The itel P38 and Oppo A17k represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential functionality at a minimal cost, but they take different approaches. The itel P38 focuses on simplicity, while the Oppo A17k attempts to offer a more modern chipset for improved performance. This comparison will dissect their key differences to determine which provides the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Oppo A17k is the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio G35 chipset, with its octa-core configuration, provides a significantly more responsive experience than the itel P38’s quad-core processor. While both phones are limited, the A17k offers a noticeable performance boost for everyday 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 | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022 | 2022, October 13 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022 | Available. Released 2022, October 18 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | 164.2 x 75.6 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 189 g (6.67 oz) |
| | - | IPX4 water resistance |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Panda Glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.6 inches, 104.6 cm2 | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 12, ColorOS 12.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Galaxy Blue, Spruce Green, Nebula Black | Navy Blue, Gold |
| Models | - | CPH2471 |
| Price | - | About 130 EUR |
itel P38
- Extremely affordable price point
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Reliable for basic communication
- Very limited performance
- Outdated processor
- Likely poor camera quality
Oppo A17k
- More powerful Helio G35 chipset
- Octa-core processor for smoother multitasking
- Better gaming performance (relative to the price)
- Still a budget device with limitations
- Camera quality likely remains basic
- May have more bloatware
Display Comparison
Neither itel nor Oppo provide display specifications beyond the basic screen size. Given the price point, both likely utilize LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. The lack of detailed specs makes a direct comparison impossible, but we can infer that both displays will be adequate for basic viewing, but lack the vibrancy and sharpness of higher-end panels. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic camera setups. Without detailed sensor information, it’s difficult to make a precise comparison. However, given the market segment, we can expect the Oppo A17k to have a slight advantage due to its more modern chipset potentially offering better image processing capabilities. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on the A17k is largely marketing fluff; its image quality will be limited. The primary sensor on the A17k will likely deliver more usable photos than the itel P38’s equivalent, assuming similar sensor sizes.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The itel P38’s quad-core 1.3 GHz processor is a basic configuration, suitable only for the most rudimentary tasks. In contrast, the Oppo A17k’s Mediatek Helio G35 is an octa-core processor (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) built on a more efficient 12nm process. This translates to a substantially faster and more responsive experience, particularly when multitasking or running apps. The Helio G35’s GPU will also provide a better, though still limited, gaming experience. The A17k’s chipset architecture allows for better handling of modern applications.
Battery Life
The itel P38 features 15W wired charging. Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given the target market, both likely house batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range. The 15W charging on the itel P38 will provide a reasonable, though not rapid, charging experience. The Oppo A17k’s charging speed is also not specified, but the more efficient Helio G35 chipset may result in slightly better battery life during typical usage, offsetting any potential capacity difference.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel P38 if your primary need is a basic, reliable phone for calls and texts, and you prioritize simplicity above all else. It's a good option for first-time smartphone users or those needing a secondary device. Buy the Oppo A17k if you want a more capable smartphone for light social media browsing, occasional gaming, and a smoother overall user experience, even within the constraints of a budget device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Oppo A17k be able to run popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the Mediatek Helio G35 chipset in the Oppo A17k is capable of running social media apps like Facebook and Instagram without significant lag. While it won't offer a high-end experience, it will provide a usable and responsive experience for these common tasks, unlike the itel P38 which may struggle.
❓ Is the itel P38 a good option for someone who primarily needs a phone for making calls and sending texts?
Absolutely. The itel P38 excels as a basic communication device. Its quad-core processor is sufficient for calls and texts, and its simplicity makes it easy to use. If your needs are limited to these core functions, the itel P38 is a reliable and affordable option.
❓ Can I play games on the Oppo A17k?
You can play some games on the Oppo A17k, but don't expect high frame rates or demanding graphics. The Helio G35 can handle less intensive games like Candy Crush or older titles. More demanding games like PUBG Mobile will likely require very low settings and may still experience lag.
❓ Does the Oppo A17k have a fingerprint sensor?
No, the Oppo A17k does not feature a fingerprint sensor. It relies on traditional security methods like PIN codes and patterns for unlocking the device. This is a common omission in ultra-budget smartphones.
