The itel A04 and A48 represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver basic smartphone functionality at an incredibly low cost. However, a key difference emerges: the A48 incorporates a dedicated chipset, the Unisoc SC9832E, while the A04’s specifications remain largely unknown, suggesting a reliance on older or simpler silicon. This comparison will dissect these differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a functional, albeit basic, smartphone experience, the itel A48 is the clear winner. The inclusion of the Unisoc SC9832E chipset provides a noticeable performance advantage over the likely simpler processor in the A04, making everyday tasks smoother and more responsive. While both are entry-level, the A48 offers a more modern foundation.
| 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 | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023 | 2021 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023 | Available. Released 2021 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | - |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~170 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~288 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.3 inches, 102.4 cm2 | 6.1 inches, 89.8 cm2 |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Quad-core 1.4 GHz |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9832E (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-T820 MP1 |
| OS | Android (Go edition) | Android 10 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 5 MP (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 4000 mAh | 3000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Lake Cyan, Violet, Sandstone Black | Black, Purple, Green |
| Price | About 50 EUR | - |
itel A04
- Likely the most affordable option
- Functional for basic calling and texting
- Simple and easy to use
- Significantly slower performance
- Poor camera quality
- Limited app compatibility
itel A48
- Better performance with Unisoc SC9832E
- Slightly improved camera processing
- More responsive user experience
- Still limited by budget components
- Slow charging speeds
- Basic display quality
Display Comparison
Without specific display details for the itel A04, a direct comparison is difficult. However, given its positioning, it likely features a basic LCD panel with a resolution around 480x854. The itel A48, while also likely LCD, benefits from the processing power of its chipset to potentially offer slightly better color reproduction and viewing angles. Both will likely have significant bezels, typical of this price point. Expect neither to offer high brightness or wide color gamut coverage.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be limited. Given the market segment, both the A04 and A48 likely feature a primary camera sensor of 5MP or less, accompanied by potentially a VGA or 2MP secondary sensor. Image quality will be acceptable only in ideal lighting conditions. The A48’s chipset may offer slightly better image processing capabilities, resulting in marginally improved photos, but don't expect significant detail or dynamic range from either device. Focusing on the primary sensor's megapixel count is misleading; sensor size and image processing are far more important.
Performance
The itel A48’s Unisoc SC9832E chipset, built on a 28nm process, is the defining performance differentiator. Its quad-core 1.4 GHz CPU provides a significant advantage over the likely single-core or older quad-core processor found in the itel A04. The 28nm node, while not cutting-edge, is a mature process offering reasonable efficiency. This translates to smoother app launches, less lag during scrolling, and a more responsive overall user experience on the A48. The A04 will likely struggle with even moderately demanding tasks. RAM specifications are unknown for both, but are likely limited, further impacting multitasking capabilities.
Battery Life
Battery capacity for both devices is unknown, but both will likely feature batteries in the 2500-3500 mAh range. The A48’s more efficient Unisoc chipset will likely translate to slightly longer battery life, even with a similar capacity. Charging speeds are also likely to be slow on both, with standard 5W charging being the most probable scenario. Expect several hours to fully charge either device from 0 to 100%.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel A04 if you absolutely need the lowest possible price and only intend to use the phone for basic calling and texting. It's a suitable option for first-time smartphone users or as a temporary device. Buy the itel A48 if you prioritize a slightly smoother user experience, occasional social media browsing, and a more capable processor for handling basic apps – all while still remaining within a very tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the itel A48 handle popular social media apps like WhatsApp and Facebook smoothly?
Yes, the Unisoc SC9832E chipset in the A48 provides enough processing power to run WhatsApp and Facebook without significant lag. However, expect slower loading times compared to more powerful smartphones. Multitasking between these apps and others may still be limited.
❓ Is the itel A04 suitable for a senior citizen who primarily needs a phone for calls and texts?
The itel A04 is a viable option for a senior citizen with basic needs. Its simplicity and low cost make it an accessible entry point to smartphone technology. However, the slower performance may be frustrating for some, and the small screen size could be a challenge.
❓ Can the itel A48 play basic games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers?
The itel A48 can handle simple 2D games like Candy Crush and Subway Surfers, but don't expect high frame rates or detailed graphics. More demanding 3D games will likely be unplayable or suffer from significant lag. The Unisoc SC9832E is not a gaming chipset.
