The itel A90 and Samsung Galaxy A03 Core represent the absolute entry point into smartphone ownership. Both devices target first-time smartphone buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. This comparison dissects their core components to determine which offers the best balance of performance and value in the sub-$100 market.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing basic functionality and slightly better performance, the itel A90 emerges as the winner. Its Unisoc T7100 chipset, with a higher clock speed, provides a noticeable edge in responsiveness and app loading times compared to the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core’s SC9863A.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, April 20 | 2021, November 15 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, April | Available. Released 2021, December 06 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 8.6 mm thickness | 164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 187 g (6.60 oz) | 211 g (7.44 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 480 nits (typ), 1500 nits (peak) | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.8 GHz | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T7100 | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8322 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 14, itel OS 14 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, AF
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted); unspecified sensors | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Starlit Black, Space Titanium, Aurora Blue, Cosmic Green | Black, Blue |
| Models | A6610L | SM-A032F, SM-A032F/DS, SM-A032M |
| Price | $ 76.23 | £ 74.99 |
| SAR | - | 0.30 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.24 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
itel A90
- Potentially faster processor (Unisoc T7100)
- 15W fast charging
- Generally more affordable
- Less brand recognition
- Software updates may be less frequent
Samsung Galaxy A03 Core
- Stronger brand reputation (Samsung)
- Potentially better software optimization
- Wider availability
- Slower processor (Unisoc SC9863A)
- Potentially slower charging
- May be slightly more expensive
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are expected to utilize LCD panels, typical for this price bracket. Specifics like resolution and brightness are not provided, but we can infer they will be 720p+ and relatively low brightness, respectively. The focus here isn't on visual fidelity, but on basic readability. The A03 Core, benefiting from Samsung’s display expertise, *may* offer slightly better color calibration, but this is speculative without direct testing.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be limited. Details are scarce, but both are likely to feature a basic main sensor paired with a low-resolution depth or macro lens. The A03 Core’s camera system is likely to benefit from Samsung’s image processing algorithms, potentially offering slightly more pleasing results in good lighting conditions. However, the lack of OIS and the low-resolution sensors will limit low-light performance on both devices. Focusing on the main sensor, the A90's performance will be dictated by the T7100's ISP capabilities, while the A03 Core relies on the SC9863A's ISP.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The itel A90’s Unisoc T7100 is an octa-core processor clocked at 1.8 GHz. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core utilizes the Unisoc SC9863A, a 28nm process chipset with a split octa-core configuration: 4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 and 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55. The T7100’s higher clock speed suggests superior single-core performance, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The SC9863A’s split core design, while efficient, indicates a focus on power saving rather than outright speed. The older 28nm process of the SC9863A also implies lower efficiency and potentially more heat generation under load.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device, but both are likely to house around a 4000-5000 mAh battery. The itel A90 supports 15W wired charging. The A03 Core’s charging speed is unknown, but likely similar. Given the low-power chipsets, both phones should achieve all-day battery life with moderate usage. The 15W charging on the A90 will offer a slightly faster 0-100% charge time compared to a potentially slower charging solution on the A03 Core, assuming similar battery capacities.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel A90 if you need a phone for essential tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use, and value a slightly more responsive experience. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core if you prioritize brand recognition and a potentially more refined software experience, even if it means sacrificing some raw processing power. Both are suitable for users on a very tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc SC9863A in the Samsung A03 Core struggle with multitasking?
Yes, the SC9863A's split core design and lower clock speeds mean it will likely exhibit noticeable slowdowns when running multiple apps simultaneously. It's best suited for running one app at a time for optimal performance.
❓ Is the itel A90 a good choice for playing mobile games?
The itel A90 can handle very basic mobile games, but don't expect a smooth experience with graphically demanding titles. The Unisoc T7100 is sufficient for casual gaming, but will likely struggle with higher settings and sustained gameplay.
❓ How often can I expect software updates on the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core?
Samsung typically provides a limited number of software updates for its entry-level devices. Expect at least one major Android version update, but long-term support is not guaranteed. The itel A90 may receive fewer updates overall.
❓ Does either phone support fast web browsing?
Both phones will be limited by their processors and likely utilize basic Wi-Fi standards. Web browsing will be functional, but expect slower page loading times and potential lag when handling complex websites.
