vivo Y21

Overview & Display

The Vivo Y21 presents a familiar design with a glass front and a plastic frame and back, weighing in at a comfortable 182 grams. Its 6.51-inch IPS LCD display boasts a 720 x 1600 pixel resolution, delivering a decent screen-to-body ratio of 81.8%. This means you can expect a reasonably immersive multimedia experience for watching videos and browsing content. While the 270 ppi density isn't the sharpest available, it should still be perfectly adequate for everyday use. The 20:9 aspect ratio further enhances the viewing experience, providing ample screen real estate.

Under the hood, the Vivo Y21 runs on a Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 chipset, paired with either 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, or 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage – expandable via a dedicated microSDXC card slot. It features an octa-core CPU, which, combined with Android 11 and Funtouch 11.1, should handle everyday multitasking and common applications without significant issues. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac suggests good wireless connectivity, and the USB Type-C port offers modern charging and data transfer capabilities.

Camera & Battery

The rear camera setup on the Vivo Y21 consists of a 13 MP main lens with PDAF and a 2 MP macro lens, allowing for close-up shots. Video recording is supported at 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second. While the specifications don't detail advanced features, the presence of an LED flash should aid in low-light photography. The 8 MP front-facing camera, also capable of 1080p video recording at 30fps, should provide satisfactory selfies and video calls.

Powering the Vivo Y21 is a substantial 5000 mAh battery, promising a good amount of usage time throughout the day. The device supports 18W wired charging, although it doesn't specify if an adapter is included. A loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack are also present, convenient features for audio enthusiasts. The inclusion of GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and BDS for positioning further enhances the device’s functionality.

Who Should Buy This

The Vivo Y21 is well-suited for users seeking a reliable and affordable smartphone for everyday tasks. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize battery life and expandable storage. Students or individuals who frequently consume media on the go would likely appreciate the large display and ample battery capacity. However, users demanding high-end performance for gaming or intensive applications, or those prioritizing a more advanced camera system, might find the specifications somewhat limiting and could consider alternatives.

Pros

• Large 5000 mAh battery for extended use.
• Expandable storage via microSDXC card.
• 3.5mm headphone jack for convenient audio.
• Side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security.
• Supports dual SIM functionality.

Cons

• IPS LCD display may not offer the best color accuracy.
• Resolution is 720p, not Full HD.
• No NFC for contactless payments.
• Plastic build may feel less premium.

Verdict

Overall, the Vivo Y21 offers a solid and dependable smartphone experience. Its strengths lie in its large battery and expandable storage, making it a practical choice for everyday use. While the processor and display resolution are modest, they're sufficient for most common tasks. The lack of NFC and a more premium build quality are notable limitations. Ultimately, the Vivo Y21 is a good option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a reliable device that prioritizes battery life and storage capacity.