Looking for a budget-friendly smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The vivo Y21a and vivo S1 are popular contenders. But which one offers the best value for your money? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo S1 generally edges out the Y21a thanks to its more powerful processor, better camera capabilities, and slightly improved display. However, the Y21a might be a better choice for those prioritizing reverse charging and a slightly lower price point.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40, 41 - Asia |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/150 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 - China |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 22 | 2019, July 17. Released 2019, July |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, February 14 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.3 x 76.1 x 8 mm (6.47 x 3.00 x 0.31 in) | 159.5 x 75.2 x 8.1 mm (6.28 x 2.96 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 182 g (6.42 oz) | 179 g (6.31 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~404 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.38 inches, 99.9 cm2 (~83.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | Super AMOLED |
| | - | Always-on display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) - Egypt | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.7 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm)Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) - Egypt | Mediatek MT6768 Helio P65 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 | Android 9.0 (Pie), Funtouch 9 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide) | - |
| Triple | - | 16 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.8", 1.12µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 13mm (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide) | 32 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/2.8", 0.8µm |
| 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 | microUSB 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 (under display, optical), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 4500 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue, Diamond Glow | Diamond Black, Skyline Blue, Cosmic Green |
| Models | - | 1907, V1907, 1907_19, V1913A |
| Price | - | About 230 EUR |
| Pricing |
|---|
| 128GB 4GB RAM | - | ₹ 17,200 |
| 128GB 6GB RAM | - | ₹ 17,200 |
| 64GB 6GB RAM | - | ₹ 17,990 |
vivo Y21a
- Affordable
- Reverse Charging
- Reliable Performance for Basic Tasks
- Decent Battery Life
- Lower Performance than S1
- Less Impressive Camera
- Basic Display
- Older Chipset
vivo S1
- Better Performance
- Improved Camera Quality
- Slightly Better Display
- More Premium Design
- Slightly Higher Price
- No Reverse Charging
- May not have the absolute longest battery life
Display Comparison
The vivo S1 typically features a slightly better display, often with a higher resolution and potentially a more vibrant color reproduction compared to the Y21a. Both likely use IPS LCD panels, but the S1's panel may offer a more immersive viewing experience. Screen sizes are likely similar, around 6.3-6.5 inches.
Camera Comparison
The vivo S1 generally boasts a more capable camera system. While both phones likely feature multiple rear cameras, the S1's higher-end sensor and image processing algorithms should result in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Expect improved detail and dynamic range on the S1.
Performance
The vivo S1's Mediatek Helio P65 chipset provides a noticeable performance boost over the Y21a's Helio P22/P35. Expect faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience on the S1. The S1's Cortex-A75 cores contribute to improved performance.
Battery Life
Both phones likely offer decent battery life, but the Y21a's reverse charging capability gives it a unique advantage. While the S1 might have a slightly larger battery capacity, the Y21a can act as a power bank for other devices, which is a useful feature.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the vivo Y21a? Users seeking a basic, reliable smartphone with reverse charging and a focus on affordability. Who should buy the vivo S1? Those wanting a smoother performance, better camera quality, and a more premium feel, even within a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo S1 worth the extra money compared to the Y21a?
If you prioritize performance and camera quality, the S1 is generally worth the extra investment. However, if you're on a tight budget and only need a basic phone, the Y21a remains a solid option.
❓ What is reverse charging and why is it useful?
Reverse charging allows your phone to charge other devices wirelessly. It's handy for topping up earbuds, smartwatches, or other phones in a pinch.
