Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The vivo Y21a and Y21t are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a range of features at attractive price points. But which one is the better choice for you?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y21t emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly more powerful Snapdragon 680 chipset and more efficient 6nm manufacturing process. While both offer decent battery life and similar charging speeds, the Y21t's performance advantage makes it the superior option 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, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 22 | 2022, January 03 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, February 14 | Available. Released 2022, January 10 |
| 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 (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm)Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) - Egypt | Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 610 |
| OS | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 | Android 11, Funtouch 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 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/1.8, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8, (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, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue, Diamond Glow | Midnight Blue, Pearl White |
| Models | - | V2135 |
| Price | - | About 190 EUR |
vivo Y21a
- Very affordable
- Decent battery life
- Reverse wired charging
- Outdated chipset
- Low performance
- Mediocre camera
vivo Y21t
- Significantly better performance
- More efficient chipset (6nm)
- Good battery life
- Reverse wired charging
- Slightly more expensive than Y21a
- Camera is still basic
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.51-inch HD+ (1600 x 720) IPS LCD display. Expect similar viewing experiences – adequate for media consumption but not exceptional. Color accuracy and brightness are typical for this price range. The Y21t might have slightly better color reproduction due to its more modern chipset.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 13MP main camera and a 2MP macro lens. Image quality will be comparable in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance is likely to be mediocre on both devices. The Y21t's more powerful processor might allow for slightly better image processing.
Performance
This is where the Y21t shines. The Snapdragon 680 (6nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Mediatek Helio P22/P35 (12nm) in the Y21a. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better overall responsiveness on the Y21t. The Y21a will struggle with more demanding apps and games.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. Charging speeds are identical at 18W wired, with a 2.5W reverse wired charging capability for both.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the vivo Y21a? Those on the absolute tightest budget who prioritize basic functionality and don't need demanding performance. Who should buy the vivo Y21t? Anyone seeking a smoother, more responsive experience for everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming, without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y21t worth the extra money compared to the Y21a?
Yes, the Y21t's improved performance makes it a worthwhile upgrade if your budget allows. The Snapdragon 680 offers a much smoother user experience.
❓ Can the vivo Y21a handle gaming?
The vivo Y21a can handle very basic games, but don't expect a smooth experience with more demanding titles. The Y21t is a better choice for light gaming.
