Looking for an affordable smartphone that doesn't compromise too much? The vivo Y21e and Y16 are both contenders in the budget segment, offering a range of features at attractive price points. But which one truly delivers the best experience? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y21e edges out the Y16 thanks to its significantly faster Snapdragon 680 chipset, reverse charging capability, and slightly better overall performance. While the Y16 offers a more budget-friendly price, the Y21e provides a more responsive and future-proof experience.
| 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, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, January 14 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, January 14 | Available. Released 2022, September 01 |
| 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 x 75.6 x 8.2 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.32 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 182 g (6.42 oz) | 184 g (6.49 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 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.51 inches, 102.3 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, Funtouch 12 | Android 12, Funtouch 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.1 | - |
| 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) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| 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, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C, 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 |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired
2.5W reverse wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue, Diamond Glow | Drizzling Gold, Stellar Black |
| Models | V2140 | V2204, V2214 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 120 EUR |
vivo Y21e
- Faster Snapdragon 680 chipset
- 18W Fast Charging
- 2.5W Reverse Wired Charging
- Slightly better performance
- Potentially slightly higher price
- Camera performance not exceptional
vivo Y16
- More affordable
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Decent for basic tasks
- Slower Helio P35 chipset
- 10W slow charging
- Less responsive
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.51-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution (720 x 1600 pixels). While specific display technology details are limited, expect adequate viewing angles and color reproduction for the price range. The Y21e might have a slightly brighter display, but this is difficult to confirm without detailed testing.
Camera Comparison
The Y21e typically features a 13MP main camera and a 2MP macro lens, while the Y16 has a 13MP main camera, 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. Image quality is likely comparable in good lighting conditions, but the Y21e's more powerful processor might offer slightly better image processing. Low-light performance will be average on both devices.
Performance
This is where the Y21e shines. The Snapdragon 680 is a considerably more powerful chipset than the Helio P35. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better overall responsiveness on the Y21e. The Y16's Helio P35 is adequate for basic tasks but will struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones have a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. However, the Y21e has an advantage with 18W fast charging compared to the Y16's 10W charging. The Y21e also supports 2.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge other devices.
Buying Guide
The vivo Y21e is ideal for users who prioritize performance and want a smoother multitasking experience. It's a good choice for light gaming and everyday tasks. The vivo Y16 is best suited for users on a very tight budget who primarily need a phone for basic communication and media consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y21e worth the extra money compared to the Y16?
If performance is a priority, then yes. The Y21e's Snapdragon 680 offers a significant upgrade over the Y16's Helio P35.
❓ Can the vivo Y21e charge other phones?
Yes, the vivo Y21e supports 2.5W reverse wired charging, allowing you to charge other devices slowly.
