The vivo Y series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with essential features. Today, we're pitting two popular contenders against each other: the vivo Y16 and the vivo Y21. Both offer a compelling entry point into the smartphone world, but subtle differences could make one a better choice for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y21 edges out the Y16 primarily due to its significantly faster charging speed. While both share the same chipset, the Y21's slightly improved CPU clock speeds and faster charging make it the more appealing option for most users seeking a budget-friendly device.
| 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, 40 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 01 | 2021, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 01 | Available. Released 2021, August 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.6 x 8.2 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.32 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 | 184 g (6.49 oz) | 182 g (6.42 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 (~81.8% 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 (4x2.35 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 12, Funtouch 12 | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| 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 | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| 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 | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | 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 | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Drizzling Gold, Stellar Black | Diamond Glow, Midnight Blue |
| Models | V2204, V2214 | V2111 |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 180 EUR |
vivo Y16
- Excellent battery life
- Affordable price
- Sleek design
- Slow charging speed
- Basic performance
- HD+ display
vivo Y21
- Faster charging (18W)
- Slightly better performance
- Modern design
- Similar camera performance to Y16
- HD+ display
- Price slightly higher than Y16
Display Comparison
Both the vivo Y16 and Y21 typically feature a 6.51-inch HD+ (1600 x 720) IPS LCD display. Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of color accuracy and brightness, though the Y21 might have a marginally better panel due to potential slight improvements in vivo's manufacturing process. However, the difference is unlikely to be noticeable for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
The vivo Y16 generally features a 13MP main camera with depth sensor and macro lens, while the Y21 typically has a 13MP main camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. Image quality will be comparable in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance is likely to be similar, with both relying on software processing to compensate for the limited sensor size. Video recording capabilities are standard for the price range.
Performance
Under the hood, both phones utilize the Mediatek Helio P35 chipset. However, the Y21 boasts a slightly higher clock speed for its primary Cortex-A53 cores (2.35 GHz vs 2.3 GHz on the Y16). This translates to a marginally snappier feel when multitasking or running lighter apps. Gaming performance will be similar on both devices, but don't expect high frame rates on demanding titles.
Battery Life
The vivo Y16 often comes with a 5000mAh battery, providing excellent all-day battery life. The vivo Y21 also typically features a 5000mAh battery. However, the Y21's key advantage lies in its 18W fast charging support, compared to the Y16's 10W charging. This means the Y21 can be charged much faster.
Buying Guide
The vivo Y16 is ideal for users prioritizing a longer battery life and are less concerned about rapid charging. The vivo Y21 is a better fit for those who value faster charging and a slightly more responsive experience, even within the budget segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y21 worth the extra money compared to the Y16?
If fast charging is important to you, then yes. The Y21's 18W charging is a significant upgrade over the Y16's 10W. Otherwise, the Y16 offers comparable performance and battery life at a slightly lower price.
❓ Can I play games on these phones?
Both phones can handle casual games and less demanding titles. However, don't expect to play graphically intensive games at high settings. Performance will be adequate for basic gaming.
