Finding a smartphone that balances aesthetics, camera capabilities, and reliable daily performance without breaking the bank can be a daunting task. If you’ve been scrolling through reviews, “unboxing” videos, or hot takes on online forums, the Vivo S1 has likely caught your attention.
This mid-range smartphone doesn’t shout for attention but rather, quietly asserts its presence with style. In this review, we’ll explore its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it’s worth the investment for users looking for a phone that looks elegant, captures great photos, and lasts all day on a single charge.
What’s the Appeal of the Vivo S1?
Vivo has positioned the S1 as a mid-range all-rounder featuring premium attributes. With highlights like an under-display fingerprint scanner, Super AMOLED display, and a robust 4,500mAh battery, it boasts an attractive design.
However, it’s important to note that the device doesn’t cater to power users or hardcore gamers. Instead, it’s designed for everyday users who appreciate vibrant media consumption, social media sharing, and casual gaming. Let’s take a closer look.
A Stunning Super AMOLED Display
Most budget smartphones settle for IPS LCD screens, but the Vivo S1 takes a step up with its 6.38-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED panel — and it truly impresses.
- Vibrant Colors: The display offers colors that are lively without leaning into excess.
- Deep Blacks: Text and images appear sharp and defined.
- Content Consumption: Watching videos or scrolling through social media feels like an experience reserved for more expensive devices.
One downside? The waterdrop notch. In an era where punch-hole designs are more common, this notch may evoke a sense of nostalgia for some while feeling outdated to others.
Cameras: Selfie Focus and a Solid Rear Setup
If you’re someone who enjoys taking selfies, the Vivo S1 excels in this area with its 32MP front camera. It performs well in various lighting conditions, producing detailed and sharp selfies. However, the software tends to smoothen images, which might not appeal to everyone.
On the rear, the phone employs a triple-camera setup:
- 16MP main lens
- 8MP ultra-wide lens
- 2MP depth sensor
In daylight, the main camera captures images with clarity and vivid colors. The ultra-wide lens adds versatility for group shots or landscape photography. However, results in low-light situations are decent but far from flagship standards. It’s a quick-capture solution rather than one designed for professional photography.
The camera app is loaded with features and options, including AI beautification and AR stickers, ensuring entertainment for younger users.
Fingerprint Technology: Under-Display Yet Imperfect
The under-display fingerprint scanner is a major draw for many users, representing a modern twist for an affordable device. When it works, the experience is seamless and sleek.
However, it doesn’t always perform flawlessly. Users might experience delays or the need for multiple taps — a minor yet noticeable inconvenience compared to physical fingerprint sensors.
Impressive Battery Performance Meets Slow Charging
The Vivo S1 houses a 4,500mAh battery, which provides long-lasting power. Regular users can expect it to last all day easily. Casual users might even stretch it into Day Two without needing to recharge.
The catch? It supports 18W fast charging through a MicroUSB port — a puzzling choice in 2024. This means slower data transfer and limited accessory compatibility. Such a design choice feels out of place given the otherwise polished features of this phone.
Performance Overview
Now, let’s discuss the performance. The Vivo S1 operates on a MediaTek Helio P65 chipset with options for either 4GB or 6GB of RAM and up to 128GB of storage.
- Daily Usage: It manages everyday tasks like streaming, messaging, and browsing quite smoothly.
- Casual Gaming: Titles like Subway Surfers or Ludo King run well without issues.
- Graphics-Intensive Games: Expect some frame drops or longer load times for games like Call of Duty Mobile, clearly indicating that this phone isn’t intended for serious gaming.
Enhanced Software Experience
Vivo’s FunTouch OS has evolved over the years. On the Vivo S1, it presents a cleaner interface with reduced bloatware, improving user experience significantly. You get:
- Improved app launch speeds
- Snappy animations
- User-friendly navigation
Though it isn’t as close to stock Android as some competitors, the enhancements make it a more pleasant experience for users.
Design: Aesthetic Yet Familiar
Subjective preferences aside, the Vivo S1’s design leans toward a flashy aesthetic. With options like Diamond Black and Skyline Blue, the color-shifting back catches the light beautifully.
While the plastic construction doesn’t feel entirely high-end, it maintains solid build quality. The camera module is flush with the body, and the tactile buttons further enhance the design.
However, the waterdrop notch and slightly chunky chin may leave some users wanting a sleeker appearance. A bit of nostalgia? Perhaps, but it also feels a tad outdated.
Should You Consider the Vivo S1?
In summary, if you’re searching for a stylish smartphone under ₹20,000 that seamlessly combines a great display, top-notch selfie camera, and reliable battery life, the Vivo S1 delivers on many fronts.
It might not be suited for heavy gaming or high-performance tasks, but it excels at everyday essentials for users more focused on multimedia consumption and sharing.
For style-conscious individuals and casual users alike, the Vivo S1 is a noteworthy contender in the mid-range segment.
Just keep in mind the MicroUSB port and average processor performance — if you can accept these quirks, the Vivo S1 stands as a strong choice.
FAQs
Is the Vivo S1 good for gaming?
Not precisely. While it handles light games well, performance drops occur with heavy-duty titles.
How long does the battery last on Vivo S1?
Casual users can expect it to last a full day of regular use, with support for 18W fast charging.
Does it have a good selfie camera?
Definitely. The 32MP front camera is one of the standout features, yielding sharp images in most scenarios.
Is there face unlock and fingerprint scanner?
Yes, it includes both. The under-display fingerprint scanner is functional, although sometimes sluggish.
What UI does it run?
It operates on FunTouch OS, which has seen significant improvements in recent updates.
Is the MicroUSB port a downside?
It might be if you’re used to USB-C. Otherwise, it’s workable if you’re okay with legacy connections.
With its elegant design and features tailored for everyday use, it positions itself as a worthy companion for both aesthetic enthusiasts and laid-back users alike. Dive into a world where luxury meets affordability, and explore what the Vivo S1 has to offer!
