Released in 2021, the Vivo Y21 is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers a blend of style, functionality, and affordability. While it may not compete with the latest flagships in terms of raw power, it caters to users seeking a reliable daily driver without breaking the bank. Let’s delve into its key features and see if it lives up to its value proposition.
Design and Display:
The Vivo Y21 boasts a sleek and stylish design with a slim profile and a shimmering “Diamond Glow” or “Metallic Blue” finish. It’s comfortable to hold and lightweight at 182g, making it ideal for one-handed use. The 6.51-inch HD+ display offers decent viewing experience for everyday tasks like browsing, watching videos, and playing casual games. While not the sharpest, its 720×1600 resolution is sufficient for most users, especially considering the price point.
Performance and Software:
The phone is powered by the MediaTek Helio P35 processor, which is adequate for handling basic tasks like social media, web browsing, and light gaming. However, demanding applications and multitasking might experience some lag. It comes with 4GB of RAM, which is the standard for budget phones and allows for smooth multitasking with essential applications.
The Vivo Y21 runs on Funtouch OS 11 based on Android 11, offering a user-friendly interface with customizable features. However, it’s important to note that the phone might not receive the latest Android updates due to its budget positioning.
Camera:
The camera system is basic, featuring a dual rear setup with a 13MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. The front-facing camera is 8MP. While not ideal for photography enthusiasts, it captures decent photos in good lighting conditions. However, low-light performance suffers from noise and lack of detail.
Battery Life and Connectivity:
One of the highlights of the Vivo Y21 is its impressive 5000mAh battery. This, combined with the power-efficient processor, ensures long-lasting battery life, easily lasting a full day on a single charge. Even moderate users might be able to stretch it to two days. The phone supports 18W fast charging, which is a welcome addition at this price point.
Connectivity options include dual SIM support, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS. The phone also comes with a microSD card slot for expandable storage, which is crucial as the base variant offers 64GB, which can fill up quickly with media and apps.
Verdict:
The Vivo Y21 is a solid choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize style, long battery life, and a decent display. It offers good value for money and is well-suited for everyday tasks like communication, browsing, and casual entertainment. However, if you’re a power user or a photography enthusiast, you might want to consider other options with more powerful processors and better cameras. Ultimately, the Vivo Y21 strikes a good balance between price and features, making it a viable option for those seeking a reliable and stylish everyday smartphone.
