The BLU G5 and C5 Max represent distinct approaches to the ultra-budget smartphone market. The G5 aims for a more modern experience with an octa-core processor, while the C5 Max prioritizes basic functionality at an even lower price point. This comparison dissects the core differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the BLU G5 is the superior choice. Its octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU provides a significantly more responsive experience for everyday tasks and light multitasking compared to the C5 Max’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. While the C5 Max is cheaper, the performance trade-off is substantial.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - G0090UU | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 28 - G0090LL, G0090VV | - |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA |
| | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 - G0090UU | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, July. Released 2019, July | 2022, January |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, January |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 150.5 x 71.5 x 10.4 mm (5.93 x 2.81 x 0.41 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 | 187 g (6.60 oz) | 164 g (5.78 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~72.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.7 inches, 83.8 cm2 (~68.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| GPU | IMG8322 | - |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 5 MP
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, AF | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 1080p@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, proximity | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 600 h (2G) / Up to 550 h (3G) | - |
| Talk time | Up to 21 h (2G) / Up to 16 h (3G) | - |
| Type | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 2700 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red, Twilight, Chameleon Blue | Black, Blue, Red, Green, Bronze |
| Price | - | About 60 EUR |
BLU G5
- Faster octa-core processor for smoother performance
- More modern Cortex-A55 architecture
- Likely better multitasking capabilities
- Price is likely higher than the C5 Max
- Detailed specifications are limited
BLU C5 Max
- Lowest possible price point
- Simpler user experience for basic tasks
- Potentially longer battery life with minimal usage
- Significantly slower processor
- Outdated Cortex-A7 architecture
- Poor performance with multitasking or demanding apps
Display Comparison
Display specifications are not provided, so a direct comparison is impossible. However, given the price points, both devices likely utilize LCD panels with 720p resolution. The G5, being the newer model, *may* benefit from slightly improved color accuracy or brightness, but this is speculative. Bezels are likely substantial on both devices, typical of this market segment.
Camera Comparison
Camera details are unavailable beyond the existence of cameras on both devices. Given the market segment, image quality is unlikely to be a strong point for either phone. Expect basic image capture suitable for casual snapshots. The absence of detailed sensor information suggests neither phone will excel in low-light conditions or offer advanced features like optical image stabilization.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPUs. The BLU G5’s octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 processor offers a substantial advantage over the BLU C5 Max’s quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7. The Cortex-A55 architecture is more efficient and delivers better performance per clock cycle than the older Cortex-A7. The increased core count on the G5 allows for better multitasking and smoother operation of demanding apps. While neither processor is a powerhouse, the G5 will demonstrably feel faster in everyday use. RAM specifications are unknown, but a larger RAM capacity on the G5 would further amplify its performance advantage.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not specified. However, the G5’s more efficient processor *could* translate to slightly better battery life despite potentially having a similar capacity battery to the C5 Max. The C5 Max, with its less demanding processor, might offer comparable battery endurance for very light usage, but will likely struggle with extended use of even basic apps.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU G5 if you need a smartphone capable of handling social media, web browsing, and basic apps without frustrating lag. It’s ideal for users who want a smoother, more modern Android experience. Buy the BLU C5 Max if your primary needs are making calls, sending texts, and very light usage – and you are prioritizing the absolute lowest possible price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the BLU G5 handle popular social media apps like Facebook and Instagram without significant lag?
Yes, the BLU G5’s octa-core processor and Cortex-A55 architecture are sufficient to run Facebook and Instagram smoothly. While it won’t offer a flagship-level experience, it should provide a usable and responsive experience for these apps, unlike the C5 Max which may struggle.
❓ Is the BLU C5 Max suitable for someone who primarily uses a phone for calls and texts?
Absolutely. The BLU C5 Max is designed for basic communication. Its quad-core processor is adequate for making calls, sending texts, and managing contacts. However, if you anticipate using any apps beyond these core functions, the G5 is a better investment.
❓ Can I expect to play games on either of these phones?
Casual games with simple graphics are playable on both devices, but performance will be limited. The BLU G5 will handle them better, but don't expect to play demanding 3D games without significant lag or graphical compromises. The C5 Max will struggle even with basic games.