The vivo Y series consistently delivers affordable smartphones packed with features. Today, we're pitting two contenders against each other: the newer vivo Y32 and the slightly older vivo Y21. Which one offers the best value for your money?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y32 emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly more powerful Snapdragon 680 chipset, offering a noticeable performance boost. While both offer decent battery life, the Y32's improved processor efficiency and reverse charging capabilities give it an edge. The Y21 remains a viable option for those prioritizing affordability.
| 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, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | CDMA2000 1x | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, December 18 | 2021, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, December 31 | Available. Released 2021, August 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | 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 (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) | Octa-core (4x2.35 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, OriginOS 1.0 | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
2 MP (macro) | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8 | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/1.8 | 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, aptX Adaptive | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | 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
5W reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Blue, Light Blue | Diamond Glow, Midnight Blue |
| Models | V2158A | V2111 |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 180 EUR |
vivo Y32
- More powerful Snapdragon 680 chipset
- Reverse wired charging
- Potentially better camera performance
- Slightly more efficient battery
- May be slightly more expensive than the Y21
- HD+ display (not Full HD)
vivo Y21
- More affordable
- Decent battery life
- Lightweight and compact
- Weaker Helio P35 chipset
- No reverse charging
- Can feel sluggish with demanding apps
Display Comparison
Both phones feature similar display specs – typically a 6.51-inch HD+ IPS LCD. However, the Y32 might have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to its newer design. Expect similar viewing experiences overall, adequate for media consumption but not exceptional.
Camera Comparison
While specific camera specs vary by region, both phones typically feature a main 50MP camera. The Y32's newer processor and potentially improved image processing algorithms could result in slightly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Both offer decent camera performance for their price range.
Performance
This is where the Y32 shines. The Snapdragon 680 is a substantial upgrade over the Helio P35. Expect smoother app launches, faster multitasking, and better gaming performance on the Y32. The Y21 can feel sluggish at times, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
Both phones usually pack a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. However, the Y32's more efficient Snapdragon 680 chipset could translate to slightly better battery endurance. The Y32 also includes 18W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge other devices – a feature absent in the Y21.
Buying Guide
The vivo Y32 is ideal for users who prioritize performance and future-proofing. It's a good choice for light gaming, multitasking, and general everyday use. The vivo Y21 is best suited for budget-conscious users who primarily need a phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and social media browsing.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y32 worth the extra money compared to the Y21?
Yes, if performance is a priority. The Snapdragon 680 offers a significant upgrade over the Helio P35, making the Y32 a more future-proof choice.
❓ Which phone has better battery life?
While both have 5000mAh batteries, the vivo Y32's more efficient chipset likely provides slightly better battery endurance.
