The smartphone industry is highly competitive, and budget smartphones play a significant role in capturing mass-market consumers. Vivo, one of the leading smartphone brands in India and globally, has been consistently offering stylish, feature-packed smartphones at affordable prices. The Vivo Y21 is one such device that continues this tradition.
Packed with a sleek design, long-lasting battery, decent performance, and a user-friendly interface, the Vivo Y21 is aimed at young users and budget-conscious buyers who want value without compromising on essential features.
In this article, we’ll explore the design, display, performance, camera system, battery, software, connectivity, and price of the Vivo Y21, along with comparisons and final thoughts.
Design and Build Quality
Slim and Stylish Look
The Vivo Y21 stands out with its slim 8mm profile and lightweight design. Despite being a budget smartphone, it offers a premium look with a polished back panel and modern aesthetics.
Comfort in Hand
Weighing around 182 grams, the phone feels comfortable in hand and is easy to carry in a pocket. Its curved edges add to the ergonomic design, making it user-friendly for long hours of use.
Display
HD+ Immersive Screen
The Vivo Y21 comes with a 6.51-inch HD+ Halo FullView display. The screen provides decent brightness and color reproduction, which is good for everyday tasks like watching videos, browsing, or gaming.
Eye Protection Mode
For users who spend long hours on the device, Vivo has added an Eye Protection Mode that reduces blue light, ensuring comfort during extended use.
Performance and Hardware
Processor and Storage
The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Helio P35 processor, which handles day-to-day tasks like calling, messaging, social media, and light gaming efficiently.
With 4GB RAM + 1GB extended RAM and 64GB/128GB storage options, the Vivo Y21 offers smooth multitasking and enough space for apps and media. Storage can also be expanded via a dedicated microSD card slot.
Gaming and Everyday Use
While not designed for heavy gaming, the Vivo Y21 runs popular titles like Free Fire and BGMI on low settings without major issues.
Camera System
Dual Rear Camera Setup
The phone features a 13MP primary camera and a 2MP macro lens. The main camera delivers clear and bright photos in daylight, while the macro lens is useful for close-up shots.
Front Camera
On the front, the Vivo Y21 has an 8MP selfie camera with AI beautification features, making it ideal for video calls and social media selfies.
Software and User Experience
Funtouch OS Based on Android
The Vivo Y21 runs on Funtouch OS 11.1 based on Android 11. The interface is clean, easy to navigate, and includes useful features like Ultra Game Mode, AI Albums, and Multi-Turbo 5.0 for optimized performance.
Customization
Users can customize themes, wallpapers, and layouts to personalize the experience according to their preferences.
Battery and Charging
Long-Lasting 5000mAh Battery
One of the biggest highlights of the Vivo Y21 is its 5000mAh battery, which easily lasts a full day of heavy usage or up to two days of moderate use.
Fast Charging Support
The device supports 18W fast charging, allowing users to recharge the phone quickly and reduce downtime. Reverse charging is also available, meaning the phone can act as a power bank for other devices.
Connectivity and Security
Connectivity Options
The Vivo Y21 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, and a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer.
Security Features
The phone includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and AI face unlock, ensuring fast and secure access.
Price and Availability
Affordable Pricing
The Vivo Y21 is priced competitively, starting at around ₹13,000 in India, making it an attractive choice for students, first-time smartphone buyers, and budget-conscious users.
Wide Availability
It is widely available through online platforms, offline retail stores, and Vivo’s own website, often with offers and discounts.
Comparison with Competitors
Rival Devices
The Vivo Y21 competes with devices like the Redmi 10, Realme Narzo 50, and Samsung Galaxy M12 in the budget segment.
Vivo’s Strength
Where the Y21 shines is its stylish design, long battery life, and reliable brand support, which many competitors struggle to match consistently.
Final Verdict
The Vivo Y21 is a stylish, practical, and budget-friendly smartphone that delivers great value for its price. With its sleek design, reliable performance, AI-powered cameras, long-lasting battery, and Funtouch OS experience, it checks most of the boxes for an entry-level device.
For students, casual users, and anyone looking for an affordable smartphone with modern features, the Vivo Y21 is a worthy choice in the budget segment.