The BLU C5 Plus and C5 Max represent BLU’s commitment to providing affordable Android smartphones. While both devices target the entry-level market, a closer examination reveals nuanced differences that could sway your decision. This comparison dives deep into their specifications to determine which phone offers the best value for your money, given their identical CPU cores.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing simplicity and basic functionality, the BLU C5 Max is the slightly better choice. While both phones share the same 1.3GHz quad-core Cortex-A7 processor, the Max likely benefits from optimizations in software or other components, making it a marginally smoother experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, October. Released 2019, October | 2022, January |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 151 x 72.3 x 10 mm (5.94 x 2.85 x 0.39 in) | 159.2 x 76.5 x 9.8 mm (6.27 x 3.01 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 158 g (5.57 oz) | 164 g (5.78 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels (~292 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 77.4 cm2 (~70.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~68.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| GPU | Mali-400 | - |
| OS | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go edition) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 5 MP
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP | 4.1, A2DP |
| 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 2200 mAh battery | Li-Po 2700 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gradient Blue, Black, Red | Black, Blue, Red, Green, Bronze |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 60 EUR |
BLU C5 Plus
- Ultra-affordable price point
- Simple and easy to use
- Decent battery life (estimated)
- Limited performance
- Basic camera quality
- Outdated processor architecture
BLU C5 Max
- Potentially better software optimization
- Slightly more responsive user experience
- Decent battery life (estimated)
- Limited performance
- Basic camera quality
- Outdated processor architecture
Display Comparison
Given the lack of display specifications, we can infer both devices utilize LCD panels common in this price bracket. The user experience will likely be similar, with neither phone expected to offer vibrant colors or high brightness. Bezels are likely substantial on both, maximizing screen real estate within a budget-friendly design. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a priority, focusing instead on basic readability.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, it’s safe to assume both phones feature basic camera setups. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera on either device is largely a marketing tactic, as image quality will be limited. Expect acceptable results in well-lit conditions, but poor performance in low light. Image processing will likely be minimal, resulting in photos lacking dynamic range and detail. The primary sensor resolution is unknown, but likely low.
Performance
Both the BLU C5 Plus and C5 Max are powered by the same Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU. This processor is an older architecture, designed for efficiency rather than raw power. Expect performance suitable for basic tasks like web browsing, social media, and light app usage. The identical CPU means performance differences will be minimal, potentially stemming from RAM capacity (unspecified) or software optimization. Neither device is suited for demanding games or multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given the power-efficient Cortex-A7 processor, both phones should offer at least a full day of battery life with moderate usage. Charging wattage is also unknown, suggesting slow charging speeds via micro-USB (likely). Real-world battery performance will depend heavily on usage patterns and screen brightness.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU C5 Plus if you need a truly bare-bones, ultra-affordable smartphone for essential communication tasks like calls and texts. It’s ideal for first-time smartphone users or as a temporary device. Buy the BLU C5 Max if you prefer a slightly more refined experience, potentially with better software optimization and a more responsive user interface, even within the same performance tier.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU C5 Plus or C5 Max struggle with popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram?
Given the Cortex-A7 processor, expect some lag and slowdown when using Facebook and Instagram, especially with multiple tabs or videos. These apps are resource-intensive, and the phones are designed for basic tasks. Optimizing app usage (closing unused apps) can help mitigate performance issues.
❓ Can either of these phones play modern mobile games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
No, neither the BLU C5 Plus nor the BLU C5 Max are capable of running modern, graphically demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty at playable frame rates. The processor and likely limited GPU are simply not powerful enough. They are better suited for simpler, less demanding games.
❓ What type of charging port do these phones use?
Based on the price point and target market, it's highly probable that both the BLU C5 Plus and C5 Max utilize a micro-USB charging port. Expect slower charging speeds compared to newer USB-C technology.
