The Oppo Reno series has consistently delivered compelling mid-range smartphones. The Reno3 and Reno4 F, while visually similar, represent incremental updates. This comparison dives deep into the core differences – specifically the chipset and charging capabilities – to determine which device offers the best value for your money, especially as the Reno3 ages and its price drops.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Oppo Reno4 F is the better choice. While both phones share the same CPU core configuration, the Helio P95 in the Reno4 F offers a slight GPU performance boost. However, the Reno3’s 30W charging significantly outperforms the Reno4 F’s 18W, making it preferable for those prioritizing rapid replenishment.
| 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 - International | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 38, 40, 41 - APAC | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, March 17. Released 2020, March 17 | 2020, October 10. Released 2020, October 16 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 160.2 x 73.3 x 7.9 mm (6.31 x 2.89 x 0.31 in) | 160.1 x 73.8 x 7.5 mm (6.30 x 2.91 x 0.30 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 170 g (6.00 oz) | 164 g (5.78 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~411 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~409 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.4 inches, 98.9 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.43 inches, 99.8 cm2 (~84.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED | Super AMOLED, 430 nits (typ), 800 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6779 Helio P90 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6779V Helio P95 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GM9446 | PowerVR GM9446 |
| OS | Android 10, ColorOS 7 | Android 10, ColorOS 7.2 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.1 | UFS 2.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
13 MP, f/2.4, 52mm (telephoto), 1/3.4", 1.0µm, 2x optical zoom, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 13mm (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP B/W, f/2.4 | 48 MP, f/1.7, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 119˚, 16mm (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps; gyro-EIS | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/120fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 16 MP, f/2.4, (wide), 1/3.09", 1.0µm
2 MP, f/2.4, (depth) |
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 44 MP, f/2.4, 26mm (wide), 1/2.8", 0.8µm | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS |
| 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 (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 30W wired, 50% in 30 min, 100% in 73 min | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 4025 mAh | Li-Po 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Black, Aurora Blue, Sky White | Matte Black, Metallic White |
| Models | CPH2043 | SPH2209 |
| Price | About 440 EUR | About 250 EUR |
Oppo Reno3
- Significantly faster 30W charging
- Potentially lower price due to age
- Identical CPU performance to Reno4 F
- Older chipset (Helio P90)
- Slightly less capable GPU compared to Reno4 F
Oppo Reno4 F
- More powerful GPU (Helio P95)
- Slightly improved image processing potential
- More recent release
- Slower 18W charging
- Potentially higher price
Display Comparison
Both the Reno3 and Reno4 F likely feature similar LCD panels, given their market positioning. Specific details like peak brightness and color gamut coverage aren't provided, but we can assume they target a similar experience. The absence of high refresh rate technology on either device suggests a focus on battery efficiency rather than visual fluidity. Bezels are expected to be comparable, typical of mid-range phones from this era.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. However, Oppo typically focuses on software optimization for image processing. The Reno4 F’s slightly newer chipset *could* translate to marginally faster image processing speeds, but this is unlikely to be a significant difference. The absence of information regarding sensor size and aperture makes it impossible to assess low-light performance or dynamic range capabilities. We can assume both phones feature a multi-camera setup, but the quality will heavily depend on the specific sensors used.
Performance
Both devices utilize the same octa-core CPU configuration – 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. However, the Reno4 F boasts the Mediatek Helio P95, an evolution of the Reno3’s Helio P90. The P95’s key upgrade lies in its GPU, offering a modest performance increase in graphics-intensive tasks. While the CPU performance remains largely identical, the P95’s improved GPU benefits users engaged in mobile gaming or video editing. The 12nm manufacturing process is consistent across both chipsets, suggesting similar thermal characteristics.
Battery Life
The Reno3’s 30W wired charging is a clear advantage over the Reno4 F’s 18W. Oppo claims a 50% charge in 30 minutes and 100% in 73 minutes for the Reno3. The Reno4 F will take considerably longer to fully charge. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the faster charging of the Reno3 mitigates the impact of a potentially smaller battery, allowing for quicker top-ups throughout the day. This is a crucial consideration for users who prioritize convenience.
Buying Guide
Buy the Oppo Reno3 if you prioritize faster charging speeds and are willing to accept a slightly older chipset. It’s ideal for users who frequently find themselves needing to quickly top up their battery throughout the day. Buy the Oppo Reno4 F if you prefer a marginally more capable GPU for gaming or demanding applications, and aren’t as concerned about the fastest possible charging. It’s a solid all-rounder for everyday tasks and light to moderate gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will I notice a significant difference in gaming performance between the Helio P90 and Helio P95?
The difference will be noticeable, but not dramatic. The Helio P95’s improved GPU offers a modest performance boost, allowing for slightly higher frame rates or better graphics settings in demanding games. However, both chipsets are mid-range and won’t deliver a flagship gaming experience.
❓ How much longer will it take to fully charge the Oppo Reno4 F compared to the Reno3?
The Reno4 F’s 18W charging will take considerably longer. The Reno3 reaches 100% in 73 minutes, while the Reno4 F will likely take well over 90 minutes, potentially exceeding two hours depending on battery capacity. This is a significant difference for users who value quick charging.
❓ Does the Reno4 F’s newer chipset offer any benefits for multitasking?
While the CPU core configuration is identical, the Helio P95’s slightly improved efficiency *could* lead to marginally better sustained performance during prolonged multitasking. However, the difference is unlikely to be substantial for typical usage scenarios.
