In the competitive world of budget smartphones, Vivo introduced the Y31L in March 2016 as an affordable option for those seeking a basic yet capable device. With its compact size and essential features, the Y31L aims to cater to users with modest needs and tight budgets.
Design and Display
The Vivo Y31L sports a compact and lightweight design, measuring 137.2 x 68.7 x 8.3 mm and weighing just 133 grams. The device features a 4.7-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels, providing a decent viewing experience for its size and price range.
Performance and Storage
Under the hood, the Y31L is powered by a 1.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor. While this chipset may not offer blazing-fast performance, it should handle basic tasks and light usage without major hiccups. The device comes with 1GB of RAM, which might feel limiting for power users but should suffice for most basic operations.
In terms of storage, the Y31L offers 16GB of internal memory, which can be expanded up to 128GB using a microSD card. This expandable storage option allows users to store more files, photos, and apps as needed.
Camera and Multimedia
For photography needs, the Y31L features an 8-megapixel rear camera with an LED flash. While not exceptional, this camera should capture decent shots in well-lit environments. On the front, there’s a 5-megapixel selfie camera, which is suitable for video calls and basic selfies.
The device also supports multimedia features like FM radio and audio playback through its built-in speakers or a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Battery and Connectivity
The Y31L is equipped with a 2,200mAh removable battery, which should provide a decent amount of usage time for an entry-level device. However, heavy users or those who frequently use battery-intensive apps may need to recharge more often.
In terms of connectivity, the Y31L supports dual-SIM (GSM and GSM) functionality, allowing users to utilize two different networks simultaneously. It also offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and USB OTG connectivity options. However, it’s worth noting that the device lacks support for 4G LTE on certain bands, which may limit its network capabilities in some regions.
Software and User Experience
The Vivo Y31L runs on Android 5.1 Lollipop out of the box, with Vivo’s custom FunTouch OS 2.1 user interface layered on top. While FunTouch offers some customization options, it may feel outdated or unfamiliar to some users, especially those accustomed to stock Android or other popular skins.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Compact and lightweight design
- Expandable storage option
- Dual-SIM support
Cons:
- Entry-level performance
- Limited RAM
- Outdated software (Android 5.1 Lollipop)
- Lack of 4G LTE support on certain bands
Conclusion
The Vivo Y31L is an entry-level smartphone that aims to provide basic functionality at an affordable price point. While it may not offer cutting-edge performance or features, it could be a viable option for users on a tight budget who prioritize simplicity and affordability over advanced capabilities. However, those seeking a more future-proof device or a smoother overall experience may want to explore alternative options within their budget range.