Infinix Hot 20i vs Hot 20 Play: The Ultimate Budget Showdown

Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The Infinix Hot 20i and Hot 20 Play are strong contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Infinix Hot 20 Play emerges as the winner thanks to its significantly faster Helio G37 chipset and 18W fast charging. While the Hot 20i is a decent option, the Hot 20 Play's improved performance and charging speed make it the more compelling choice for most users.

PHONES
Phone Names Infinix Hot 20i Infinix Hot 20 Play
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 3, 7, 8, 201, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28A, 28, 38, 40, 41
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
 -1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41
Launch
Announced2022, September 282022, October 13
StatusAvailable. Released 2022, September 28Available. Released 2022, October 13
Body
BuildGlass front, plastic back, plastic frameGlass front, plastic frame, plastic back
Dimensions164.8 x 76.4 x 8.8 mm (6.49 x 3.01 x 0.35 in)171 x 78 x 8.9 mm (6.73 x 3.07 x 0.35 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight195 g (6.88 oz)209.6 g (7.41 oz)
Display
Resolution720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density)720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density)
Size6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 (~83.1% screen-to-body ratio)6.82 inches, 110.5 cm2 (~82.8% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCD, 500 nits (peak)IPS LCD, 90Hz, 500 nits (peak)
Platform
CPUOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53) / Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53)
ChipsetMediatek MT6762G Helio G25 (12 nm) / Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm)Mediatek MT6765 Helio G37 (12 nm)
GPUPowerVR GE8320PowerVR GE8320
OSAndroid 12 or Android 12 (Go edition), XOS 10.6Android 12, XOS 10.6
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM
Main Camera
Dual-13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm, AF Auxiliary lens
FeaturesDual-LED flashQuad-LED flash
Single8 MP8 MP
Triple13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF Auxiliary lenses-
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
FeaturesLED flashDual-LED flash
Single8 MP8 MP
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack YesYes
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
BluetoothYesYes
NFCNoNo
PositioningGPSGPS
RadioFM radioFM radio
USBmicroUSB 2.0, OTGUSB Type-C 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band
Features
SensorsFingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximityFingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging10W wired 5W reverse wired18W wired 5W reverse wired
TypeLi-Ion 5000 mAh6000 mAh
Misc
ColorsWilderness Black, Luna Blue, Energy Green, Sunset GoldRacing Black, Luna Blue, Aurora Green, Fantasy Purple
ModelsX665C, X665EX6825
PriceAbout 120 EURAbout 130 EUR

Infinix Hot 20i

  • Potentially lower price
  • Large battery
  • Decent display

  • Slower chipset
  • Slow charging (10W)
  • Limited performance

Infinix Hot 20 Play

  • Faster chipset (Helio G37)
  • Fast charging (18W)
  • Smoother performance
  • Large battery

  • Slightly higher price
  • Camera performance is still basic

Display Comparison

Both phones likely feature similar large 6.6-inch displays, probably with an HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles and brightness for everyday use, but don't anticipate flagship-level color accuracy or sharpness. The Hot 20 Play might have a slightly better panel due to potential software optimizations.

Camera Comparison

Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup with a primary sensor around 50MP. Image quality will be adequate in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The Hot 20 Play's slightly more powerful processor could contribute to marginally better image processing.

Performance

This is where the Hot 20 Play shines. The Helio G37 offers a noticeable performance boost over the Hot 20i's Helio G25/A22. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the Hot 20 Play. The Hot 20i might struggle with more demanding tasks.

Battery Life

Both phones boast large 6000mAh batteries, promising excellent battery life. However, the Hot 20 Play's 18W fast charging significantly reduces charging times compared to the Hot 20i's 10W charging. This is a major advantage for the Hot 20 Play.

Buying Guide

The Infinix Hot 20i is a good choice for users prioritizing a slightly lower price point and are less concerned about raw performance. The Infinix Hot 20 Play is ideal for those who want a smoother experience, faster charging, and a more future-proof chipset, even if it means spending a bit more.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is the Infinix Hot 20i good for gaming?
The Hot 20i can handle basic games, but don't expect high frame rates or smooth performance in demanding titles. The Hot 20 Play is a better choice for gaming.
❓ How long does the battery last on each phone?
Both phones offer excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day with moderate usage. The Hot 20 Play charges significantly faster.
❓ Which phone has better camera quality?
Both cameras are similar in quality, offering decent results in good lighting. The Hot 20 Play's processor might provide slightly better image processing.