Looking for a reliable and affordable smartphone? The vivo Y33s and Y21 are popular contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their specs, performance, and features to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y33s emerges as the clear winner thanks to its significantly more powerful Helio G80 chipset, offering a smoother experience for gaming and multitasking. While both offer decent battery life, the Y33s's reverse charging adds extra utility. The Y21 remains a viable option for basic users on a tighter budget.
| 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 | 2021, August 24 | 2021, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, August 24 | Available. Released 2021, August 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | 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 | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~401 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.58 inches, 104.3 cm2 (~83.4% 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 (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769V/CU Helio G80 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | 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, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.0, (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 | Yes | 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, gyro, 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 | Mirror Black, Midday Dream | Diamond Glow, Midnight Blue |
| Models | V2109 | V2111 |
| Price | About 210 EUR | About 180 EUR |
vivo Y33s
- More powerful processor (Helio G80)
- Reverse wired charging
- Potentially better camera system
- Slightly better display (potentially)
- May be slightly more expensive than the Y21
- 18W charging is not the fastest available
vivo Y21
- More affordable
- Decent battery life
- Reliable for basic tasks
- Weaker processor (Helio P35)
- No reverse charging
- Less versatile camera system
- Potentially lower display quality
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.51-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. While the panels are similar in size, the Y33s might offer slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potentially more advanced panel technology, though specific details are not readily available. Expect a comfortable viewing experience for everyday use.
Camera Comparison
The Y33s typically boasts a more versatile camera system, often including a higher resolution main sensor and potentially additional lenses like a macro or depth sensor. While both phones likely offer decent image quality in good lighting conditions, the Y33s should provide better low-light performance and more creative shooting options. Expect the Y21 to offer acceptable camera performance for casual snapshots.
Performance
This is where the Y33s truly shines. The Helio G80 chipset is a substantial upgrade over the Helio P35 in the Y21. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience on the Y33s. The Y21's P35 is adequate for basic tasks but will struggle with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. The Y33s has a slight advantage with its 18W wired charging and 5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to charge other devices in a pinch.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the vivo Y33s? Users who prioritize performance, enjoy mobile gaming, or want a phone capable of handling demanding apps. Who should buy the vivo Y21? Those seeking a basic, reliable smartphone for everyday tasks like calling, texting, and light social media browsing, and are on a very limited budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y33s worth the extra money?
If you value performance and a better camera, the Y33s is definitely worth the extra investment. However, if you only need a basic phone for calls and texts, the Y21 is a more budget-friendly option.
❓ Can the vivo Y21 handle gaming?
The vivo Y21 can handle very basic games, but it will struggle with more demanding titles. The Y33s is a much better choice for gamers.