The itel A25 and A49 represent itel’s commitment to providing affordable smartphones to a broad audience. Both devices target the entry-level market, but subtle differences in their feature sets may make one a better fit for specific users. This comparison dissects their specifications to determine which offers the most value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing simplicity and basic functionality, the itel A49 and A25 are functionally identical. The choice comes down to price and availability, as both share the same Unisoc SC9832E chipset and CPU. The A49 may offer slightly better software support, but the core experience remains consistent.
| 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 | 2020. Released 2020 | 2022 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | - |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~266 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 | 6.6 inches, 105.2 cm2 |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz | Quad-core 1.4 GHz |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9832E (28 nm) | Unisoc SC9832E (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T820 MP1 | Mali-T820 MP1 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | Unspecified | GPS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB |
| WLAN | Yes | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | 3020 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Violet, Blue | Blue |
itel A25
- Extremely affordable price point
- Reliable basic functionality
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Limited performance for demanding tasks
- Basic camera capabilities
- Potentially shorter software support lifecycle
itel A49
- Extremely affordable price point
- Reliable basic functionality
- Potentially newer software version
- Limited performance for demanding tasks
- Basic camera capabilities
- Potentially slower charging speeds
Display Comparison
Both the itel A25 and A49 lack detailed display specifications in the provided data. Given their price point, it’s reasonable to assume both utilize LCD panels with resolutions around 720x1440 pixels. Expect similar color accuracy and brightness levels, likely adequate for indoor use but potentially washed out in direct sunlight. The absence of higher refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like IPS is standard for this segment.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specifications are absent, but it's safe to assume both devices feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. Given the market segment, expect a primary camera sensor paired with potentially a depth or macro sensor of limited utility. Image processing will likely prioritize speed over detail, resulting in acceptable photos in good lighting conditions but struggling in low-light scenarios. The lack of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is expected, and video recording capabilities will likely be limited to 720p or 1080p at 30fps.
Performance
The core of both devices is the Unisoc SC9832E chipset, fabricated on a 28nm process. This chipset houses a Quad-core 1.4 GHz CPU in both the A25 and A49. Consequently, performance will be nearly indistinguishable between the two. The 28nm node, while older, is cost-effective, but it’s less power-efficient than newer fabrication processes, potentially impacting battery life during sustained use. Users should expect smooth operation for basic tasks like calling, messaging, and social media, but struggle with demanding applications or multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified, but both devices likely house batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range, typical for this price point. Charging wattage is also unknown, but it's likely to be 5W or 10W, resulting in relatively slow charging times. The power efficiency of the Unisoc SC9832E chipset will be a key factor in determining real-world battery life. Users can expect a full day of light use, but heavy usage will require more frequent charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel A25 if you need a reliably basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage, and are seeking the absolute lowest possible price point. Buy the itel A49 if you prefer a potentially newer device with the possibility of longer software support, even if the core hardware experience is the same. Both are ideal for first-time smartphone users or as a dependable backup device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc SC9832E chipset struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook?
While the Unisoc SC9832E is an entry-level chipset, it is generally capable of running popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook without significant issues. However, expect some lag when switching between multiple apps or when using more demanding features within these applications. Optimizing app usage by closing unused apps can help improve performance.
❓ How long will software updates be provided for the itel A49?
itel’s software update policy for entry-level devices is typically limited. While the A49 may launch with a newer version of Android than the A25, expect only one major Android update, if any, and limited security patches. This is a common trade-off for budget smartphones.
❓ Can either of these phones play PUBG Mobile?
While technically possible to install PUBG Mobile on either the itel A25 or A49, the experience will be far from optimal. The Unisoc SC9832E chipset lacks the processing power and graphics capabilities to run the game smoothly, even at the lowest settings. Expect significant lag, frame drops, and a generally frustrating gaming experience.
