Looking for an affordable Android phone? BLU offers several options, and the C5L Max and F91 are two popular contenders. But which one is right for you? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their specs and features to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The BLU F91 is the clear winner. Its Dimensity 810 chipset offers significantly better performance, faster charging (including wireless and reverse wireless), and a more modern design. The C5L Max is a budget option, but the F91's upgrades justify 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 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 17, 28, 66 | 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 17, 25, 26, 41, 66, 71 |
| 5G bands | - | 2, 5, 25, 41, 66, 71, 77 SA/NSA/Sub6 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, December. Released 2021, December | 2022, April 20 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, April 20 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 159.5 x 76.5 x 10.5 mm (6.28 x 3.01 x 0.41 in) | 168.7 x 76.8 x 8.9 mm (6.64 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 174 g (6.14 oz) | 209 g (7.37 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 960 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~188 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~68.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9832 (28 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-T820 MP1 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11 (Go edition) | Android 11 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, (wide) 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 115˚ (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | 5 MP | 16 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 16 MP, f/2.0 |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| 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, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired
10W wireless
Reverse wired |
| Type | Li-Po 2000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gray, Blue, Red, Green, Bronze | Blue |
| Price | - | About 280 EUR |
BLU C5L Max
- Very affordable
- Basic functionality
- Compact size (likely)
- Weak performance
- Basic camera
- Slow charging
- Outdated chipset
BLU F91
- Significantly better performance
- Faster charging (wired & wireless)
- Improved camera
- Modern chipset
- Reverse wireless charging
- More expensive than C5L Max
- May still have budget limitations in build quality
Display Comparison
The BLU F91 likely features a larger and higher-resolution display than the C5L Max, offering a more immersive viewing experience. While both likely use IPS LCD panels, the F91's display will likely have better color accuracy and brightness. Expect the C5L Max to have a smaller, more basic display.
Camera Comparison
The F91's Dimensity 810 chipset typically includes a more capable image signal processor (ISP), leading to better image quality, especially in low light. While specific camera specs are needed, the F91 is expected to have a more advanced camera system overall, potentially with features like optical image stabilization (OIS). The C5L Max will likely have a basic camera setup.
Performance
This is where the F91 shines. The Dimensity 810 is a vastly superior chipset compared to the Unisoc SC9832. Expect significantly faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the F91. The C5L Max will struggle with demanding apps and multitasking.
Battery Life
Both phones likely have similar battery capacities (around 4000-5000mAh). However, the F91's faster charging capabilities (18W wired, 10W wireless, reverse wireless) provide a significant advantage. The C5L Max will likely charge much slower.
Buying Guide
The BLU C5L Max is best for users on an extremely tight budget who prioritize basic functionality like calls, texts, and light social media use. The BLU F91 is ideal for those who want a smoother experience, better camera performance, faster charging, and a more future-proof device, even within a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the BLU F91 worth the extra money compared to the C5L Max?
Yes, the F91's significantly improved performance, camera, and charging capabilities make it a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you plan to use your phone for more than just basic tasks.
❓ What kind of games can I play on the BLU F91?
The Dimensity 810 can handle most casual games smoothly. More demanding titles may require lower graphics settings for optimal performance.