Vivo V50 lite twins take on Samsung’s S25 Edge, at half the price

Just a day after Samsung unveiled its much-anticipated Galaxy S25 Edge, Vivo launched the V50 Lite 4G — and it’s already turning heads for its striking resemblance to Samsung’s flagship device.

But what if you're after a bit more power? Enter the Vivo V50 Lite 5G — the 5G-enabled sibling of the 4G version — offering futureproofing at a slightly higher price point.

Design and display

Both the Vivo V50 Lite 4G and 5G variants feature a sleek, curved-edge design with vibrant AMOLED displays. AMOLED stands for Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode. It's a type of display technology that uses organic compounds to produce light when an electric current is applied. This allows for high contrast ratios and deep blacks, as well as vibrant colors.

The 5G model retains all the design characteristics of the 4G version, including the glass-like back and polished metal frame, but adds 5G connectivity — an advantage for users seeking faster speeds and more stable connections.

Each device sports a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering vivid colours and sharp visuals, ideal for media consumption.

However, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge edges ahead with higher-end specifications, including QHD+ resolution and a more advanced refresh rate.

Water resistance and aura light

The Vivo V50 Lite 4G holds up well against the elements, having passed a three-minute water jet test and withstood up to 12 hours under simulated rainfall — a reassuring feature for dealing with splashes or unexpected downpours.

The phone also features an Aura Light, designed to enhance portrait photography by providing a soft, even glow from the rear camera, perfect for capturing natural-looking selfies and low-light shots without the harshness of a traditional flash.

Performance and hardware

Under the hood, the two phones diverge in terms of processing power.

The V50 Lite 4G is powered by a Snapdragon 685 chipset, while the 5G version boasts a Snapdragon 695, delivering faster processing speeds, improved gaming performance, and more efficient use of 5G networks.

While the 4G model is well-suited to everyday tasks, the 5G variant offers a smoother experience for users who stream in HD or engage in mobile gaming.

Other Topics To Read

• Technology
• Headlines
• Smartphones
• Galaxy S25 Edge
• V50 Lite 4G
• Vivo V50 Lite 5G
• Vivo
• Vivo V50 lite twins take on Samsung’s S25 Edge
• at half the price

Camera capabilities

The camera setups are nearly identical on both models: a 64MP primary sensor paired with 2MP depth and 2MP macro lenses, delivering decent photo quality.

However, the 5G version’s superior processing power gives it a slight edge in low-light conditions and faster image rendering, resulting in clearer, more detailed photos.

Battery life and charging

The Vivo V50 Lite 4G packs a robust 6,500mAh battery and supports 44W fast charging — juicing up from 0 to 50% in just 23 minutes and reaching 100% in around 52.5 minutes. It's a convenient feature for users on the move.

The 5G variant also comes with a large battery, though users may notice a slightly shorter battery life due to the added demands of 5G connectivity. Both models support reverse charging, allowing the phones to serve as power banks for other devices.

Pricing and market position

The Vivo V50 Lite 4G is priced between Sh33,000 and Sh38,000, while the V50 Lite 5G is expected to retail between Sh40,000 and Sh48,000, depending on the vendor.

“The 5G model is a great option for those who want faster internet speeds and are looking to future-proof their devices,” says Francis Mwangi of Tech Digital Nairobi.

Both models offer excellent value for money, with 5G connectivity being the main differentiator.

If you’re looking to future-proof your smartphone and take advantage of faster, more stable connections, the Vivo V50 Lite 5G is a solid investment.

However, if 5G is not a priority and you simply want a stylish, affordable smartphone, the 4G model still delivers impressive performance without the added cost.

In conclusion, both phones strike a strong balance between design, performance, and affordability, making them worthy contenders for anyone seeking a premium-feel smartphone on a budget.