BLU offers affordable Android smartphones, and the C5 Plus and Vivo XL5 represent distinct points in their lineup. The C5 Plus focuses on extreme affordability, while the Vivo XL5 aims to deliver a more modern experience with an octa-core processor. This comparison dissects the key differences to help you determine which BLU phone best fits your budget and usage.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the BLU Vivo XL5 is the superior choice. Its octa-core Cortex-A55 processor provides a significantly smoother and more responsive experience than the C5 Plus’s quad-core Cortex-A7, making it better suited for multitasking and modern apps. While the C5 Plus is cheaper, the performance gains of the XL5 justify the price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | - | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, October. Released 2019, October | 2019, July. Released 2019, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 151 x 72.3 x 10 mm (5.94 x 2.85 x 0.39 in) | 161.4 x 78 x 9.6 mm (6.35 x 3.07 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 158 g (5.57 oz) | 181 g (6.38 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels (~292 ppi density) | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 77.4 cm2 (~70.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 99.1 cm2 (~78.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 |
| GPU | Mali-400 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 8.1 Oreo (Go edition) | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | - |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 13 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@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 | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 750 h (2G) / Up to 650 h (3G) |
| Talk time | - | Up to 30 h (2G) / Up to 24 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 2200 mAh battery | Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gradient Blue, Black, Red | Black |
| Price | About 50 EUR | - |
BLU C5 Plus
- Lower price point makes it extremely accessible.
- Simple and straightforward Android experience.
- Potentially longer battery life due to less demanding processor (depending on battery capacity).
- Significantly slower performance compared to the XL5.
- Struggles with multitasking and modern apps.
- Likely to have a lower-quality display.
BLU Vivo XL5
- Faster and more responsive performance thanks to the octa-core processor.
- Better multitasking capabilities.
- More capable of handling modern Android features and apps.
- Higher price point than the C5 Plus.
- May not offer significantly better battery life despite the efficient processor (depending on battery capacity).
- Still a budget device with limitations in camera quality and display technology.
Display Comparison
Neither BLU provides detailed display specifications. Given the price points, both likely utilize LCD panels. However, the XL5’s target market suggests a potentially higher resolution display for improved clarity. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, typical for this segment. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a strong point on either model, and neither is expected to feature high brightness or advanced features like HDR support.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specifications are unavailable. However, given the market segment, both phones likely feature basic camera setups. Expect a primary camera on both, potentially accompanied by a secondary sensor for depth or macro photography (though the usefulness of a 2MP macro lens is limited). Image processing will likely be minimal on both devices, resulting in images that are adequate in good lighting conditions but struggle in low light. The XL5 may benefit from slightly better image processing capabilities due to its more powerful processor, allowing for faster image capture and potentially improved noise reduction.
Performance
The core difference lies in the processors. The BLU Vivo XL5’s octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU represents a substantial upgrade over the C5 Plus’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. The Cortex-A55 architecture is significantly more efficient and offers improved instruction throughput compared to the older Cortex-A7. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother scrolling, and better performance in multitasking scenarios. While neither processor is a powerhouse, the XL5 will handle modern Android features and apps with considerably less strain. The XL5’s octa-core configuration also allows for better parallel processing, benefiting tasks like video editing or image processing, even at a basic level.
Battery Life
Battery capacity details are missing for both devices. However, considering the C5 Plus’s focus on affordability, it may have a smaller battery. The XL5’s more efficient processor could offset a potentially smaller battery capacity, resulting in comparable real-world battery life. Charging wattage is also unknown, but both are likely to support standard 5W charging, meaning relatively slow charging times. Expect a full charge to take several hours on both devices.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU C5 Plus if you need a basic, ultra-affordable smartphone for essential tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing, and are willing to accept slower performance. Buy the BLU Vivo XL5 if you prioritize a smoother user experience, better multitasking capabilities, and the ability to run more demanding apps without significant lag, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU Vivo XL5 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
While the Vivo XL5 can *run* these games, don't expect a high-graphics, high-framerate experience. The processor is capable of handling them at lower settings, but you may encounter occasional lag or stuttering, especially during intense firefights. It's best suited for casual gaming rather than competitive play.
❓ Is the BLU C5 Plus suitable for someone who primarily uses WhatsApp, Facebook, and basic web browsing?
Yes, the C5 Plus is perfectly adequate for those basic tasks. Its quad-core processor is sufficient for running social media apps and browsing the web, although you may experience some slowdown when switching between apps or loading complex webpages. It's a good option for users with very limited needs and a tight budget.
❓ How much storage does each phone have, and can it be expanded?
Storage details are not provided. However, budget smartphones typically come with 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. Both the C5 Plus and XL5 likely support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage for photos, videos, and apps. Check the product listing for the maximum supported microSD card capacity.
❓ What version of Android do these phones run?
The Android version is not specified. Given the price point, it's likely to be an older version of Android (potentially Android 11 or 12) with a limited update schedule. Don't expect frequent security patches or major Android version upgrades.
