Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The vivo Y12a and Y21 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a range of features at attractive price points. But which one is the better choice for you?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y21 emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly faster charging, slightly better performance, and potentially improved camera capabilities. While the Y12a is a decent budget option, the Y21 offers a more compelling overall package for a small price difference.
| 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, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, June 21 | 2021, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, June 21 | Available. Released 2021, August 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 76.3 x 8.4 mm (6.47 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 164.3 x 76.1 x 8 mm (6.47 x 3.00 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 191 g (6.74 oz) | 182 g (6.42 oz) |
| 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 (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.95 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.45 GHz Cortex A53) | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM439 Snapdragon 439 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 505 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Funtouch 11 | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, Panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8 | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8 | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 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 (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired
5W reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Phantom Black, Glacier Blue | Diamond Glow, Midnight Blue |
| Models | V2102 | V2111 |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 180 EUR |
vivo Y12a
- Excellent battery life
- Affordable price
- Decent basic functionality
- Slow charging
- Less powerful processor
- Basic camera performance
vivo Y21
- Faster charging (18W)
- Better performance (Helio P35)
- Potentially better camera
- Slightly higher price
- Battery life similar to Y12a
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar LCD displays, probably around 6.5 inches with an HD+ resolution. Expect decent viewing angles and color reproduction for everyday use, but don't anticipate flagship-level quality. The Y21 might have a slightly brighter display, but this is speculative without official data.
Camera Comparison
While both phones likely feature a triple-camera setup (main sensor, wide-angle, macro), the Y21's chipset and potentially improved image processing algorithms could result in slightly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Expect decent photos for social media and casual use from both devices.
Performance
The vivo Y21's MediaTek Helio P35 chipset holds a noticeable advantage over the Y12a's Snapdragon 439. The higher clock speeds on the P35 cores translate to snappier app loading, smoother multitasking, and a generally more responsive user experience. Gaming performance will also be better on the Y21.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have a 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life. However, the Y21's 18W fast charging is a significant advantage over the Y12a's 10W charging, allowing for much quicker top-ups.
Buying Guide
The vivo Y12a is a good option for users prioritizing basic functionality and extended battery life on a very tight budget. The vivo Y21 is ideal for those who want faster charging, a smoother user experience, and a slightly more capable camera, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y12a good for gaming?
The vivo Y12a can handle basic games, but don't expect high frame rates or smooth performance in demanding titles. The Y21 is a better choice for gaming.
❓ How long does the battery last on each phone?
Both phones offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. However, the Y21 charges significantly faster.
❓ Which phone has better camera quality?
The vivo Y21 likely has slightly better camera quality due to its more powerful chipset and potentially improved image processing.
