The Oppo A55 and Nokia G20 represent a common scenario in the budget smartphone market: two devices with remarkably similar core hardware, differentiated by software experience, design choices, and crucially, charging capabilities. Both leverage the Mediatek Helio G35, making this a battle of optimization and ancillary features rather than raw power.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing quick top-ups and potentially a slightly more refined software experience, the Oppo A55 emerges as the better choice. Its 18W charging significantly outperforms the Nokia G20’s 10W, reducing downtime. However, Nokia’s commitment to software updates may appeal to those seeking long-term support.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - International |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 28, 66 - LATAM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, October 01 | 2021, April 08 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 01 | Available. Released 2021, May 17 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 163.6 x 75.7 x 8.4 mm (6.44 x 2.98 x 0.33 in) | 164.9 x 76 x 9.2 mm (6.49 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 193 g (6.81 oz) | 197 g (6.95 oz) |
| | - | Splash protection |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | NEG T2X-1 | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~81.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 480 nits (typ), 550 nits (peak) | IPS LCD |
| 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 MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, ColorOS 11.1 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | - | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.8 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide) | 8 MP, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | No | 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 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5050 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Rainbow Blue, Starry Black, Green | Glacier, Night |
| Models | CPH2325 | TA-1336, TA-1343, TA-1347, TA-1372, TA-1365 |
| Price | £ 100.00 | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.01 W/kg (head) 1.02 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.49 W/kg (head) 1.13 W/kg (body) |
Oppo A55
- Faster 18W charging for quicker top-ups.
- Potentially more optimized software experience (ColorOS).
- Likely slightly better display calibration.
- ColorOS may not appeal to users preferring stock Android.
- Long-term software update commitment is less clear than Nokia.
Nokia G20
- Clean Android experience with guaranteed software updates.
- Nokia’s reputation for durability.
- Potentially longer battery life due to conservative power management.
- Significantly slower 10W charging.
- Performance will be identical to the Oppo A55, but with slower charging.
- May lack some of the software optimizations found in Oppo’s ColorOS.
Display Comparison
Both the Oppo A55 and Nokia G20 lack detailed display specifications in the provided data. However, given their price point, we can expect both to utilize LCD panels. The absence of information regarding refresh rates suggests both are likely capped at 60Hz. The real-world difference will likely come down to color calibration and peak brightness, areas where Oppo typically demonstrates a slight edge in its budget offerings. Bezels are expected to be relatively substantial on both devices, consistent with their market segment.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the quality will heavily depend on sensor size and image processing. It’s reasonable to assume both will include a primary camera, a depth sensor, and potentially a macro lens. Given the budget nature of these devices, image quality will be acceptable in good lighting conditions but will struggle in low light. The absence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on either device suggests reliance on software-based stabilization, which is less effective.
Performance
The core of both devices is the Mediatek Helio G35, an octa-core processor built on a 12nm process. The CPU configuration – 4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 – is identical. This means performance in CPU-bound tasks like web browsing and social media will be nearly indistinguishable. The GPU performance will also be very similar. Neither phone is designed for demanding gaming; expect to limit yourself to lighter titles and lower graphical settings. Thermal management will likely be adequate for typical usage, but sustained heavy loads could lead to throttling due to the 12nm process.
Battery Life
While the battery capacities aren’t specified, the key differentiator here is charging speed. The Oppo A55’s 18W wired charging is a significant advantage over the Nokia G20’s 10W. This translates to a substantially faster 0-100% charge time. Even with similar battery capacities, the Oppo A55 will minimize downtime, allowing users to quickly replenish their battery. The Nokia G20, with its slower charging, will require a longer connection to the charger, making it less convenient for users who need a quick power boost.
Buying Guide
Buy the Oppo A55 if you need faster charging and are comfortable with Oppo’s ColorOS. This phone is ideal for users who frequently find themselves needing a quick power boost throughout the day. Buy the Nokia G20 if you prioritize a clean Android experience, guaranteed software updates, and are less concerned about charging speed. It’s a solid choice for users who prefer a more stock Android feel and value long-term software support over rapid charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Mediatek Helio G35 sufficient for running popular apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram on either the Oppo A55 or Nokia G20?
Yes, the Mediatek Helio G35 is more than capable of handling everyday apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. These applications are not particularly demanding, and the G35’s octa-core processor and sufficient RAM (though RAM amount isn't specified, budget phones typically have 3-4GB) will ensure smooth performance for these tasks.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge the Nokia G20 with its 10W charging, and is this a significant drawback compared to the Oppo A55?
With 10W charging, fully charging the Nokia G20 will likely take over 3 hours, potentially closer to 4, depending on the battery capacity (which is not specified). This is a significant drawback compared to the Oppo A55’s 18W charging, which can reduce charging time to around 1.5-2 hours. For users who frequently need to top up their phone quickly, the Oppo A55 is the better choice.
❓ Does either the Oppo A55 or Nokia G20 support VoLTE and VoWiFi, and are they compatible with all major carriers?
Both the Oppo A55 and Nokia G20 *should* support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi), as these are becoming standard features even on budget devices. However, carrier compatibility can vary. It’s crucial to check with your specific carrier to ensure both phones are fully compatible with their network before purchasing.
