Nokia Asha 501 smartphone

Photo: Vernon Chan from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Nokia

Nokia Asha 501

June 24, 2013 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Nokia Asha 501 is a compact and colorful feature phone released in June 2013, targeting emerging markets with its affordable price point. It was the first device to run on the new Nokia Asha platform, offering a touch-based user interface and long battery life.
Display3.0-inch QVGA TFT capacitive touchscreen
ChipsetNokia Asha software platform 1.0
Main Camera3.15 MP fixed-focus
Battery1200 mAh Li-Ion, up to 48 days standby
Starting from $6,321

💰 Nokia Asha 501 Price

The Nokia Asha 501 lowest price is $6,321, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeTFT capacitive touchscreen, 256K colors
Size3.0 inches
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, QVGA (~133 ppi density)
ProtectionScratch-resistant glass

Platform

OSNokia Asha software platform 1.0, upgradable to 1.4
CPUNot specified, optimized for the Asha platform

Memory

Card slotmicroSDHC (dedicated slot), up to 32 GB (4 GB included)
Internal128 MB storage, 64 MB RAM (approx. 40 MB user available)

Main Camera

Single3.15 MP / 3.2 MP
FeaturesPanorama, Voice guide for self-portrait (with April 2014 update)
VideoQVGA@15fps

Selfie Camera

SingleNo

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery (BL-4U)
Stand-byUp to 48 days (single SIM)
Talk timeUp to 17 h (2G)

Body

Dimensions99.2 x 58 x 12.1 mm (3.91 x 2.28 x 0.48 in)
Weight98.2 g (3.46 oz)
SIMSingle SIM (Micro-SIM) or Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) with EasySwap
MaterialsPolycarbonate matte finish (removable casing), scratch-resistant glass display

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g
Bluetooth3.0, EDR
GPSNo
RadioFM radio with RDS
USBmicroUSB 2.0 (charging only)

Launch

Announced2013, May
StatusReleased 2013, June 24

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional battery life
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • User-friendly, swipe-based interface (Fastlane)
  • Durable and colorful interchangeable covers
  • Affordable price
  • Dual SIM capability with hot-swappable secondary SIM
  • Wi-Fi connectivity

Cons

  • Low-resolution display
  • No 3G connectivity (2G only)
  • Basic camera performance
  • Limited app ecosystem compared to full smartphones
  • Display can be dim in direct sunlight
  • No front-facing camera
  • No GPS
★ Our Verdict

The Nokia Asha 501 earns a 7/10 for its excellent battery life, robust and colorful design, and intuitive user interface, making it a strong contender in the budget feature phone segment at its release, despite its technical limitations.

For those seeking a highly affordable, durable, and simple mobile phone with exceptional battery life, the Nokia Asha 501 remains a noteworthy option, particularly as a secondary device or for users in areas with limited charging access. While its 2G-only connectivity and basic camera are significant limitations in today's smartphone-dominated world, its user-friendly Asha Platform and compact design offer a nostalgic and practical experience. Consider it if you prioritize call and text functionality, long standby times, and a vibrant, pocket-friendly form factor over advanced smartphone features and high-speed internet. It's best suited for emerging markets or as a digital detox device.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Nokia Asha 501 Handset
  • Nokia Battery BL-4U 1200 mAh
  • Nokia Charger AC-11 (pin charger)
  • Nokia Stereo Headset WH-108
  • Nokia 4 GB microSD Card (pre-installed)
  • User Manual / Getting Started Guide

Standard manufacturer's warranty applied at the time of purchase, typically one year, varying by region.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the Nokia Asha 501?

The Nokia Asha 501 is a compact and colorful feature phone released by Nokia in June 2013, known for its touch-based interface and long battery life. It was the first device to run on the Nokia Asha software platform.

Does the Nokia Asha 501 support 3G or 4G?

No, the Nokia Asha 501 only supports 2G network connectivity (GPRS and EDGE). It does not have 3G or 4G capabilities.

What is the battery life of the Nokia Asha 501?

The Nokia Asha 501 features a 1200 mAh removable battery, offering impressive standby times of up to 48 days and up to 17 hours of 2G talk time.

Can I use two SIM cards in the Nokia Asha 501?

Yes, the Nokia Asha 501 was available in both single and dual SIM configurations. The dual SIM version supports two Micro-SIM cards with dual standby and an EasySwap feature.

What operating system does the Nokia Asha 501 use?

The Nokia Asha 501 runs on the Nokia Asha software platform 1.0, which was upgradable to version 1.4. This platform offered a swipe-driven user interface similar to MeeGo.

What are the main features of the Nokia Asha 501?

Key features include a 3.0-inch QVGA touchscreen, a 3.15 MP main camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, FM radio, and the Fastlane user interface for quick access to recent activities. It also came with a 4GB microSD card.