The Huawei nova Y61 and Infinix Hot 30i represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both aim to deliver essential features at a low price point, but they take different approaches to achieving this. The nova Y61 focuses on a streamlined experience, while the Hot 30i leverages the Unisoc T606 chipset for a performance boost. This comparison will dissect their key differences to help you choose the right device.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance and slightly faster charging, the Infinix Hot 30i emerges as the better choice. Its Unisoc T606 chipset, while not a powerhouse, offers a more defined architecture than the unspecified octa-core in the nova Y61, translating to a smoother experience in demanding tasks. However, the nova Y61 remains a viable option for those deeply embedded in the Huawei ecosystem.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - EVE-LX3 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 26, 28, 38, 40, 66 - EVE-LX3 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - EVE-LX9, EVE-LX9N | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, November 01 | 2023, March 31 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, November | Available. Released 2023, March 31 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm (6.47 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) | 164 x 75.8 x 8.4 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 188 g (6.63 oz) | 191 g (6.74 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 500 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | EMUI 12, no Google Play Services | Android 12, XOS 10.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), AF
0.08 MP, (depth) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), 1/3.07", AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/3.94" |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | Yes (EVE-LX9N only) | Yes (Hot 30i NFC only) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 22.5W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sapphire Blue, Mint Green, Midnight Black | Mirror Black, Glacier Blue, Diamond White, Marigold |
| Models | EVE-LX9, EVE-LX9N, EVE-LX3 | X669, X669D |
| Price | About 140 EUR | - |
Huawei nova Y61
- Potentially faster 22.5W charging
- Huawei brand recognition
- Streamlined user experience (potentially)
- Unspecified processor architecture
- Limited performance information
- Potentially lower performance than Hot 30i
Infinix Hot 30i
- Unisoc T606 chipset with Cortex-A75 cores
- Defined processor architecture for better performance
- 12nm process node for improved efficiency
- Slower 18W charging
- Less established brand in some markets
- Software experience may vary
Display Comparison
Neither device’s display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the price bracket, both likely utilize LCD panels. The absence of details like resolution or refresh rate suggests a focus on cost reduction. Users should expect standard viewing experiences, prioritizing functionality over visual fidelity. The lack of information prevents assessment of color accuracy or peak brightness.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a meaningful comparison is difficult. Both devices likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the quality will heavily depend on sensor size and image processing algorithms – details not provided. It’s reasonable to assume both will include a primary camera and potentially depth or macro sensors, but the absence of megapixel counts or aperture information prevents a thorough assessment. Users should manage expectations, as image quality in this price range is typically adequate for social media sharing but not professional photography.
Performance
The Infinix Hot 30i’s Unisoc T606 (12 nm) chipset is the key differentiator here. Its octa-core configuration, specifically 2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55, provides a clear architectural advantage over the Huawei nova Y61’s unspecified octa-core processor. The Cortex-A75 cores in the Hot 30i offer significantly higher single-core performance, beneficial for app launch speeds and responsiveness. While both are octa-core, the T606’s architecture suggests better performance in tasks requiring sustained processing power. The 12nm process node of the T606 also indicates reasonable power efficiency.
Battery Life
The Huawei nova Y61 supports 22.5W wired charging, while the Infinix Hot 30i is limited to 18W. This translates to potentially faster charging speeds for the nova Y61, reducing the time spent tethered to a power outlet. However, the actual charging time will also depend on battery capacity, which is not specified for either device. The 4.5W difference in charging wattage, while noticeable, isn’t a game-changer, and the Hot 30i’s more efficient chipset might partially offset this difference.
Buying Guide
Buy the Huawei nova Y61 if you prioritize a simple, reliable experience and are already invested in Huawei’s services. Its appeal lies in its brand recognition and potentially smoother software integration within the Huawei ecosystem. Buy the Infinix Hot 30i if you need a phone capable of handling moderate multitasking and light gaming without significant slowdowns, and if you value a chipset with a clearly defined architecture for better performance predictability.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc T606 in the Infinix Hot 30i struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Unisoc T606 isn't a high-end gaming chipset, it should be capable of running PUBG Mobile at medium settings with reasonable frame rates. Expect some occasional stuttering or frame drops during intense action. Lowering graphics settings will improve performance and stability.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Huawei nova Y61 with its 22.5W charging?
Without knowing the battery capacity, it's difficult to provide an exact estimate. However, assuming a typical 5000mAh battery, a full charge from 0% should take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. The actual time may vary depending on usage during charging.
❓ Is the software experience significantly different between Huawei and Infinix?
Yes. Huawei's EMUI (or HarmonyOS, depending on the region) is known for its customization options and feature set, but it has faced scrutiny regarding Google Mobile Services. Infinix uses XOS, which is generally lighter and closer to stock Android, offering a more open experience with full Google support.
❓ Does the Infinix Hot 30i support fast charging protocols beyond 18W?
While the Hot 30i is rated for 18W charging, it may support Power Delivery (PD) or Quick Charge (QC) protocols, allowing it to charge slightly faster with compatible chargers. However, the maximum charging speed will still be limited to 18W.
