Oppo's A-series consistently delivers affordable smartphones, and the A16K and A17k are no exception. Both offer a compelling entry point into the smartphone world, but subtle differences can impact your daily experience. This comparison dives deep to help you choose the right one for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Oppo A17k edges out the A16K primarily due to potentially improved software and minor design tweaks. While the core hardware is nearly identical, the A17k often represents a slightly newer and more refined experience, making it the marginally better choice for most budget-conscious buyers.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 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, November 08 | 2022, October 13 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 08 | Available. Released 2022, October 18 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.4 x 7.9 mm (6.46 x 2.97 x 0.31 in) | 164.2 x 75.6 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 175 g (6.17 oz) | 189 g (6.67 oz) |
| | - | IPX4 water resistance |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Panda Glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, ColorOS 11.1 | Android 12, ColorOS 12.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm, PDAF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 27mm (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| 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 | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 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 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Po 4230 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue | Navy Blue, Gold |
| Models | CPH2349 | CPH2471 |
| Price | About 550 EUR | About 130 EUR |
Oppo A16K
- Very affordable
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Decent main camera in good light
- Slow 10W charging
- Basic performance
- Limited software updates
Oppo A17k
- Slightly more modern design
- Potentially better software support
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Slow charging
- Basic performance
- Limited camera capabilities in low light
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a 720 x 1600 resolution. Expect similar viewing experiences – adequate for everyday tasks but not exceptional. Color accuracy and brightness are typical for this price range. The A17k *may* have a slightly improved coating for reduced fingerprints.
Camera Comparison
The Oppo A16K typically features a 13MP main camera with depth sensor, and a 2MP macro lens. The A17k also has a 13MP main camera, but may have a slightly improved image processing algorithm. Both offer decent image quality in good lighting conditions, but struggle in low light. Front cameras are likely 5MP on both.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. Both are powered by the Mediatek Helio G35 chipset, which is sufficient for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Don't expect to run demanding games smoothly on either device. RAM configurations (typically 4GB) will be a limiting factor.
Battery Life
Both phones are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. The A16K has 10W charging, while the A17k *may* have slightly optimized power management, potentially leading to marginally better battery performance. Charging speeds are slow on both.
Buying Guide
The Oppo A16K is ideal for users prioritizing the absolute lowest price and are comfortable with a slightly older software experience. The Oppo A17k is a better fit for those seeking a slightly more modern design, potentially better software support, and a generally more polished user experience without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Oppo A17k worth the extra money compared to the A16K?
Generally, yes. The A17k offers a slightly more refined experience with potential software improvements and a more modern design, making it a worthwhile upgrade if your budget allows.
❓ Can I play demanding games on either of these phones?
No. The Helio G35 chipset and limited RAM are not suitable for demanding games. You can play lighter games, but expect reduced graphics settings and potential lag.