BLU consistently targets the ultra-budget smartphone market, and the C5 Plus and G53 represent two of their current offerings. While both aim to provide essential smartphone functionality at a low price, they differ significantly in their internal hardware. This comparison dissects those differences, focusing on how the G53’s more modern processor impacts real-world performance compared to the C5 Plus’s older chipset.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the BLU G53 is the superior choice. Its Cortex-A75 based processor provides a substantial performance uplift over the C5 Plus’s Cortex-A7, resulting in a smoother experience for multitasking, app loading, and even light gaming. The price difference is likely worth the upgrade for anyone beyond the most basic smartphone needs.
| 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, 12, 17, 28, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, October. Released 2019, October | 2023, June |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2023, July |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 151 x 72.3 x 10 mm (5.94 x 2.85 x 0.39 in) | 164.8 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm (6.49 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 158 g (5.57 oz) | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels (~292 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 77.4 cm2 (~70.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core (1x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 3x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Mali-400 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go edition) | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | - |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | - |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 2200 mAh battery | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gradient Blue, Black, Red | Pearl, Black, Green, Violet, White |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 100 EUR |
BLU C5 Plus
- Lowest possible price point
- Simple and easy to use
- Acceptable for basic communication
- Very slow performance
- Limited multitasking capabilities
- Outdated processor architecture
BLU G53
- Significantly faster processor
- Smoother user experience
- Better multitasking performance
- Higher price than the C5 Plus
- Still limited by budget components
- Camera quality likely remains basic
Display Comparison
Neither BLU provides detailed display specifications. Given their price points, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. However, the G53’s processor allows for potentially smoother animations and transitions, indirectly improving the perceived visual experience. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, typical of this market segment. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a strong point on either, and brightness levels will likely be adequate for indoor use but struggle in direct sunlight.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature basic camera setups, and image quality will be heavily reliant on software processing. Given the market segment, expect a primary camera and potentially a secondary depth or macro sensor on both. The G53’s more powerful processor *could* enable slightly better image processing, resulting in marginally improved photos, but the sensor quality will be the primary limiting factor. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on either device should be viewed with skepticism; its utility is limited.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPUs. The BLU C5 Plus features a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 processor, an older architecture known for its efficiency but limited performance. The BLU G53, however, boasts a quad-core setup with a more modern configuration: a 2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 and three 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. The Cortex-A75 represents a significant architectural leap, offering substantially higher single-core and multi-core performance. This translates to faster app launch times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user interface on the G53. While both likely have limited RAM (spec not provided, but likely 2GB or 3GB), the G53’s processor will manage memory more efficiently. The G53’s processor is also more likely to support newer codecs for video playback.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, given their similar form factors and target market, they likely house batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range. The G53’s more efficient processor *could* translate to slightly better battery life, despite potentially drawing more power during peak performance. Charging wattage is also unknown, but both are likely to support slow charging speeds via micro-USB. The G53’s processor’s ability to quickly complete tasks may reduce overall screen-on time, potentially offsetting any efficiency gains.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU C5 Plus if you need a truly minimal smartphone for calls, texts, and very light app usage – think basic navigation or a simple music player. It’s ideal for those prioritizing absolute affordability above all else. Buy the BLU G53 if you prefer a more responsive experience, want to run more demanding apps, or anticipate using your phone for anything beyond the most basic tasks. The G53 offers a noticeable performance boost that justifies the higher cost for most users.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU G53 handle popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram without significant lag?
Yes, the BLU G53’s Cortex-A75 processor is significantly more capable than the C5 Plus’s Cortex-A7. It should handle Facebook, Instagram, and similar apps with a much smoother experience, reducing lag and improving responsiveness. While it won’t offer flagship-level performance, it will be a noticeable improvement over the C5 Plus.
❓ Is the BLU G53 a good choice for playing mobile games?
The BLU G53 is suitable for *light* mobile gaming. While it won’t run demanding titles at high settings, it should be able to handle less graphically intensive games without significant issues. The Cortex-A75 provides a performance boost over the C5 Plus, but don’t expect a high-end gaming experience. The C5 Plus will struggle with even basic games.
❓ What type of charging port do these phones use?
Both the BLU C5 Plus and BLU G53 are highly likely to use a micro-USB port for charging and data transfer, a common feature in this price range. Neither phone is expected to support USB-C or fast charging technologies.
❓ How much storage do these phones typically come with?
While not explicitly stated, both the BLU C5 Plus and G53 likely come with 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. Given the limited price point, expanding storage via microSD card is highly recommended for both devices.