BLU offers compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone space, but choosing between models like the C5L 2020 and the G73 requires careful consideration. The C5L 2020 represents a baseline entry point, while the G73 aims to deliver a more modern experience with a significantly upgraded processor and faster charging. This comparison dissects the key differences to help you determine which BLU phone best fits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the BLU G73 is the superior choice. Its octa-core processor provides a substantial performance boost over the C5L 2020’s quad-core chip, making it noticeably smoother for multitasking and app usage. The inclusion of 18W charging is a significant convenience, justifying the price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28 | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 38, 66, 71 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, October. Released 2020, October | 2023, June |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2023, June |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic frame, eco leather back |
| Dimensions | 144 x 72.3 x 11.2 mm (5.67 x 2.85 x 0.44 in) | 168.3 x 78.8 x 9.9 mm (6.63 x 3.10 x 0.39 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Micro-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 150 g (5.29 oz) | 210 g (7.41 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~258 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~66.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.8 inches, 111.6 cm2 (~84.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Mali-T820 | Mali-G57 MP1 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | - |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
0.3 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| 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 | 4.0, 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 (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 2200 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Red, Blue, Pastel | Blue, Grey, Orange, Burgundy |
| Price | About 40 EUR | About 140 EUR |
BLU C5L 2020
- Extremely affordable price point
- Potentially longer battery life due to less powerful processor
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Slow performance for multitasking and demanding apps
- Slow charging speeds
- Limited future-proofing
BLU G73
- Significantly faster performance with octa-core processor
- 18W fast charging for quicker replenishment
- Improved multitasking capabilities
- Higher price compared to the C5L 2020
- Potentially shorter battery life due to more powerful processor
- May still struggle with graphically intensive games
Display Comparison
Neither BLU provides detailed display specifications. Given the price points, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. However, the G73’s more powerful processor could potentially support a higher refresh rate, though this is unconfirmed. The C5L 2020’s display is likely optimized for power efficiency, while the G73 may prioritize responsiveness. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, typical for this market segment.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature basic camera setups. The G73’s processor may offer slightly improved image processing capabilities, potentially resulting in better dynamic range and noise reduction. However, the sensor quality and lens aperture will be the primary determinants of image quality, and these details are currently unknown. It’s reasonable to assume both phones will struggle in low-light conditions.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPUs. The BLU C5L 2020’s quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 is a basic processor designed for essential tasks. The BLU G73, however, boasts an octa-core configuration with a heterogeneous setup: two high-performance 1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 cores and six efficiency-focused 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This architecture allows the G73 to handle demanding applications and multitasking with significantly greater ease. The A75 cores provide a substantial uplift in single-core performance, crucial for app launch speeds, while the A55 cores manage background tasks efficiently. The G73 will demonstrably outperform the C5L 2020 in virtually all performance benchmarks and real-world scenarios.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device. However, the BLU G73’s 18W wired charging is a significant advantage. While the C5L 2020 likely charges at a slower rate (likely 5W or 10W), the G73 can replenish its battery much faster, reducing downtime. This is particularly beneficial for users who rely heavily on their smartphones throughout the day. Even if the C5L 2020 has a slightly larger battery, the G73’s faster charging will likely provide a more convenient experience.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU C5L 2020 if you need a functional, extremely affordable smartphone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light web browsing, and battery life is paramount. Buy the BLU G73 if you prioritize a smoother user experience, faster app loading times, and the convenience of quicker charging, even if it means a slightly higher upfront cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU G73 handle popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly?
Yes, the BLU G73’s octa-core processor, with its Cortex-A75 cores, provides sufficient power to run social media apps like TikTok and Instagram smoothly. The C5L 2020 may experience lag and stuttering, especially when multitasking between apps.
❓ How long does it realistically take to charge the BLU G73 from 0% to 100%?
With 18W charging, the BLU G73 should charge from 0% to 100% in approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, assuming a compatible charger is used. The BLU C5L 2020, with its slower charging rate, will likely take 4+ hours to fully charge.
❓ Is the BLU G73 a good option for playing mobile games?
The BLU G73 is a better option for mobile gaming than the C5L 2020, but it's still an entry-level device. It can handle less demanding games at medium settings. However, graphically intensive titles may require lower settings and may still experience some frame drops. The C5L 2020 will struggle with most modern mobile games.
