
  • Black
  • White
  • Pink
  • Teal
  • Ultramarine

Display

Screen Size 6.56 " 6.7 "
Resolution 720 x 1612 1290 x 2796
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 82.7 % 88 %
Pixel Density 269 PPI 460 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 Hz N/A
Typical Brightness 450 nits 1000 nits
HBM Brightness N/A 2000 nits
Peak Brightness 560 nits N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 116.19 mAh/in² 104.12 mAh/in²
Battery Density 46.49 mAh/cm³ 47.87 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 4674 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM4350-AC Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8 nm) Apple A18 (3 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 460 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 460) Hexa-core (2x4.04 GHz + 4x2.20 GHz)
GPU Adreno 619 Apple GPU (5-core graphics)

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort 1
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, OTG USB Type-C 2.0, DisplayPort

Software

Operating System Android iOS
Initial OS Version 13 18
Maximum OS Version 14

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureNokia G42Apple iPhone 16 PlusPractical Impact
Design
Dimensions (mm)165 x 75.8 x 8.6160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8iPhone 16 Plus is slightly shorter, narrower, and significantly thinner.
Weight (g)193.8199Negligible weight difference; both feel substantial in hand.
Build MaterialsNot specifiedNot specifiedCannot compare build quality and feel without more information
Display
Display TypeIPS LCDSuper Retina XDR OLEDiPhone boasts superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors due to OLED technology.
Display Size (inches)6.566.7Marginally larger screen on the iPhone; noticeable but not drastically different.
Resolution720 x 16121290 x 2796Significantly sharper and more detailed visuals on the iPhone due to much higher resolution.
Refresh Rate90HzNot specifiedNokia G42 offers smoother scrolling and animations thanks to the 90Hz refresh rate. However, without knowing the iPhone's refresh rate, we cannot fully compare.
Peak Brightness560 nits2000 nitsThe iPhone 16 Plus will be significantly more visible in direct sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 480+ 5GApple A18A18 is expected to significantly outperform the Snapdragon 480+ in speed and efficiency based on historical Apple chip performance.
CPUOcta-core (2x2.2 GHz & 6x1.8 GHz)Hexa-core (2x4.04 GHz & 4x2.20 GHz)iPhone's CPU boasts higher clock speeds suggesting superior performance in demanding tasks.
GPUAdreno 619Apple GPU (5-core)Apple's custom GPU historically delivers excellent graphics performance, likely outperforming the Adreno 619.
RAM4GB/6GB/8GB8GBiPhone 16 Plus offers more RAM, enabling better multitasking and smoother performance with multiple apps.
Camera
Main Camera50MP48MPWhile the Nokia has a higher megapixel count, the iPhone likely produces superior image quality due to larger sensor size (1/1.3") and wider aperture (f/1.6).
Video Recording1080p@30fpsUp to 4K@60fps with HDRiPhone offers significantly better video recording capabilities with higher resolution, frame rate, and HDR support.
Battery
Capacity5000mAh4674mAhWhile the Nokia has a larger battery capacity, real-world battery life depends on numerous factors, including software optimization. We cannot definitively say which lasts longer.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Nokia G42 Advantages:

  • Potentially Longer Battery Life: Higher battery capacity suggests potentially longer usage time.
  • More Affordable: Generally falls in a lower price bracket.
  • Higher Refresh Rate Display (Potentially): 90Hz provides smoother visuals compared to a standard 60Hz display (assuming iPhone 16 Plus doesn't have a higher refresh rate).

Apple iPhone 16 Plus Advantages:

  • Significantly Higher Performance: A18 Bionic chip delivers much faster processing and graphics performance.
  • Superior Display: OLED technology provides better contrast, colors, and higher brightness.
  • Much Sharper Display: Higher resolution leads to a noticeably clearer and more detailed display.
  • Advanced Camera System: Offers better low-light performance, video recording capabilities, and overall image quality.
  • More Premium Ecosystem: iOS offers tight integration with other Apple devices and services.

Trade-offs:

  • Price: The iPhone 16 Plus comes at a significantly higher price.
  • Battery Life Uncertainty: While the Nokia G42 has a larger battery, optimized software on the iPhone could result in comparable or even better battery life.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Nokia G42: Budget-conscious users prioritizing basic functionality, long battery life, and affordability. Best for:

  • Casual users mainly using social media, browsing, and making calls.
  • Users seeking an affordable 5G device.

Apple iPhone 16 Plus: Users prioritizing performance, premium design, a high-quality camera, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Best for:

  • Power users demanding top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.
  • Photography and videography enthusiasts.
  • Users heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions:

  1. What is your budget? The iPhone 16 Plus commands a significant premium.
  2. What are your primary smartphone usage patterns? Casual use vs. demanding tasks.
  3. What operating system do you prefer? Android vs. iOS.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Limited Budget, Basic Use: Nokia G42
  • Demanding Tasks, Premium Experience: iPhone 16 Plus

My Choice: Apple iPhone 16 Plus

While significantly more expensive, the iPhone 16 Plus offers a superior user experience across the board. The performance difference, display quality, and camera capabilities are compelling. While the Nokia G42 provides good value for its price, it caters to a different user with different needs. I prioritize performance, a fluid user experience, and a great camera, making the iPhone 16 Plus the better choice for me. The higher price is justified by the significant advancements in technology and the overall premium experience.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Digital media communication
  • Technical storytelling
  • User-centric technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.