The Nokia C21 Plus is a durable entry-level smartphone designed for users who prioritize longevity and a clean software experience. Currently available in the Pakistani market for Rs. 26,000 (approximately $95 USD), this device is tailored for students and professionals looking for a reliable secondary handset.

Key details

- Announced: 27 February 2022
- Official Website: www.nokia.com/phones/en_pk
- Battery: 5050 mAh
- Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD
- Charging Speed: 10W

Design & Build

The Nokia C21 Plus feels surprisingly sturdy for its price point. It features an IP52-rated splash-resistant body with a metallic inner chassis, ensuring it can handle minor accidents. Weighing 191 grams, it has a solid grip and a classic, understated aesthetic that feels more premium than its plastic-heavy competitors.

Display

The phone sports a 6.5-inch IPS LCD panel with an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. While it lacks a high refresh rate—staying at the standard 60Hz—the colors are accurate and the brightness is sufficient for indoor use. Outdoor visibility under direct sunlight is decent, though not exceptional.

Performance

Equipped with the Unisoc SC9863A chipset and an Octa-core CPU, the phone is built for basic multitasking. With 3GB or 4GB of RAM, you can smoothly navigate through social media apps and web browsing. It runs a clean version of Android 11 (Go Edition), which keeps the interface snappy despite the modest hardware.

Camera

The rear camera setup includes a 13MP primary lens and a 2MP depth sensor. In good lighting, the 13MP sensor captures crisp, social-media-ready photos with natural colors. The 5MP front camera handles video calls and basic selfies well, though it struggles in low-light environments where grain becomes visible.

Battery

The standout feature is the 5050 mAh battery. In real-world usage, it easily lasts two full days on a single charge for light users. It supports 10W charging via micro-USB, which is on the slower side, taking over two hours to reach a full charge from zero.

Verdict

The Nokia C21 Plus is a dependable choice for those who value durability and battery endurance over gaming performance. While the charging speed is dated, the build quality and clean software experience make it a sensible purchase for anyone needing a stable phone under Rs. 30,000.