Looking for a budget-friendly Oppo phone? The A1x and A97 are both strong contenders, offering a blend of features and affordability. But which one is right for you? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their specs, performance, and overall value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Oppo A97 emerges as the clear winner. While the A1x is a decent budget option, the A97's superior chipset, faster charging, and likely improved camera capabilities provide a significantly better user experience for a relatively small price difference. It's the smarter investment.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | LTE |
| 5G bands | 1, 5, 8, 28, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA | SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | CDMA2000 1x | CDMA 800 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, March 31 | 2022, July 12 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, March 31 | Available. Released 2022, July 15 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.8 x 75.1 x 8 mm (6.45 x 2.96 x 0.31 in) | 163.8 x 75.1 x 8 mm (6.45 x 2.96 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 186 g (6.56 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| | IP54 | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~84.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~85.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 480 nits (typ), 600 nits (HBM) | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, ColorOS 12.1 | Android 12, ColorOS 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | Unspecified |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, 25mm (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | - | 12 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (wide) | 12 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX | 5.2, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | Unspecified |
| Positioning | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | No | No |
| 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 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 | 10W wired | 33W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue | Blue, Black |
| Models | PHJ110 | PFTM10 |
| Price | About 180 EUR | About 310 EUR |
Oppo A1x
- Affordable
- Decent performance for basic tasks
- Good battery life (potentially)
- Slower performance
- Slow charging
- Likely inferior camera
- Older chipset
Oppo A97
- Faster performance
- Fast charging (33W)
- Likely better camera
- More efficient chipset
- Modern design
- Slightly more expensive than A1x
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar display technology (likely IPS LCD) and resolution (likely FHD+). However, the A97 might have slightly better color accuracy or brightness due to potentially higher quality components. Screen size is likely around 6.5-6.7 inches for both.
Camera Comparison
While specific camera specs are needed, the Dimensity 810 generally supports more advanced camera features and image processing. The A97 likely has a more capable main sensor and potentially better image stabilization. Expect better low-light performance from the A97.
Performance
The Dimensity 810 in the A97 is a noticeable upgrade over the Dimensity 700 in the A1x. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the A97. The 6nm process of the 810 also contributes to better power efficiency.
Battery Life
The A97's 33W fast charging is a significant advantage over the A1x's 10W charging. This means much quicker top-ups and less time tethered to a wall outlet. Battery capacity is likely similar (around 5000mAh) for both devices, but the A97's efficiency will likely result in slightly better real-world battery life.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Oppo A1x? Those on the absolute tightest budget who prioritize basic functionality and don't need high performance. Who should buy the Oppo A97? Anyone seeking a smoother, faster experience with better charging and a potentially better camera, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Oppo A1x good for gaming?
The Oppo A1x can handle basic games, but demanding titles will likely suffer from lag and low frame rates. The A97 is a better choice for gaming.
❓ How long does it take to charge the Oppo A1x?
With the 10W charger, it will take approximately 2.5 - 3 hours to fully charge the Oppo A1x.
❓ Which phone has better software support?
Oppo generally provides decent software updates, but the A97, being a newer model, is likely to receive updates for a longer period.