Oppo's A-series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with essential features. The Oppo A16 and A54 are two popular contenders in this space, but which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will break down their key differences to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Oppo A54 edges out the A16 thanks to its slightly faster processor, faster charging, and generally more refined software experience. While the A16 is a budget champion, the A54 provides a more complete package for a small price difference.
| 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 | 2021, March 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, July 17 | Available. Released 2021, April 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.8 x 75.6 x 8.4 mm (6.45 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) | 163.6 x 75.7 x 8.4 mm (6.44 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) | IPS LCD |
| 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 (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm, PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, 25mm (wide), 1/3.06", 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) | 16 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 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 HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Pearl Blue, Space Silver, Crystal Black | Crystal Black, Starry Blue |
| Models | CPH2269 | CPH2239 |
| Price | £ 88.50 / € 109.99 | About 160 EUR |
| SAR | 0.77 W/kg (head) 0.97 W/kg (body) | - |
Oppo A16
- Excellent battery life
- Very affordable
- Sleek design
- Slower performance
- Basic camera
- Slow charging
Oppo A54
- Slightly faster processor
- Faster charging (18W)
- Better camera quality
- More modern design
- Slightly more expensive
- Still an entry-level phone
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. The A54 might offer slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potentially improved panel technology, though both are adequate for everyday use. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
The A54 typically features a more versatile camera setup, often including a higher resolution main sensor and potentially an ultrawide lens. The A16's camera is functional but may struggle in low-light conditions. Image quality on the A54 is generally better, with more detail and accurate colors.
Performance
The A54's Helio P35 chipset offers a marginal performance advantage over the A16's Helio G35. While both are entry-level processors, the P35's slightly higher clock speeds translate to smoother multitasking and app loading times. Gaming performance will be adequate on both, but don't expect high frame rates.
Battery Life
Both phones boast large 5000mAh batteries, promising all-day battery life. However, the A54's 18W fast charging support provides a significant advantage, allowing for quicker top-ups compared to the A16's standard charging.
Buying Guide
The Oppo A16 is ideal for users on a very tight budget who prioritize basic functionality and long battery life. The Oppo A54 is a better choice for those who want a slightly smoother performance, faster charging, and a more modern design without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Oppo A16 good for gaming?
The Oppo A16 can handle basic games, but don't expect high performance. More demanding titles will likely require low graphics settings.
❓ Which phone has better software support?
Oppo generally provides decent software updates, but the A54, being slightly newer, might receive updates for a longer period.
