The smartphone industry is evolving rapidly, with new models released almost every month. Yet, some devices manage to stand out because of their balance between affordability, performance, and features. The Vivo Y21 is one such smartphone that has made a name for itself in the entry-to-mid-range market. Known for its stylish design, large battery, and user-friendly software, the Vivo Y21 appeals to students, casual users, and those looking for an everyday reliable device.
This article provides a comprehensive Vivo Y21 review, covering specifications, design, display, performance, camera quality, software experience, and overall value for money. By the end, you’ll know whether the Vivo Y21 is the right choice for you in 2025.
Vivo Y21 Specifications Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.51-inch IPS LCD, HD+ resolution (720 × 1600), 20:9 ratio |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio P35 Octa-Core |
| RAM | 4 GB + Extended RAM (up to 1 GB) |
| Storage | 64 GB / 128 GB + microSD support (up to 1 TB) |
| Rear Cameras | Dual: 13 MP (wide) + 2 MP (macro) |
| Front Camera | 8 MP selfie |
| Battery | 5,000 mAh, 18W fast charging |
| Operating System | Android 11, Funtouch OS 11.1 |
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
| Build & Design | 8.0 mm thickness, 182 g weight |
| Colors | Midnight Blue, Diamond Glow |
| Connectivity | Dual SIM, 4G LTE, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi |
Design and Build Quality
Slim Yet Sturdy Design
The Vivo Y21 is designed to look premium while staying lightweight. At just 8.0 mm thickness and 182 grams, it is comfortable to hold even for long hours. Despite being made of plastic, its back panel finish feels smooth and stylish.
Color Variants
- Midnight Blue: A classic and elegant look for users who prefer simplicity.
- Diamond Glow: A shimmering finish that reflects light beautifully, making it a head-turner.
The design of the Vivo Y21 makes it one of the most attractive phones in its price segment.
Display and Visual Experience
Screen Size and Quality
The Vivo Y21 features a 6.51-inch HD+ Halo FullView display. With a resolution of 720 × 1600 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio, it provides a wide and immersive viewing experience for videos, browsing, and gaming.
Eye Protection Mode
To reduce strain, the device includes an Eye Protection Mode that filters harmful blue light. This is particularly useful for students or professionals who spend hours looking at the screen.
Performance and Hardware
Processor and Day-to-Day Usage
Powered by the MediaTek Helio P35, the Vivo Y21 is built for basic tasks such as social media browsing, online classes, video streaming, and light gaming. While it is not a gaming powerhouse, it can handle casual games without much lag.
RAM and Storage
- 4 GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking for everyday apps.
- The Extended RAM feature borrows up to 1 GB from storage, giving the feel of 5 GB RAM.
- Storage options: 64 GB or 128 GB, expandable via microSD card up to 1 TB.
Battery Life
One of the highlights of the Vivo Y21 is its 5,000 mAh battery. It easily lasts a full day of heavy usage or two days with moderate use. The phone also supports 18W fast charging, reducing downtime significantly.
Camera Capabilities
Rear Camera Setup
The Vivo Y21 comes with a dual rear camera system:
- 13 MP main sensor for wide shots.
- 2 MP macro sensor for close-up photography.
The camera performs well in daylight, producing crisp and vibrant images. In low-light conditions, results are average but usable.
Front Camera
The 8 MP selfie camera is perfect for social media photos and video calls. With Vivo’s built-in AI beautification features, selfies often look enhanced and ready to share.
Camera Features
- Portrait Mode
- Face Beauty
- HDR
- Video recording at 1080p
Software and User Experience
Funtouch OS 11.1
The Vivo Y21 runs on Android 11 with Funtouch OS 11.1. The user interface is clean and offers useful customization features.
Key Software Features
- Multi-Turbo 5.0: Enhances gaming performance and app launch speed.
- Ultra Game Mode: Improves gaming immersion by blocking notifications.
- iManager: Acts as a personal assistant to manage battery, security, and storage.
Security and Connectivity
Unlocking Methods
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Fast and reliable unlocking method.
- Face Unlock: Convenient, though less secure than fingerprint recognition.
Connectivity Features
- Dual SIM support (4G LTE).
- Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi.
- USB Type-C charging port.
- 3.5 mm headphone jack, a welcome feature for budget buyers.
Pros and Cons of Vivo Y21
Pros
- Large 5,000 mAh battery with fast charging.
- Stylish and slim design.
- Expandable storage up to 1 TB.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Affordable pricing.
Cons
- Only HD+ resolution (not Full HD).
- Helio P35 is weak for heavy gaming.
- Average low-light camera performance.
- Android 11 is outdated in 2025.
- No 5G support.
Vivo Y21 Price and Availability
The Vivo Y21 was launched at around ₹13,990 – ₹15,490 in India, depending on the storage variant. Prices may vary in other regions. In 2025, it is available at discounted rates through e-commerce platforms and offline stores.
Who Should Buy Vivo Y21?
- Students who need a reliable phone for online classes, social media, and entertainment.
- Professionals who want a secondary phone with a long battery.
- Casual users who prioritize battery life, design, and everyday performance over gaming or advanced cameras.
Conclusion
The Vivo Y21 is a well-rounded entry-level smartphone that shines with its long battery life, stylish design, and user-friendly software. While it does not compete with high-end smartphones in terms of gaming or camera performance, it offers excellent value for money. For users looking for an affordable device that covers the basics efficiently, the Vivo Y21 remains a solid choice even in 2025.
