The vivo Y series is known for offering affordable smartphones with decent features. The Y21 and Y21a are two contenders in this space, but which one is the better choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their specs, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y21a edges out the Y21 thanks to its slightly more efficient chipset and the added convenience of reverse wired charging. While both are budget-friendly, the Y21a offers a bit more value for the money, making it the recommended pick for most users.
| 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, 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, August 20 | 2022, January 22 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, August 20 | Available. Released 2022, February 14 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 76.1 x 8 mm (6.47 x 3.00 x 0.31 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 | 182 g (6.42 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 (~81.8% 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 (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) - Egypt |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm)Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) - Egypt |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 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 | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 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 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, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Diamond Glow, Midnight Blue | Midnight Blue, Diamond Glow |
| Models | V2111 | - |
| Price | About 180 EUR | - |
vivo Y21
- Slightly faster processor
- Familiar vivo UI
- Less efficient chipset
- No reverse charging
vivo Y21a
- More power-efficient chipset
- Reverse wired charging
- Good battery life
- Slightly slower processor than Y21
- Basic camera performance
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.51-inch HD+ (1600 x 720) IPS LCD display. Expect similar viewing experiences – adequate for everyday use but not exceptional. Color accuracy and brightness are typical for this price range. Neither phone boasts a high refresh rate.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 13MP main camera and a 2MP macro lens. Image quality is acceptable in good lighting conditions, but struggles in low light. The front-facing camera is usually an 8MP unit on both models. Don't expect flagship-level photography from either device.
Performance
The Y21 uses a Mediatek Helio P35, while the Y21a utilizes a Mediatek Helio P22. The P35 generally offers slightly better performance, but the P22 is more power-efficient. Day-to-day tasks like browsing and social media will feel similar on both, but the Y21 might handle slightly more demanding apps a bit better. Gaming performance on both will be limited.
Battery Life
Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. However, the Y21a's more efficient Helio P22 chipset gives it a slight edge in battery endurance. The Y21a also includes 2.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge other devices like earbuds or smartwatches.
Buying Guide
The vivo Y21 is a good option for users prioritizing a slightly faster processor for basic tasks. The vivo Y21a is ideal for those seeking better battery life and the added functionality of reverse charging to top up accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The vivo Y21 has a slightly more powerful processor, so it might handle games a bit better, but neither phone is designed for serious gaming.
❓ Can the vivo Y21a charge other devices?
Yes, the vivo Y21a features 2.5W reverse wired charging, allowing you to charge other devices like earbuds or smartwatches.
❓ What is the difference in performance between the Helio P35 and Helio P22?
The Helio P35 generally offers slightly better raw performance, but the Helio P22 is more power-efficient, leading to better battery life.
