Huawei's nova series offers compelling mid-range options, and the Y71 and Y90 are two popular contenders. But which one delivers the best value and performance? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key features, helping you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Huawei nova Y90 is the clear winner, boasting a significantly faster chipset, faster charging, and a more modern 6nm process. While the Y71 offers a larger screen, the Y90's overall performance and charging capabilities make it the superior choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, May 09 | 2022, June 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, June | Available. Released 2022, July 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 168.3 x 77.7 x 9 mm (6.63 x 3.06 x 0.35 in) | 163.3 x 74.7 x 8.4 mm (6.43 x 2.94 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 199 g (7.02 oz) | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~260 ppi density) | 1080 x 2388 pixels (~391 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.75 inches, 110.0 cm2 (~84.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.7 inches, 108.7 cm2 (~89.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) |
| Chipset | Kirin 710A (14 nm) | Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G51 MP4 | Adreno 610 |
| OS | EMUI 12, no Google Play Services | EMUI 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | No |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| 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, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 22.5W wired | 40W wired, 50% in 30 min |
| Type | Li-Po 6000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Gold | Crystal Blue, Pearl White, Emerald Green, Midnight Black |
| Models | - | CTR-LX2, CTR-LX1, CTR-LX3 |
| Price | About 190 EUR | About 160 EUR |
Huawei nova Y71
- Larger Display
- Good Battery Life
- Affordable Price
- Older Chipset
- Slower Charging
- Lower Performance
Huawei nova Y90
- Faster Processor
- Faster Charging (40W)
- More Efficient Chipset (6nm)
- Potentially Better Camera
- Smaller Display
- Potentially Higher Price
Display Comparison
The nova Y71 features a larger 6.8-inch display, likely an LCD panel, offering ample space for media consumption. The nova Y90 has a 6.5-inch display, potentially with a higher refresh rate (assumed to be 60Hz for both), and likely a more color-accurate panel. While the Y71 wins on size, the Y90 may offer a better visual experience.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a triple-camera setup, with a primary sensor around 48MP. The Y90's more powerful processor and potentially improved image processing algorithms should result in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Expect slightly better detail and dynamic range from the Y90.
Performance
Here's where the Y90 shines. The Snapdragon 680 (6nm) is considerably more powerful than the Kirin 710A (14nm). Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the Y90. The Y71's Kirin 710A is adequate for basic tasks but will struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have a battery capacity around 5000mAh. However, the Y90's 40W fast charging is a game-changer, allowing for a 50% charge in just 30 minutes. The Y71's 22.5W charging will take significantly longer.
Buying Guide
The Huawei nova Y71 is a good option for budget-conscious users who prioritize a larger display and don't demand top-tier performance. The Huawei nova Y90 is ideal for those seeking a smoother experience, faster charging, and a more future-proof chipset, even if it means a slightly smaller screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Huawei nova Y90 worth the extra money?
Yes, the Y90's improved performance and faster charging justify the higher price for most users. The Y71 is a decent budget option, but the Y90 offers a significantly better overall experience.
❓ What kind of games can I play on each phone?
The Y90 can handle more demanding games at higher settings. The Y71 is suitable for less intensive games or playing at lower graphics settings.