The LG A200 and ZTE F100 represent the lower end of the smartphone market, targeting users prioritizing affordability. Given the lack of detailed specifications for either device, this comparison will focus on brand reputation, typical features within their respective price brackets, and potential user needs. We'll analyze where each phone might excel, assuming typical configurations for their class.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a basic, reliable smartphone, the ZTE F100 likely offers a slightly better value proposition. ZTE has consistently delivered competitive features at lower price points, while LG's recent smartphone history suggests a focus on higher-end devices. However, without concrete specs, this remains a cautious assessment.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | - | UMTS 850 / 1900 / 2100 |
| EDGE | Class 12 | - |
| GPRS | Class 12 | - |
| Speed | - | Yes, 384 kbps |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / UMTS |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011, April. Released 2011, Q3 | 2009. Released 2009 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 99.8 x 51 x 15.8 mm (3.93 x 2.01 x 0.62 in) | 105 x 46 x 12.6 mm (4.13 x 1.81 x 0.50 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 95 g (3.35 oz) | 90 g (3.17 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 176 x 220 pixels (~128 ppi density) | 176 x 220 pixels (~141 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.2 inches, 15.2 cm2 (~29.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.0 inches, 12.6 cm2 (~26.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64MB RAM, 128MB ROM | - |
| Phonebook | 1000 entries | Yes, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 176x144 | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | Yes |
| | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP | 2.1, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | - | WAP 2.0/xHTML |
| Games | No | Yes + downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.1 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email, IM | SMS, MMS, Email |
| | MP3/AAC+/WMA/WAV player
MP4/H.263 player
Organizer
Predictive text input | Organizer
Voice memo |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 100 h | - |
| Talk time | Up to 4 h | - |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | White, Red, Green |
| Price | About 60 EUR | - |
| SAR | 0.60 W/kg (head) 0.44 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.95 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) | - |
LG A200
- Potential for refined software experience (LG)
- Established brand reputation (LG)
- Potentially better build quality (LG)
- Likely higher price point (LG)
- Potentially less aggressive specs (LG)
- LG's exit from the smartphone market raises long-term support concerns
ZTE F100
- Aggressive pricing (ZTE)
- Potentially better hardware for the price (ZTE)
- ZTE's focus on value smartphones
- Potentially less polished software (ZTE)
- Less brand recognition (ZTE)
- Potentially lower build quality (ZTE)
Display Comparison
Without specific display details, we can assume both the LG A200 and ZTE F100 utilize LCD panels to maintain affordability. The ZTE F100, given its brand positioning, might opt for a slightly larger display to appeal to media consumers. Expect resolutions around 720p+ for both. Color accuracy will likely be standard for this price range, with neither device offering wide color gamut support. Bezels are expected to be noticeable on both, as minimizing them adds to production costs.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance will be heavily reliant on software processing. Both devices will likely feature a primary camera around 13MP, potentially accompanied by a depth sensor or a macro lens (the latter often being of limited practical use). Expect limited low-light performance and a lack of optical image stabilization (OIS). ZTE often prioritizes megapixel count, so the F100 might have a slightly higher resolution main sensor, but image quality will depend more on the sensor size and image processing algorithms.
Performance
Performance is a significant unknown. The LG A200 might leverage a MediaTek Helio G-series chipset, common in budget LG phones, while the ZTE F100 could utilize a Snapdragon 4-series or a Unisoc processor. RAM is likely to be 3GB or 4GB in both cases, sufficient for basic multitasking. Given the likely processor choices, the ZTE F100 might have a slight edge in GPU performance, potentially offering a smoother experience in light gaming. Thermal management will be passive on both, relying on the chassis to dissipate heat.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is crucial in this segment. We can anticipate batteries around 4000mAh to 5000mAh in both devices. Charging speeds will likely be limited to 10W or 15W, resulting in 2-3 hour charge times from 0-100%. The ZTE F100, potentially utilizing more efficient components, might offer slightly better battery life in real-world usage, despite a similar capacity.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG A200 if you prioritize brand recognition and potentially a more refined software experience, assuming LG's software optimizations translate to this budget tier. Buy the ZTE F100 if you prioritize maximizing features for the lowest possible price, and are comfortable with a potentially less polished user interface. Both are suitable for basic communication and light usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Given LG's exit from the smartphone market, will the A200 receive software updates?
This is a significant concern. While LG initially promised updates for existing devices, the long-term support for the A200 is uncertain. Users should expect limited or no major Android version updates, and security patches may cease after a short period.
❓ Is the ZTE F100 likely to have bloatware pre-installed?
ZTE phones often come with pre-installed apps, sometimes referred to as bloatware. While the amount varies, users should anticipate needing to uninstall some unwanted applications to free up storage space and improve performance.
❓ Will either phone be able to handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
Both phones will likely struggle with PUBG Mobile at higher settings. Expect to play at the lowest graphics settings and frame rates to achieve a playable experience. Performance will be inconsistent and prone to frame drops.
❓ What type of charging port do these phones likely use?
Both the LG A200 and ZTE F100 will almost certainly use a micro-USB port for charging and data transfer. USB-C is uncommon in this price bracket.