Oppo A83 4G pros cons and buying guide explained

Introduction of Oppo A83 4G

The OPPO A83 4G arrived as OPPO’s budget-friendly answer for users who wanted a tall 18:9 display, decent everyday performance and AI-powered selfie features without spending much. If you’re shopping in Saudi Arabia and weighing whether the OPPO A83 4G still makes sense — new or refurbished — this guide explains the phone’s core specifications, real-world strengths and weaknesses, buying recommendations (where to buy, what to check). The goal is to give you a clear, practical verdict so you can decide fast and confidently.

Features of OPPO A83 4G 

• Display: 5.7-inch HD+ (1440×720) IPS, 18:9 ratio.

• Processor: MediaTek Helio P23 (octa-core).

• Memory & storage: Typical variants include 3GB/32GB and 4GB/64GB (some market listings show 6GB/128GB refurbished/retail SKUs). Expandable storage via microSD on many units.

• Camera: 13 MP rear, 8 MP front with OPPO’s AI/beauty modes.

• Battery: 3180 mAh (non-removable).

• Software: Shipped with Android Nougat / ColorOS 3.x (no guaranteed modern OS updates).

• Biometrics: No fingerprint scanner on most standard models; face unlock is provided. 

Pros — why buy the OPPO A83 4G today

1. Good-looking tall screen for media consumption. The 18:9 HD+ panel gives more screen area for videos and browsing without pushing the price up. Reviewers praised its brightness and viewing angles for the segment. 

2. Smooth day-to-day performance for basic tasks. The Helio P23 paired with 3–4GB RAM handles social apps, messaging, light gaming and web browsing comfortably, making it a practical daily driver for budget buyers. 

3. AI selfie & camera features. OPPO’s beauty and AI modes improve selfies in well-lit conditions, which is useful if social and video-call performance matter. 

4. Affordable prices (new or refurbished) in Saudi market. Depending on stock and seller you can find very low refurbished prices or attractive deals on used units, which makes the phone a low-risk purchase. 

Cons — what to be cautious about

1. Aging software & limited update path. The phone launched with Android 7 / ColorOS 3.x and is unlikely to receive modern Android updates — a major consideration for security and app compatibility. 

2. No fingerprint sensor on standard units. OPPO removed the fingerprint sensor and relied on face unlock. Face unlock works well in bright conditions but struggles in low light, which can be inconvenient. 

3. Middling camera in low light. The rear camera is fine in daylight but underperforms in dim scenes; video quality is also not a highlight. 

4. Design/materials are budget-class. Plastic builds and dated ports (microUSB on many units) betray the phone’s age; if premium feel and fast charging standards matter, newer models beat it. 

Real-world performance: speed, battery and camera

• Speed & day use: The Helio P23 and 3–4GB RAM deliver competent performance for social media, WhatsApp, YouTube and light multitasking. Heavy gaming or intense multitasking will show limitations (frame drops, longer app load). 

• Battery life: The 3180 mAh cell typically delivers a full day under moderate use — standby is decent thanks to the power-efficient chipset and 720p display. Power users should expect to top up by evening.

• Camera: 13MP rear produces acceptable daytime shots with natural colors; AI modes can stitch multiple shots for higher-detail "Ultra HD" results in some ops. Low-light shots and video quality are weak compared with newer budget phones. 

Design & build — what to expect

The Oppo A83 4G uses a curved back with plastic construction and a 2.5D front glass. It’s light and pocketable (around ~143 g). The lack of fingerprint scanner was a controversial decision when launched — OPPO prioritized face unlock and cost control. If a premium metal/glass finish is important, the A83 won’t match modern midrange phones. 

Software & updates

Ships with Android 7.1 (Nougat) and OPPO’s ColorOS (3.x). Given the device’s age, you should assume no guaranteed OS security updates — factor this into buying decisions if you need long-term support or current Android features. Use strong app hygiene (only install trusted apps) and consider security apps if using an older device. 

Buying guide for Saudi Arabia — where to buy and what to check

New vs Refurbished vs Used

• New units: Finding brand-new A83 units today may be rare; if available, compare warranty and seller reputation. New units will offer original accessories and possibly limited warranty.

• Refurbished: A popular option in Saudi markets — sites like Fonezone and local marketplaces list refurbished A83 units at very low prices. Refurbished can be excellent value if the unit is verified, tested and includes warranty. 

• Used/second-hand: If you’re buying used from a marketplace, insist on testing the display, camera, battery health, and that the face unlock works; check IMEI to ensure the device isn’t blacklisted.

Price expectations in Saudi Arabia

• Prices vary widely by seller, condition and RAM/storage variant. Listings have shown refurbished starting as low as SAR 450(approx.) and used/clearance prices in the low hundreds; new old-stock MSRP historically was roughly SAR 400–800(approx.) depending on variant and time. Always shop multiple sellers and check daily deals. 

What to test before buying (in-person or on delivery)

• Screen & touch responsiveness (look for dead pixels, ghost touches).

• Battery behavior — check that it holds charge and doesn’t overheat during moderate use.

• Camera & mic — take sample photos and record a short video.

• Face unlock / biometric behavior (and whether fingerprint hardware exists on the unit).

• Full factory reset & IMEI check — ensure it’s not stolen/blocked; verify network compatibility with Saudi carriers.

• Charger & accessories — make sure cable and adapter work; confirm charging port condition (microUSB ports wear out).

Best use cases — who should buy the A83?

• Budget buyers who value a larger 18:9 screen and decent daytime camera performance.

• Secondary/backup phone users who need a reliable, inexpensive device.

• Buyers wanting a cheap refurbished handset with acceptable everyday performance.

Alternatives to consider in 2025

Because the A83 is an older model, consider recent budget phones that provide:

• Modern Android versions (Android 11/12+),

• Fingerprint sensors and faster charging,

• Better low-light cameras and larger batteries.
  If your budget allows, compare current models from Redmi, Realme, Samsung Galaxy A-series and Motorola for newer hardware and longer support.

Final verdict

The OPPO A83 4G is a respectable budget device if your priorities are a tall display, decent daytime camera and low cost — especially as a refurbished buy in Saudi Arabia. However, its outdated software, lack of fingerprint scanner and weaker low-light camera performance mean it’s not optimal for long-term primary use in 2025. If you find a well-refurbished unit with warranty at a very low price and you primarily need basic phone functions, it’s a sensible buy; otherwise, consider a modern budget phone for better long-term value and security. 

FAQs of Oppo A83 4G

Q.1. Is OPPO A83 4G still worth buying in Saudi Arabia?

Yes — mainly as a budget or refurbished purchase for basic use; not ideal if you want software updates or strong low-light camera performance. 

Q.2. Does the A83 have a fingerprint sensor?

Most standard A83 units do not include a fingerprint sensor; they use face unlock instead. 

Q.3. How long does the battery last?

With moderate use, the 3180 mAh battery typically delivers a full day; heavy users will need an evening top-up. 

Q.4. Where can I buy a reliable refurbished A83 in Saudi Arabia?

Local refurb marketplaces and specialist shops like Fonezone and regional listings often have refurbished stock — always check warranty and seller ratings. 

Q.5. Should I prefer a modern budget phone over the A83?

If you care about software updates, security and camera quality, a modern budget phone is a better long-term buy. Consider recent Redmi, Realme or Samsung A-series options.