The Nokia 1100, launched in 2003 and discontinued in 2010, is the world’s best-selling phone, with over 250 million units sold globally, including millions in India. Loved for its rugged build and epic battery life, it was a game-changer for mobile communication, especially in rural areas. Rumors of a Nokia 1100 5G relaunch in 2025 with modern features like 5G and KaiOS have sparked excitement, but as of August 31, 2025, no official confirmation exists. This review dives into the iconic original Nokia 1100, with a quick look at the speculative 2025 version, covering its price, specs, and performance in India.
Timeless Design Built to Last
The Nokia 1100’s compact design is pure nostalgia. With a rubberized keypad, non-slip side grips, and a dustproof front, it’s made for tough conditions. Available in Light Blue, Orange, Black, and customizable third-party covers (like Yellow, Red, or Pink), it measures 106 x 46 x 20 mm and weighs just 86 grams. The sturdy plastic body can handle drops, and Xpress-On covers let you switch up the style. Its built-in flashlight, activated by pressing the “C” key, was a lifesaver in areas with spotty electricity. However, the keypad and monochrome display feel outdated in 2025 compared to modern touchscreen phones.
Simple Monochrome Display
The Nokia 1100 sports a 96 x 65-pixel monochrome display with green backlighting (white in 1101/1108 variants). It shows four lines for calls, texts, and menus, keeping things basic. Perfect for its time, it supported games like Snake II and Space Impact+. But in 2025, it can’t compete with vibrant AMOLED screens on budget smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G. There’s no color, touch input, or multimedia support, making it unsuitable for streaming or browsing.
Bare-Bones Performance
Running on the stripped-down Series 30 platform with a single Navi-key, the Nokia 1100 uses a simple microprocessor designed for low power use. It has no dedicated RAM or storage, holding only 50 contacts, 50 SMS messages (25 inbox, 25 sent), and 10 reminders. It’s built for calls, texts, and basic features like alarms and calculators. While reliable in its era, it’s outdated compared to modern phones like the Vivo T3x, which offer apps and internet access.
Key Specifications of the Original Nokia 1100
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 96 x 65-pixel monochrome, 4 lines, green backlight |
| Processor | Basic microprocessor, Series 30 platform |
| Storage | 50 contacts, 50 SMS, 10 reminders |
| Battery | 850mAh Li-Ion, 400 hours standby, 4.5 hours talk time |
| Connectivity | GSM 900/1800 (850/1900 in 1100b), SMS only |
| Features | Flashlight, alarm, stopwatch, calculator, Snake II game |
No Camera, Purely Communication
The Nokia 1100 skips a camera, focusing solely on calls and texts. It supports monophonic ringtones (36 pre-installed, 7 customizable) and Nokia Smart Messaging for sharing ringtones and picture messages with compatible devices. Games like Snake II were a hit in the 2000s, but with no FM radio, music playback, or video support, it feels limited today compared to even basic feature phones like the Nokia 105 2023.
Unmatched Battery Life
The 850mAh removable Li-Ion battery is a standout, offering up to 400 hours of standby (16 days) and 4.5 hours of talk time. In real-world use, it lasted 7-10 days per charge, a huge plus in rural India with unreliable power. While its capacity is tiny compared to modern phones like the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G (5000mAh), its efficiency is unmatched for basic phones, making it ideal for minimalists.
Basic Connectivity
Supporting GSM 900/1800 bands (850/1900 in some variants), the Nokia 1100 delivers reliable call quality, even in low-signal areas. It lacks 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB, limiting it to SMS and calls. Features like a flashlight, alarm, stopwatch, and 50-contact storage were practical in 2003, but they can’t keep up with modern needs like internet or app support.
Pricing and Availability in India
Originally priced at ₹5000 in 2003, the Nokia 1100 is now sold second-hand or by collectors in India for ₹850-1200 on platforms like Amazon, eBay, or local shops. Refurbished units often include a new battery and cover but may lack a charger or warranty. Maintenance costs are low (₹500-1000/year), though spare parts are hard to find in 2025. Rumors of a 2025 version priced at ~₹12,999 with 5G and KaiOS remain unconfirmed by HMD Global, Nokia’s brand licensee.
Rumored Nokia 1100 5G 2025
Speculative reports mention a Nokia 1100 5G 2025 with 12GB RAM, a 7200mAh battery, dual 50MP cameras, KaiOS, and fast charging. It’s said to feature an aluminum body, ceramic keypad, and an updated Snake game, with a launch date of July 25, 2025, at ~₹12,999. These claims lack official backing, so buyers should be cautious and wait for confirmation before expecting a modernized version.
What Users Love and What’s Missing
Fans adore the Nokia 1100’s durability, long battery life, and simplicity, making it a nostalgic pick for seniors or rural users. The flashlight and reliable call quality were lifesavers in the 2000s. Drawbacks include:
- No camera or multimedia features.
- Outdated monochrome display.
- No internet or app support.
- Limited storage for contacts and messages.
- Obsolete for modern use cases.
How It Compares
In 2003, the Nokia 1100 outshone the Nokia 3310 (color screen, less durable) and Motorola C200 (cheaper, less reliable). In 2025, second-hand units compete with feature phones like the Nokia 105 2023 (₹1299, color display, FM radio) or JioPhone Next (₹4499, 4G, apps). The 1100’s battery life and build quality are unmatched, but modern feature phones offer better displays and connectivity.
Final Verdict
The Nokia 1100 remains a legend, with 250 million units sold and unmatched durability. Priced at ₹850-1200 in the second-hand market, it’s a nostalgic choice for basic calls and texts in 2025, perfect for seniors or rural users. However, its lack of modern features like cameras or internet makes it outdated. The rumored 2025 5G version could be exciting, but without official confirmation, consider budget alternatives like the Nokia 105 or JioPhone Next for better functionality.
FAQs About Nokia 1100
Q: What is the price of the Nokia 1100 in India in 2025?
A: Second-hand units cost ₹850-1200; the rumored 2025 version is speculated at ~₹12,999.
Q: Does the Nokia 1100 support 5G?
A: The original doesn’t; a rumored 2025 version may support 5G, but it’s unconfirmed.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: The 850mAh battery lasts 7-10 days with 400 hours standby and 4.5 hours talk time.
Q: Does it have a camera?
A: No, the original Nokia 1100 has no camera; it’s for calls and texts only.
Q: Where can I buy the Nokia 1100 in 2025?
A: Available second-hand on Amazon, eBay, or local stores; check for refurbished units.
Q: Is the rumored 2025 version real?
A: No official confirmation exists for a Nokia 1100 5G as of August 31, 2025.
Q: What are the main drawbacks?
A: No camera, monochrome display, no internet, and limited storage.