Choosing a new budget smartphone can be tough. The vivo iQOO Z7i and vivo Y16 are both contenders, offering attractive features at accessible prices. But which one truly delivers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The iQOO Z7i clearly outperforms the Y16 thanks to its significantly faster chipset and more modern processor. While the Y16 offers a more basic experience, the Z7i's superior performance makes it the better choice for most users seeking a responsive and capable budget phone.
| 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, 8, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40 |
| 5G bands | 1, 5, 8, 28, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA2000 1x | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, March 13 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, March 20 | Available. Released 2022, September 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.1 x 75.6 x 8.2 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.32 in) | 164 x 75.6 x 8.2 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 186 (6.56 oz) | 184 g (6.49 oz) |
| | - | Splashproof |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 6020 (7 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 13, OriginOS Ocean | Android 12, Funtouch 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/1.8, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/1.8, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE, aptX HD | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue | Drizzling Gold, Stellar Black |
| Models | V2230EA | V2204, V2214 |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 120 EUR |
vivo iQOO Z7i
- Faster Processor (Dimensity 6020)
- Potentially Higher Refresh Rate Display
- Likely Better Camera Performance
- More Responsive User Experience
- Slower Charging (15W)
- May lack some of the Y16's budget-friendly features
vivo Y16
- More Affordable
- Decent Battery Life
- Simple and User-Friendly Interface
- Significantly Slower Processor (Helio P35)
- Lower Refresh Rate Display
- Less Capable Camera
- Slow Charging (10W)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature similar display sizes (around 6.6 inches) and resolutions (likely FHD+). However, the iQOO Z7i might offer a slightly higher refresh rate (potentially 120Hz) compared to the Y16's standard 60Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling and animations. Expect both to use LCD panels.
Camera Comparison
While specific camera specs are needed, the iQOO Z7i likely has a more advanced camera system. Expect better image processing, improved low-light performance, and potentially more features. Both likely feature a main sensor around 50MP, but the Z7i's image signal processor (ISP) will be superior.
Performance
This is where the iQOO Z7i shines. The Dimensity 6020 is a considerably more powerful chipset than the Helio P35. Expect significantly faster app loading times, smoother gaming, and better overall responsiveness on the Z7i. The Y16 will struggle with more demanding tasks.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have a battery capacity around 5000mAh, offering all-day battery life. However, the iQOO Z7i's more efficient chipset may result in slightly better battery life under heavy use. The charging speed is a significant disadvantage for both, with the Y16 being slower at 10W.
Buying Guide
The vivo iQOO Z7i is ideal for users who prioritize performance, gaming, and smoother multitasking. The vivo Y16 is a good option for those on a tighter budget who primarily need a phone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the iQOO Z7i worth the extra cost compared to the Y16?
Yes, if performance is a priority. The Z7i's faster chipset makes a noticeable difference in everyday use and gaming.
❓ Which phone has better battery life?
Both offer all-day battery life, but the iQOO Z7i's more efficient chipset might give it a slight edge.
