The itel S23 and Oppo A18 represent two compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a price point that won't break the bank, but they achieve this with different approaches to chipset selection. This comparison dissects the key differences to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Oppo A18 emerges as the stronger choice. Its Mediatek Helio G85 chipset, with higher clocked Cortex-A75 cores, provides a noticeable performance advantage over the itel S23’s Unisoc T606, making it better suited for gaming and multitasking. While both offer basic functionality, the A18 delivers a smoother experience.
| 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 - India | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023 | 2023, September 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023 | Available. Released 2023, October 05 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164 x 76 x 8 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.31 in) | 163.7 x 75 x 8.2 mm (6.44 x 2.95 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| 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 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 720 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769 Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13, upgradable to Android 15, ColorOS 15 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, panorama |
| Single | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Starry Black, Mystery White | Glowing Black, Glowing Blue |
| Models | S665L, S665LN | CPH2591 |
| Price | About 170 EUR | ₹ 10,290 |
itel S23
- Potentially lower price point
- Standard 5000mAh battery capacity (estimated)
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Slower Unisoc T606 chipset
- Limited 10W charging
- Less responsive user experience
Oppo A18
- More powerful Mediatek Helio G85 chipset
- Faster CPU and GPU performance
- Better multitasking capabilities
- Potentially slightly higher price
- Charging speed not explicitly stated
- May not include all accessories in the box
Display Comparison
Neither itel nor Oppo provide detailed display specifications beyond the basic panel type. However, the focus here is on performance, and display differences are likely minimal. Both will likely feature 720p+ displays, adequate for the price point. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced features like LTPO is standard in this segment.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, a direct camera comparison is difficult. Both devices likely feature a primary camera and depth/macro sensors. However, the image signal processor (ISP) within the Helio G85 generally offers better image processing capabilities than those found in Unisoc T606-based devices. This means the Oppo A18 is likely to produce more detailed and vibrant photos, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The 2MP macro sensors on both devices are unlikely to deliver significant image quality improvements.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Oppo A18’s Mediatek Helio G85 features 2x 2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 cores and 6x 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, while the itel S23 utilizes the Unisoc T606 with 2x 1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 cores and 6x 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This translates to a clear advantage for the A18 in CPU-intensive tasks. The higher clock speeds on the A75 cores in the Helio G85 will result in faster app loading times and smoother multitasking. While both are 12nm chips, the Helio G85’s architecture is more efficient for sustained performance. The GPU within the Helio G85 also offers a more capable gaming experience.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified, but both phones likely feature batteries in the 5000mAh range, typical for this price bracket. The key difference is charging speed: the itel S23 is limited to 10W wired charging, while the Oppo A18’s charging speed is not specified but is likely similar or slightly faster. The slower charging on the itel S23 means longer wait times to reach a full charge, impacting usability for users who need quick top-ups.
Buying Guide
Buy the itel S23 if you prioritize a slightly lower initial cost and your usage is limited to basic tasks like calls, messaging, and light social media. Buy the Oppo A18 if you value a more responsive user experience, enjoy occasional mobile gaming, and want a device that feels less constrained when multitasking. The A18’s chipset provides a tangible benefit for those who demand more from their smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Oppo A18 be able to run popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Helio G85 in the Oppo A18 is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you’ll likely need to use lower graphics settings and frame rates for a smooth experience. The Unisoc T606 in the itel S23 will struggle with these titles, even on the lowest settings.
❓ How much of a difference will I notice in everyday tasks like browsing and social media between these two phones?
You’ll notice a tangible difference in responsiveness with the Oppo A18. App loading times will be faster, scrolling will be smoother, and multitasking will be less prone to lag. The itel S23 will handle these tasks, but with a noticeable delay compared to the A18.
❓ Is the 10W charging on the itel S23 a significant drawback?
Yes, 10W charging is relatively slow by today’s standards. Expect it to take over 3 hours to fully charge the itel S23 from 0%. The Oppo A18 likely offers faster charging, reducing downtime.
❓ Which phone is better for someone who primarily uses their phone for calls and messaging?
For basic communication, both phones are adequate. However, even for these core functions, the Oppo A18’s more responsive chipset will provide a slightly better user experience, making calls connect faster and messaging feel more fluid.
