OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Nokia C21 Plus: A Practical Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 164.8 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | Nord CE is more compact and thinner, making it easier to handle. |
| Weight | 170g | 178g | Nord CE is slightly lighter, more comfortable for long use. |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame, glass back | Plastic body, textured back | Both are budget-friendly builds, but Nord CE feels slightly more premium. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" | 6.52" | Nearly identical screen size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 720x1600 (269 PPI) | Nord CE has a much sharper display, better for reading & video. |
| Panel Type | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and better battery efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Nord CE has smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | (Not specified) | Nord CE is far more visible in sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28nm) | Nord CE is far more powerful, better for gaming & multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 385,000 | 109,200 | Nord CE is 3.5x faster, ensuring smooth performance for years. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 2/4GB | Nord CE can handle heavy apps & games; Nokia struggles with multitasking. |
| Storage | 128/256GB (No SD slot) | 32/64GB (No SD slot) | Nord CE has much more storage for apps and media. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 13MP | Nord CE captures more detail, especially in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | None | Nord CE has more versatility for landscapes & group shots. |
| Selfie Cam | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 5MP | Nord CE is far superior for video calls & selfies. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps | Nord CE supports higher-quality video and slow motion. |
| DxOMark Score | 84 (Photo: 89, Video: 80) | Not tested | Nord CE has validated camera quality; Nokia untested. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Size | 4500mAh | 4000mAh | Nord CE lasts longer on a charge. |
| Charging Speed | 30W (0-70% in ~30 min) | 10W (slower charging) | Nord CE charges 3x faster, great for quick top-ups. |
Software & Updates
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS at Launch | Android 11 | Android 11 | Both launched with Android 11. |
| Max OS Version | Android 13 | (Unconfirmed) | Nord CE has received updates; Nokia’s update policy is unclear. |
Connectivity
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia C21 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5G Support | Yes | No | Nord CE is future-proof for 5G networks. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) | Nord CE has faster Wi-Fi & better range. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 (LDAC, aptX) | 4.2 (basic) | Nord CE supports high-quality wireless audio. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins In:
✅ Performance – Far superior chipset, RAM, and GPU—ideal for gaming, multitasking, and long-term use.
✅ Display – AMOLED, 90Hz refresh rate, and higher resolution make it much better for media.
✅ Camera – 64MP main, 16MP selfie, and 4K video offer professional-grade photography.
✅ Battery & Charging – Bigger battery (4500mAh) and 30W fast charging mean less downtime.
✅ Future-Proofing – 5G support, better Wi-Fi, and confirmed software updates.
Nokia C21 Plus Wins In:
✔ Slightly Cheaper – If budget is the absolute priority, Nokia is a barebones option.
✔ More Compact? – No, actually larger and heavier despite weaker specs.
✔ Durability? – No official IP rating, but Nokia has a reputation for longevity.
Trade-Offs:
❌ No Expandable Storage – Neither phone supports microSD cards.
❌ Plastic Builds – Both use plastic, but Nord CE has a glass-like finish.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
- Mobile Gamers – Snapdragon 750G + 90Hz AMOLED screen = great for PUBG, COD Mobile, etc.
- Power Users – 8/12GB RAM & fast storage mean no lag in multitasking.
- Photographers – 64MP main + 8MP ultrawide offers better shots than most mid-rangers.
- Future-Proof Shoppers – 5G & Android 13 support means it’ll stay relevant longer.
Who Should Buy the Nokia C21 Plus?
- Extreme Budget Buyers – If you only need calls, texts, and light apps, it’s an option.
- Nokia Loyalists – If you prefer stock Android & long-term reliability (but performance is weak).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
Do you care about performance & smoothness?
- Yes? → Nord CE 5G.
- No? → Nokia C21 Plus (but consider if you can stretch your budget).
Do you take a lot of photos or videos?
- Yes? → Nord CE 5G (far better cameras).
- No? → Nokia C21 Plus (but don’t expect great results).
Do you want a phone that lasts 3+ years?
- Yes? → Nord CE 5G (better chipset, updates).
- No? → Nokia C21 Plus (if you just need a temporary phone).
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G without hesitation.
Why?
- Performance – The Snapdragon 750G destroys the Unisoc chip in the Nokia.
- Display – AMOLED + 90Hz is night and day better than the Nokia’s 60Hz LCD.
- Camera – 64MP vs. 13MP is a massive gap—Nord CE takes significantly better photos.
- Future-Proofing – 5G, faster charging, better software updates make it a smarter long-term buy.
The Nokia C21 Plus is only for those who can’t afford anything else—but if you can, the Nord CE 5G is the clear winner. 🚀
