The BLU A5L and BLU C5L Max represent the extreme end of the smartphone price spectrum. Both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a remarkably low cost. However, despite similar core specifications, a key difference lies in the C5L Max’s use of the Unisoc SC9832 chipset, while the A5L relies on a simpler quad-core processor. This comparison will dissect these differences to determine which device offers the best user experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a slightly more refined experience and potentially better multimedia handling, the BLU C5L Max emerges as the winner. The Unisoc SC9832 chipset, despite its age, offers integrated features that the A5L’s basic CPU lacks, leading to smoother performance in certain tasks. However, the A5L remains a viable option for basic communication.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 28 | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, February 09. Released 2021, February 09 | 2021, December. Released 2021, December |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 124.5 x 64.5 x 10.6 mm (4.90 x 2.54 x 0.42 in) | 159.5 x 76.5 x 10.5 mm (6.28 x 3.01 x 0.41 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 118 g (4.16 oz) | 174 g (6.14 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~233 ppi density) | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~188 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.0 inches, 45.5 cm2 (~56.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~68.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Unisoc SC9832 (28 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-T820 MP1 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 1400 mAh | Li-Po 2000 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red | Gray, Blue, Red, Green, Bronze |
| Price | About 40 EUR | - |
BLU A5L
- Potentially lower price point.
- Simpler software experience.
- Reliable for basic communication.
- Limited performance for anything beyond basic tasks.
- No dedicated GPU for graphics acceleration.
BLU C5L Max
- Integrated GPU for smoother multimedia and gaming.
- Unisoc chipset offers potential for better power efficiency.
- May include a basic ISP for improved image processing.
- Older 28nm process node.
- Still limited overall performance.
Display Comparison
Neither BLU provides detailed display specifications. Given the price point, both likely utilize LCD panels with resolutions around 480x854. The C5L Max’s Unisoc chipset *may* offer slightly better video decoding capabilities, potentially resulting in smoother playback of online videos. However, expect limited brightness and narrow viewing angles on both devices. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both models, maximizing screen real estate within their compact form factors.
Camera Comparison
Camera details are sparse for both devices. Expect basic 5MP or 8MP primary sensors on both, likely paired with a low-resolution secondary camera for depth sensing or macro photography. The C5L Max’s chipset *may* include a basic image signal processor (ISP), offering some level of image enhancement, while the A5L likely relies on software processing alone. Realistically, image quality will be limited on both, suitable only for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. Avoid expecting detailed photos or good low-light performance.
Performance
Both the BLU A5L and C5L Max feature a quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. However, the C5L Max’s integration within the Unisoc SC9832 chipset is crucial. The SC9832 includes an integrated Mali-T820 MP1 GPU, providing hardware acceleration for graphics processing, which the A5L lacks. This means the C5L Max will perform noticeably better in tasks like scrolling through image-heavy websites or playing simple games. The 28nm process node of the SC9832 is older, but the integrated design offers efficiency benefits over a discrete CPU in this price range.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. Given their size and target market, both likely house batteries in the 2000-2500 mAh range. The Unisoc SC9832’s integrated power management features *could* contribute to slightly better battery life on the C5L Max, but usage patterns will be the dominant factor. Charging speeds are likely to be slow on both, utilizing Micro-USB connectivity.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU A5L if you need a truly minimal smartphone for calls, texts, and very light app usage, and your budget is extremely limited. It’s a reliable device for those who prioritize simplicity above all else. Buy the BLU C5L Max if you prefer a device capable of handling basic multimedia, social media browsing, and light gaming, and appreciate the potential for a smoother overall experience thanks to the integrated graphics and processing capabilities of the Unisoc chipset.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU C5L Max handle popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
The Unisoc SC9832’s integrated GPU should provide a noticeably smoother experience with social media apps compared to the BLU A5L. While not a high-performance device, it should be capable of handling basic scrolling, image loading, and video playback within these apps without significant lag.
❓ Can I play games on either of these phones?
Simple, less demanding games like Candy Crush or basic puzzle games are playable on both devices. However, the BLU C5L Max, with its Mali-T820 MP1 GPU, will offer a better experience, allowing for slightly higher frame rates and smoother gameplay. Do not expect to play graphically intensive games like PUBG or Fortnite.
❓ What kind of storage options are available on these phones, and can it be expanded?
Storage details are not readily available. However, both devices likely ship with a minimal amount of internal storage (8GB or 16GB). Crucially, both are expected to support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage for photos, videos, and apps. This is essential given the limited internal storage.
❓ Are these phones compatible with 4G LTE networks?
Given their target market, both the BLU A5L and BLU C5L Max are likely to support 4G LTE connectivity. However, the specific bands supported may vary. Check compatibility with your carrier before purchasing to ensure optimal network performance.
