The vivo Y series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with essential features. The Y15a and Y16 are two popular contenders in this space, offering similar specs but subtle differences. This comprehensive comparison will help you determine which phone best suits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y16 edges out the Y15a primarily due to its slightly improved design and potentially better camera software. While both share the same chipset, the Y16's refinements make it a more compelling choice for most users, especially considering similar pricing.
| 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, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, November 15 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 15 | Available. Released 2022, September 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.2 x 8.3 mm (6.46 x 2.96 x 0.33 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 | 179 g (6.31 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 (~83.0% 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 (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 | Android 12, Funtouch 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 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, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | 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 | 10W wired
5W reverse wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Wave Green, Mystic Blue | Drizzling Gold, Stellar Black |
| Models | V2134 | V2204, V2214 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 120 EUR |
vivo Y15a
- Reverse wired charging
- Affordable price
- Decent battery life
- Older design
- Lower resolution camera
- Less refined software
vivo Y16
- Improved design
- Higher resolution main camera
- Potentially better camera software
- Slightly more modern feel
- No reverse charging
- Similar performance to Y15a
- HD+ display
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.51-inch HD+ (720 x 1600) IPS LCD display. While the resolution is the same, the Y16 might offer slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potential software optimizations. Viewing angles and overall display quality are expected to be comparable.
Camera Comparison
The vivo Y15a typically features a 13MP main camera and a 2MP macro lens. The vivo Y16 often boasts a 50MP main camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The higher megapixel count on the Y16's main camera, combined with potential software enhancements, should result in better image quality, especially in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance is likely to be similar.
Performance
Powered by the Mediatek Helio P35 chipset, performance on both devices will be similar. Expect adequate performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Demanding games will require lower graphics settings. The Y16 might benefit from slightly newer software, potentially leading to marginally smoother performance.
Battery Life
Both phones are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. The Y15a has a unique advantage with its 5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices. The Y16 lacks this feature.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the vivo Y15a? Users prioritizing reverse charging and are comfortable with a slightly older design. Who should buy the vivo Y16? Those seeking a more modern aesthetic, potentially improved camera performance, and a slightly more polished overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y16 worth the extra money compared to the Y15a?
Generally, yes. The Y16's improved camera and design justify the slight price difference for most users.
❓ Can the vivo Y15a charge other phones?
Yes, the Y15a supports 5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge other devices slowly.
