In the dynamic world of smartphones, Nokia has maintained a straightforward approach to naming its devices, making it easy for consumers to gauge the phone’s category based on its model number. The Nokia 2, positioned as an entry-level smartphone with an affordable price tag, stands out for its impressive battery life and durability. In this review, we’ll delve into the specifications, features, and overall performance of the Nokia 2, helping you decide if it’s a worthwhile investment.
Nokia 2 Specs:
Release Date: November 2017 Network Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE Body Dimension: 143.5 x 71.3 x 9.3 mm Operating System: Android 7.1.1 (Nougat), upgradeable to Android 8.1 (Oreo) Display: 5.0 inches, 720 x 1280 pixels (294 ppi) RAM: 1GB SIM: Single SIM (Nano-SIM) or Hybrid Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) Internal Memory: 8GB Processor: Qualcomm MSM8909v2 Snapdragon 212 (28 nm) Networks: 2G, 3G & 4G (GSM, HSDPA, LTE) Camera: 8MP LED Flash (Main), 5MP (Selfie) Battery: 4,100 mAh Li-ion Battery (non-removable) Other features: Accelerometer, proximity, compass
Design and Body:
The Nokia 2 embraces a simple design reminiscent of the classic Nokia Lumia phones, with a plastic battery cover, curved edges, and aluminum sides for enhanced durability. Despite lacking premium aesthetics, the phone is portable, measuring 9.3mm in thickness and weighing 161g. However, it’s worth noting that the Nokia 2 is not waterproof, lacks a fingerprint scanner, and lacks rubber seals.
Colors:
Available in Pewter Black, Pewter White, and Copper/Black variants, the Nokia 2 offers users some flexibility in choosing a color that suits their style.
Display:
The Nokia 2 features a 5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. While modest, the display provides acceptable image quality for a budget smartphone. Surprisingly, the color and contrast output surpass the on-paper specifications, offering a rich display for the budget category. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass 3, ensuring resistance against scratches.
Battery:
One of the standout features of the Nokia 2 is its robust 4,100mAh battery, delivering excellent battery life even under heavy usage. With 19 hours of talk time and up to 139 hours of music play, the Nokia 2 caters to users seeking long-lasting performance. However, the absence of quick charging may be a drawback, requiring approximately 10 hours to charge from zero percent.
Camera:
The Nokia 2’s camera performance is modest, with an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. The rear camera’s small aperture may impact image clarity, making it suitable for casual photography. The front camera, while usable, lacks fine detail capture. It’s essential to set realistic expectations, considering the phone’s budget-friendly positioning.
Processor:
Powering the Nokia 2 is a quad-core Snapdragon 212 chipset running at 1.3GHz, coupled with 1GB of RAM. While the chipset may not match the latest technology, it optimizes power efficiently. However, performance issues, especially with gaming, are noticeable. The Cortex-A7 cores may not meet 2018 standards, contributing to a slower user experience.
Other Features:
As an entry-level phone, the Nokia 2 lacks standout features but offers dust resistance and voice control.
Conclusion:
The Nokia 2 appeals to users prioritizing durability and exceptional battery life over cutting-edge performance. While its design and camera capabilities may not set it apart in a crowded market, the phone’s budget-friendly nature makes it a reasonable choice for those with specific needs. If you can overlook its slower performance and average camera, the Nokia 2 stands as a reliable option for a qualitative, long-lasting smartphone experience.