The Ulefone Note 15 and Oppo A18 represent two approaches to the ultra-budget smartphone market. The Ulefone prioritizes extreme affordability, while the Oppo A18 aims for a balance of features and performance. This comparison dissects their core components to determine which device delivers the best value for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Oppo A18 is the superior choice. Its Helio G85 chipset provides a significantly faster and more responsive experience than the Ulefone Note 15’s MT6580A, justifying the price difference. However, the Ulefone Note 15 remains a viable option for those on the absolute tightest of budgets.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, June 18 | 2023, September 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, June 18 | Available. Released 2023, October 05 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 157.2 x 75.3 x 8.9 mm (6.19 x 2.96 x 0.35 in) | 163.7 x 75 x 8.2 mm (6.44 x 2.95 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 179 g (6.31 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.22 inches, 93.4 cm2 (~78.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.56 inches, 103.4 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 720 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6580A/WVP (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6769 Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12 (Go edition) | Android 13, upgradable to Android 15, ColorOS 15 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Panorama |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS, recording | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sunset Purple, Diamond Blue, Twilight Black | Glowing Black, Glowing Blue |
| Models | - | CPH2591 |
| Price | About 80 EUR | ₹ 10,290 |
Ulefone Note 15
- Extremely affordable price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Potentially longer standby time due to simpler chipset
- Significantly slower performance
- Limited multitasking capabilities
- Poor gaming performance
Oppo A18
- Faster and more responsive performance
- Better multitasking and app loading speeds
- More capable of handling modern apps and games
- Potentially better camera image processing
- Higher price compared to Ulefone Note 15
- May not offer significantly better display quality
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Given the context data focuses on processing power, we can infer both likely utilize LCD panels. The Oppo A18, being a slightly more premium offering, may have a marginally better panel in terms of color accuracy and viewing angles. However, both will likely feature 720p+ resolutions, adequate for their screen sizes. Bezels are expected to be noticeable on both, reflecting their budget positioning.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, it’s difficult to make precise comparisons. However, given the price points, both phones likely feature basic camera setups. The Oppo A18, benefiting from its more powerful chipset, likely has superior image processing capabilities, resulting in better dynamic range and noise reduction. We can assume both will include a primary camera and potentially a depth sensor, but image quality will be heavily reliant on software optimization. The Ulefone Note 15 will likely struggle with low-light photography due to its weaker ISP.
Performance
The performance gap is the most significant differentiator. The Oppo A18’s MediaTek Helio G85, built on a 12nm process, is a substantial upgrade over the Ulefone Note 15’s 28nm MT6580A. The Helio G85’s octa-core configuration (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) provides a much more responsive experience for multitasking and app loading compared to the Ulefone’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. The A75 cores in the Helio G85 offer significantly higher single-core performance, crucial for everyday tasks. The 12nm process also contributes to better power efficiency, potentially leading to longer battery life under load. Gamers will find the Helio G85 capable of running less demanding titles at playable frame rates, something the MT6580A would struggle with.
Battery Life
Battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns. While the exact battery capacities are unknown, the Oppo A18’s more efficient Helio G85 chipset will likely translate to longer real-world battery life, even if the Ulefone Note 15 has a slightly larger battery. The Oppo A18 may also support faster charging, reducing the time spent tethered to a wall outlet. The 12nm process of the Helio G85 contributes to lower power consumption during both active use and standby.
Buying Guide
Buy the Ulefone Note 15 if you need a functional smartphone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing, and your budget is under $100. Buy the Oppo A18 if you prioritize smoother multitasking, occasional gaming, and a more future-proofed experience, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Oppo A18 struggle with demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
While the Helio G85 isn't a gaming powerhouse, it can run PUBG Mobile at lower settings and frame rates. Expect to adjust graphics settings for a playable experience. The Ulefone Note 15’s MT6580A will likely struggle to provide a smooth experience even at the lowest settings.
❓ Is the Ulefone Note 15 a good choice for elderly users who primarily make calls and send texts?
Yes, the Ulefone Note 15 is a perfectly adequate choice for basic communication. Its simplicity and affordability make it suitable for users who don't require advanced features or high performance. The larger screen size (assumed) will also aid visibility.
❓ How much faster is the Oppo A18 in everyday tasks like opening apps and browsing the web?
The Oppo A18 will feel noticeably snappier in everyday tasks. The Helio G85’s octa-core architecture and higher clock speeds result in significantly faster app launch times and smoother web browsing compared to the Ulefone Note 15’s quad-core processor.
