Nokia C21 Plus Review
Nokia C21 Plus is considered one of the budget phones launched by Nokia to meet the needs of users looking for a simple and smooth usage experience at an affordable price. The phone combines a modern design and durable materials with a strong battery and a large screen, making it an ideal choice for daily users and those who prefer basic use without sacrificing performance quality.
Nokia C21 Plus Specifications Review
Design
Phone Materials
Nokia C21 Plus comes with a durable design based on a plastic frame and a metal back cover, giving it extra sturdiness compared to other budget phones. The back cover is also removable to access the battery and SIM slots.
Dimensions and Weight
The phone weighs about 191 grams and comes with comfortable dimensions in hand, making it easy to use with one hand or during calls.
Screen
Screen Type and Size
The phone features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD screen that provides a good viewing experience for visual content thanks to its large size.
Resolution and Performance
The screen comes with an HD Plus resolution of 1600 × 720 pixels with a 20:9 aspect ratio, giving users a comfortable view in games and videos. However, the medium pixel density makes details less sharp compared to high-resolution screens.
Battery
Capacity and Performance
The phone contains a battery with a capacity of 4000 or 5050 mAh depending on the version, and it is removable, providing long operating time that extends to a full day of moderate use and even longer with light use.
Charging Speed
The phone supports charging at 10 watts through a Micro-USB port, which is a limited speed but acceptable in this price category.
Camera
Rear Camera
Nokia C21 Plus features a dual rear camera consisting of a 13-megapixel main camera and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. The camera supports HDR mode and panoramic photography.
Front Camera
The front camera comes with a resolution of 5 megapixels, sufficient for simple selfies and medium-quality video calls.
Video Recording
The phone supports video recording at 1080p at 30 frames per second with both front and rear cameras.
Sound
Sound Quality
The phone has a single speaker located at the back, delivering medium sound in terms of clarity and loudness, which is suitable for daily tasks such as calls and listening to audio clips.
Headphone Jack
The phone supports a 3.5 mm headphone jack, which is an important feature for many users in the budget category.
Processor
Type and Performance
The phone operates with a Unisoc SC9863A octa-core processor with a frequency up to 1.6 GHz, offering acceptable performance for light apps and basic tasks, but it is not suitable for heavy games or multitasking.
Operating System
Android Version
The phone runs Android 11 Go Edition, which is a light version designed especially for devices with limited hardware, providing a simple user interface with low resource consumption.
Memory
RAM and Storage
The phone is available in several versions starting from 2 GB RAM with 32 GB internal storage up to 3 GB RAM with 64 GB storage. It also supports a microSD card up to 256 GB.
Connectivity
Networks and SIMs
The phone supports two Nano SIM cards with 4G network support, ensuring stable connection and acceptable internet speed.
Ports and Support
It has a Micro-USB port for charging and data transfer, and supports Bluetooth version 4.2 and Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz.
Networks
Network Support
The phone works on 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, which is sufficient for reasonable internet speeds in most areas.
Sensors
Sensor Types
The phone includes a rear fingerprint sensor along with an accelerometer and proximity sensor, all of which function well within daily usage requirements.
Phone Colors
Available Colors
Nokia C21 Plus is available in two main colors: dark gray and navy blue. The phone comes with a classic design suitable for simplicity lovers.
Nokia C21 Plus offers a balanced experience for users looking for a budget phone with acceptable specifications. Its most notable features are the removable battery, large screen, and durable design, while its main drawbacks are the limited charging speed and modest processor performance. It is a good choice for those who want basic performance at a low price with the reliability of the Nokia brand.
Pros of Nokia C21 Plus
- Battery: Large battery lasting long with easy removal and replacement
- Design: Durable design with a metal back cover offering good sturdiness
- Screen: Large 6.52-inch screen suitable for browsing and video watching
- Operating System: Runs Android Go Edition for smoother performance
- Price: Affordable price suitable for most users
- Headphone Jack: Supports a 3.5 mm headphone jack for traditional earphones
Cons of Nokia C21 Plus
- Charging Speed: Slow charging at 10 watts via the old Micro-USB port
- Processor Performance: Modest performance in running heavy games and multitasking
- Screen Quality: HD Plus resolution only which limits detail sharpness
- Camera: Average camera quality not suitable for photography enthusiasts
- Sound: Rear speaker with average sound quality and loudness
What’s New in the Nokia C21 Plus
Stronger Design
The Nokia C21 Plus features a design different from previous C series models as it comes with a metal back cover and a plastic frame, giving it additional durability compared to previous budget phones.
Bigger Battery
Nokia added a battery with a capacity of up to 5050 mAh in some versions of this phone, which is larger than most batteries in previous budget phones and provides longer usage time.
Dual Camera
For the first time in this series, the phone is equipped with a dual rear camera setup featuring a 13-megapixel main camera and a 2-megapixel depth sensor to improve portrait photos.
Android Go Edition System
The phone comes with Android 11 Go Edition, which was relatively new at the time of its release, to provide faster performance and lighter apps for low-spec phones.
Fingerprint Sensor
A fingerprint sensor has been added to the back of the device, which was not present in some previous Nokia budget models, enhancing the phone’s security and user privacy.
Nokia C21 Plus Box Contents
What You Will Find Inside the Box
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The phone itself
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10W charger with Micro-USB cable
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Wired earphones with 3.5 mm jack
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SIM tray ejector pin
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User manual and warranty
Nokia C21 Plus Prices
| Country | Currency | Approximate Price |
|---|---|---|
| India | Indian Rupee | 9000 INR |
| United States | US Dollar | 120 USD |
| Pakistan | Pakistani Rupee | 21600 PKR |
| Nigeria | Nigerian Naira | 56082 NGN |
| Bangladesh | Bangladeshi Taka | 10800 BDT |
| Ethiopia | Ethiopian Birr | 6000 ETB |
| United Kingdom | British Pound | 90 GBP |
| Tanzania | Tanzanian Shilling | 282000 TZS |
| South Africa | South African Rand | 1800 ZAR |
| Kenya | Kenyan Shilling | 13800 KES |
| Myanmar | Burmese Kyat | 216000 MMK |
| South Korea | South Korean Won | 144000 KRW |
| Uganda | Ugandan Shilling | 420000 UGX |
| Afghanistan | Afghan Afghani | 11400 AFN |
| Canada | Canadian Dollar | 156 CAD |
| Uzbekistan | Uzbekistani Som | 1320000 UZS |
| Ghana | Ghanaian Cedi | 840 GHS |
| Nepal | Nepalese Rupee | 14400 NPR |
| Australia | Australian Dollar | 168 AUD |
| Taiwan | New Taiwan Dollar | 3600 TWD |
| Sri Lanka | Sri Lankan Rupee | 24000 LKR |
| Malawi | Malawian Kwacha | 96000 MWK |
| Zambia | Zambian Kwacha | 2160 ZMW |
| Chile | Chilean Peso | 96000 CLP |
| Kazakhstan | Kazakhstani Tenge | 51600 KZT |
| Guatemala | Guatemalan Quetzal | 960 GTQ |
| Netherlands | Euro | 108 EUR |
| Cambodia | Cambodian Riel | 480000 KHR |
| Zimbabwe | Zimbabwean Dollar | 45600 ZWD |
| Belgium | Euro | 108 EUR |
These prices are collected from various sources and are approximate. They may vary depending on the store or local promotional discounts.
Warranty, Warranty Conditions, and After-Sales Service
Warranty
Warranty Period
The Nokia C21 Plus comes with an official one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
Warranty Conditions
Warranty Coverage
The warranty covers manufacturing defects that affect the device’s performance such as screen issues, processor problems, or battery defects not caused by misuse.
Warranty Exclusions
The warranty does not cover damages caused by drops, breakage, exposure to liquids or moisture, or the use of non-original accessories. It also does not cover damage resulting from tampering or repairs conducted outside authorized service centers.
After-Sales Service
Maintenance and Support
Nokia provides after-sales service through its authorized service centers for maintenance and original spare parts at reasonable prices. The company also offers regular security updates for its budget phones.
Customer Support
Users can contact customer service through the official Nokia website or by calling local support numbers to inquire about malfunctions, maintenance schedules, or spare parts warranties.
Nokia C21 Plus Performance
General Performance
Daily Use
The Nokia C21 Plus offers acceptable performance for daily uses such as browsing the internet, using social media apps, making calls, and playing videos at medium quality without noticeable responsiveness issues.
System Speed
The Android 11 Go Edition helps run the phone relatively smoothly compared to its limited specifications, as it is a light version suitable for devices with small RAM and budget processors.
App Switching
When switching between two or three light apps, the phone performs well. However, when opening many apps at the same time, you may notice some slowdowns or slight lag due to the limitations of its RAM and processor.
Gaming Performance
Light Games
It can run light games such as Subway Surfers and Candy Crush without problems.
Medium and Heavy Games
It is not recommended for heavy games such as PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile as noticeable lag and frame drops will occur even on the lowest graphic settings.
Phone Temperature
Temperature During Use
The phone maintains an acceptable temperature during normal use but may heat up slightly with intensive use or long gaming sessions, which is normal for a budget phone with these specifications.
Performance Summary
Performance Evaluation
The performance of the Nokia C21 Plus is suitable for users looking for a simple phone for basic tasks without the need for high speed or running heavy apps and games.
Gaming Performance on Nokia C21 Plus
Light Games
Light Games Experience
The Nokia C21 Plus provides good performance in light games such as Subway Surfers, Temple Run, and Candy Crush. These games run smoothly without noticeable lag thanks to the Unisoc SC9863A processor and the light Android Go edition.
Medium Games
Medium Games Experience
When running medium games like Free Fire or Asphalt 8, the phone delivers acceptable performance, but you may sometimes experience slight stuttering, especially during long gaming sessions or scenes with heavy graphics and details.
Heavy Games
Heavy Games Experience
The phone is not suitable for heavy games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile, even when graphics are set to the lowest settings, as noticeable lag, slow touch response, and low frame rates appear, affecting the overall gaming experience.
Phone Temperature During Gaming
Temperature Level
The phone heats up slightly during gaming, but it does not reach an annoying temperature and can be considered normal for a budget phone with an economic processor.
Gaming Performance Summary
Final Evaluation
The Nokia C21 Plus is suitable only for light games and some medium games, while it does not provide a satisfying experience for heavy games due to the limitations of its processor and RAM.
Nokia C21 Plus System Performance
Operating System
Version
The Nokia C21 Plus runs on Android 11 Go Edition, which is a light version of Android designed for budget phones with limited specifications.
System Speed
User Interface
The system interface is characterized by its simplicity and relative speed, as the Go Edition is designed to reduce RAM and processor consumption, making opening basic apps and switching between them smooth most of the time.
Updates
Security Updates
The phone receives periodic security updates from Google and Nokia to maintain system protection against security vulnerabilities.
System Updates
The phone usually does not support upgrading to newer standard Android versions, but it may receive minor improvements specific to the Go Edition.
Pre-installed Apps
System Apps
The phone comes with light Google Go apps such as Google Go, YouTube Go, and Maps Go. These are lightweight versions that consume less data and run smoothly on budget hardware.
System Performance Summary
Final Evaluation
The Nokia C21 Plus system provides good performance for basic use thanks to the light Android Go interface, which reduces lag and freezing issues, offering a stable and easy user experience for those who need a phone for daily tasks only.
Nokia C21 Plus Battery Performance
Battery Capacity
Battery Size
The Nokia C21 Plus comes with a large battery of 4000 or 5050 mAh in some versions, and it is removable, which distinguishes it from most competitors in the same price category.
Runtime
Daily Use
The battery provides excellent performance, lasting a full day or more with moderate use such as browsing the internet, watching videos, using social media apps, and making calls without the need to recharge during the day.
Standby Mode
The phone has low power consumption during standby mode, allowing the battery to retain its charge for several days if usage is limited.
Charging Speed
Charging Power
The phone supports 10W charging via a Micro-USB port, which is relatively slow as it takes about three hours or more to fully charge the battery.
Battery Efficiency
Consumption
Battery consumption is economical thanks to the light Android Go system, which reduces power drain, especially with normal use without running heavy games or multitasking extensively.
Battery Performance Summary
Final Evaluation
The battery is one of the strongest points of the Nokia C21 Plus as it offers long operating time suitable for users who need a phone that lasts all day without worrying about running out of charge. However, the limited charging speed remains one of its disadvantages compared to some competitors.
Global and User Reviews of the Nokia C21 Plus
Global Reviews
Tech Website Reviews
The Nokia C21 Plus received average ratings from most global tech websites. Reviewers considered it a simple budget phone that fulfills its basic purpose without offering strong features or high performance. However, it is distinguished by its durable design and good battery life.
Main Positive Points
Reviews praised its strong metal design compared to other phones in the same category and its Android Go Edition system, which allows the phone to run smoothly despite limited hardware. They also commended its removable battery, which has become rare nowadays.
Main Negative Points
Reviews criticized its relatively low screen resolution and very limited processor performance, especially in games or multitasking, in addition to its slow charging speed via the old Micro USB port.
User Reviews
General User Opinions
Most user reviews were positive among those who bought the phone for basic use such as calls, WhatsApp, and YouTube. They described it as a practical phone with an affordable price, attractive design, and long-lasting battery.
Key User Comments
Some users noted that the phone sometimes has slow response when many apps are opened simultaneously. Others commented on the camera quality, which is very modest, but they considered it acceptable given the phone’s budget price.
Reviews Summary
Overall Opinion
In general, the Nokia C21 Plus is considered suitable for those looking for a simple phone for daily tasks at a low price without much focus on gaming or professional photography.
Competitors of the Nokia C21 Plus
Competitors in the Same Price Category
Samsung Galaxy A03 Core
The Samsung Galaxy A03 Core is one of the strongest competitors to the Nokia C21 Plus, as it comes with a similar Unisoc processor, Android Go system, and a large 5000 mAh battery. However, it features a slightly larger screen with a simple design bearing Samsung’s well-known brand.
Realme C30
The Realme C30 is also a strong competitor, featuring an elegant design and a Unisoc T612 processor which is slightly more powerful than the Nokia C21 Plus processor, along with a 5000 mAh battery. However, it does not include a fingerprint sensor like Nokia.
itel P40
The itel P40 is a strong competitor in the same category with an economic price, featuring a very large 6000 mAh battery and dual rear cameras, but it does not offer build quality as strong as Nokia’s.
Xiaomi Redmi A2
The Redmi A2 from Xiaomi is among the competitors thanks to its MediaTek Helio G36 processor that provides slightly better performance, an Android Go system, and a 5000 mAh battery. However, it also lacks a metal back cover like the Nokia phone.
Tecno Pop 7
The Tecno Pop 7 offers similar specifications with a 6.6-inch screen, dual rear cameras, a 5000 mAh battery, and a very competitive price, making it one of the prominent alternative options.
Competitors Summary
Overall Competitor Evaluation
The Nokia C21 Plus offers a durable design with a metal back cover, a fingerprint sensor, a good battery, and Android Go. However, its processor performance is still lower than some competitors like the Redmi A2 and Realme C30, while it outperforms them in terms of design durability and ease of servicing its removable battery.
Purchase Tips for Nokia C21 Plus
Who is this phone suitable for
Basic use
If you are looking for a budget phone for basic uses such as calls, messages, and light social media applications, then this phone is a suitable choice for you.
Elderly and students
This phone is suitable for elderly people and young students who need a simple phone at a low price without the need for high performance or a powerful camera.
Before buying
Checking the version
Make sure to buy the version that comes with a 5050 mAh battery to get the best battery performance, especially if you use your phone a lot outside the home.
Checking the warranty
Ensure there is an official warranty valid for at least one year to guarantee maintenance or replacement of the phone in case of manufacturing defects.
Price in your area
Compare prices among different stores in your country or area before buying to get the best possible price.
After buying
Using the original charger
It is preferable to use the original charger that comes with the phone to maintain the battery and avoid damaging it in the long run.
System updates
Update the system immediately after purchasing the phone to ensure you get the latest security improvements and compatibility with applications.
Purchase tips summary
Final opinion
Buy the Nokia C21 Plus if you want a simple phone with a strong battery, durable design, and budget-friendly price. But if you are looking for strong gaming performance or a high-resolution camera, look for other options with higher prices and stronger specifications.
Charging Tips for Nokia C21 Plus
Using the original charger
Importance of the original charger
It is recommended to use the original charger and cable that come with the phone to avoid damaging the battery or reducing its efficiency over time, as non-original chargers may affect charging speed or cause the device to heat up.
Full charging
Charging at the right time
Try to charge the battery before its percentage drops below twenty percent to maintain its lifespan in the long term, and do not always wait until it completely drains.
Avoid overcharging
Removing the charger after full charge
Although the phone automatically stops charging when full, it is better to unplug the charger once the battery reaches one hundred percent to reduce excess heat generation.
Charging in a suitable place
Staying away from heat
It is preferable to charge the phone in a well-ventilated place away from sunlight or high heat sources to prevent the battery from heating up, which could affect its performance and safety.
Using the charging port carefully
Protecting the port
Ensure that you insert the cable gently and avoid moving it forcefully during charging to protect the Micro-USB port from damage or wear over time.
Avoid using the phone while charging
Safety and charging efficiency
It is better not to use the phone for games or watching videos while charging to maintain charging speed and avoid overheating the device.
Full first charge
Initial preparation
When buying the phone for the first time, it is preferable to charge the battery fully before using it to help the battery operate efficiently and stably from the beginning.
Conclusion
In the end, the Nokia C21 Plus provides a practical experience suitable for a large segment of users looking for a budget phone with a long-lasting battery, durable design, and light operating system. However, it is not suitable for strong gaming lovers or professional photography. If you want a phone for basic daily use at a low price with acceptable quality, then the Nokia C21 Plus will be a suitable choice that meets your needs efficiently and calmly.