Oppo's A-series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with essential features. The Oppo A16 and A15 are two popular contenders in this space, offering compelling value for budget-conscious buyers. But which one reigns supreme? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Oppo A16 edges out the A15 thanks to its slightly more powerful chipset and potentially improved camera capabilities. While both offer excellent value, the A16's performance boost makes it the preferable option for most users, especially those seeking smoother multitasking.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, July 17 | 2020, October 15. Released 2020, October 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 17 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 163.8 x 75.6 x 8.4 mm (6.45 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) | 164 x 75.4 x 7.9 mm (6.46 x 2.97 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 175 g (6.17 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to Android 12, ColorOS 12 | Android 10, ColorOS 7.2 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | - |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.4, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 4230 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Pearl Blue, Space Silver, Crystal Black | Dynamic Black, Mystery Blue |
| Models | CPH2269 | CPH2185 |
| Price | £ 88.50 / € 109.99 | About 550 EUR |
| SAR | 0.77 W/kg (head) 0.97 W/kg (body) | - |
Oppo A16
- Slightly better performance (Helio G35)
- Potentially improved camera versatility (triple camera)
- Good battery life (5000mAh)
- May lack fast charging (region dependent)
- HD+ display resolution isn't the sharpest
Oppo A15
- Excellent value for money
- Reliable battery life (5000mAh)
- 10W wired charging included
- Less powerful chipset (Helio P35)
- Dual camera setup offers less versatility
- Performance can feel sluggish with heavy multitasking
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels (HD+). While the panels are similar in size and resolution, the A16 might offer slightly improved color accuracy and brightness due to potential software optimizations. However, the difference is likely minimal.
Camera Comparison
The Oppo A16 typically features a triple-camera setup (13MP main + 2MP depth + 2MP macro) while the A15 usually has a dual-camera setup (13MP main + 2MP depth). The A16's additional macro lens provides more versatility. Image quality is generally comparable in good lighting conditions, but the A16 may offer slightly better detail and dynamic range. Low-light performance is likely similar on both devices.
Performance
The Oppo A16 boasts the Mediatek Helio G35 chipset, which includes a GPU that offers a slight performance advantage over the A15's Helio P35. This translates to smoother app loading times, slightly better gaming performance, and improved multitasking capabilities on the A16. The A15 is still adequate for everyday tasks, but the A16 provides a more responsive experience.
Battery Life
Both phones are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. The A15 includes 10W wired charging, while the A16 may or may not have this feature depending on the region. Battery life is a strong point for both devices, easily lasting a full day with moderate usage.
Buying Guide
The Oppo A16 is ideal for users who prioritize a bit more performance and potentially better camera quality without breaking the bank. The Oppo A15 remains a solid choice for those on a tighter budget who need a reliable and functional smartphone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Oppo A16 worth the extra money compared to the A15?
If you value a slightly smoother experience and potentially better camera versatility, the A16 is worth the upgrade. However, if you're on a very tight budget, the A15 remains a capable and affordable option.
❓ What is the camera quality like on both phones?
Both phones offer decent camera quality in good lighting conditions. The A16's triple-camera setup provides more versatility, while the A15's dual-camera setup is adequate for everyday snapshots.
