Shared connectivity fundamentals are strong on both devices — dual SIM, USB Type-C, Bluetooth 5, expandable storage, GPS with Galileo support, and identical cellular speeds of 2900 Mbps down / 900 Mbps up keep them on equal footing for everyday networking. Neither supports 5G, which is expected at this price tier. The more telling differences emerge when looking at which additional radios and sensors each phone includes.
The Oppo A20 pulls ahead in two connectivity areas that have tangible daily utility. Its Wi-Fi stack includes Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) alongside Wi-Fi 4 and 5, whereas the A5x tops out at Wi-Fi 5. Wi-Fi 6 offers better performance in congested environments — such as homes with many connected devices — and improved power efficiency during wireless use. More practically, the A20 also includes NFC, which the A5x entirely lacks. NFC enables contactless payments, quick device pairing, and transit card functionality — features that many users rely on daily. The A20 additionally carries a gyroscope, which improves the accuracy of motion-based apps, augmented reality experiences, and certain games. The A5x, on the other hand, includes an infrared sensor, allowing it to function as a universal remote for TVs and appliances — a niche but occasionally useful convenience the A20 cannot replicate.
Weighing these trade-offs, the Oppo A20 holds the stronger position in this category. NFC and Wi-Fi 6 are broadly useful features that benefit a wide range of users on a regular basis, whereas the A5x's infrared sensor serves a much narrower use case. The A20's gyroscope further cements its edge for users who value a complete sensor suite.