The Android tablet market offers a range of options, but finding the right balance between price and performance can be challenging. We pit the Blackview Tab 12, a budget-focused offering, against the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2, a more refined mid-range contender, to determine which tablet delivers the best experience for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 is the superior choice. Its Mediatek Helio G99 chipset, built on a 6nm process, provides a significant performance advantage over the Blackview Tab 12’s Unisoc SC9863A, translating to smoother multitasking and a more responsive user experience. While the Blackview Tab 12 offers a lower entry price, the Lenovo’s efficiency and power justify the cost difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 40 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE - cellular model only |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, May 15 | 2022, September 01 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, May 31 | Available. Released 2023, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 238.5 x 157.5 x 7.4 mm (9.39 x 6.20 x 0.29 in) | 269.1 x 169.4 x 7.4 mm (10.59 x 6.67 x 0.29 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM (cellular model only) |
| Weight | 430 g (15.17 oz) | 520 g (1.15 lb) |
| | - | Stylus support |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Asahi Glass | - |
| Resolution | 1200 x 1920 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~224 ppi density) | 1200 x 2000 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~203 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~78.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 11.5 inches, 376.4 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12L |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 13 MP, f/2.4, (wide), AF |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers (4 speakers) |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS - cellular model only |
| Radio | FM radio | No |
| USB | USB Type-C, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG, magnetic connector |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | - |
| Type | 6580 mAh | Li-Po 7700 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gray, Blue, Silver | Storm Grey, Sage |
| Models | - | TB350FU |
| Price | About 160 EUR | About 350 EUR |
Blackview Tab 12
- Most affordable option
- Potentially longer battery life due to larger capacity (speculation)
- Suitable for basic tasks
- Significantly slower performance
- Less efficient chipset
- Slower charging speed (10W)
Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2
- Faster and more responsive performance
- More power-efficient chipset (6nm)
- Likely better display quality
- Higher price point
- Potentially shorter battery life (depending on capacity)
- May require more frequent charging
Display Comparison
Neither device’s display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the market positioning, the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 likely features a higher quality panel with better color accuracy and potentially higher brightness. The Blackview Tab 12, aiming for a lower price point, may utilize a more basic LCD panel. Bezels are also likely to be slimmer on the Lenovo, contributing to a more modern aesthetic. Without specific nit ratings, it’s reasonable to assume the Lenovo offers a more visually pleasing experience.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a meaningful comparison is difficult. However, it’s safe to assume that both tablets feature modest camera systems geared towards casual use. Given the price difference, the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 likely incorporates a slightly better main sensor and image processing algorithms. The presence of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on the Lenovo, while not confirmed, would be a significant advantage in low-light conditions. The Blackview Tab 12 likely relies on software enhancements to compensate for a less capable sensor.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2’s Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Blackview Tab 12’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The 6nm process node of the Helio G99 allows for greater transistor density and improved power efficiency, resulting in better sustained performance and less heat generation. Furthermore, the Helio G99’s CPU configuration – 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 cores and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores – is significantly more powerful than the Blackview’s 4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 and 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 setup. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience on the Lenovo.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn’t specified for either device. However, the Mediatek Helio G99’s 6nm process gives the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 a significant advantage in power efficiency. This means the Lenovo is likely to achieve comparable or even better battery life despite potentially having a smaller battery capacity than the Blackview Tab 12. The Blackview Tab 12’s 10W wired charging is considerably slower than what the Lenovo likely offers, meaning longer recharge times. The efficiency of the Helio G99 will also reduce the time spent plugged in.
Buying Guide
Buy the Blackview Tab 12 if you prioritize absolute affordability and need a tablet for very basic tasks like reading ebooks, light web browsing, and occasional video playback. It’s a suitable option for users on a tight budget who don’t demand high performance. Buy the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 if you value a smoother, more responsive experience for multitasking, streaming, and light gaming. Its more powerful chipset and efficient design make it a better long-term investment for users who want a tablet that can keep up with their digital lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Unisoc SC9863A in the Blackview Tab 12 struggle with multitasking or demanding apps?
Yes, the Unisoc SC9863A is a low-end chipset designed for basic tasks. Expect noticeable slowdowns when running multiple apps simultaneously or using resource-intensive applications like video editors or graphically demanding games. It's best suited for light web browsing, reading, and video playback.
❓ Is the Mediatek Helio G99 in the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 capable of handling mobile games?
The Mediatek Helio G99 is a capable gaming chipset for a tablet in this price range. While it won't deliver flagship-level performance, it can handle most popular mobile games at medium to high settings. The 6nm process also helps to prevent overheating during extended gaming sessions.
❓ How significant is the difference in charging speed between the two tablets?
The Blackview Tab 12’s 10W charging is considerably slower than what the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 likely offers. Expect a much longer recharge time with the Blackview, potentially taking several hours to fully charge the battery. The Lenovo’s faster charging will get you back up and running much quicker.
❓ Does the Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 support stylus input or keyboard attachments?
While not explicitly stated in the provided specs, Lenovo often includes support for optional accessories like styluses and keyboard covers with their Tab P series tablets. Checking Lenovo’s official website or retailer listings will confirm compatibility with these accessories for the P11 Gen 2.
