Is Vivo Y17 worth buying in today’s competitive market?

Introduction

In 2025, the budget smartphone segment in Saudi Arabia is more competitive than ever. With brands like Xiaomi, Realme, Infinix, and Samsung pushing aggressive value-for-money devices, older models like the Vivo Y17 are increasingly being questioned. Originally launched a few years ago, the Vivo Y17 still has certain strengths — but does it hold up against newer rivals now? In this blog, I’ll break down its performance, pros and cons, and whether it's still a viable choice for buyers in Saudi Arabia.

What the Vivo Y17 Brings to the Table

Let’s first recap the key specifications and features of the Vivo Y17 (as listed on Vivo Saudi Arabia) to understand its baseline capabilities. 

• Display: 6.35″ “Halo FullView” LCD, 720 × 1544 resolution. 

• Processor: MediaTek Helio P35 (MT6765), built on a 12 nm process. 

• Memory & Storage: Y17 comes in a 4 GB / 128 GB variant (according to Vivo), though some regional or later variants (e.g., on Noon) offer 6 GB RAM. 

• Battery & Charging: 5,000 mAh battery with Vivo’s “Dual-Engine Fast Charging” (18W for some variants). 

• Cameras:

  • Rear: Triple-camera setup — 13 MP main + 8 MP super-wide + 2 MP depth. 

  • Front: 20 MP selfie camera. 

• Software: Ships with Funtouch OS 9 (based on Android 9) per Vivo’s spec sheet. 

• Connectivity & Build: 4G LTE support, rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, and plastic build. 

Strengths of the Vivo Y17 in 2025

Here’s where the Y17 still performs reasonably well and why some buyers might find it attractive even today.

a) Good Battery Life

The 5,000 mAh battery is a strong point for the Y17. Reviews noted that in their video-loop test, it lasted nearly 19 hours on a single charge. Also, NoypiGeeks’ review highlighted that because of the relatively low-power P35 chipset and modest HD screen, the phone can easily handle moderate daily use without frequent recharging. 

For many users in Saudi Arabia — especially students, professionals, or anyone who doesn’t have constant access to a charger — this battery endurance remains a meaningful advantage.

b) Decent Charging Speed (for its Era)

While not “flagship fast,” the dual-engine fast charging (Vivo’s term) gives decent recharging capability. It’s not as fast as the 30 W+ standards common today, but for a budget device with a 5,000 mAh battery, 18 W (on some variants) or similar gives a usable trade-off between price, speed, and battery capacity.

c) Triple Camera Setup with Versatility

The 13 MP + 8 MP (ultra-wide) + 2 MP (depth) setup gives the user flexibility: a normal photo, wide-angle landscapes or group shots, and depth for portraits. For many casual photography use-cases (social media, snapshots), this is “good enough.” Selfies are also strong with a 20 MP front camera, which is quite good for its price. Vivo’s AI enhancements and beauty modes also make it user-friendly for selfies. 

d) Large Storage Option

With 128 GB storage in its base / popular variant, the Y17 gives respectable room for apps, photos, and media. Many budget phones skimp on storage, so this is a definite plus for power users or media consumers who don’t want to rely heavily on cloud storage.

e) Affordable Price 

At around SAR 393(approx.) for a 6 GB / 128 GB variant, the price is quite aggressive — assuming the seller is reliable and the product is genuine. For that money, getting a 5,000 mAh battery, 128 GB storage, and a triple camera setup is quite reasonable.

Key Weaknesses & Drawbacks

While the Y17 has strengths, there are several significant limitations that make it less competitive in today’s market.

a) Aging & Modest Processor

The Helio P35 chipset is not very powerful by today’s standards. In 2025, many budget phones offer far more efficient and faster processors (e.g., newer MediaTek Helio G-series, Dimensity, or Snapdragon budget chips). Reviewers (e.g., Gadgets 360) have pointed out that the Y17 “is not well-suited for high-quality gaming” or intense multitasking. 

This means for users who want to game, stream, or use demanding apps, the performance may feel sluggish or limited.

b) Low-Resolution Screen

The 720p (HD+) display is acceptable, but in 2025, many budget phones have moved to Full HD+ or even higher, offering sharper visuals, better media consumption, and better overall experience. The lower resolution also limits screen clarity, especially for reading text, watching high-res videos, or gaming.

c) Older Software

Vivo Y17 ships with Funtouch OS 9 based on Android 9. That’s quite outdated for 2025, and there's no strong evidence that it receives major OS updates. This raises concerns about long-term security, app compatibility, and whether Vivo will continue to support it.

For buyers in Saudi Arabia who care about future software updates or longer device lifespan, this is a major downside.

d) Camera Limitations

Although the triple-camera setup is flexible, the main 13 MP sensor has a relatively small aperture (f/2.2) and is not particularly advanced. Reviewers noted weak low-light performance and lack of stabilization, which affects video quality. The 8 MP ultra-wide is also useful but not stellar in image quality.

For users who prioritize photography, newer budget phones can offer stronger camera modules (higher MP, better low-light performance, or OIS).

e) Connectivity & Build

• The Y17 only supports up to 4G (no 5G), which is a limitation as 5G proliferates globally (though 4G is still widely used).

• It uses micro-USB charging in some variants, which is quite dated compared to modern USB-C standards. 

• The build is plastic, which is common in budget phones, but it feels less premium than some newer competitors with better build quality.

f) Competing Phones Are Far Better Now

In 2025, budget phones from Realme, Xiaomi, and Infinix offer stronger performance, newer chipsets, faster charging, better screens, and more modern designs. For example:

• Realme C series: Very affordable, and newer models in Saudi Arabia are competitively priced. 

• Infinix Note 30: Offers a 120Hz screen and more modern chipset. 

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 13: A strong option with good specs and local availability. 

These alternatives make the Y17 less compelling unless you have very specific use-cases or find it at an excellent deal.

Who Might Still Buy the Vivo Y17 

Given the strengths and weaknesses, who is the right audience for the Y17 in 2025?

• Budget-conscious users: If you're shopping for a very cheap but usable phone and don't need high-end performance, the Y17 could be appealing — especially if you find it at a discounted or clearance price.

• Everyday users with moderate needs: For social media, messaging, light media consumption, and calls, the Y17 is sufficient.

• Long battery life seekers: Users who prioritize battery over speed might appreciate the 5,000 mAh cell and moderate power draw.

• Storage-focused buyers: With 128GB storage, it's a good pick for someone who wants space for photos, apps, and media without relying on cloud storage.

However, skip it if:

• You want to play modern mobile games or use heavy apps.

• You care about future software updates or long-term security support.

• You plan to keep the phone for several years.

• You need 5G, modern charging (USB-C), or a higher-resolution screen.

Realistic Verdict for the Saudi Market

Is the Vivo Y17 worth buying today in Saudi Arabia? 

• Yes, if you find a good deal: If a trustworthy seller in Saudi Arabia (or through cross-border import with good warranty) is offering the Y17 at a low, clearance-like price, it can make sense as a backup phone or for basic everyday use.

• No, for long-term or high-performance usage: For most buyers today, newer budget options provide significantly better value. Performance, screen quality, camera, and software support have improved dramatically in newer models. Unless the Y17 is heavily discounted, you're likely better off investing in a more modern smartphone with future-proof features.

Risks & Considerations When Buying

Here are some risks and practical considerations for anyone thinking of buying the Vivo Y17 now:

1. Availability & Authenticity: Ensure the seller is reliable, especially if you're buying from an online marketplace. Check for region-specific SKUs, genuine packaging, and warranty support.

2. Software Support: Because the phone is older, Vivo may not provide new Android version updates. You might be stuck on Funtouch OS 9 or receive only minimal security updates.

3. Spare Parts & Repair: Replacement parts (like battery or screen) may be harder to find compared to popular modern models.

4. Battery Health: If you’re buying a used unit, check battery health carefully; older lithium batteries may have degraded capacity.

5. Compatibility: Confirm the network bands work in your area in KSA and whether any features (like dual-SIM) match your use case.

FAQs 

Q.1. Is the Vivo Y17 still sold new in Saudi Arabia?

Yes — you can find it on local/region-friendly marketplaces in Saudi Arabia. 

Q.2. How much does the Vivo Y17 cost in Saudi Arabia right now?

6GB/128GB variant for around SAR 393(approx.). Other sources show up to SAR 920 for certain versions. 

Q.3. Is the camera good for social media and everyday photos?

It’s decent: 13MP + 8MP wide + 2MP depth on the rear, and a 20MP front camera — good enough for casual photography, social media, and selfies, but not exceptional in low-light or for very high-quality shots. 

Q.4. How long does the Vivo Y17 battery last?

Very well — reviews report nearly 19 hours in video loop tests and about a day and a half in typical mixed use. 

Q.5. Should I buy it instead of a newer budget phone (like Realme C series or Infinix Note)?

Only if you find a very good deal and don’t need cutting-edge performance, 5G, or long-term software support. For most buyers, newer budget phones offer better value in 2025.