The Infinix Smart 6 and Oppo A17k represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum, targeting first-time buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at an incredibly low cost, but they take different approaches to achieving this, primarily through their chipset choices. This comparison dissects those choices and their implications for everyday use.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing overall efficiency and slightly better performance, the Oppo A17k is the stronger choice. Its MediaTek Helio G35, built on a 12nm process, offers a noticeable advantage over the Infinix Smart 6’s Unisoc SC9863A, despite similar core counts. However, the Smart 6 remains a viable option for extremely basic tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, October 26 | 2022, October 13 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 26 | Available. Released 2022, October 18 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 165.6 x 76.4 x 9.1 mm (6.52 x 3.01 x 0.36 in) | 164.2 x 75.6 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 189 g (6.67 oz) |
| | - | IPX4 water resistance |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Panda Glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 (~83.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 500 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition), XOS 7.6 | Android 12, ColorOS 12.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | Dual-LED flash | LED flash, panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 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 (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Purple, Ocean Blue, Light Sea Green, Polar Black | Navy Blue, Gold |
| Models | X6511B, X6511, X6511E | CPH2471 |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Infinix Smart 6
- Lowest possible price point
- Functional for basic tasks
- Likely large battery capacity
- Inefficient Unisoc SC9863A chipset
- Slower performance
- Potential for thermal throttling
Oppo A17k
- More efficient MediaTek Helio G35 chipset
- Snappier performance
- Better sustained performance
- Slightly higher price
- Still a budget device with limitations
- Camera quality likely similar to Smart 6
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature LCD panels, typical for this price point. The key difference lies under the hood. While specific display specs are unavailable, the A17k benefits from the overall efficiency gains of its chipset, potentially allowing for slightly better power management related to the display. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, and color accuracy will likely be standard for budget devices.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be basic. Given the market segment, expect a primary camera accompanied by a low-resolution depth or macro sensor. Without specific sensor details, it’s safe to assume image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing. The A17k *may* have a slight edge due to the Helio G35’s image signal processor (ISP) being more capable than the one found in the SC9863A, but this is speculative. The 2MP macro cameras commonly found on these devices offer limited practical benefit.
Performance
The core of the difference lies in the chipsets. The Oppo A17k’s MediaTek Helio G35 (12nm) is a more modern design than the Infinix Smart 6’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The 12nm process node allows for greater transistor density and improved power efficiency. While both are octa-core CPUs, the A17k utilizes Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and 1.8 GHz, while the Smart 6 uses a mix of Cortex-A55 cores at 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz. The A53 architecture, while older, benefits from the faster clock speeds and more efficient manufacturing process. This translates to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking on the A17k. The larger process node of the SC9863A will likely result in more heat generation under load, potentially leading to thermal throttling.
Battery Life
Both devices likely feature similar battery capacities (around 5000mAh is typical for this class). However, the Oppo A17k’s more efficient Helio G35 chipset will translate to longer real-world battery life. The Smart 6’s 10W charging is standard for the segment, and the A17k likely offers a similar charging speed. Expect a full charge to take several hours on both devices. The efficiency of the A17k’s chipset means it will draw less power during typical usage, extending the time between charges.
Buying Guide
Buy the Infinix Smart 6 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and your usage is limited to calls, texts, and very light app browsing. It’s a functional device for minimal smartphone needs. Buy the Oppo A17k if you want a more responsive experience, even for slightly more demanding tasks like social media scrolling and occasional light gaming. The A17k’s more efficient processor translates to better sustained performance and potentially longer battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio G35 in the Oppo A17k struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
No, the Helio G35 is perfectly capable of handling everyday apps like WhatsApp and Facebook. While it’s not a powerhouse, it provides a smoother and more responsive experience than the Unisoc SC9863A in the Infinix Smart 6, even when multitasking between these apps.
❓ Is the 10W charging on the Infinix Smart 6 painfully slow?
Yes, 10W charging is relatively slow by modern standards. Expect a full charge to take around 3-4 hours. The Oppo A17k likely offers a similar charging speed, so this isn't a differentiating factor, but it's a limitation of both devices.
❓ Can the Oppo A17k handle light gaming, like casual puzzle games?
The Oppo A17k can handle light gaming, such as puzzle games and simple arcade titles, without significant issues. However, demanding 3D games will likely experience low frame rates and may not be enjoyable. The Helio G35 is a basic gaming chip, but it's a step up from the SC9863A.
❓ How much storage do these phones typically offer, and can it be expanded?
Both phones typically come with 32GB of internal storage, which is quite limited. Fortunately, both support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage for photos, videos, and apps. Check the specific model for maximum supported microSD card size.
