The vivo Y series is known for offering impressive features at affordable prices. The vivo Y21a and Y21 are two contenders in this space, but what are the key differences? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y21a edges out the Y21 thanks to its reverse charging capability and slightly more powerful chipset (in Egypt). However, the Y21 remains a strong contender, especially if reverse charging isn't a priority. Both offer excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.
| 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 | 2022, January 22 | 2021, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, February 14 | Available. Released 2021, August 20 |
| 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 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) - Egypt | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm)Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) - Egypt | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| 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 | 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 | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide) | 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 | 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, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue, Diamond Glow | Diamond Glow, Midnight Blue |
| Models | - | V2111 |
| Price | - | About 180 EUR |
vivo Y21a
- Reverse wired charging
- Potentially slightly faster chipset (Egypt variant)
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Affordable price
- Entry-level performance
- HD+ display resolution
- Average camera quality
vivo Y21
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Affordable price
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks
- Decent display
- No reverse charging
- Entry-level performance
- HD+ display resolution
- Average camera quality
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a 6.51-inch HD+ (720 x 1600) IPS LCD display with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of color accuracy and brightness, though slight variations in panel quality are possible. The Y21a might have a marginally better coating for scratch resistance.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a triple rear camera setup, typically including a 13MP main sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. Image quality will be comparable, with decent performance in well-lit conditions. Low-light photography will be average. The front-facing camera is likely a 8MP unit on both devices.
Performance
The Y21a, particularly the Egyptian variant, boasts a Mediatek Helio P22 chipset, while the standard Y21 uses the Helio P35. The P22 generally offers a slight performance advantage, especially in multi-core tasks. Both chipsets are entry-level and suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. Don't expect flagship-level performance.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate users. The Y21a has a unique advantage with its 2.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the vivo Y21a? Users who value reverse charging for topping up accessories and appreciate a potentially slightly faster processor (Egypt variant). Who should buy the vivo Y21? Those seeking a reliable and affordable smartphone with a good balance of features and performance, and don't need reverse charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y21a worth the extra cost over the vivo Y21?
If reverse charging is important to you, then yes. Otherwise, the Y21 offers similar performance at a potentially lower price.
❓ Can I play demanding games on either of these phones?
No, both phones are designed for casual gaming and everyday use. Demanding games will likely experience lag and reduced graphics settings.
