Apple iPhone 13 vs Nokia XR21 5G
The Apple iPhone 13 is the budget option here, offering reliable performance and build quality, but the Nokia XR21 5G takes the lead with features that enhance usability. The smoother 120Hz refresh rate on the XR21 also means scrolling feels much more responsive than the iPhone's 60Hz, especially beneficial for gaming and fast-paced content consumption. Key specs: Display: 6.1" vs 6.49" and Refresh: 60 Hz vs 120 Hz.
Why compare these? The Apple iPhone 13 (budget-friendly) and Nokia XR21 5G (mid-range) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Apple iPhone | Nokia XR21 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.8★ (818 reviews) | 3.5★ (60 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Excellent build quality with Ceramic Shield and IP68 rating | Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets) |
| Main Drawback | Stuck on 60Hz refresh rate (Competitors offer 120Hz) | Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless) |
| Market Position | Budget | ✓Mid-range |
Apple iPhone 13
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2021)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Apple iPhone 13 vs Nokia XR21 5G
Apple iPhone 13
Nokia XR21 5G
| Criterion | Apple iPhone 13 | Nokia XR21 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.8(818)Best Buy | ★3.5(60)Amazon |
Operating System | iOS | Android |
Software Support | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2021) | 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023) |
Processor | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) |
Graphics | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | Adreno 619 |
RAM | 4GB LPDDR4X | 6GB |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB NVMe | 128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable) |
Display Size | 6.1" | 6.49" |
Screen Type | Super Retina XDR OLED, HDR10, Dolby Vision | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 550 nits (Sunlight Boost), Wet Hands/Glove Support |
Resolution | 2532 x 1170 pixels (460 ppi) | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 800 nits (Typical) / 1,200 nits (HDR Peak) | 450 nits (Typical) / 550 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 12MP Wide, f/1.6, 26mm, 1.7µm, Sensor-shift OIS, Dual Pixel PDAF | 64MP, f/1.8, PDAF, Dual-LED Flash |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 12MP Ultrawide, f/2.4, 13mm, 120-degree FOV | 8MP, f/2.2, 112-degree FOV, Fixed Focus |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | 2x Optical Zoom Out (0.5x to 1x) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 5x | Up to 8x |
Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps (Dolby Vision HDR supported); Cinematic mode (1080p @ 30fps) | 1080p @ 30/60fps (Chipset limitation) |
Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth, f/2.2, 23mm, SL 3D (Biometrics) | 16MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 3,240mAh (approximate) | 4,800mAh (Non-removable) |
Wired Charging | 20W+ Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning | 33W Fast Charging (QC3.0 / PD 2.0 compatible) |
Wireless Charging | 15W MagSafe Wireless / 7.5W Qi Wireless | No (Not supported) — *Note: Downgrade from Nokia XR20* |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6 GHz & mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, UWB | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, GNSS (L1+L5) |
USB | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG) |
Durability | IP68 (Maximum depth of 6 meters up to 30 minutes); Ceramic Shield front | IP68/IP69K (High Temp/Pressure Jets); MIL-STD-810H; Corning Gorilla Glass Victus |
Dimensions | 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 in (146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65 mm) | 6.61 x 3.09 x 0.41 in (168.0 x 78.6 x 10.5 mm) |
Weight | 6.14 oz (174 g) | 8.15 oz (231 g) |
Biometrics | Face ID | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | MagSafe ecosystem support, Stereo speakers, Dual eSIM support | Two Programmable Buttons (Top Emergency/Side Quick Access), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Dual Stereo Speakers (96dB) |
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Apple iPhone 13
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2021)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
4GB LPDDR4X
128GB / 256GB / 512GB NVMe
Pros
- Excellent build quality with Ceramic Shield and IP68 rating
- Strong battery life for its size (beat many Android competitors at launch)
Cons
- Stuck on 60Hz refresh rate (Competitors offer 120Hz)
- Uses proprietary Lightning port instead of universal USB-C
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
6GB
128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable)
Pros
- Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets)
- Guaranteed 3 OS updates and 4 years of monthly security patches
Cons
- Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless)
- Removed microSD card slot (The older XR20 had expandable storage)
Which one is better?
Grab the iPhone 13 if you prefer a lighter phone at 6.14oz and want the Apple ecosystem - it's lighter.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple iPhone 13 if: you want a lightweight phone at 6.14oz, you prefer a top-notch camera with Dolby Vision HDR, or you enjoy the Apple ecosystem.
Choose the Nokia XR21 5G if: you need a longer-lasting battery for up to 34 hours of video, you value a smoother scrolling experience with a 120Hz display, or you work in rugged environments needing IP69K certification.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.8★ vs 3.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 818 reviews vs 60
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Nokia XR21
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Apple iPhone 13 edges ahead with a 4.8★ rating compared to 3.5★. However, Nokia XR21 5G remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Apple iPhone 13 or Nokia XR21 5G?
Apple iPhone 13 is the better choice if you prioritize excellent build quality with ceramic shield and ip68 rating. Nokia XR21 5G wins if you value certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Both are rated highly (4.8★ vs 3.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Apple iPhone 13 and Nokia XR21 5G?
Key differences: Apple iPhone 13 offers excellent build quality with ceramic shield and ip68 rating, while Nokia XR21 5G stands out with certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Consider that Apple iPhone 13 stuck on 60hz refresh rate (competitors offer 120hz). Meanwhile, Nokia XR21 5G removed wireless charging (the older xr20 had 15w wireless). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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