Looking for an affordable smartphone that delivers the essentials? The vivo Y3s (2021) and vivo Y21 are both contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The vivo Y21 edges out the Y3s (2021) thanks to its significantly faster charging and slightly improved CPU clock speeds. Both offer similar core performance, but the Y21's charging advantage makes it a more practical choice for everyday use. Ultimately, the Y21 provides a better overall 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, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, October 18 | 2021, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 18 | Available. Released 2021, August 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 76.3 x 8.4 mm (6.47 x 3.00 x 0.33 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 | 190 g (6.70 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 (~81.6% 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 (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.35 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition), Funtouch 11 | Android 11, Funtouch 11.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, 27mm (wide), AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/1.8 | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | Unspecified | 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 | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired
5W reverse wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Starry Blue, Pearl White, Mint Green | Diamond Glow, Midnight Blue |
| Models | V2044 | V2111 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 180 EUR |
vivo Y3s (2021)
- Very affordable
- Decent battery life
- Sufficient for basic tasks
- Slow charging
- Average camera performance
- Limited performance for demanding apps
vivo Y21
- Faster charging (18W)
- Slightly better performance
- Versatile camera setup (macro lens)
- Still a budget phone (limited features)
- Average camera performance in low light
- Similar performance to Y3s in many areas
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar 6.51-inch HD+ IPS LCD displays. Expect decent color accuracy and viewing angles for everyday use, but don't anticipate flagship-level visual fidelity. The Y21 might have slightly better brightness due to potential panel variations, but this is difficult to confirm without specific testing data.
Camera Comparison
The vivo Y3s (2021) typically features a 13MP main camera with a depth sensor. The vivo Y21 usually has a 13MP main camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. Image quality will be comparable in good lighting conditions, but the Y21's macro lens offers a slight versatility advantage. Low-light performance will be average on both.
Performance
While both utilize the Mediatek Helio P35 chipset, the Y21 boasts a slightly higher clock speed on its primary Cortex-A53 cores (2.35 GHz vs 2.3 GHz on the Y3s). This translates to marginally better performance in demanding tasks, though both will handle basic apps and multitasking without major issues. Gaming performance will be adequate for less intensive titles.
Battery Life
This is where the Y21 shines. It supports 18W fast charging, a significant improvement over the Y3s (2021)'s 10W charging. Both phones likely have a 5000mAh battery, meaning the Y21 will charge much faster, reducing downtime.
Buying Guide
The vivo Y3s (2021) is a good option for users prioritizing a very budget-friendly device and aren't overly concerned with fast charging. The vivo Y21 is ideal for those who want a smoother experience and appreciate quicker charging times, making it better suited for daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the vivo Y21 worth the extra money compared to the Y3s (2021)?
Yes, the faster charging and slightly improved performance of the Y21 make it a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you value convenience and a smoother user experience.
❓ Can both phones handle casual gaming?
Yes, both phones can handle casual games, but don't expect high frame rates or demanding graphics settings. They are best suited for less intensive mobile games.
