Oppo A16K vs vivo Y15s: A Deep Dive into Two Ultra-Budget Smartphones

The Oppo A16K and vivo Y15s represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at the lowest possible cost. This comparison dissects their similarities and subtle differences to determine which offers the best experience for users prioritizing affordability and basic features.
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🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user seeking a reliable, ultra-budget smartphone, the vivo Y15s edges out the Oppo A16K. The inclusion of 5W reverse wired charging, while modest, adds a convenience factor the A16K lacks, making it slightly more versatile for emergency power sharing.

PHONES
Phone Names Oppo A16K vivo Y15s
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100
4G bands1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 411, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 39, 40, 41 - Singapore
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
Launch
Announced2021, November 082021, November 09
StatusAvailable. Released 2021, November 08Available. Released 2021, November 09
Body
BuildGlass front, plastic back, plastic frameGlass front, plastic back, plastic frame
Dimensions164 x 75.4 x 7.9 mm (6.46 x 2.97 x 0.31 in)164 x 75.2 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.96 x 0.33 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight175 g (6.17 oz)179 g (6.31 oz)
Display
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 3-
Resolution720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density)720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density)
Size6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio)6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCD, 480 nits (typ)IPS LCD
Platform
CPUOcta-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53)Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53)
ChipsetMediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm)Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm)
GPUPowerVR GE8320PowerVR GE8320
OSAndroid 11, ColorOS 11.1Android 11 (Go edition), Funtouch 11.1 - vivo 15sAndroid 12, Funtouch 12 - vivo 15c
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXCmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM
 eMMC 5.1-
Main Camera
Dual-13 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), AF Auxiliary lens
FeaturesLED flash, HDR, panoramaLED flash, panorama
Single13 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm, PDAF-
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
FeaturesHDR-
Single5 MP, f/2.4, 27mm (wide)8 MP, f/2.0
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack Yes-
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX5.0, A2DP, LE
NFCNoNo
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDSGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS
RadioUnspecifiedFM radio
USBmicroUSB 2.0, OTGmicroUSB 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi DirectWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct
Features
SensorsAccelerometer, proximity, compassFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging10W wired10W wired 5W reverse wired
TypeLi-Po 4230 mAh5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsBlack, BlueWave Green, Mystic Blue
ModelsCPH2349V2120, V2147, V2139
PriceAbout 550 EURAbout 120 EUR

Oppo A16K

  • Potentially cleaner software experience (Oppo's ColorOS is generally well-optimized)
  • Slightly optimized GPU (Helio G35)
  • Competitive pricing

  • Lacks reverse charging capability
  • Performance limitations with demanding apps
  • Limited camera features

vivo Y15s

  • 5W reverse wired charging for emergency power sharing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Potentially wider accessory availability (vivo's market presence)

  • Helio P35 chipset may offer marginally lower GPU performance
  • Performance limitations with demanding apps
  • Limited camera features

Display Comparison

Both the Oppo A16K and vivo Y15s lack detailed display specifications in the provided data. Given their price point, it's safe to assume both utilize LCD panels with 720p+ resolution. Expect similar color accuracy and viewing angles. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced features like PWM dimming control is standard for this segment. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both devices, maximizing screen real estate within a compact form factor.

Camera Comparison

Camera details are sparse. Both devices likely feature a primary camera and potentially a depth sensor. The image processing capabilities of both phones will be basic, relying heavily on software algorithms to enhance photos. Expect limited low-light performance and a lack of advanced features like night mode. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is guaranteed. Focusing on the primary sensor's megapixel count (if available in retail specs) is more important than the presence of low-resolution auxiliary lenses.

Performance

The core difference lies in the chipset: the Oppo A16K features the Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35, while the vivo Y15s uses the MT6765 Helio P35. Both are 12nm chips with the same CPU configuration – an octa-core setup with 4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. The 'G' in Helio G35 suggests a slight GPU optimization for gaming, but in practice, the performance difference will be minimal for casual users. Both phones will struggle with demanding games and multitasking. RAM configurations are not specified, but expect 3GB or 4GB, which will further limit performance. Thermal management will likely be passive, relying on the phone's chassis to dissipate heat.

Battery Life

Both phones offer 10W wired charging, indicating similar charging speeds – expect around 2-3 hours for a full charge. Battery capacity is not specified, but typical capacities for phones in this price range are between 4000mAh and 5000mAh. The vivo Y15s gains a unique advantage with 5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices, albeit at a slow rate. This feature is particularly useful for users who frequently travel or find themselves in situations where a power outlet is unavailable.

Buying Guide

Buy the Oppo A16K if you prioritize a slightly cleaner software experience and are comfortable with a more basic feature set. It's ideal for first-time smartphone users or those needing a simple, dependable device for calls and messaging. Buy the vivo Y15s if you value the added utility of reverse charging, even at 5W, and appreciate a potentially more robust ecosystem of accessories within the vivo brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Will the vivo Y15s's reverse charging significantly charge my earbuds case?
While the 5W reverse charging is a welcome addition, it's not designed for rapid charging. Expect a very slow trickle charge for accessories like earbuds cases or smartwatches. It's best used in emergency situations to provide a small boost of power rather than a full charge.
❓ Can either of these phones handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
Both the Oppo A16K and vivo Y15s will struggle with graphically demanding games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty. The Helio G35 and Helio P35 chipsets are entry-level processors and lack the power to deliver a smooth gaming experience at high settings. You may be able to play at the lowest settings with reduced frame rates, but expect significant lag and stuttering.
❓ Are these phones compatible with 4G LTE networks in the US?
Compatibility with US 4G LTE networks depends on the specific carrier and bands supported by each phone. Both devices are designed for international markets and may not support all US LTE bands. It's crucial to check the phone's specifications and your carrier's compatibility list before purchasing.