Vivo T4 vs Vivo Y31 5G: Key Differences

The Vivo T4 and Vivo Y31 5G are two budget-to-midrange 5G phones that target different priorities: the T4 focuses on a smoother display and faster charging, while the Y31 5G emphasizes a larger battery and a more compact build. Before you choose, compare the processor, display quality, battery capacity, and software update commitment, because those four factors will determine which phone feels right for daily use. This guide breaks down the specs, real-world performance expectations, and common buying mistakes so you can pick the one that matches your habits.

Background: Where Each Phone Sits in Vivo’s Lineup

Vivo’s Y series has traditionally been the entry-level 5G option, with the Y31 5G launching in late 2021 as one of the first affordable 5G phones in several Asian markets. It uses the MediaTek Dimensity 700 chip, a common processor for budget 5G devices of that generation. The T series, introduced later, is Vivo’s “performance-focused� line, and the T4 (released in 2024) upgrades to the Dimensity 7200, a significantly faster chip with better gaming and multitasking capability.

Because the two phones are from different eras of Vivo’s lineup, the comparison is not just about specs on paper—it is about whether you value a newer processor and faster screen refresh rate (T4) or a bigger battery and lower price (Y31 5G). The Y31 5G is often sold at a steep discount now, which makes it tempting, but the T4’s hardware will last longer before feeling slow.

Processor and Performance: Dimensity 7200 vs Dimensity 700

The Vivo T4 uses the MediaTek Dimensity 7200, built on a 4nm process, while the Y31 5G uses the Dimensity 700, built on a 7nm process. That difference translates to roughly 50–60% higher CPU and GPU performance in the T4, based on standard benchmark comparisons. In everyday terms:

• App loading: The T4 opens heavy apps like Instagram or Google Maps about 0.5–1 second faster.
• Gaming: The T4 can run titles like PUBG Mobile at “Smooth + 60fps� consistently, while the Y31 5G may drop to 30–40fps in crowded scenes.
• Multitasking: The T4’s faster RAM and storage (UFS 2.2 vs UFS 2.1) reduce lag when switching between apps.

If you only use your phone for calls, messaging, and occasional YouTube, the Y31 5G’s Dimensity 700 is still fine. But if you play games or keep many apps open, the T4 is the clear winner.

Display and Refresh Rate: 120Hz AMOLED vs 90Hz IPS LCD

The most noticeable difference when you hold both phones is the screen. The Vivo T4 has a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, while the Y31 5G has a 6.58-inch IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate. AMOLED provides deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors, and the 120Hz makes scrolling feel smoother. The Y31’s LCD is still readable outdoors, but it lacks the punchy look of the T4.

For video streaming, the T4 supports HDR10+ (though not all apps use it), while the Y31 does not. Battery life is also affected: AMOLED can save power by turning off individual pixels when showing dark themes, but the higher refresh rate on the T4 can offset that. In practice, the T4’s screen is a major upgrade if you watch a lot of media or simply want a phone that feels modern.

Battery and Charging: 5000mAh in Both, but Different Speeds

Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery, which is the sweet spot for all-day use. The difference is charging speed: the T4 supports 44W fast charging (0–50% in about 25 minutes), while the Y31 5G is limited to 18W (0–50% in about 50 minutes). If you regularly charge in the morning before work, the T4’s faster top-up is a practical advantage.

However, the Y31 5G’s slower charging is not a dealbreaker if you charge overnight. Also, the Y31’s lower-power screen and older chip may actually give it slightly better standby battery life, since it draws less power during light use. In real-world testing, the Y31 can last a few hours longer on a single charge for basic tasks, but the T4 catches up when you factor in faster recharging.

Camera System: Similar Main Sensor, Different Processing

Both phones have a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, but the T4’s newer image signal processor (ISP) handles low light and dynamic range better. The Y31 5G also has a 2MP macro and 2MP depth sensor, while the T4 adds a 2MP depth sensor only—no macro. In practice, the macro lens on the Y31 is barely usable (low resolution, poor focus), so you are not missing much on the T4.

For video, the T4 records 4K at 30fps, while the Y31 5G is capped at 1080p. If you shoot video for social media, the T4’s higher resolution gives more flexibility for cropping. The front cameras are similar (16MP on both), but the T4’s software processing tends to produce more natural skin tones.

Software and Updates: T4 Gets More Years

The Vivo T4 launched with Android 14 and Funtouch OS 14, and Vivo has committed to two major OS updates and three years of security patches. The Y31 5G launched with Android 11 and Funtouch OS 11, and it already received its last major update to Android 13. This means the Y31 will not get Android 14 or later, and security patches will stop sooner.

If you keep a phone for more than two years, the T4 is the safer choice for security and app compatibility. The Y31 5G is still functional, but it will gradually lose access to new features and may become more vulnerable over time. For a budget phone, the T4’s update promise is a significant value add.

Build, Weight, and 5G Bands

The Y31 5G is slightly lighter (182g vs 191g on the T4) and has a more compact 6.58-inch screen, which some users prefer for one-handed use. The T4 is taller and wider, but it has a glass back instead of plastic, giving it a more premium feel. Both have a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is rare in newer phones.

For 5G connectivity, both support Sub-6GHz bands, but the T4 includes more global bands (e.g., n1, n3, n5, n7, n8, n20, n28, n38, n40, n41, n77, n78) compared to the Y31’s more limited set (n1, n3, n5, n8, n28, n40, n41, n78). If you travel internationally, the T4 is more likely to work on foreign 5G networks.

Price and Value: Which One Should You Buy?

Pricing varies by region, but the Y31 5G is typically 30–40% cheaper than the T4 at launch. If your budget is extremely tight and you only need a basic 5G phone for calls and light browsing, the Y31 5G is a decent pick. However, the T4’s faster processor, better screen, and longer software support justify the extra cost for most users, especially if you plan to keep the phone for 2–3 years.

Consider these scenarios:

• You play games or watch lots of video: Choose the T4 for the 120Hz AMOLED and faster GPU.
• You value battery life over everything: The Y31 5G’s lower-power screen gives it an edge, but the T4’s fast charging compensates.
• You want the latest Android updates: Only the T4 qualifies.
• You need a phone for a child or as a backup: The Y31 5G is cheaper and still works fine for basic tasks.

Common Problems and Longevity Concerns

Owners of the Y31 5G often report that the 90Hz refresh rate is not always smooth in apps that are not optimized, and the Dimensity 700 struggles with heavy multitasking. The T4 has fewer complaints, but some users note that the AMOLED screen can be too bright in dark rooms (no DC dimming) and that the phone runs warm during extended gaming sessions. Neither phone has a microSD card slot, so choose the storage variant carefully (T4 offers 128GB/256GB, Y31 offers 64GB/128GB).

Another issue: Vivo’s Funtouch OS includes pre-installed apps and ads in some regions, which can be annoying but is not unique to either model. If you dislike bloatware, check if your region’s version allows uninstalling these apps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which phone has a better camera for low-light photos?

The Vivo T4 produces cleaner low-light shots because its newer image processor reduces noise and handles highlights better. The Y31 5G’s camera is acceptable in daylight but tends to produce grainy images in dim conditions. If night photography matters, the T4 is the better choice.

Can I use the Y31 5G for gaming?

Yes, but only for light games like Candy Crush or Clash Royale. For heavy games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile, the Y31 5G will run at low settings with frequent frame drops. The T4 handles these games at medium settings smoothly.

Does the Y31 5G support 5G in the US?

No, the Y31 5G lacks the specific bands (like n71) used by US carriers such as T-Mobile and AT&T. It works on 4G LTE in the US but not 5G. The T4 also lacks mmWave, but it supports more Sub-6GHz bands, so it may work on some US 5G networks, though coverage is not guaranteed. Check your carrier’s compatibility list before buying.

Is the T4 worth the extra money over the Y31 5G?

For most users, yes. The T4 offers a significantly better display, faster charging, and two extra years of software updates. The Y31 5G is only worth it if you are on a very tight budget and do not mind older hardware.

Which phone has a longer battery life?

In real-world light use, the Y31 5G often lasts slightly longer because its 90Hz LCD and older chip draw less power. However, the T4’s 44W charging means you can top up quickly, so the total “available uptime� over a day is similar. If you are away from a charger for 12+ hours, the Y31 may be safer.

Do both phones have a headphone jack?

Yes, both the Vivo T4 and Vivo Y31 5G include a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is convenient if you still use wired earphones. They also both have a USB-C port for charging.

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